Sting: Bait and Switch
There is simply no excuse, on a pre-recorded show like this, for the

Even though they obviously knew that Sting wasn’t there and wasn’t going to show his face on iMPACT, Mike Tenay and Taz talked it up throughout the show. Tenay even made an extended reference to an interview conducted earlier in the day that had surprising and exciting developments!

This could have been fixed in post-production, but it wasn’t. Is this the new deal that Dixie Carter keeps promising?

Foley Goes Face, But…
.Mick Foley has turned babyface with as little rhyme or reason as when he went heel to fight Abyss.

Yet a further turn, perhaps back to heel or to tweener, already seemed underway on the 11/19 iMPACT. Even as Foley teamed with Abyss to combat Stevie Richards and Raven, Mick griped constantly about being abused y TNA management. His big complaint is that Dixie Carter didn’t tell him about the Hogan deal.

This certainly makes it look like Foley and Hogan will have, at the least, a war of words when the Hulkster actually comes to TNA. Mick can work very well as a tweener, subtly shifting his approach to reflect his adversary at the time, but the turns aren’t being handled very well.

Mick’s recent turns have been too extreme and too unmotivated. If TNA wants him in the tweener role, then his basic personality should remain constant and whether he’s heel or face should depend on the personal issues developed in the storyline.

TNA has taken the easier, but less pleasing, approach of having Mick Foley do an about-face every three weeks or so. What kind of credibility can Foley possibly have with fans when he says something one week and then the exact opposite the next?

Steiner vs. Amazing Red
This is the kind of match that helped dig TNA’s present hole. Why would anyone think it was a good idea to put the X Division champion in there with Big Poppa Pump?

The match turned out to be an excuse for a save by Bobby Lashley that added nothing to the Steiner-Lashley feud, yet managed to make Amazing Red seem puny and insignificant.

When TNA wants to schedule this kind of match, it would make a lot more sense to use someone like Shark Boy as the foil instead of cheapening a valuable property like Red. It’s bad enough that they have saddled the Pride of Brooklyn with the Don West gimmick.

We’ve got Nash and Young –where are Crosby and Stills?

When Good Mike Does Bad Mic
After fans saw Abyss blockade Mick Foley’s office in the wake of his plea for Mick not to wrestle, Mike Tenay acted like it was all some sort of Big Mystery when Foley didn’t answer the call of his entrance package.

A better alternative would have been to have the announcers wonder if Mick would escape from his office when his music hit. TNA could’ve even cut back and forth between the ring and Foley’s escape effort.

Pretending that there is a mystery when there isn’t one is a surefire way to turn off fans. If the announcers are made to look stupid, what they say will have zero impact.

That’s all for today! I’ll be back on Monday with my recap and analysis of Turning Point on Monday. Hope you’ll join me then – and, please, bring your friends.

– Arnie Katz
Executive Editor
Crossfire4@cox.net
(11/21/09)

The fallout from Turning Point was almost nuclear. Plus, TNA rolled closer to the arrival of Hulk Hogan in the Impact Zone. Most stars gave their feedback, one of which provided a rather cryptic clue about the future.

This Week’s Episode: Burn, Baby Burn

The show opened with a look back at Turning Point. It turned out to be a pretty good show, despite no title changes.

Mike Tenay profiled the main event and then sent it to the ring. Mick Foley and Abyss came out to a huge pop. Tenay talked about Raven returning last week and throwing a fireball into Foley’s face. Foley’s left eye was bandaged. Foley said that almost losing his sight opened his eyes. Foley complained that Dixie Carter didn’t inform him about Hulk Hogan coming to TNA. Foley wondered if he was still valued in TNA. Foley said Carter won’t return his calls and he even had to show his ID to get into the Impact Zone. Abyss tried to calm Foley down and get him back on topic…Dr. Stevie and Raven. Foley started griping about Raven preventing him and Abyss from getting rid of Dr. Stevie. Foley said he was ready to exact revenge. Abyss tried to talk Foley out of it. Foley said Raven and Dr. Stevie were playing with fire.

Out comes Dr. Stevie, Raven and Daffney. Stevie got in all kinds of fire-related puns about Foley looking all hot and bothered. Stevie said he had to answered the challenge of Foley to eliminate him. Stevie compared himself to a cornered, rabid animal. Stevie said “they” would end things. Raven then took over and said he was disappointed with Foley. Raven said Foley was more interested in politics, than fighting. Raven taunted Foley’s authority (great Cartman impression). Raven and Foley got into a war of words, with Foley making a match between himself and Abyss against Raven and Stevie. Taz felt Raven had just “played” Foley.

Tenay and Taz really pushed how great Turning Point was. Tenay then talked about Sting’s press conference. Tenay said it turned into something unexpected. In the back, JB talked with Kurt Angle and A.J. Styles. JB mentioned that both Desmond Wolfe and Daniels both stated that they were not pinned on Sunday. Styles said he would throw out his friendship with Daniels, if he had to. Styles and Daniels would face off in the next PPV. Angle then talked about facing Wolfe. Angle then wanted to know why Daniels got a title shot at Final Resolution, instead of him. Styles said he looked forward to fighting Kurt but he needed to finish things with Daniels. Styles told Kurt he would face him, anytime. The two had a long staredown but nothing came of it.

Scott Steiner came out to the screaming sirens. TNA looked at the situation between Steiner and Bobby Lashley. Steiner blasted Lashley in the head with a piece of steel to take the match. Amazing Red and Don West then came out. West was now wearing a glow-in-the-dark red shirt. West was giving a major pep talk to the X-Division champ, Red.

Amazing Red d Scott Steiner (by DQ)
Non-Title Match

The Finish:

Steiner lifted Red and Press Slammed Red. Steiner dropped Red and then picked him back up. Steiner hit a Clothesline off the Irish Whip. He dropped the Elbow but did Push-ups, instead of taking the pin. Steiner with the Rolling Belly to Belly Suplex. West screamed at Steiner. Scoot with a Stall Suplex into a Brain Buster. Steiner went out and got the steel pipe. The ref warned Steiner, but it didn’t do any good. Steiner popped Red with the pipe. He then put the belt across Red’s face and punched it into Red’s face. Bobby Lashley ran out to make the save. Steiner screamed at Lashley, from the floor.

Grade: C+

Jay’s Thoughts: What the Hell was that? Red is the top guy in the X-Division and he’s used as a way to help push a mediocre feud? Bad, Sport, real bad. Somebody really needs to get TNA new writers, seriously.

JB then talked with Kevin Nash and Eric Young. At the PPV, Nash bashed James Storm in the head with the Global title. Nah handed the Global belt back to E.Y. Nash said Eric was able to out-think him, the smartest man in the business. Nash compared Eric to Scott Hall (kinda). Nash offered Eric the opportunity to tag with him. Nash wanted to know if Eric had a problem with Nash being an American. Eric didn’t. Nash said he would have answers for Mick Foley by the end of the night.

The next match was an 8-man tag. Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley came out in new gear. Tenay teased a return of the nWo. Beer Money, Inc (James Storm and Robert Roode) then came out to join the Motor City Machine Guns. Their opponents were: Kiyoshi, Sheik Abdul Bashir, Brutus Magnus and Doug Williams

Beer Money, Inc. and The Motor City Machine Guns d World Elite
Eight-Man Tag Match

The Finish:

Shelley spun to his feet and they exchanged Knife Edge Chops as the Impact Zoners “Woo’d” in unison. Kiyoshi with a Thrust Kick to Shelley’s throat. Kiyoshi rushed at Shelley, in the corner. Shelley grabbed Kiyoshi and dragged him down, face first, into the middle turnbuckle. Shelley rushed to the corner and brought Sabin back into the match. Kiyoshi tagged out to Magnus. Sabin caught Magnus with kicks to the ribs that sounded like a shotgun blast. Sabin swept the leg of Brutus and then kicked him in the chest. Magnus went to the corner but Sabin bounced off the opposite turnbuckle to get a good running start. He threw a Flying Fore-arm that rocked the Brit. Sabin screamed out and then caught Magnus with a Springboard Clothesline. The rest of the World Elite came in to make the save. The match broke down as everyone went to the floor. Beer Money lifted Bashir and ran his crotch into the ring post. (Every man watching just cringed, including me). In the ring, the Guns double teamed Magnus with a Step-up Dropkick. Beer Money Double Suplexed Kiyoshi on the ramp. Beer Money got in Eric’s face as another ref tried to hold them back. In the ring, Big Rob Terry came in to try and aid his British Invasion partners. He accidentally Clotheslined his own partner, Brutus Magnus. The Guns then hit a Double Kick to the face. Sabin locked in a Neckbreaker and Shelley hit a Flying Crossbody to take out Magnus.

Grade: A-

Jay’s Thoughts: Some Williams and Roode basically get the night off? Their involvement in this one was minimal. The match was still great. I smell a face turn for “Big” Rob in the near future. Throw him in with Hernandez, D’Angelo Dinero and Matt Morgan as “Future Shock”.

Eric read the riot act to “Big” Rob Terry. Backstage, Mick Foley was searching for Kevin Nash.

Foley said to Nash that he was “Hogan’s Boy”. Nash was offended as being called a boy. Foley wanted to know what Hogan was up to. Nash said it was all about business. Nash was upset about getting a two-week suspension. Nash said if Foley could get him his money back, he’d have answers. Nash then left Foley with the cryptic…”When Hulk comes back, he’s not coming alone”. Hmmm…

Jay’s Thoughts: Could there be an nWo reunion? Could Nash be just talking about Bischoff? Will Batman escape the Joker’s latest dastardly joke? Oops…sorry. Anyway, I love when wrestlers get all cryptic.

TNA then went to a video package about Hogan joining with TNA. Hogan said the wrestling world would be turned upside down.

Abyss begged Foley to listen to him. Abyss was concerned about Foley’s eye. Abyss said that there was no jobs for blind wrestlers. (Well, George Weingroff did make a decent living in the old World Class days). Foley made it into a joke about becoming a ref. Abyss tried to get JB to talk sense into Foley. Foley then snapped and said none of this was funny. Foley said he needed to do what he needed to do. Abyss talked about all the years of pain endured and issued. Abyss said Foley was in no shape to fight. Foley appreciated Abyss’ concern but Foley felt the need to make the decision. Abyss accepted it but didn’t like it. Foley then whined about being kept out of the loop by Dixie Carter about Hogan. Foley skirted around my favorite quote of all time:

“When you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice.” — “Freewill” by Rush

Back to the Impact Zone for a Knockout match. Hamada made her way into the ring. She flipped into the ring as the fans cheered her. her opponent was Taylor Wilde.

Hamada d Taylor Wilde

The Finish:

Wilde kicked out of the pin and flipped out of a Belly to Back Suplex. Wilde did the Gail Kim RopeWalk/Arm Drag combo. Wilde with a Roundhouse Kick to Hamada’s face. Hamada nailed a Close Quarters Superkick. Hamada hit the Moonsault but only got a two. Hamada tried, twice, for a Powerbomb. On the second attempt, Wilde turned it into a Roll-up. She only got a two. Wilde used a Crucifix Backslide for a two count. Wilde with a Flying Headscissors into an Inverted Victory Roll for another two. Hamada rocked Wilde with an Enziguri. Hamada tried for the infamous Hamada Driver but Wilde Floated Over. Wilde tried for a German Suplex but Hamada blocked it. Hamada hit a Jumping Roundhouse Kick to the face and finished off Wilde with the Hamada Driver.

Grade: A-

Jay’s Thoughts: Somebody call the WWE, there are women who can actually wrestle. These two put on a heck of an outing in this short little battle. I want to see more of this. I wish Hamada would bring in a partner from Japan and go after the tag belts.

Abyss flipped Foley’s desk over to block the door so Foley couldn’t go to the ring. Dr. Stevie, Raven and Daffney walked backstage.

TNA ran another video piece of Hogan touting how much TNA is going to explode now that he’s joined the team.

Raven and Dr. Stevie strolled to the ring. Daffney was left in the back, darn it. Abyss’ music then rang out. The Monster walked out alone for the battle. Abyss cleared the ring of his foes. Foley’s music then went off. Foley didn’t arrive for the battle.

Abyss d Raven and Dr. Stevie (DQ)
Handicap Match

The Finish:

Dr. Stevie got Abyss in the ring and pounded away. Raven took the tag and kicked and punched Abyss. Stevie tagged in and they double teamed him. Abyss was choked on the ropes by both opponents. Raven and Stevie took turns pounding on Abyss’ back. That seemed to fire up the Monster, as he started punching away at both men. Abyss Power Whipped Raven into Dr. Stevie, in the corner. Abyss Splashed both of them and went for the Double Goozle. Raven and Dr. Stevie kicked their way free and sent Abyss to the ropes. Abyss managed to Clothesline Raven. Stevie went for the StevieKick but Abyss caught the foot. He hoisted Dr. Stevie into position and delivered a little Shock Treatment. Raven jumped Abyss before Abyss could make the pin. Raven went into his pocket for something. Raven was setting for another Fireball but Abyss Big Booted Raven. The ref, for some odd reason, called for the bell and gave the DQ win to Abyss. Huh?

Grade: B

Jay’s Thoughts: While I’m glad to see Abyss getting some air time, I think this is not a good move for The Monster. He’s completely out of any title picture and he’s fighting two men who are nearing the end of their careers. The only good thing is we get to see Daffney.

After the match, Abyss attacked Raven on the floor. The two threw punches until Dr. Stevie jumped Abyss from behind. Daffney then came out. Raven hit the Evenflow DDT. Dr. Stevie had a heavy duty cable. Raven used it, over the ropes, to hang Abyss.

ODB presented her talk show…Trash Talking. She brought out her guest…Homicide. He brought her a bottle of tequila. ODB brought up “The Skull Guy”, Suicide. Homicide made fun of Suicide’s look, under the mask. Homicide wanted to get rowdy with ODB and make the show “mature”. They stared dancing around, acting a fool.

Jay’s Thoughts: When will these wrestling companies understand that these talk segments are a complete and total waste of air time?

Tomko returned to TNA! Lauren talked with him. He wanted to show Dixie Carter how good he could be. When he walked off, The Beautiful People came out to make fun of Lauren’s announcing skills. It was one of the lamest segments in TNA history. Yawn.

A.J. Styles pushed Hogan’s arrival as a positive change for TNA. Styles wanted to ask Hogan so many questions to learn from The Hulkster.

Alissa Flash came out for the next match. I’m glad she ditched that hood she wore as Raisha Saeed. Flash is actually a very beautiful woman. TNA looked at Flash’s attack on the birth defected arm of Traci Brooks, last week. Flash’s opponent was the other half of the Knockout tag champs, Sarita.
Sarita d Alissa Flash

The Finish:

Flash hit a Fore-arm Smash and then choked Sarita with the boot. Sarita fought back and caught Flash with a great Over-head Suplex. Sarita and Flash went back and forth with Roundhouse Kicks. Sarita ducked a Clothesline and then dropped Flash with a Springboard Dropkick that was too sweet for words. Sarita tried for a Butterfly Back Suplex but Flash powered out. Flash hit an amazing Belly to Back Suplex with a remarkable hang time. Sarita kicked out and Flash just couldn’t believe it. Flash went for a Scoop Slam and another Belly to Back Suplex, both of which were blocked. Sarita with the Inverted Small Package for a two. Sarita caught Flash with an Enziguri-like Mule Kick that knocked Flash out cold.

Grade: B+

After the battle, Traci Brooks came out and tore into Alissa Flash. Security broke it up. In the back, Foley screamed for Raven and Dr. Stevie. They ambushed him and choked him with the cable. They taunted Foley as he gasped for air. They even through out the “Have a nice day” catchphrase at him. TNA went to break.

Jay’s Thoughts: Another decent Knockout match? TNA must be getting ready to launch that all-Knockout show that was rumored. TNA really needs to scout Mexico and Japan to find some fresh female talent.

Team 3D and Rhino came out for a six-man Street Fight. The ring was surrounded by “toys”. Their opponents were D’Angelo Dinero, Matt Morgan and Hernandez.

Brother Ray, Brother Devon and Rhino d Hernandez, Matt Morgan and D’Angelo Dinero

Six-Man Street Fight

The Finish:

Dinero and Ray ended up fighting on the ropes. In the ring. Morgan whipped Devon too the corner. Morgan with a Corner Clothesline. Morgan then put a trash can over Devon’s head and nailed the See-Saw Back Elbows into the can. Morgan with another Corner Splash. Morgan couldn’t get the pin. Morgan and Devon went to the floor. Rhino and Hernandez got in the ring and Rhino hit a Corner Shoulder Thrust. Hernandez kicked him away and rolled up the turnbuckles. Rhino and Hernandez fought on the ropes. Hernandez shoved Rhino down to the canvas. Dinero placed a cookie sheet on Rhino’s chest and Hernandez hit a Sky-High Splash. Rhino was able to get free. ray jumped Hernandez and Scoop Slammed him. Ray called for the Wazzup! Dinero used a kendo stick to stop it. Dinero walloped both of Team 3D, over and over. Devon was Rocker Launched off the ropes by Morgan. Dinero then hit a Savage Elbow off the ropes…into the nether regions of Devon. That just wasn’t right…I don’t care who you are.

Dinero called for Morgan and Hernandez to “Get the Tables!” Morgan and Ray fought on the floor. Dinero clubbed Devon with the can lids. Morgan went for a Legdrop off the apron but Ray moved. Morgan crashed through the table. Team 3D caught Dinero with the 3D. Hernandez hit the Slingshot Double Clothesline. Hernandez went to Border Toss Rhino but saw Devon with a chair. Hernandez released Rhino and punched the chair into Devon’s face. Hernandez Speared Rhino but the ref was pulled out of the ring. Jesse Neal then slid into the ring and busted Hernandez in the head with a chair shot. Jesse had a new Mohawk haircut and all kinds of tribal ink on his chest and arms.

Grade: A-

Jay’s Thoughts: So, Jesse Neal now looks like a cheap imitation of Shannon Moore and has kind of a Mad Max mentality thing going? That beats the heck out of the flag-waving, all-American hero gimmick that made me want to hurl day-glo.

JB talked with the victors of the last match. Rhino welcomed Jesse to “The Cause”. Jesse didn’t like being touched. Ray said Jesse’s new look and attitude came from training with them. He called Jesse a “B.M.F”. Out of respect to our younger readers, I won’t go into what that stands for. Ray said that Jesse was part of the new Hardcore Wrecking Crew. Jesse said he would become the best. Devon said the Hardcore Wrecking Crew would eliminate Dinero, Morgan and Hernandez from TNA. Testify.

Tenay mentioned about the scheduled interview with Sting. Sting now lives in the Dallas area. Sting “No-Showed” for the interview.

Lauren talked with Wolfe and Daniels. Lauren wanted to know if Daniels and Wolfe could get along. Wolfe had a lot of respect for Daniels. Wolfe claimed Kurt used an illegal submission move on Sunday. Daniels wanted Lauren to announce that it was the first time (in TNA) that Wolfe and Daniels had teamed. Daniels said Styles could not beat him. Daniels was determined to prove to Styles that he was worthy of a solo title shot. They headed towards the ring for the main event as TNA went to break.

Daniels and Wolfe came out for the main event. I hear there is another Feast or Fired match in the near future. Daniels should be worried. Kurt then rose from the depths of the Impact Zone. Kurt got a huge cheer and an “An-gle” chant from the crowd. Kurt was in his new ring outfit. Styles then came out through the shower of sparks.

Daniels and Desmond Wolfe d Kurt Angle and A.J. Styles

The Finish:

Daniels took the tag and hit an Inverted Arm Drag on Kurt. Daniels tried to rip Kurt’s arm out of the socket. Wolfe tagged back in and nailed a Trapped Arm Suplex. Kurt began to fight back but Wolfe used a Power Spin Yank to send Kurt crashing to the canvas. Daniels came back in and pounded on the shoulder. Kurt caught Daniels with the Snap Belly to Belly Overhead Suplex. Kurt crawled to his corner for the hot tag. Wolfe also took the tag on his side. Styles dropped Wolfe with Running Fore-arms and Back Elbows. Styles caught Wolfe off the ropes with an Spicoli Driver into a Backbreaker. Wow. Styles set for the Styles Clash but Wolfe powered out. Styles caught Wolfe with the Pele Kick. Styles went to the top rope but Daniels tripped him. Wolfe used a Tower of London (Rope-Assisted Stunner from the top rope). Styles, somehow, kicked out at two. Angle rushed in and charged at Wolfe. Wolfe made a passing tag to Daniels on his way out of the ring. Daniels hit the B.M.E to beat A.J. Styles!

Grade: A+

Jay’s Thoughts: TNA got it right with these four. Daniels plays the poor little ol’ me role to a T. Wolfe lost at Turning Point but still looks promisiong. Styles is ready to face off in a “former best friends” feud with Daniels. Someone definitely earned their Christmas Bonus when they decided to set these match-ups.

Final Grade: B+

Final Thoughts: TNA is in flux. The Hogan thing will either make or break TNA. TNA is building some interesting feuds that could culminate in the revirth of the nWo or something similar. This week’s show was definitely above average.

–Jay Shannon
Jade89512@yahoo.com
(11/20/2009)

Nov. 23, 2009: Jesse Ventura
This week, WWE Hall of Famer Jesse Ventura will take the reins from Hershey, Pa., on a special Thanksgiving three-hour presentation of Raw. The illustrious Superstar’s role comes just more than one week before the debut of Ventura’s new truTV series, Conspiracy Theory, which airs on Dec. 2 at 10 p.m. ET.

Nov. 30, 2009: Verne Troyer
Best known for playing Mini-Me in the Austin Powers comedy series, Verne Troyer will serve as guest host on Nov. 30 from Baltimore. One of the shortest yet largely recognizable men in the world, the actor has more than 15 years of television experience.

Dec. 7, 2009: Mark Cuban
Instead of humoring the NBA Universe with his infinite antics and making authoritative basketball decisions for one night, Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban will spend time delegating responsibility to WWE Superstars when he hosts Raw on Dec. 7 from Dallas.

Dec. 14, 2009: Dennis Miller
Comedian and radio talk show host Dennis Miller, meanwhile, will serve as the host of the 2009 Slammy Awards during a special three-hour presentation of Raw on Dec. 14 from Corpus Christi, Texas. The five-time Emmy award-winning comic is renowned for his improvisations and acerbic humor about pop culture and politics.

Be sure to tune in every Monday night when the biggest stars from all over the world take over as Raw’s special guest host.

Go to http://sportsentertainmentevents.tk or http://prowrestlingevents.webs.com for info about upcoming wrestling shows worldwide.

 Sean Waltman has gone by many names, most notably X-Pac in the WWE as a member of DX. His auspicious career includes numerous titles, and he broke the mold for guys under certain “size restrictions” to have a notable career in the world of professional wrestling. Knowing the hardships of several injuries in his career, Waltman is very well acquainted with the lingering effects the squared circle can have on the body, and has decided to help the future of wrestling create funds for healthcare awareness, and chose Wrestlers Rescue (http://www.wrestlersrescue.org) as the recipient.

     This is a pair of ring worn tights used in a match against Ric Flair in WCW while known as Syxx. This item is accompanied by an official Wrestlers Rescue Certificate of Authenticity. This auction will begin on Thursday November 19, 2009 , at  5pm EST , and the bidding will begin at $99.99USD and can be shipped worldwide.

       For further information about Wrestlers Rescue, including “Slam On The
High Seas” Wrestlers Rescue 2010 Cruise, the Official Wrestlers Rescue
Street Team, Jim “J.R.” Ross Raffle Tickets, and more, please visit
www.wrestlersrescue.org.
 

       To join the Wrestlers Rescue mailing list, please send an email titled “Mailing List” to wrestlersrescue@aol.com.

        Wrestlers Rescue would like to thank you in advance for posting this press release.

It was a reunion show, on many levels, this week. ECW came from the home of Extreme, Philadelphia. Also, a former top star in ECW returned home for a one-night stand. In addition, Paul Burchill put his and his sisters’ careers on the line against the mask of The Hurricane.

This Week’s Episode: Sometimes you Can go home again.

C.M. Punk stepped in front of the ECW logo. He got a monster boo from the crowd. Punk talked about getting his start in ECW before becoming a three-time World champion. Punk expected a long, loud standing ovation, the loudest in ECW history. Don’t hold your breath, kid.

The main event was announced: C.M Punk and William Regal v Christian and R-Truth. After that, Zack Ryder and Rosa Mendes walked out together. Rosa and Zack took their own microphones. Zack wanted to introduce the newest Diva, Rosa. Zack just oozed about how great Rosa was. Rosa then went onto a bizarre shopping story that bored everyone, even Zack. Zack wanted Rosa in his corner for his rematch against Shelton Benjamin. Rosa went on another rambling story about Mexican food. Jeez.

Shelton Benjamin then came out to shut the Latina Loudmouth’s weird ramblings. Shelton said he would rather put Zack in the corner and wrestle Rosa. Zack got ticked off. Shelton told Zack he should change his name to “Black and Decker” because he was nothing more than a power tool. Oh, snap. Zack said he didn’t want to fight Shelton, right now. Zack said not to disrespect his girl. Zack then popped Zack and he and Rosa left the ring. Shelton grinned at Zack. Zack better be really worried.

Paul Burchill came out with his sister, Katie Lea Burchill. It was Mask v Career in this battle. Katie looked nervous. ECW ran Hurricane’s great intro.The Emerald Knight emerged from the darkness to bring his brand of justice to the ring.

The Hurricane d Paul Burchill
Mask v Career Match

The Finish:

The two started throwing hard fists. Paul with a kick to the ribs and a bounce off the ropes. Hurricane caught him with the Hurri-Press (Thesz Press). Paul reversed an Irish Whip but took a Back Elbow to the kisser. Hurricane whipped Paul to the corner and then came off the ropes with a Flying Clothesline. Hurricane could only get a two count. Hurricane tried for his Eye of the Hurricane finisher but Paul powered out and hit a off-center Pele Kick. hurricane barely kicked out and Paul screamed in frustration. Hurricane tried, again, for the Eye of the Hurricane but Paul twisted around into a Northern Lights Bridging Suplex for a two plus. Paul called for Katie Lea to help him. Paul sent Hurricane to the corner but got blasted as he charged in. Hurricane mounted the ropes for a Hurancanrana. Paul still kicked out at two. Katie Lea distracted Hurricane, which allowed Paul to shove the masked man into the corner. Paul Jack Hammered Hurricane to the canvas but only got a two count. Paul just couldn’t believe it. Paul set for the Dangerous Buster but Hurricane Floated Over. Hurricane unleashed the Eye of the Hurricane but couldn’t make the pin. When he did, Paul kicked out. Hurricane went to the top rope but got caught. Paul punched away and then climbed the ropes, screaming “I Got Him!”. Hurricane blocked Paul and then hit a Top Rope Flying, Spinning Neckbreaker!

Grade: A

Katie Lea was in total shock as the reality sunk in about her having to leave ECW, along with her brother. Katie seethed at her sibling. The crowd stated singing “Nah Nah Nah Nah Hey Hey Good-bye”. Katie Lea cried as Paul told her that he was sorry.

Jay’s Thoughts: I can only hope that The Burchills get to move over to Raw. Smackdown may have won the honor of being the Top Brand at Bragging Rights, but it still feels like a B-level show. Katie Lea deserves a chance to do something other than play valet to her “brother”.

In the back, Tiffany talked with C.M. Punk. Punk criticized Tiffany for her drinking. Tiffany said she wasn’t a prude. Tiffany told Punk to loosen up and try being a human being. Punk was not impressed.

Lance…sorry…Vance Archer came out for another squash. This week’s victim was Johnny Andrews.

Vance Archer d Johnny Andrews

Vance slapped the taste out of his victim’s mouth and then Power Whipped him into the corner. Vance shoved Johnny into the ring post. Vance slid out of the ring and kicked at Johnny. Vance got back in the ring and punched away at his opponent. Vance hit his version of a Spinning Face Plant. Vance then finished off his poor foe with the Inverted Power Driver DDT.

Grade: C

Jay’s Thoughts: Vance is going to end up in mid-card Hell, I just know it. He just doesn’t have the right feel to become a top star in the WWE. He’ll likely be back in TNA before Wrestlemania.

Josh Mathews and Byron Saxton talked about Survivor Series. Byron pushed how unpredictable the yearly PPV always is. They then ran down the card.

Christian was lacing up his boots when Punk showed up. They talked about both holding the ECW title. Christian wanted to know if Punk was allowed to hold hands with a girl. Christian said Punk wasn’t straight-edged, he was a nerd. Punk got upset at the insult. Punk bragged about being a three-time World champion. Christian reminded Punk that Punk was a champion, while Christian still was. ECW went to break.

Josh sent it to another look at the relationship between the WWE and MSG (Madison Square Garden).

C.M. Punk came out for the main event. He got a less than warm reaction from the Philly crowd. He was joined by his partner, William Regal. It seems strange to see him team with Regal, considering Regal’s past Wellness Program issues. I’m just saying… The two shook hands as Christian’s theme rang out. Christian showed respect to his title by actually wearing the strap. He was joined by the rapmaster of the WWE, R-Truth.

William Regal and C.M. Punk d Christian and R-Truth

The Finish:

Christian tagged in and went to town on Punk. Christian came off the ropes with a Fore-arm Smash and then ran Punk into the corner. Christian nailed the Tornado DDT. Christian turned to pop Regal. Christian with the Morningstar. Christian tried for the KillSwitch, which Punk reversed into a Go-To-Sleep attempt. Christian got free from that and tried for the KillSwitch, again. Punk powered out and shoved Christian to the corner. Punk hit the Elevator Knee on the ECW Champ. Punk tried for the Running Bulldog but Christian stopped and hit the Slop Drop. Regal prevented the pin. R-Truth rushed in and took out Regal with fists and a Dropkick. Christian went for the KillSwitch but Regal nailed a Knee Trembler on the trapped Christian. Punk connected with the GTS to take the win for his team.

Grade: A-

Jay’s Thoughts: Could Punk be heading “home” to ECW? Punk v Christian for the ECW title would definitely raise the interest of fans. Punk would have to see that as a backwards step. ECW really needs a revamping of the top stars. WWE should maybe consider a bi-annual Draft.

Final Grade: B

Final Thoughts: The Burchills are gone. Sheamus is gone. Tyler Reks hasn’t been seen in months on the Black Brand. The WWE couldn’t try harder to kill ECW if they used a machine gun. I really think it’s time for ECW to combine with FCW. When Superstars gets a bigger push than ECW, something is seriously wrong. ECW is turning into a serious joke, which is sad for the poor guys who are doing their best to make the program work.

–Jay Shannon
TheHeadLocker@SBCGlobal.net
(11/18/2009)

 
“Superstar” Sean Davis
Height: 5 Ft 11 In
Weight: 320 Lbs
Hometown: Every Woman’s Dreams
Website/Myspace/Facebook: www.heartbreakexpress.com or www.myspace.com/superstarsean
Pro Debut: February 1997
Where you have seen him: AWA, Full Impact Pro, Pro Wrestling Riot, Pro Wrestling Fusion, Ring of Honor, UXW, SCW Florida, NWA Florida (defunct), Divison 1 Pro Wrestling, Vintage Wrestling, I Believe in Wrestling, CHIKARA, IWA-Puerto Rico, Revolution Xtreme Wrestling (Panama), USCW, New Breed Pro Wrestling,
Championships held: AWA World Tag Team champion, New Breed Pro Wrestling Tag Team champion, UXW Tag Team champion, SCW Florida Tag Team champion, 2x FIP World Tag Team champion, Caribbean Island Tag Team champion, USCW Tag Team champion, D1PW Tag Team champion, World 1 Southern Tag Team champion (all w/”Fabulous” Phil Davis as the Heartbreak Express)
 
Alan Wojcik: It’s been a while since I have been able to get interview time with you so thanks for taking time out of your super busy schedule.
?
Sean Davis: Well it’s all your pleasure Alan. I want to first of all congratulate you on finding a woman willing to reproduce with you. I have had the pleasure of laying my seed across many a nation and it is a fulfilling experience that I am glad even a mutant such as yourself has been able to experience.

 
Alan Wojcik: I expected stuff like this but I shall remain professional. One of the things that has kept you busy is Heartbreak Enterprises which you and your brother Phil operate. Let’s begin with what led you to set HBE up?
?
Sean Davis: For most of the past decade Phil and myself have traveled all over this and many other countries destroying countless numbers of tag teams proving to ourselves and anyone that matters that we are THE standard bearers of tag team wrestling in the world today. Now I am not saying that our days as a tag team are anywhere near coming to an end but I believe in diversifying and planning for the future as we all know that no one can wrestle forever at the level we have competed. As your athletic abilities begin to decline with age you either have to step down to lower levels of competition and begin to be happy wrestling in flea markets and used car lots again as when you first break into wrestling or you have to find other ways to stay on the very top of the wrestling business and that is what I have begun to do as a I have started to spread my enormous talent into other areas. First I have become one of the leading broadcast journalists in all of wrestling. In the role of color commentator I have used my advanced intelect to provide never before imagined insight into the sport of professional wrestling for top promotions such as Pro Wrestling RIOT and even FIP. I have heard from countless fans and experts that the level of entertainment has been increased greatly any time I have been allowed behind the microphone as that Lenny Leonard character while passable at what he does can’t ever give that extra insight that only someone with my years of in ring experience could give. The other path I have started on is by taking my 13 years of in ring wrestling knowledge and passing that on to some of the best up and coming talents in all of wrestling as their business manager, coach and all around leader which is the role I fill so well as the CEO of Heartbreak Enterprises, INC. We have quickly become the most powerful and influential force in the South’s top wrestling promotion FIP. The entire promotion literally revolves around ME….and Phil of course and all of our wonderful stars who allow me to teach them and dictate what they do in the ring which is what has made us so damn successful. I am truly the KING of FIP. Hmmmm, maybe I should start wearing a crown to ringside.

Alan Wojcik: One of your clients is a former Jeff Peterson Memorial Cup competitor, let’s talk about “Addicted to Love” Rhett Titus.
?
Sean Davis: Ahhhh, my tasty treat Rhett Titus. He has been SUCH a pleasure to have around in so many ways. First of all this kid has so much talent it is hard to imagine him not becoming one of the top ten stars ever in the wrestling business. I am SO proud of him and all he has accomplished for ME. Wow, he must really appreciate me as I led him to being the greatest Florida Heritage Champion of all time. I used my knowledge to control him like I was playing a video game as he did everything I told him to do so that he could bring that gold belt back to my mansion where it was so prominitely displayed in my trophy case. Of course Rhett has been handsomely rewarded for how well he has done for me. You see Rhett has an ENORMOUS…….appetite for the finer things in life so I have spared no expense when it comes to giving him all of the luxuries that only I could provide him. The finest wines, the most expensive restaurants and the sexiest and most willing women you have ever seen. When he told me he was in the mood for something a little aged but with lots of great experience in the bedroom I brought to him a very special gift in the legendary Baby Doll. Let’s just say she worked him out in ways Rhett never thought were possible until he eventually had no more use for her so we sent her packing back to North Carolina. Just think Tully Blanchard, Gino Hernandez and Ric Flair all in their primes couldn’t last with Baby Doll but my boy Rhett literally took her to the limit. Since then I replaced her with the world famous actress and model Amy Vitale who is currently giving all she has for the cause of keeping Rhett a happy boy.

 
Alan Wojcik: At an event earlier this year a $25,000 bounty you had placed on then FIP World champion Tyler Black was claimed, by current HBE and 2009 JPC competitor Davey Richards. Was this something that was planned all along or were you in shock when Richards came out to ringside?
 
Sean Davis: I guess you haven’t really been listening to what I have been saying and that is that NOTHING happens in FIP and especially when it comes to Heartbreak Enterprises, INC. that I am not in full control of. Bottom line Tyler Black was a huge thorn in my side and I had to do something serious to eliminate him so I enlisted the most dangerous man in wrestling today, the one and only Davey Richards. To not only take out Tyler Black for good but to be the center piece of Heartbreak Enterprises, INC. He truly did his job in a magnifcent way earning every cent of that $25,000 bounty and earning his place as the pride and joy of my most prestegious organization.

Alan Wojcik: HBE has had a relationship of sorts with the newly crowned FIP World Tag Team champions the British Lions (Christopher Grey & Tommy Taylor). What is the current status of the relationship and what do you think of the duo?
?
Sean Davis: Relationship??? The British Lions are signed members of Heartbreak Enterprises, INC. You see Christopher Grey is not just one of the most talented men in the sport but also one of the smartest. He knew that if they signed a contract with me that is would only be a short matter of time before they would eb the FIP World Tag Team Champions and alas the inevitable has come to pass! As for Tommy Taylor…well he is tough and rugged and…well…thank God for him he has such an intelligent tag team partner that can make all of the right decisions for him. All he has to do is what Chris and I tell him to do which I know he is happy with as thinking is not his strong point.

 
Alan Wojcik: On May 2nd Mr. Richards was awarded the FIP World Heavyweight championship due to injuries to Tyler Black inflicted by your group over several months and the same evening he defeated Kenny King. You claimed it was always his championship and when I asked Mr. Richards about it he called me a racist. Shouldn’t he have defeated Black in the ring like all championship decisions?
?
Sean Davis: Kenny King called you a racist?? Well that doesn’t surprise me I mean as he did vote for Obama and has been known to hang out with the Rev Sharpton type of crowd. As for Davey Richards winning the FIP title. As far as I’m concerned he won that belt when he put Tyler Black out of wrestling at the Battle of the Belts event and obviously the FIP Board of Directors felt the same way. Then just to prove that he is a true fighting champion he beat up poor Kenny King in the middle of the ring, fair and square to show everyone in FIP that he is the undisputed FIP World Heavyweight Champion.
 
Alan Wojcik: Sad to say but on October 3rd Rhett lost the FIP Heritage championship to 2009 Peterson Cup competitor Brad Attitude. During that evening Florida wrestling legend “Outlaw” Ron Bass figured in that decision. Let’s break this down into a couple of questions. First your feelings on Rhett losing the championship.
?
Sean Davis: Rhett Titus was RIPPED OFF!!! As far as I’m concerned he is still the Florida Heritage Champion and Brad Attitude is nothing but a pretender, a false hero and a complete wannabe!!! He would have never been able to get out of Crystal River with Rhett’s title belt without help from that twisted old man “Outlaw” Ron Bass!! I mean his name says it all..he’s a damn outlaw and he’s proud of that!!! Ron Bass didn’t like that fact that I pointed out that fact that he is a HAS BEEN and he was wasting my precious time by running on at the mouth about the “good ole days” back in the 1940’s and 50’s when he was a big star in wrestling. No one cares about him. They only care about what’s happening now and that’s Heartbreak Enterprises, INC.
 
Alan Wojcik: Next we need to address “Outlaw” Ron Bass who factored into the match. After things settled you and the HBE laid him and Attitude out. Somewhere in this fracas he challenged you to a match….did you have any clue on November 21st you would be part of Texas Bullrope Match!?!??!
?
Sean Davis: It is very clear to me that this old dude obviously has some sort of dementia and he was having flashbacks to when he was feuding with the Dirty Yellow Dog. I mean he had NO idea what he was doing when he challenged ME to not just a normal wrestling match but to a Bullrope Match on November 21 in Crystal River at the Peterson Cup 2009. Bottom line is I must be at least fifty years younger than this guy. He might have been tough back in the day and I am sure that if a game of Bingo on Friday night gets out of control that you might have to watch out for him hitting you with his walker but this is 2009 and I am one of the toughest guys in the sport. Hey I am the guy who made matches like Cage of Pain 1 and 2 famous so do you really think I am worried about this old man?? I hear he is taking this real serious and he is driving his lark to the gym every day and is really working up a sweat getting ready for this match and I think that’s kind of cute to be honest. I am ALMOST gonna feel bad when I bust his old head open with that rusty metal cow bell and I make him bleed all over the Crystal River Armory. Then as he takes his last breath in the middle of the ring he won’t be saying his “I Love You’s” to family members but will be saying “You were right Sean Davis…I should have bowed at your feet and proclaimed you the King of FIP like I know you are…it is my honor to now die at your feet knowing I was beat by a much better man”. HEHEHEHEHE that is gonna be so much fun!!!!

 
Alan Wojcik: Seemingly every high profile match I watched online with you and Phil saw you bleeding. Do you ever have your family and friends say, “Sean you need to stop doing this before it kills you?”
?
Sean Davis: Alan you would know nothing about being an athlete and a warrior like Phil and I are. Blood, Sweat and Tears baby!!! That’s just part of being a professional wrestler. We’re not covered head to toe in thick pads like football players and hockey players are. We don’t have our matches stopped due to a little cut like in boxing or MMA. Pro Wrestling is a sport for REAL men which is why YOU would never survive!
 
Alan Wojcik: I couldn’t end this without bringing up a 2008 trip you, Phil & protege’ Nick Fame made to Panama where you were almost arrested for stomping on the Panamian flag. Do you regret the incident and were you ever afraid for your personal safety?
?
Sean Davis: HELL YEAH we were afraid! Of course when you have an entire country wanting to kill you and the president of the country gets on national television promising your punishment it is a little frightening but that’s just part of being who we are. When you are in The Heartbreak Express you learn to live with a little fear at all times as you know there are so many people around the world that are jealous over our success in wrestling, in finance and with their wives and girlfriends. I mean do you know how many little kids are running around the world right now dressing in pink and purple and telling their friends “You’re Just Jealous” all the while these suckers that think they are the dads are wonderng how their kids ended up with Platinum Blonde Hair..HAH!! I guess that’s just gonna stay a secret between The HBX and their women!!!
 
The 2009 Jeff Peterson Memorial Cup will be held this Friday in Brooksville and Saturday in Crystal River, FL. To see information on the entire weekend log onto www.JPC2009.com

What’s Next for Sting?

Te opening package for the program still shows Sting’s painted face. An announcement on the Turning Point pay per view informed fans that the Icon will speak on the subject on the 11/22 iMPACT.

Will Sting hang ‘em up? I have no inside information, but it does raise the intriguing question: should Sting retire from professional wrestling?

Sting has reached his 50s, an age at which most others have called it quits. Most, but not all. Fit inlay still works creditably and so do a few others. More importantly, Sting is in good shape and has worked less than most wrestlers of the same age. His gimmick, his injuries and his previous retirements have preserved him pretty well.

Sting doesn’t seem to have the same passion for the work that he once possessed, but he still delivers good matches and interviews most of the time. When story support is good, Sting rises to the occasion.

Booking is crucial for Sting. If TNA wants to keep him, they will have to come up with a storyline that involved him in something both he and the fans consider significant.

The Return of Raven

My wife Joyce thought Raven looked terrible on his first show back – until I reminded her of what Raven looked like when he came in the last time. He still doesn’t look in fighting trim, despite the cloaking properties of his extensive costume, but he doesn’t look nearly as ill.

It looks like Raven will work a program against Abyss, who should in the final, decisive match. Raven may have trouble moving the bulky Abyss around the ring, but he will do reasonably interesting interviews and, hopefully, will make the feud more than a lame repetition of Abyss-Richards.

An Invitation to Disaster

The Lethal Invitational got off to an awful start with the match that Black Machismo lost to a plodding, out-of-shape Jim Niedhart. I don’t see how this works out if Lethal doesn’t win some matches, unless this is a convoluted way of ditching the Macho Man imitation.

That’s all for today! I’ll be back on Monday with my recap and analysis of Turning Point on Monday. Hope you’ll join me then – and, please, bring your friends.

– Arnie Katz
Executive Editor
Crossfire4@cox.net
(11/17/09)

Another week gone by and unfortunately it was a week I got sick. If you listen to the latest show, you can hear me STRUGGLE to get through an edition of Sunset Flip Wrestling Show this week. Any WWE supporters that are tired of me complaining about how terrible WWE is can listen to that show and have a good laugh. 

As I was sitting at home this weekend, I started thinking about some of my past experiences at Madison Square Garden. This week’s Raw is from Madison Square Garden and I am going. Even I have to admit that they are putting on a pretty good main event this week. Hell, maybe WWE will actually be…… ummm…. good this week. At the very least the stupid Yankees are not going to be on so that’s a huge plus.

 In no particular order I’m going to go through some memories I have at Madison Square Garden.

 My first pro wrestling LIVE experience was in the Garden. More specifically it was Wrestlemania X. A good card from top to bottom. Owen Hart was my first least favorite wrestler as a kid, and the fact he beat my favorite wrestler Bret “The Hitman” Hart in the first match made me not like him even more. However, at the end of the night I was thrilled to see Bret Hart win the title that night in the main event defeating Yokozuna in the main event. Rowdy Roddy Piper was the special referee and this week I’ll see him once again in the Garden. Even though I am fully against the guest host concept, I am happy to see Piper this Monday.

 There were some other good matches on the Wrestlemania X card, but the first and last match stick in my mind the most, even more than the ladder match. I was also a big fan of Macho Man at the time so I was happy to see him as well. To be honest, if this event was not good, I do not know if I would be writing this column right now.

 I am now going to fast forward to Survivor Series 1996, which is on WWE Classics on Demand. This event was special to me for one reason and that is Shawn Michaels was booed out of the building. It was me, my Uncle, and my 2 cousins. I was a fan of Shawn Michaels on his journey to fight for the title, but after he won it, I did not like him anymore. The way McMahon talked about him back then was downright sickening in terms of sucking up. Of course, my cousin Heather loved Shawn Michaels (like most women did back then) and by default that made me want Sid to win even more before going to the event.

 As most of you, Sid did win the title that night. The NYC crowd was behind Sid for the most part and I enjoyed every minute of it. My group celebrated the defeat of Shawn Michaels with exception to cousin Heather. Of course, Michaels won the title back at Royal Rumble in San Antonio Texas, where I suppose the company figured he would not get booed in his hometown.

 Also that night, I got to see Jake the Snake Roberts, Jimmy Snuka and the beginning of the Rock. Another enjoyable event, as most Garden shows back then were.

 My final MSG moment is from 1997. The first time ever that Austin “stunned” Vince McMahon. To say the crowd was electric that night was an understatement. I even remember being disappointed upon entering the event.

 Back in the “good ol days”, before we had stale main eventers, feuds that continued for 3 PPV’s for no reason, and when celebrities took time away from wrestling, they had programs. Not just the latest WWE magazine, but actual programs that said what matches are happening that night. When we arrived to the Raw taping, there was only one match, but it was the match that was previously advertised. Champion Shawn Michaels defends against Bret Hart and The Undertaker in a triple threat match for the title.

 As Raw began, the graphic showed the main event for the night and it said…….. Bret Hart vs Goldust. I was mad because I wanted to see the triple threat. Long story short, I did get the triple threat match and it was one of the most memorable Raws I have ever been a part of. Other than the Austin stuns McMahon storyline, we also saw the debut of Mick Foley as Cactus Jack. I was a huge fan of Cactus Jack in WCW and I also loved how they had Mick’s three personalities on the Titantron at the same time.

 I hope there are going to be some more great memories this Monday on Raw, but somehow with WWE’s booking I am not that sure. I have low standards for this show, just like all other Raws, with hopes that WWE booking surpasses my low standards, but usually they do not.

 As mentioned earlier, I am sick and struggled to do the show. You can download it now at sunsetflipwrestling.podomatic.com and even though I struggle, I still find time to prove ONCE AGAIN why Stephanie McMahon is a moron. Finally, visit our youtube page at www.youtube.com/sunsetflipshow

Have a great week everyone

Jim Boy Star

Sunset Flip Wrestling Show
Sunday 6pm EST
Myspace: www.myspace.com/sunsetflipshow
Twitter: www.twitter.com/sunsetflipshow
Download episodes: sunsetflipwrestling.podomatic.com

 
Louis Lyndon
Height: 5 Ft 11 In
Weight: 175 Lbs
Hometown: East Lansing, Michigan
Pro Debut: 2007
Website/Myspace/Facebook: www.myspace.com/louiskendrick
Where you have seen him: Hybrid Pro, Dragon’s Gate USA, Insanity Pro, Price of Glory Wrestling, Firestorm Wrestling, AIW, AAW, Rapid Pro Wrestling, Pure Pro Wrestling, Championship Wrestling Experience, Xtreme Intense Championship Wrestling, JAPW, NWA Indiana, GALLI Lucha Libre, Mr. Chainsaw Pro Wrestling, Championship Wrestling of Michigan.
 
Alan Wojcik: What were your initial thoughts on being named to Team Hybrid for the 2009 Jeff Peterson Memorial Cup?
?
Louis Lyndon: Excitement! I was quite surprised. The fact that there is a Team Hybrid for the Peterson Cup in itself was very surprising when I first heard. Never thought a couple years ago that Hybrid promotion would make it this far. The chance to represent the Hybrid promotion in Florida is chance of a lifetime.
 
Alan Wojcik: Doing research showed you work as both Louis Lyndon and Bryan Lyndon. Is this true and why the two different names?
?
Louis Lyndon: I started off as Brian/Bryan Lyndon basically for a couple promotions including Hybrid and AIW. After furthering my training at Price of Glory Wrestling in MI, my trainer, Josh Raymond, decided I should do something different and use my real first name. I started taking on that name in December 2007. I use Louis Lyndon everywhere minus Hybrid to this day.
 
Alan Wojcik: On your Myspace you have a photo of someone named Clive Myers. Who is he and what does he mean to you?
?
Louis Lyndon: Clive Myers! He was a 70’s-80’s British wrestler from the World of Sport era, during the times of your Johnny Saints, Steve Greys, and Mark Roccos. He was a kung-fu influenced wrestler like myself. I watch and study his wrestling all the time. He definitely inspires me when I go out and wrestle every single match.
 
Alan Wojcik: Before asking you about a specific match in the promotion, you’re representing Hybrid Pro Wrestling. Tell us something about the promotion that makes it different than other Midwest based promotions.
?
Louis Lyndon: Hybrid Wrestling is a unique animal, at least compared to many other Midwest promotions. It is very athletic based company, always pushing limits of the human body. From the wrestlers to fans hitting metal sheets on guardrails it has a little different feel. It kinda goes away from old school wrestling of 80’s and kinda embraces the high impact style, high flying style of Michinoku Pro or Dragon Gate I would say.

 
Alan Wojcik: On December 16, 2008 you wrestled in what is talked about in wrestling as a five star ladder match against Marion Fontaine,Dave Cole & Christian Faith. Talk about the match and its place in Hybrid’s history.
?
Louis Lyndon: This match was really painful. I got beat up like I had never had been before or even sense. The match itself introduced a unique idea where each person had their own colored ladder and thus was only be able to retrieve the title by climbing that ladder. This lead to people trying to break other people’s ladders in the match. My ladder actually was broken and I had to put my ladder on top of another person’s ladder near the end of the match. Kinda worked for a second, heh. Even though I lost, it was an honor to have a change to be the first Hybrid Champion and also to be apart of the company’s biggest match to date.
 
Alan Wojcik: Like Chris Jones, Johnny Gargano, Arik Cannon & Flip Kendrick you have worked for Dragons Gate USA and competed in their FRAY match. Talk about working for the promotion and for people at the JPC who will see FRAY!, explain the concept of the match.
?
Louis Lyndon: FRAY! is one of craziest match ideas. It basically involves 8 men with two competitors started off. Every 3 minutes someone new enters randomly. The standard match rules apply with no countouts with the final survivor winning. You can’t prepare properly for a match like this. I myself had very little if any luck in the two I competed in. Working DGUSA was like a dream. I never thought I would get a chance to work for company like it. It was one of the greatest experiences of my wrestling career. Hopefully, down the road I will have another chance to work for them.
 
Alan Wojcik: If things go your way you might be coming to Florida the Insanity Pro Jr. Heavywight champion. Hybrid Pro teammates Flip Kendrick & Marion Fontaine are also in the tournament (Louis faces Billy Roc in round one, www.insanityprowrestling.com). Scout out them & Dave Cole for fans who have never seen them.
?
Louis Lyndon: I am really planning on it. I have been in dojo double-time preparing for the tournament. Yes, Flip and Fontaine are both in the tournament as well. Flip, my brother, is always a tough competitor in few times we have fought each other. You have no idea where his flips are going to come from. He has come along over way over the last year. Fontaine and I have had few matches with him getting the better 2 out of 3. You kinda underestimate Fontaine when you see him at first glance. You quickly, find out he is one crafty wrestler out there. Dave Cole is one of toughest guys I have ever fought. He is all around wrestler. Doesn’t seem to have a weakness.
 
Alan Wojcik: Of the other fifteen competitors is there someone you are looking forward to possibly facing and someone you consider a possible roadblock to the trophy?
?
Louis Lyndon: Everyone is a roadblock. Any single person in this tournament could win it. I know nothing will be easy. I am just going to bring my 70’s Kung Fu and give it everything I got!
 
For full event info, VIP ticket packages and profiles of other competitors log onto www.JPC2009.com

TNA is back with another PPV offering. This one is not even in the same ballpark as their spectacular Bound For Glory show. This second-rate effort is going to throw a lot of nowhere feuds and pretend threats to championships at the fans. I’m not impressed, as you will be able to tell as you read on.

Team 3D & Rhino v Matt Morgan, Hernandez and D’Angelo Dinero

Backstory: Ok, Rhino gets all paranoid and thinks “they” are out to get him. With his recent string of losses, he might be right. Anyway, he’s now convinced Brother Ray and Brother Devon that they are next on the victim list. Team 3D were battling Hernandez and Morgan, when Ray blith-whapped his opponents with a chair. Ray now suddenly buys all Rhino’s baloney and wants to protect himself from the “evil ones”. Speaking of “evil ones”, D’Angelo Dinero, who was off for a family emergency, is back. This time, he joins the yound studs to battle the old guard.

Predictions: My biggest question is: What the heck is Dinero doing on the face side of this one? He comes into TNA as a replacement for Ron Killings, basically, and gets thrown into a decent heel role. He has some kind of emergency and suddenly he’s the face savior. I can only imagine that Suicide is going to turn heel. Speaking of Suicide, I noticed that he’s not on the card, anywhere. To keep the conspiracy theory going, Team 3D and Rhino really need to lose this one. I see the ending as Rhino goes for a Gore! but missed. Dinero then catches Rhino with the D-D-E to take the win.

Predicted Winners: D’Angelo Dinero, Hernandez and Matt Morgan
Predicted Grade: B-

Bobby Lashley v. Scott Steiner

Backstory: Steiner takes a liking to Bobby’s better half and the war is on. That’s pretty much what the tired re-used-a-million-times feud is all about. Just like Rude/Roberts, Flair/Precious and probably a dozen more, Lashley is defending the honor of his family against the lustful Steiner. Oh, Puh-leeze!

Predictions: This is definitely the Beer Run match of the night. This feud was given absolutely no time to build before the near-sighted writers decided to run with a major battle. This is definitiely a no-win situation. If Steiner loses, the feud is dead in teh water. If Lashley loses, it kills any momentum that he had. I just have to think that TNA will go with the smart move and have Lashley destroy Steiner. Lashley could then move another step up the ladder and Steiner could fade into retirement (or join Booker T over in McMahon-Land).

Predicted Winner: Bobby Lashley
Predicted Grade: D

The British Invasion v Beer Money Inc. v The Motor City Machine Guns
TNA World Tag Title Triple Threat Match

Backstory: The Motor City Machine Guns won this title shot at Bound For Glory. Beer Money won their way into the mix with a win on Thursday’s Impact. The Brits took the straps at Bound For Glory and then got themselves suspended for smacking as ref to keep their belts in a match against Beer Money on Impact.

Predictions: This one seems rather complicated but I don’t think it’s going to turn out that way. With Beer Money beating the odds to earn this shot, common sense says they will take the belts. I don’t think so. I’m going with the Guns to take the straps. This could play into the whole Team 3D comspiracy thing and lead to a few really decent matches between the two teams.

Predicted Winners: Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley (New Champions)
Predicted Grade: A

Tara v Awesome Kong
Six Sides of Steel Cage Match

Backstory: Tara, the former Victoria, showed up in TNA a few months back. She immediately set her sights on the top woman in the company, Kong. Kong tried to squash Tara’s pet spider, Poison. Kong has recently disposed of her long-time handler, This latest match is going to be inside the six-sided steel cage.

Prediction: This match means absolutely nothing, since neither woman holds the Knockout belt. If Kong were to hold the belt, I’d give it to Tara. If Tara held it, Kong would win. There is just no way in Heaven or Hell that Tara will get Kong up into the Widow’s Peak. That neutralizes her biggest weapon. The only way I see Tara winning this one is if Raisha Saeed gets involved. Otherwise, Kong hits the Implant Buster and takes the win.

Predicted Winner: Awesome Kong
Predicted Grade: A-

The Amazing Red v Homicide
X-Division Title Match

Backstory: Red pulled off a huge upset when he defeated Samoa Joe for the X-Division title. He did have a little help from Bobby Lashley. Homicide has turned back into his old street thug character after joining the World Elite. He has mugged Red’s promoter, Don West, and raided Mick Foley’s office to steal the barbed wire bat.

Prediction: TNA has so much more that they can do with a Red X-Division title reign. I can’t imagine that they would end his first-ever reign so quickly. This match should be a warp speed affair with tons of high-risk moves and near falls. I’m expecting Homicide to get frustrated and attack either Red, the ref or both. Red gets busted open but keeps the straps, thanks to the DQ.

Predicted Winner: Amazing Red (by DQ)
Predicted Grade: A

ODB and Taylor Wilde and Sarita v The Beautiful People
All Knockout Titles on the Line Match

Backstory: Kong took her first Knockout title from her former beau, Cody Deaner. Sarita and Taylor Wilde won a tournament to become the first Knockout tag team champions. In this upcoming match, both the Knockout singles and tag belts are on the line.

Prediction: This has been billed as an All-or-Nothing match. If any of the Beautiful People were to take the pin, all the belts would go to Von Erich, Sky and Rayne. If that stands, then the straps will stay put and there will be chaos inside the Beautiful People. If they change it to where each champion is individually defended, then the Beuatiful People will take the tag belts and ODB keeps her title. I wish Lacey would take the singles title but she’s not ready. The other two Beautiful People aren’t strong enough to hold the singles title. I’m going to say that the titles will not change hands. I’m expecting ODB to take the win, which will set ODB v Lacey in the near future.

Predicted Winners: ODB, Taylor Wilde and Sarita
Predicted Grade: B

Kurt Angle v Desmond Wolfe

Backstory: The Main Event Mafia is gone. Booker T has left the company. Steiner has gone after Bobby Lashley. Nash is doing…well…something. In the middle of all this chaos, Desmond Wolfe (the former Nigel McGuiness) has arrived in TNA to eliminate Kurt and take his place. Wolfe has attacked Kurt, several times. So far, Wolfe has dominated.

Prediction: TNA is trying to push Wolfe to the top too fast. If Wolfe truly destroys Kurt, as he claims he will do, Kurt might as well join Booker T back in WWE. If Wolfe really gets trashed, he will be effectively useless as a top heel. The only way that this won’t weaken the company is if neither man is dominate. Expect a double DQ in this wild and wooly battle.

Predicted Winner: Double DQ
Predicted Grade: B+

A.J. Styles v Samoa Joe v Daniels
TNA World Championship Match

Backstory: These three met several years ago in a stellar match. Styles has been attacked, several times, recently. It looked like it might be Daniels. There was another masked man who jumped A.J. while Daniels and Samoa Joe were in the ring. Styles slapped his long-time friend on the most recent edition of Impact, when Daniels came to the ring during a match between Joe and Styles. Joe was able to lock in the Kokina Clutch to take the non-title win.

Prediction: The unknown masked man is the key to this bout. Since it does not appear that Daniels was behind the attack, taht leaves two options: another contender to Styles or a new member of Joe’s Nation of Violence. I think the mystery person (possibly the former Mr. Kennedy) will show up to attack Styles. It’s possible the mystery man might be Sting but I don’t think TNA would risk turning Sting heel. If the name “Black Scorpion” or something similar comes out, it’s him. No matter what happens on Sunday, Styles will go home with the gold

Predicted Winner: A.J. Styles
Predicted Grade: A-

Final Grade: B

Final Thoughts: TNA will play safe with this PPV. Don’t expect Hogan to show up or any major title changes, other than the tag belts. With Survivor Series coming a week after this, many fans will save their pennies for one of the WWE’s Big Four. This PPV won’t try to over-power that show, even if it could. It will be a decent PPV but nothing substantial.

– Jay Shannon
TheHeadLocker@SBCGlobal.net
(11/14/09)