The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 12-21-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results and immunity standings.

1 -- JOHNNY CURTIS (1-0) vs. JACOB NOVAK (0-1)

The announcers noted JTG was replacing R-Truth tonight, as Truth "could not be here." They cut to a shot of Vickie Guerrero watching backstage as Ziggler's Pro, Novak, gave him instructions. Novak took control and worked on Curtis's back as the announcers said they are two weeks away from the first elimination. Poor Curtis couldn't build any momentum and they cut to a shot of the Pros on stage where Maryse was furiously scribbling on her clipboard. Ziggler then interjected himself into the match behind the ref's back and helped Novak score a boot of sorts for the pin.

WINNER: Novak (1-1) in 7:00. Ziggler is everywhere.

2 -- TED DIBIASE & MARYSE & BRODUS CLAY (1-0) vs. CHRIS MASTERS & BYRON SAXTON (0-1) & Divas champion NATALYA

Maryse and Natalya started things off by having a mid-ring conversation. Maryse told Natalya to get lost, so she piefaced her. Maryse tried to run away, but Natalya chased her down and Maryse screamed and shrieked. Maryse had enough and tagged out to Clay. Big Clay dominated Saxton, who rolled to the outside selling that he was lifeless.

Back from break, DiBiase was working over Saxton with repeated knee drops to the forehead. DiBiase taught Saxton a lesson with mid-ring punishment before Masters tagged in. Team DiBiase cornered Masters, though, and Clay landed a flying butt bump in the corner. Saxton found his way back into the ring for the Rookies to work against each other. DiBiase tagged in and Bateman opted against tagging in Masters, so DiBiase nailed a dropkick and went back to work teaching Saxton more lessons.

Saxton eventually tagged out to Masters and the Pros went at it. DiBiase teased Dream Street, but Masters countered with a spinebuster. He teased the Masterlock, but Clay ran interference and DiBiase landed a dropkick. DiBiase screamed at the fans, then Masters found himself on the wrong side of town taking a slap from Maryse. DiBiase went back to work focusing on Masters before a double knock-down clothesline took both men to the mat.

Maryse tagged in, Saxton entered, and Saxton took a slap from Maryse. Natalya then tackled Maryse and they took a catfight out of the ring to the floor. The Pros tried to separate the Divas ringside. In the ring, Clay and Saxton went at it. Well, they kind of stalled for time before Clay went to the corner and missed with a big Vader Bomb. Saxton then covered Clay, who was selling the effects of missing the Vader Bomb, and scored a pin for the win. Saxton gets a win. Masters, Saxton, and Natalya celebrated ringside as Saxton sold shock that he won. On the other side, Maryse sold disgust with another loss as they signed off with Team Saxton continuing to celebrate.

WINNERS: Team Saxton (1-1) in 12:00. Highly random six-person tag match with some intriguing sequences trying to get over personalities. Maryse continues to be one of the more entertaining characters in the entire company, DiBiase got over his aggressiveness in a memorable way, Masters was Masters, and Saxton has something to brag about next week. This was entertaining, overall.

Updated Immunity Standings:
Derrick Bateman: 3 points
Johnny Curtis: 2 points
Jacob Novak: 1 point
Byron Saxton: 1 point
Brodus Clay: 0 points
Conor O'Brian: 0 points

[Arcademan]

WWE Tribute to the Troops Report: 12-22-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- 15-MAN BATTLE ROYAL

The non-Nexus members tried to take out the Nexus members, then Nexus members simply bailed out of the ring to retreat. Masters was the first one via clothesline by Sheamus. Chavo then opportunistically eliminated Jackson when Jackson was trapped in a head scissors by Rhodes. Santino then cleaned house with the...Cobra, which drew a reaction. Sheamus knocked down Santino, then Henry slowly approached Sheamus. Cole said the world just stopped. Nexus suddenly re-entered the ring trying to take apart Sheamus and Henry. They eventually eliminated the Russian before turning toward Chavo, who was eliminated. Cody tried to show support for Nexus, but they dumped him out of the ring.

Sheamus and Morrison were suddenly forced into a situation working together along with Henry and Bryan against Nexus. Bryant hen eliminated Gabriel and Sheamus suddenly blasted Bryan with a Brogue Kick to eliminate him. Morrison eliminated Otunga, which dropped Nexus down to three members. Sheamus then battled Morrison, who caught Sheamus with the Flying Chuck.

They reached the ten-minute mark with Morrison being knocked off the apron to the floor. Henry then whipped Slater clear over the top rope to the floor. Henry just took it upon himself to start clearing space, eliminating McGillicutty. Henry then eliminated Harris to clean out Nexus. Sheamus instantly attacked Henry as the crowd rallied behind Henry. Meanwhile, Cole wondered what Barrett thought of Nexus's performance. Henry made a comeback feeling re-energized in his home state before press-slamming Sheamus clear over the top rope and to the floor. Henry wins the battle royal.

WINNER: Mark Henry in 12:00. Fine match playing up Nexus's gimmick and giving Henry a spotlight opportunity for the first time in a while.

2 -- BIG SHOW & KOFI KINGSTON vs. JACK SWAGGER & IC champion DOLPH ZIGGLER

Show landed an early frying pan-like chop to the chest on Ziggler before standing on his chest. The announcers talked about Ziggler escaping TLC with the IC Title as Ziggler made a comeback on Kingston. Kingston then landed a big monkey flip followed by ten punches in the corner. The action moved to the apron where Swagger dropped Kofi across the ring apron behind the ref's back to give the heels the advantage working on Kofi. Big Show eventually made his way back into the ring and cleaned house before dropping Swagger with a chokeslam for the win. Rima made it official as Show and Kofi celebrated the win.

WINNERS: Show & Kingston in 5:00. Basic house show tag match with the heels getting their comeuppance at the end.

3 -- TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse) vs. R-TRUTH (w/Eve)

Truth opened things with a hard slap for DiBiase as the announcers plugged George W. Bush's new book prior to him delivering a message. The announcers had one of those "stereotypes of women" type conversations you can always expect from WWE as the wrestlers knocked each other down and remained on the mat. Cole said he empathizes with Maryse, saying she really wants to be with a winner and DiBiase has been struggling lately. Maryse got on the ring apron to distract Truth, but Eve yanked Maryse to the ground. DiBiase tried to capitalize with Dream Street, but Truth countered with the Lie Detector for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Truth in 4:00. Basic house show singles match. The announcers referenced win/loss records, which would be a nice touch for WWE to keep track of in 2011 to enhance a story if a wrestler is on a winning/losing streak and the announcers can actually present hard figures supporting the stories.

4 -- Divas champion NATALYA & BELLA TWINS & KELLY KELLY vs. LAYLA & MICHELLE MCCOOL & MELINA & ALICIA FOX

The heel Divas quickly took control of the match to work on Brie Bella. Kelly eventually took a tag tag and cleaned house while repeatedly smashing McCool's face into the mat. The action completely broke down before Kelly was left alone in the ring to drop McCool with the Rocker Dropper for the pin and the win. The babyface Divas did a curtain call for the audience to conclude the action.

WINNERS: Team Kelly in 3:00. Surprising to see McCool, of all people, take the loss. It was a house show finish with Kelly getting a measure of revenge on Lay-Cool for all of the "Smelly Kelly" jokes in 2010.

5 -- REY MYSTERIO & RANDY ORTON & JOHN CENA vs. WWE champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) & ALBERTO DEL RIO & WADE BARRETT

Miz and Cena started things off and the heels quickly took control working on Cena. Cole declared that Del Rio proved he belongs in the "big time" after the four-way TLC match at the PPV. Orton then tagged in and teased the RKO on Barrett, but Miz ran interference to allow Barrett to regain control. The heels then picked up an attack on Orton. They cut to break with the heels in control working on Rey.

Back from break, the heels were still working on Rey. The heels tagged in and out before Rey eventually made a hot tag to Cena. Del Rio also tagged in and accepted the Classic Cena Comeback. The action broke down and Orton gave the Angle Slam to Miz. Suddenly, Del Rio and Barrett found themselves on the middle rope. Rey hit a double 619, Cena hit the Attitude Adjustment on Del Rio, Orton hit the RKO on Barrett, and Cena pinned Del Rio for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Team Cena in 13:00. Standard house show main event to send the crowd home happy.

Rey, Cena, and Orton did a curtain call to celebrate for the fans as Cole called it the "entertainment and holiday tradition" known as "Tribute to the Troops." Cole and Lawler said it's about "putting smiles on the faces of the troops." They cut to a final shot of Cena celebrating in the ring before a video package capturing the entire special aired to conclude the show.

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 12-23-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- D.H. SMITH vs. ZACK RYDER

Stanford noted Ryder was victorious last week on Superstars and he won a Slammy Award for worst catchphrase. Ryder, riding that momentum, slapped Smith early on before running away. Smith came back with a half Boston Crab, Ryder escaped, and Smith resumed a ground attack. Ryder then took a ride on a delayed vertical suplex for a nearfall. Ryder took a break on the outside, but Smith tapped him on the shoulder and landed a big European uppercut. Back in the ring, Ryder cut off Smith and landed a dropkick from the second turnbuckle for a two count. Ryder returned the favor settling into a mat-based hold trying to wear down Smith. The announcers filled time creating conversation about Ryder's basic characteristics of being cocky, arrogant, and full of himself. Ryder settled into a body scissors and they cut to break.

The two-segment match resumed with Ryder standing up Smith in an abdominal stretch. Smith escaped, but Ryder pounded on Smith in the corner. They battled up top and Smith missed with an elbow drop after knocking Ryder to the mat. Ryder tried to follow with a suplex, but Smith countered with a suplex. Smith called to the crowd for extra strength as he built momentum with clotheslines and an overhead throw. Smith tried to show fire and landed a powerslam for a two count. Smith missed with a running leg drop, but Ryder missed with the Rough Ryder, and Smith dropped Ryder with a Saito Suplex for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Smith in 12:00. Basic back-and-forth match with each man showing flashes of decent work in the ring. But, there's a reason why they're on Superstars and not on Raw right now. Smith with new generic rock music doesn't help. (*1/2)

2 -- USO BROTHERS (JIMMY & JEY) vs. DARREN YOUNG & YOSHI TATSU

Lawler said the Usos made a big splash when they first debuted, but he's surprised they haven't put themselves in the mix lately. Stanford noted Tamina's absence as Young and Jey battled in the ring. Yoshi then tagged in and nailed a series of kick strikes. Jey bailed to the floor and tagged in Jimmy on the way back in the ring to blindside Yoshi. The Usos began working over Yoshi as Lawler and Stanford talked about Nexus in the past-tense after Cena's work on them at the TLC PPV. The crowd rallied behind Yoshi, who teased a comeback before executing an enziguiri kick to escape and tag in Young. Young landed some offense for a nearfall, but the Usos blind-tagged again and attempted a double Samoan Drop. In post-production, they cut to a different camera shot to cover for the move not being executed cleanly, but it was good for a pinfall to give the Usos the win.

WINNERS: Usos in 5:00. Basic tag match trying to establish the Usos on their own. WWE just doesn't have a program for any of the four men in this match, so the name of the game is just staying on TV. (*)

3 -- KELLY KELLY & BETH PHOENIX vs. LAY-COOL (KELLY KELLY & LAYLA)

Matt Striker noted three of the four Divas in the match are injured after the TLC PPV where Beth and Natalya defeated Lay-Cool in a tables match. Lay-Cool sold the effects early on in the match, including McCool refusing to tag in while selling her back and side muscles. Lay-Cool eventually bailed to the floor looking for a break, but Kelly slid through Beth's legs for a dropkick that knocked Lay-Cool to the floor. Beth taunted them as the show cut to break.

Back from break, Kelly executed a handspring elbow smash in the corner to continue the babyface Divas's momentum. McCool then came back with a belly-to-belly suplex and Lay-Cool built some momentum working over Kelly. The heels worked over Kelly for a few minutes as they built to a hot tag to Phoenix, who cleaned house on Lay-Cool. Layla was left alone in the ring to take the Glam Slam for a pin and the win. Afterwards, Beth and Kelly hugged it out while McCool desperately reached out for Layla, who was splattered across the ring. Kelly and Beth waved to the crowd as they went to a final shot of McCool dragging Layla across the ringside area to continue selling the effects.

WINNERS: Phoenix & Kelly in 12:00. Phoenix is picking up where she left off pre-injury dominating in the ring. It would be great to see her in the Rumble again like this year when she memorably eliminated Great Khali. Fine main event getting over the personalities and stories of everyone involved. (*1/2)

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact! Results: 12-23-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JEFF JARRETT vs. AMAZING RED

Jarrett went after him aggressively at the start, mounting his back and pounding him, then adding an anklelock. Red held off as long as he could, but tapped out.

WINNER: Jarrett in 1:00.

-Afterward Jarrett helped Red to his feet and told him to he gave him a good shot. He asked him if he has any cousins or brothers or sisters or kids who could give him another challenge. Red says he has a baby brother. Jarrett told him to bring him next week. The crowd chanted "Angle! Angle!"

2 -- MAX BUCK vs. JEREMY BUCK vs. ROBBIE E. (w/Cookie) vs. KAZARIAN - X Division Contendership Match

Jay Lethal joined Taz and Tenay on commentary. Tenay asked Lethal which wrestler of those four he'd like to defend his X Title against. Max and Jeremy tagged in against each other and postured together in the ring, then yanked Robbie E. into the ring as he gyrated on the ring apron for Cookie. The Bucks worked together even though it was officially a four-way. Kaz tagged in at 4:00 and finished Jeremy almost immediately with a reverse tombstone piledriver. Lethal stood up and invited Kaz to try to take it from him and do what Ric Flair couldn't.

WINNER: Kaz in 5:00.

3 -- TARA & MADISON RAYNE vs. THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE (Angelina Love & Velvet Sky) -- TNA Knockouts Tag Team Title Tournament Final

Sky wasn't able to join Love at the start of the match because of the attack by Rayne minutes earlier. This week Tenay was in the middle of a plug for upcoming matches, totally ignoring a cover by Rayne on Love. Taz interrupted him to call it. The heel tandem continued to methodically beat Love. The mystery British lady, Winter, came out and joined the match. The referee inexplicably counted her as a legitimate partner of Love and she quickly pounded Rayne and quickly pinned her. Taz said nobody saw this coming. Love didn't know what to make of Winter celebrating with her. She seemed confused.

WINNERS: Love & Winter in 5:00 to capture the TNA Tag Team Titles.

4 -- DOUGLAS WILLIAMS vs. A.J. STYLES -- TV Title Iron Man Match (15 MIN.)

It's pretty sad when an Iron Man match is 15 minutes, as if that's some sort of marathon length for a pro wrestling match, but in this era where the median length of a TV match is about 4 minutes, it will seem long. Early on Williams went into side headlocks to ground Styles and then transitioned into a hammerlock. At 4:00 they cut to a break.

Back to the match, Styles was in control. They showed a replay that during the break Styles hit a Styles Clash for the first fall. Odd to book that during the break, although the plus is that it does create the sense that things weren't planned out ahead of time. When Styles bailed out to ringside after a flurry of offense against Williams, the ref told him to return to the ring. Styles said he had all the time in the world. Taz said he doesn't disagree with what Styles is doing because it's clock management, but then said in amateur wrestling, sitting on a lead can actually leave you vulnerable to a loss. When Williams went after Styles at ringside, Styles threw him into the ringside steps and then pointed at his head to indicate how smart he is. Styles roundkicked Williams's back, and Taz called the kick by name accurately. He's the only announcer who's bothered to learn and use the proper names of karate kicks employed in matches (although he likely knew them before he got into wrestling). At 13:00 Williams hit an exploder suplex on Styles. Tenay said they were under two minutes and Williams desperately needed a pin to even the score. Williams hit Rolling Chaos Theory in the closing seconds to tie the score at 1-1. Neither were able to score another pin in the final 15 seconds, so they went to overtime.

Styles said he wanted five more minutes. Williams said he only needed one minute. Borash, after a conference with ref Earl Hebner announced there would be a five minute overtime. I'm not sure of the way they portrayed it, as if they were making it up as they went along and didn't actually have a set rule for what happened in the not-all-that-unlikely event of a tie after 15 minutes. They cut to a break before going to overtime. Williams knocked Styles off balance on the top rope early in OT. Styles rallied with a springboard forearm and a Pele Kick and scored a near fall at 4:00. Styles fought off a top rope suplex attempt by Williams for a few seconds, and by the time Williams executed it, time expired before he could make the cover. So overtime ended without a fall.

WINNER: Draw in 20:00 so Williams retained his TV Title.

5 -- MATT MORGAN & THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS & ROB VAN DAM vs. BEER MONEY & ABYSS & JEFF HARDY - TNA Tag Team Titles on the line if Guns get pinned by Beer Money

Everyone took turns in the early minutes, then the heels settled into a sustained beating on Shelley for the body of the match. Beer Money double-suplexed Shelley and then did their little choreographed dance and shouted "Beer! Money!" Two minutes past the top of the hour, Tenay ended Impact, then they paused for a split seconds and moved officially into Reaction. RVD hot-tagged in at 7:00 and worked Abyss, Roode, and Storm with a flurry of kicks. He scored a near fall on Roode after Rolliing Thunder. Sabin then tagged in and hit a flying clothesline Storm, but Storm countered with a face buster. Shelly and Morgan entered the ring without tags. Hardy hit Morgan with a Twist of Fate. RVD entered to go after Hardy, but Hardy avoided him, as he had all match, bailing out to ringside. Shelley and Roode battled. Sabin caught Roode with a tornado DDT for the win. Nobody seemed to care at the end that nobody was tagging in the final minutes, which makes the idea of spending more than five minutes building to a hot tag in the body of the match seem pointless if anyone could have just entered at any time anyway. Unless I missed something, that kind of arbitrary inconsistent enforcement of rules is unnecessary and undercuts the storytelling of matches in general.

WINNERS: Morgan & Guns & RVD in 9:00.

STAR RATING: **1/4 - Good main event tag team. RVD avoiding Hardy was the biggest story of the match, but otherwise it was just a nice display of wrestling action.

[Arcademan]

Ring of Honor TV Results: 12-20-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Jay Brisco defeated Stever Corino in a Holiday Gauntlet Match at 5:47. They shoved each other after a clean break, and then had a shoulder block collision. They argued and then and several more collisions before Jay ducked a clothesline and won the shoulder block challenge. Corino reversed a whip to the corner and hit a chop.

Jay looked at him like he was crazy and Corino hit the STO. It looked like they botched a lift and Corino locked on the abdominal stretch. Corino checked Jay's oil twice and Jay reversed into his own abdominal stretch. He threatened to check the oil and the ref stopped him, allowing Corinio to roll up for two. Corino went for the Emerald Dream, but Jay ducked and hit Corinio's injured arm and rolled him up for the pinfall victory. Post-match Corino hit a knee lift on Brisco before finally leaving the ring. Entranct number three was Christopher Daniels. Daniels ensured Jay had recovered from the post-match assault before they started…

2. Christopher Daniels defeated Jay Brisco in a Holiday Gauntlet Match at 5:31. Daniels took quick control and worked the abdomen of Jay. Jay hooked two school boy rollups, but Daniels hit a front suplex to retake control. Jay escaped a rest hold and hit a superkick. He hit a death valley driver and a Russian leg sweep into the turnbuckle. Jay went for the Jay Driver, but Daniels reversed into the Angle's Wings for the pinfall victory. Rhett Titus was the fourth person selected. He hit the ring and they started immediately…

3. Christopher Daniels defeated Rhett Titus in a Holiday Gauntlet match at 5:39. Daniels hit a heel kick as Titus ran in. Titus came back with a drop kick and worked Daniels in the corner and on the ropes. Daniels escaped a splash in the corner and hit an insaguri kick. Titus rolled to the flor and Daniels followed. Titus hit a big boot and rolled him in the ring. He covered for two and went to the top. He jumped off and Daniels hit a Rock Bottom. Daniels followed with the BME for the win. Davey Richards was the fifth man out…

4. Davey Richards defeated Christopher Daniels in a Holiday Gauntlet match at 5:44. Richards went right to work, but Daniels hit many moves too. They went rapid fire back and forth with moves. Daniels locked in a kogi (sp?) lock. Richards made the ropes and hooked an Ankle Lock. Daniels escaped and setup for the BME. Richards moved and hit the Alarm Clock and followed with a huge kick to the head for the win. Claudio Castagnoli was the sixth man out…

5. Davey Richards defeated Claudio Castagnoli (w/Sara Del Ray and Shane Hagadorn) in a Holiday Gaunlet match at 5:37. Richards attacked Claudio on the floor to start. He rolled Claudio in the ring and Claudio hit a kick as Richards crawled in. Claudio put on a clinic of power moves and went to the top. Davey ran up and they battled. Claudio knocked him down three times, but Richards hit a superplex the fourth time for two. Claudio kicked out and Richards hooked the ankle lock.

Cluadio escaped and reversed the handspring kick into the UFO for two. He lifted for the Riccola bomb and Richards rolled down for a surprise win. Chris Hero was the seventh man out…

6. Davey Richards defeated Chris Hero in a Holiday Gauntlet match at 6:22. Hero attacked immediately and hit a big kick for two. Davey grabbed him and hooked the Cloverleaf, but Hero made the ropes. Hero choked him on the ropes and Hagadorn took a cheap shot. Hero tried for a Cloverleaf, but Richards reversed into an ankle lock.

Hero made the ropes and hit his rolling elbow and a running powerbomb for two. Hagadorn distracted the ref and Hero put on the loaded elbow pad. He missed the elbow that time and Richards rolled him up for the surprise victory. Post-match Richards dragged Hagadorn in the ring and started to attack him. Hero hit the loaded elbow on the back of the head and knocked Richards out. Roderick Strong was the last guy out. He hit the ring immediately…

7. Roderick Strong defeated Davey Richards to win the Holiday Gauntlet at 2:54. Strong covered immediately but Richards kicked out. Strong mounted him for punches and Richards woke up. They traded blows and Richards whipped Strong to the corner and charged. Strong moved and hit his gutbuster for two. Richards came back and hooked the ankle lock, but String escaped and hit two kicks to the head for the victory.

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 12-27-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE tag champion SANTINO (w/Tamina) vs. TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse)

DiBiase quickly decked Santino with a right hand blow and settled into a rear chinlock. Santino teased a comeback, then avoided a dropkick and quickly rolled up DiBiase for a pin. That was it for DiBiase. Santino then grabbed a Christmas present and handed it to Tamina, who opened up to find the hidden Cobra in the box. DiBiase and Maryse then jumped Santino and Maryse from behind, but Santino and Tamina quickly recovered, hit stereo fist drops, and finished with stereo Cobra smashes on DiBiase and Maryse to essentially score two wins.

WINNER: Santino at 0:59. What...are...they...doing...with...DiBi ase? It's well past time they do something with the DiBiase/Maryse partnership to advance DiBiase's career. He's stuck in neutral going backwards downhill. (n/a)

2 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. ALEX RILEY (w/WWE champion The Miz)

Miz shouted encouragement toward Riley as he took control of the match early on. Riley executed a side slam and made a cover for a nearfall. Miz paced ringside angry with Riley's inability to put away Morrison. Morrison then built some momentum and went for a springboard kick, but Miz yanked Morrison down. The ref saw it, but didn't call for a DQ, instead he gave Miz the boot. Riley then tried to roll up Morrison, but Morrison kicked out. Morrison then came back with a springboard kick strike and measured Riley for a running knee strike to the face. Morrison made the cover and it was good for the win. Miz didn't even make it to the back, as he was on the stage looking on with peril as Morrison celebrated the win.

Post-match: Morrison shook hands with Lawler and told Lawler that the WWE Title match will be next week and it will be Falls Count Anywhere. Cole complained that Miz is not an animal, but an athlete. Cole said Miz should demand a protest.

WINNER: Morrison at 4:43. Interesting they're going with the WWE Title match on next week's Raw rather than at the Rumble. So, next week, it's Miz vs. Morrison for the WWE Title in a Falls Count Anywhere match. (*)

3 -- TYSON KIDD (w/Jason Andrews) vs. MARK HENRY

Henry dominated early on and measured Kidd for a seated butt splash, but Kidd rolled out of the way and began stomping away on Henry. Kidd settled into a front facelock and grunted toward the crowd. Henry then came to his feet and caught Kidd off the top rope for the World's Strongest Slam. Henry made the cover and that was it.

Post-match: Andrews did the Kevin Nash entrance into the ring to stare down Henry, who met him face-to-face. Henry then backed away and Andrews landed a developmental kick to the gut. He missed with a clothesline when Henry ducked and Henry dropped Andrews with the World's Strongest Slam.

WINNER: Henry at 2:07. Henry resurgence? Another bad night for heels, in this case Kidd & Andrews? How can Andrews recover from that in his first big WWE TV spot being completely owned by Henry? And why invest TV time in a backstage segment with Bryan and Kidd if Kidd is going to lose clean? Plenty of questions to be answered after that one. (*)

4 -- WWE champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) vs. JERRY LAWLER -- non-title match

Miz started things off with a take down, which prompted him to gloat to the crowd about his technical prowess. The announcers bickered while Miz took control of the match while taunting Lawler. Miz slapped on a headlock as Lawler looked to the crowd for some energy, but Miz yanked Lawler down to the mat to cut off Lawler. Miz followed with a boot to the chest before rubbing his boot across Lawler's forehead. Miz continued to taunt Lawler, who tried to fight back, but Miz kicked Lawler in the face again. Miz drew the ref's ire by raking Lawler's eyes, then he stood over Lawler taunting the crowd again. Cole said it's becoming a bit uncomfortable. Miz staggered Lawler with a left hand before taunting him some more half-speed knee and kick strikes.

Suddenly, at 7:00, John Morrison's music hit. Morrison walked out on stage and stared into the ring before walking to the ring. Miz then turned back to Lawler and missed with a clothesline. Lawler staggered across the ring, avoided a running kick, and came to his feet. Lawler with a left hand jab, then another one. And another. And two more. Lawler followed with a series of dropkicks as the crowd came to life. Lawler tried a scoop slam, but Miz rammed him to the corner. Miz missed with a corner clothesline, then Riley tried to run interference, but it gave Morrison an opening to deck Miz on the floor. The ref applied a ten count and sped up near the end, giving Lawler a count-out victory.

WINNER: Lawler via countout at 9:36. Fine set up for next week's Miz vs. Morrison title match. You just have to get past the logic hole that it looks silly for a heel not to take a win after taunting an opponent for an acceptable length of time, but they tried to cover that base earlier in the show when Miz laid out his strategy to take Lawler apart piece by piece. (*1/2)

5 -- MELINA & ALICIA FOX vs. EVE & GAIL KIM

Eve started things off against Fox, so we'll see if Gail actually enters the match this week. The heels dominated early on, then Gail accepted a tag from Eve and scored with high-flying offense on Melina. Gail tried a cover on Melina, but Fox broke it up. The action broke down, then Melina dropped Gail with her swinging leg drop finisher for the pin and the win. Post-match: Natalya entered the ring to stare down Melina who tried to back off with a "let me explain" gesture. Melina shook hands, then tried a surprise slap, but Natalya saw it coming and dropped Melina with a strike to the face. Melina slipped out of the ring and did an evil glare back toward Natalya as the camera went back and forth on Natalya and Melina to set up their eventual Divas Title match.

WINNERS: Melina & Fox at 2:25. Expected result with Gail taking the loss. Overall, fine continuing the build-up to Natalya vs. Melina in a one-on-one women's division feud. (*)

5 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/Bella Twins) vs. ZACK RYDER -- non-title match

Suddenly, they came back from break with a Bryan vs. Ryder match already in progress. Lawler said the Bellas are with Bryan because he's a winner, while DiBiase and Maryse are having issues because DiBiase isn't winning. This was essentially a repeat of the MSG house show match last night with Ryder scoring about a minute of offense before Bryan slapped on the LeBell Lock for a quick submission victory.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 1:06 of what aired. (n/a)

6 -- SHEAMUS vs. RANDY ORTON

Orton and Sheamus traded offense early on as the announcers noted how evenly matched Orton and Sheamus are due to their similar styles, equal success in 2010, and numerous matches against each other during the year. Sheamus put together successive offense before Orton exploded out of the corner with a clothesline. Orton teased entering IED mode, but Sheamus cut off Orton as he attempted a spike DDT. Orton dumped Sheamus to the floor anyways and the fight picked up on the floor. Sheamus rammed Orton's back-of-the-head into the ringpost before coming off the apron with an impressive flying shoulder tackle for a nearfall. Orton writhed in pain on the mat as they cut to break with Sheamus in control.

Back from break, Cole noted Orton has dealt with a nagging back and neck injury over the past two months and said Sheamus is capitalizing on that by working on Orton's upper body. Sheamus executed a running powerslam, but it was only good for a two count. Sheamus looked to the ceiling selling exasperation he couldn't put Orton away. Sheamus drew ref Chioda's ire not letting Orton out of the corner as he measured Orton for a right hand strike. Orton teased a comeback with right hands, but Sheamus nailed him in the mid-section and followed with multiple forearm strikes for a two count.

At 10:00, the crowd tried to rally behind Orton, who teased another comeback. Orton avoided a corner attack, then took Sheamus up top and executed a superplex. Orton clutched his head to sell the effects on himself and made a cover, but Sheamus kicked out in time. Sheamus and Orton started trading bombs on their feet before Orton finally built some momentum with clotheslines and a powerslam. Orton ducked a clothesline, then executed an Angle Slam for a two count. Orton teased the RKO, but Sheamus came back with an Irish Curse backbreaker, which was only good for a two count.

They went to a teased finish where each man missed with a finisher attempt before Sheamus landed a double sledgehammer. Sheamus, in control, taunted the crowd and wanted the High Cross, but Orton wiggled out and hit a fallaway snap backbreaker. Orton then entered the IED Zone, but Sheamus rolled to the apron. Sheamus wanted another flying shoulder block from the ring apron, but Orton countered in mid-air with the RKO. Orton rolled over Sheamus and scored the pin for the win. Nice.

WINNER: Orton at 14:26. Textbook 15-minute singles match getting over both competitors and ultimately getting over Orton's RKO counter at the end of the match. Just a very good showcase TV match to close out 2010. Looking at the finish of this match, it looks like WWE is thinking ahead to a Miz vs. Orton re-match at the Royal Rumble PPV if Morrison doesn't take the belt next week on Raw. (***)

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 12-28-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results and immunity standings.

1 -- IC champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero and Jacob Novak) vs. JOHNNY CURTIS (1-1) -- non-title match

Ziggler dominated early on, then Curtis made a comeback and frightened Vickie when he bounced off the ropes. Novak tried to protect Vickie on the outside, prompting a scolding from Ziggler for putting his hands on Vickie. The crowd chanted, "You suck," and Grisham quipped that the chant could be directed at a number of people. Ziggler then regained control and landed a neckbreaker for a two count. Ziggler attempted a flying corner attack, but airballed and sold Curt Hennig style. Curtis then fired off a round of clotheslines and grunted loudly, killing his heat. Curtis followed with a lift-up throw and looked for a top rope splash, but Ziggler moved and Curtis ate the mat. Ziggler followed right up with the Zig-Zag and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Ziggler in 6:00. Fine match continuing to invest time in Ziggler.

2 -- DERRICK BATEMAN (0-2) (w/Kofi Kingston) vs. CONOR O'BRIAN (1-0) (w/Alberto Del Rio)

Kingston was replacing Daniel Bryan as his Pro this week. Bateman controlled the early proceedings before O'Brian landed a single arm DDT. Mathews noted next week's elimination voting begins tomorrow on WWE's website. Bateman and O'Brian went back and forth, then O'Brian hit his finisher for the win. Del Rio demanded his personal ring announcer Ricardo Rodriguez announce "Conan O'Brien" as the winner.

WINNER: O'Brian (2-0) in 3:00. Bateman is apparently saddled with the Daniel Bryan/Kaval "losing streak" gimmick on NXT. Okay, but not memorable.

3 -- TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse and Brodus Clay) vs. BYRON SAXTON (1-1) (w/Chris Masters)

The bell sounded and the director decided to stay with a camera shot of Maryse and her claimed $3,000 purse. Clay did not bring pen and paper to ringside for the match, of note. DiBiase took an early arm drag and DiBiase yelled at the crowd to draw boos. DiBiase, angered, stomped Saxton into the corner with multiple boot strikes. Clay informed Saxton he's a clown as the camera focused on Maryse occupied with herself. DiBiase went to work on Saxton's mid-section before telling Clay this is how it's done. DiBiase landed a clothesline, but Saxton kicked out. Mathews started heeling on the show as DiBiase continued to work over Saxton.

DiBiase put a boot to Saxton's head taunting him as the camera focused on Maryse's purse again. DiBiase then choked Saxton in the corner and Brodus pie-faced Saxton. Saxton found himself on the ring apron and DiBiase dropped him with a neckbreaker across the top rope. Clay decided he couldn't control his aggression anymore and nailed Saxton with a running clothesline causing a DQ as the ref was applying a ten count.

Post-match: DiBiase berated Clay, who said he was trying to help. Maryse screamed at Brodus that he's an idiot. DiBiase then ordered Maryse to slap Clay and she obliged. "That's what you get! Do you understand me?" DiBiase shouted in Clay's face. The crowd wanted Clay to do something about it, but Clay smiled and suggested there will be another day. DiBiase and Maryse walked out of the ring celebrating the...loss. Clay continued to sell emotions welling up inside him about to explode before they cut to break.

WINNER: Saxton (2-1) via DQ in 6:00.

Immunity Standings:
Johnny Curtis: 5 points
Derrick Bateman: 3 points
Jacob Novak: 1 point
Byron Saxton: 1 point
Brodus Clay: 0 points
Conor O'Brian: 0 points

[Arcademan]

WWE News: Health update on John Cena - WWE addresses injury, Cena scratched from house show

WWE has released an official injury update on John Cena, claiming he has a "hip injury." WWE left Cena's status open-ended, saying he is day-to-day.

"Last night in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., John Cena suffered a hip injury. His return to action will be evaluated on a day to day basis," WWE said on their website.

Cena suffered a leg injury in the main event of Tuesday's house show in Wilkes-Barre. Cena finished the steel cage match against Wade Barrett, then hobbled out of the cage after addressing his apparent injury to the live crowd.

WWE's Raw brand is scheduled for two more house shows today and Thursday to conclude 2010. WWE did not address Cena's status for the shows in the injury update.

Sources say former TNA Knockouts champion Awesome Kong has signed with WWE

PWTorch has learned former TNA Knockouts champion Awesome Kong has signed with WWE, as confirmed by Kong today on Twitter.

"My dreams just came true today. I got my dream job. Yes, THAT one," Kong posted.

Kong's post confirms what sources told the Torch on Tuesday that Kong has signed with WWE.

Since parting ways with TNA earlier this year, Kong has worked for independent promotions and select Ring of Honor shows, including the "Final Battle 2010" Internet PPV on December 18.

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 12-30-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO) vs. DARREN YOUNG & YOSHI TATSU

The announcers discussed Tamina's "strained relationship" with the Usos and Mathews decided he didn't want to speculate on their relationship woes. Young scored two early nearfalls as Stanford was fixated on Young failing to hook the leg on the pin attempts. Yoshi tagged in and nearly scored a three count on Jey with a crucifix pin before scoring with a dropkick for another nearfall. The Usos rallied against Young as Stanford referenced Rikishi and a Stinkface by Jey on Young in the corner.

Yoshi took a hot tag at 4:00 and cleaned house. Stanford over-used the "house of fire" phrase as Yoshi landed offense before the action broke down. Young found himself on the floor taking a ringpost to the face. Back in the ring, Yoshi went up top, but Jimmy crotched him and flung him to the mat. Jimmy then hit a top rope splash on Yoshi for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Usos in 6:00. Basic tag match trying to re-focus on the Usos without Tamina. (*)

2 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. D.H. SMITH

Regal and Smith traded technical holds as Stanford referenced Smith's father, "British Bulldog" Davey Boy Smith, and noted Regal faced Davey Boy at Halloween Havoc 1993. He also used "wrestled" in the same sentence as a WCW PPV reference. Mathews acted shocked at a 1993 reference as Stanford continued to talk about the background of the competitors. On the floor, Smith ran over Regal with a shoulder tackle and played to the crowd. They cut to break with Stanford offering another sports cliché they're watching a "real donnybrook."

Back from break, Mathews derisively noted the "donnybrook" is continuing. Stanford said he could have used "brawl," but decided for the European-influenced "donnybrook" adjective to describe the match involving Regal. Smith scored a delayed vertical suplex, then Regal cut him off at the knees and began working the legs. Regal slapped on a half Boston Crab to continue focusing on the legs and Stanford said, "That has to sting." Mathews went silent almost catching himself from laughing.

Regal went for a butterfly suplex, but Smith countered with a back drop using one good leg. After a Northern Lights Suplex for a nearfall, Smith tried to follow with another suplex, but his knee gave out. Regal then chopblocked Smith and hit the Knee Trembler to the head for the pin and the win. Regal collected himself and sneered at the audience after collecting the win.

WINNER: Regal in 8:00. Above average Superstars match with below average commentary. Smith doesn't convey much personality as a singles wrestler, though. His character needs a spark or a fire lit under him. (*1/2)

3 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. TYLER REKS

Korpela noted the tagline for this match is a battle between two of the most powerful wrestlers in WWE. The announcers also noted Reks's presence creates an uneasy feeling in the arena because he's an unknown figure. Korpela added another tagline: "Pure Strength vs. Raw Aggression." The announcers then spent the first-half of the match trying to find as many different ways to get over the Strength vs. Aggression tagline. The match moved to the floor and Reks yanked Masters's left arm across the top rope. Masters writhed in pain on the floor as Striker quickly sent the show to break.

Back from break, Reks continued to work over Masters's left arm/shoulder. Korpela noted Reks is hoping to be one of the participants in the Royal Rumble on January 30. Striker said wrestlers are going to be jockeying for position leading to the Rumble. One way to give this match some added juice would have been to make it a Rumble qualifying match or show Teddy Long backstage evaluating the match to determine which wrestler might earn a Rumble slot from the Smackdown brand. Reks continued to work over Masters's left shoulder before Masters pulled Reks into the ringpost to get a breather.

Masters followed with a one-arm Samoan Drop for a two count, then a one-arm uranage. Masters wanted the Masterlock, but Reks easily escaped and landed a knock-down clothesline for a two count. Reks then "fought the demons inside his head" and pounded on Masters with punches and kick. Reks tried to follow with the Burning Hammer, but Masters back-dropped out of the finisher and made a comeback. Reks cut off his comeback, though, and nailed the Burning Hammer for the pin. Reks get the main event victory.

WINNER: Reks in 11:00. Exceeded expectations with a decent match story and back-and-forth in the final three minutes leading to the finish. Reks's character remains one-dimensional, though, and doesn't jump off the screen. WWE doesn't seem to be ready to invest in him beyond a regular Superstars spotlight match just yet. (*3/4)

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact! Results: 12-30-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete Report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ROBERT ROODE (w/James Storm) vs. CHRIS SABIN (w/Alex Shelley)

Tenay and Taz talked about Eric Bischoff's ultimatum to A.J. Styles. Storm interfered at 5:00 and then turned to mix with the fans at ringside and played dumb, which got some laughs. Taz said it was the "fourth quarter." It's sad when five minutes into a match, it's considered the fourth quarter. I suppose he knew the time allotted, though, because seconds later Roode avoided a springboard DDT and spinebuster for the clean win. Taz might as well have told viewers, "Pay attention, my script says the finish is coming up quickly." That was odd.

WINNER: Roode in 5:00.

STAR RATING: *3/4 -- Everything they did was good, but it felt like the first five minutes of a good 15 minute match with a finish that came too suddenly without enough offense by Roode leading up to it.

2 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. ROBBIE E. (w/Cookie)

We got the obligatory opening minute rear chinlock from Robbie E. Less than a minute later RVD hit the Five-Star Frog Splash for the win.

WINNER: RVD in 2:00. The downside of this is that it totally demeans the X Division. The former champ loses to RVD in two minutes and it's no big deal. That communicates clearly and decisively that the X Title is a jobber title relative to the heavyweights. It's so needlessly thoughtless. There's just no reason to have an X Title if former champs are going to be squashed like that.

3 -- VELVET SKY vs. SARITA -- Strap Match

Tenay told viewers to remember that the latest Jeff Jarrett MMA challenge was coming up later. Afterward Sarita whipped Sky with the strap afterward. Angelina Love made the save.

WINNER: Sarita in 3:00. A three minute strap match? Really? TNA continues to be the gimmick-match-killer, rendering every money-match ever created commonplace and impotent by blowing them off so quickly and inconsequentially on TV. They're so inefficient, needlessly so. And it's not that strap matches were ever the biggest drawing gimmick ever, but it was among the bag-o-tricks that changed things up in the midst of a feud every couple years, and here's a case where TNA fans who remember this strap match will never pay extra to see it again. The fact that they don't even know enough to leave their top drawing acts - the Knockouts - out there for longer than a 4-5 minute segment is just mind-boggling.

4 -- JEFF JARRETT vs. "BABY RED" (w/Amazing Red)

Jarrett had to scramble to the ropes twice in the first minute to break early submission attempts. Jarrett ended up on offense and went for an anklelock, but Baby Red turned it into an anklelock of his own. Jarrett, with the held of Gunner and Murphy, reached the bottom rope. Tenay pulled a word out of the 1980s and said that was "bogus." Nobody under the age of 60 has used that word in 25 years. Amazing Red beat up Murphy at ringside as Gunner tended to a stunned Jarrett. Jarrett then snuck into the ring with his gutter, but Red yanked it away and smashed it on the mat. Jarrett then bailed out of the ring and pretended to be held back by Team Jarrett, but didn't put up a real fight. Taz said Jarrett was very content being held back.

WINNER: No decision in 2:00. Good old-style segment. It's been done hundreds of times, but it was good basic stuff that works. [c]

5 -- "THE FREAK" ROB TERRY & A.J. STYLES vs. DOUGLAS WILLIAMS & BRUTUS MAGNUS

They opened with Magnus vs. Styles. Early on Williams tagged in, so Styles tagged out quickly to Terry. Tenay plugged a Year in Review edition of Reaction from Immortal's perspective. Terry got Williams down with a clubbing forearm that looked like a 1980s Atari videogame sequence - choppy and stuff and fake. Williams made a comeback against Styles. It's tough not to be glued to the ring when Terry is in there because for his short stints in the ring, he's just so green and awful it's hard to fathom. After some four-way has Styles knocked Williams to the floor. Magnus tried to suplex Styles, but Styles countered into Rolling Chaos for the win.

WINNERS: Styles & Terry in 4:00. That was enough tags and chapters of a match for 15 minutes packed into four. Watching them work around Terry's limitations is also quite fun.

6 -- MR. ANDERSON & BULLY RAY vs. MATT MORGAN & BROTHER DEVON

After Anderson's self-ring-intro, Bully (Brother) Ray was revealed as his special mystery partner. Ray wasn't happy when it was revealed that Devon was Morgan's partner. Foley reiterated that over the years backstage Devon was well-liked and Ray wasn't.

Anderson asked Ray if he wanted to tag in and face Devon. Ray didn't want in and leaped off the ring apron to the floor. They cut to the stage where Bischoff sent Gunner and Murphy to the broadcast table where they ordered Foley to the back. Foley resisted at first, but agreed to go peacefully. Then he stood and attacked Gunner and Murphy. He put Socko on Murphy as they ended Impact and cut to Reaction. In the ring Ray had the advantage on Devon in the ring, but that monumental moment wasn't even caught from the start and they kept cutting away to show Foley being dragged away in handcuffs by Gunner and Murphy. Finally back in the ring Ray dropped Devon with a measured punch and then a stomp. Ray beat down Devon and then yelled, "I told you he was weak." Anderson reluctantly tagged in. Devon gave him an immediate jaw-breaker. Anderson sold it oddly, selling the concussion angle. He tagged Ray back in. Ray tagged Anderson back in and threw him into the ring. Morgan swung at Anderson. Anderson ducked and gave Morgan a DDT. Morgan caught Anderson leaping off the top rope by the throat and chokeslammed him. Ray broke up the pin attempt. Devon charged at Ray to knock him out of the ring. Morgan then got up as Ray re-entered the ring. Morgan threw a discus clothesline as Ray, but Ray ducked and Morgan's arm took out Anderson from behind. The blow to the head finished Anderson. Taz and Tenay wondered if it was an accident. It was good for a three count. Morgan looked upset with the situation afterward and checked on Anderson.

WINNERS: Morgan & Devon in 8:00.

STAR RATING: *1/2 -- The athleticism wasn't anything special, but it forwarded some storylines effectively.

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 12-31-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BIG SHOW vs. CODY RHODES

Show quickly forced Rhodes into the corner to deliver a frying pan-like chop to the chest. Show then flung Rhodes across the ring and landed another big chop to the chest. Show then sat on Rhodes's face with his butt crack and waited out a five count from the referee. Rhodes quickly scampered to the outside and asked for his ring jacket to check on his face. Show then palmed Rhodes's head to bring him over the top rope back into the ring. Show continued to ragdoll Rhodes around the ring before measuring him for a big running butt bomb that Rhodes avoided. Rhodes then nailed a springboard kick to the head and flailed away with stomps, kicks, and punches. Show came back with another back body drop before calling for the KO Punch. Rhodes saw it coming and just left the ring. The camera zoomed in on Rhodes having a significant cut across his chest. Rhodes never looked back to the ring and just disappeared to the back as Show scored the count out victory.

WINNER: Show in 3:00. Rhodes is such a great heel. Just stay in the game, continue to get over, and eventually break out of the mid-card gimmick. Fine booking to get Show a measure of revenge on Rhodes, but not the ultimate prize. (*)

2 -- DREW MCINTYRE vs. TRENT BARRETA

After 30 seconds, Mathews noted Barreta lasted longer than McIntyre's "opponent" last week. Mac dominated the action early on before landing a flying buckle bomb that crunched Barreta in the corner. Mac followed with multiple forearm blows to the upper chest and cut off Barreta's attempted comeback. Cole and Mathews undersold Barreta, who then made a comeback with a top-rope missile dropkick that cleared Mac to the floor. Barreta tried to follow with a flying splash over the top rope, but Mac moved and Barreta ate the floor. Barreta landed clean, but sold a serious injury. The referee immediately stopped the match and ran over to the timekeeper to declare Mac the winner. Mac smiled and mockingly applauded Barreta before scooping him up for the Future Shock DDT on the floor. Mac waved good-bye to Barreta as the announcers moved along to plugging the big tag match and IC Title match still to come.

WINNER: McIntyre via referee stoppage in 4:00. Apparently the "rebuilding effort of Drew McIntyre" will feature him hurting undersized mic-card babyfaces to look dominant. (*)

3 -- World Hvt. champion EDGE & REY MYSTERIO vs. KANE & ALBERTO DEL RIO

Rey teased an early 619 on Del Rio before Edge tagged in and went to work on Del Rio. Kane and Edge briefly battled before Edge and Rey cleared Kane to the outside. Edge then teamed up with Rey to flip him over the top rope for a splash on both heels. With the faces in control and the heels recovering on the floor, they cut to break.

Back from break, Mathews sounded like Vince McMahon introducing an episode of Monday Night Raw in '94. Kane and Del Rio worked over Edge and the crowd, on cue, started a slow clap trying to get Edge back in the ring while the announcers focused on the basic heel characteristics of Kane and Del Rio. Rey eventually tagged in and was knocked to the outside. Kane flung Rey into the ringside barrier, drawing shouts from the fans sympathetic to Rey. As the heels worked over Rey back in the ring, Cole noted it's all about becoming World champion and said the wrestlers are doing whatever they can to get there.

Edge took a hot tag at 11:00 and fought off Del Rio before dropping him with an elevated DDT. Edge got that look in his eyes and wanted the spear, but Kane cut him off with a chokeslam attempt. Edge blocked, then shoved Kane over the top rope to the floor. Rey then quickly set up Del Rio for the 619, Rey hit the 619, Del Rio spun back to center ring, and Edge dropped him with the spear center-ring for the pin and the win. Rey and Edge hugged it out and celebrated to conclude the match.

WINNERS: Edge & Rey in 13:00. One of those house show main event tag matches to give Smackdown viewers a happy ending to 2010. Since WWE doesn't emphasize wins and losses, Del Rio didn't lose anything taking the fall, as no one will remember the outcome by this time next week. (**)

4 -- Divas champion NATALYA & BETH PHOENIX vs. LAY-COOL (MICHELLE MCCOOL & LAYLA)

They came back from break with Lay-Cool already in the ring before Phoenix and Natalya came to the ring for a re-match from TLC, which Beth and Natalya won. After a minute of action, they cut to break with the heels in control on Natalya and Beth selling concern from ringside.

Phoenix took a tag, but Lay-Cool quickly cut her off and began working on Phoenix. The action went back-and-forth with each team scoring close nearfalls. Eventually, Natalya cleared Layla out of the ring and Phoenix trapped McCool for a Glam Slam. McCool sold like she was about to take a big drop on a rollercoaster. Phoenix with the pin for the win. Afterward, Lay-Cool tried to put the pieces back together while Natalya and Phoenix celebrated in the ring.

WINNERS: Natalya & Phoenix in 10:00. Nice, full-length Divas match with six minutes of action presented on the other side of the break. It sets up Lay-Cool to enlist the services of a third person who can match up against Natalya and Phoenix if this feud is going to continue. (**)

5 -- IC champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. KOFI KINGSTON vs. JACK SWAGGER -- Intercontinental Title match

Swagger and Ziggler quickly took down Kofi and began taking turns working him over. Very methodical pace with the heels taking advantage of a numbers advantage and not allowing Kofi to build any momentum. Ziggler stood over Kofi to taunt him, then Kofi finally scored offense to pop the crowd. Kofi cleared Swagger to the outside, then cleared Ziggler on the other side. Swagger tried to sneak up on Kofi, but Kofi saw him coming and dumped Swagger to the floor. Kofi followed with a suicide dive on both men as Mathews sold excitement over Kofi's comeback. Kofi with the advantage going to break.

Back from break, the action was still on the outside where Swagger and Ziggler's alliance dissolved. Eventually, Ziggler and Kofi went one-on-one in the ring with Ziggler scoring a neckbreaker for a nearfall. Ziggler followed with a leaping elbow drop for a nearfall as Vickie screamed at Ziggler to finish him off. Ziggler bumped Swagger off the apron as Swagger tried to re-enter, then Ziggler went back to work on Kofi with a headlock. And Vickie went back to screaming. Kofi made a big comeback, which brought more concerned screams from Vickie.

Kofi hit a Boom Drop, then Swagger interjected himself into the match to suplex Ziggler for a nearfall. The pace quickened and Swagger tried a pin on Kofi, who had bumped heads with Ziggler, but Kofi kicked out. Moments later, all three found themselves in the corner and Swagger dropped Ziggler with a powerbomb. Swagger then turned around and took a high cross-body splash from Kofi, who scored a super close nearfall that had the crowd buzzing. The announcers paused to let the moment breathe. Swagger then tackled Kofi and went for the Anklelock, but Ziggler snuck in the back door and dropped Swagger with the Zig-Zag. Ziggler made a cover on Swagger and Kofi broke up the pin. "What's wrong you with?!" Vickie screamed at the ref.

All three men collected themselves on the mat as Vickie paced ringside. The crowd tried rallying behind Kofi, who battled Swagger as he sold the leg work. Kofi blocked a suplex attempt with a DDT and made a cover, but Vickie put Swagger's foot on the bottom rope. Cole tried to defend Vickie by suddenly saying it's No DQ in a triple threat match. Okay, so Vickie should have blasted everyone with a steel chair 15 minutes ago. One of those inane, illogical moments on WWE TV.

For the finish, Kingston dropped Swagger with Trouble in Paradise and the crowd popped thinking he had the match, but Ziggler snuck in the back door with a roll-up on Kingston with a handful of tights for the win. Cole sold excitement as the crowd came down from their high. After a video recapping the high points of the match, they went to a final slow-motion shot of Ziggler clutching the IC Title and celebrating with Vickie to conclude 2010.

WINNER: Ziggler in 16:00 to retain the Intercontinental Title. Very good TV match in spite of the three-way format. They certainly continued the issue between Ziggler and Kingston, with Kingston having two close calls during the match. It was a nice touch giving this match the main event spotlight trying to elevate the IC Title. What are the chances of U.S. champion Daniel Bryan main-eventing an episode of Raw? (***)

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 1-3-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) vs. JOHN MORRISON -- WWE Title match -- Falls Count Anywhere match

Riley tried ot get involved, but Miz accidentally bumped Riley when Morrison ducked. The fight moved up to the stage and Morrison rammed Miz into the Raw logo on the Titantron. Riley got involved again and Morrison rammed him into the WWE logo on the platform. Morrison then climbed on top of the big WWE logo and splashed both men. Morrison made a cover on the stage, but Miz kicked out. Morrison sold a left knee injury and punched Miz down the ramp toward the ringside area.

Miz and Morrison made it back into the ring where Miz attempted a superplex, but Morrison delivered forearm strikes to knock Miz to the mat before landing a missile dropkick for a nearfall. Cole recapped Miz and Morrison's story dating back to their tag team days as Morrison scored another nearfall with a roll-up. Morrison followed with a springboard kick to the face, then a running knee strike. He had the pin, but Riley yanked Morrison out of the ring. On the floor, Morrison ran Riley into the guardrail as Cole noted Miz is getting recovery time in the ring. Morrison decked Riley with a flying knee before screaming down at him to go away. Back in the ring, Miz sold that he was scared of what he was seeing from an intense Morrison, who paced the ring like a wild tiger as the referee called for medics for Riley. They cut to break.

Back from break, Miz and Morrison were on the floor below the stage. Miz was looking for a suplex onto a loose guardrail, but Morrison blocked, only to take a back body drop onto the guardrail for a nearfall. Cole and Mathews continued to talk about having a feel "it's John Morrison's night," which means he's not winning. Miz resumed his attack on Morrison with a running knee strike on the stage for a nearfall. Miz followed with a hip toss sending Morrison back-first onto the metal entrance ramp for another two count. Closer to ringside, Miz grabbed a strobe light and smashed Morrison with it to score another nearfall.

At 12:00, the action returned to the ring. Miz toyed with Morrison and taunted him while screaming, "You're not better than me! You're nothing, John!" Morrison fired back with right hands before they started trading punches and kicks. Morrison landed a series of knock down clotheslines for another nearfall, then wanted Starship Pain, Miz moved. Morrison landed on his feet, though, and Miz followed with the Reality Check for a close two count. Miz then crouched behind Morrison and got that look in his eyes wanting the Skullcrushing Finale, but Morrison reversed and went for SSP again. This time, he connected. Morrison made a cover, but Miz kicked out. Morrison sold he couldn't believe it, Cole poped for Miz, and the crowd chanted for a table.

Morrison landed a roundhouse kick that took Miz to the floor at the base of the table. Morrison placed Miz on the table, then went to the ring apron. Morrison wanted a super Starship Pain on the table, but Miz moved and Morrison ate the table. Morrison writhed in pain as Miz made a cover, but Morrison kicked out, shocking Miz. Cole complained about the officiating while both men recovered on the floor. Miz then slowly crouched behind Morrison and dramatically dropped him with the Skullcrushing Finale. Miz made the cover...and it was good for the win. Miz retains the WWE Title. Cole said Morrison was game, but Miz proved he's the rightful WWE champion. Cole claimed there was no Alex Riley involvement to excuse Miz's win. Oh boy, another year of delusional Cole Commentary.

Post-match: Miz slowly made his way up the entrance ramp as Morrison was checked on by medics. Morrison was shown crawling on his belly toward Miz, who just looked back at him with a half-turn. Morrison sold intensity that he'll get Miz eventually.

WINNER: Miz at 17:26 to retain the WWE Title. The winner was never in doubt when the announcers did that "it's Morrison's night!" commentary that gives away the opposite outcome, but the match was very strong and helped get over both men as potential top stars all throughout 2011. The FCA stipulation was superfluous for this level of the feud, but they effectively used the arena to enhance the match and nearfalls. (***1/2)

2 -- MELINA & MARYSE & ALICIA FOX vs. Divas champion NATALYA & BRIE BELLA & EVE

They came back from break with the babyface trio of Divas already in the ring to start the match. Brie started the match and was knocked to the outside. She rolled under the ring and Nikki rolled back out. In the ring, they had the switcheroo for a pin on Maryse, but Alicia broke it up. Natalya then tagged in and wanted the Sharpshooter, but Melina distracted her. Melina then gave Natalya a neck snap across the top rope and tagged in. Melina thought she had a clean angle on Natalya, but Natalya landed a discus clothesline. Eve then tagged in and dropped Melina with a spinning facebuster for the pin and the win. Afterward, Melina sold on the outside while the babyface trio stood tall in the ring to continue building to Natalya vs. Melina.

WINNERS: Team Eve at 3:03. Eve scoring the pin on Melina was an interesting finish. Fine match, but three minutes isn't enough to stand out on the show. (*)

3 -- WWE tag champions SANTINO MARELLA (w/Tamina) & KOZLOV vs. USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO) -- non-title match

Kozlov started things off against Jimmy, then Santino tagged in to a strong reaction. Cole said the match could give the Usos a future title shot and noted the wrestlers on the roster are auditioning for a Rumble slot. Mathews said it's the "most exciting 60 minutes" WWE delivers on the year. Kozlov tagged back in, but the Usos cut him off and tried wearing him down. Kozlov eventually tagged out to Santino, who did his routine. Santino wanted to raise the roof and delivered the Sailor's Salute drop for a two count. Kozlov suddenly got caught up on the ropes and time stood still as he tried to throw himself over the top rope to complete the spot. Santino tried the Cobra on Jimmy, but Jimmy ducked and hit a Samoan Drop for the pin on Santino.

Post-match: Tamina checked on Santino and Jimmy wanted to know what's up with her. Kozlov then dropped Jimmy before Santino and Tamina hit him with a Double Cobra to officially break away Tamina from the Usos. Santino, Kozlov, and Tamina stood tall as the Usos regrouped on the outside.

WINNERS: Usos at 3:55. Santino is supposed to deliver the comedy, but Kozlov delivered the comedy this week getting tied up in the ropes and still trying to throw himself over the top rope. Classic Koz. It looks like a Tag Title match is in the works after the Usos scored the win here. (*)

Continued in next post...

[Arcademan]

4 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO (w/Ricardo Rodriguez) vs. R-TRUTH

Truth took control early on taking advantage of Del Rio being "disoriented" from the pre-match slap. Truth knocked Del Rio to the floor and nailed a plancha that took both men to the ground. Ricardo checked on Del Rio as they cut to break.

Back live, Truth continued to hammer on Del Rio in the ring. Truth landed ten punches to the head followed by a snap powerslam for a nearfall. Del Rio came back with a fallaway arm drop dropping Truth's left arm across his knees. Del Rio continued to focus on the left arm/shoulder looking to set up Truth for the cross armbreaker. Del Rio aggressively kicked Truth in the gut, but missed with an attack on the ropes and flew to the outside.

Ricardo tried to wake up Del Rio, who sold the effects before storming back into the ring, only to take a series of clotheslines from Truth. Truth executed a hip toss for a two count, but Del Rio rolled to the apron and yanked Truth's left arm into the ringpost. Del Rio then locked on the cross armbreaker center ring. Mathews said no one gets out of Del Rio's finisher. Truth held on for a good ten seconds before tapping out to give Del Rio the win. The announcers recapped the finish and said Del Rio sent a clear message to everyone in WWE that his goal is to win the Rumble.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 9:53. They clearly wanted to get over Del Rio as one of the favorites in the Rumble match and continue using Raw to expose him to a wider audience. (*3/4)

5 -- RANDY ORTON vs. KING SHEAMUS vs. WADE BARRETT -- #1 contender steel cage match -- only way to win via escaping -- Barrett out of Nexus with a loss

Barrett immediately tried to climb out, but Orton and Sheamus cut him off. Orton and Sheamus formed a temporary alliance, then Sheamus tried to escape by climbing out (rather than going through the door), and Orton cut him off. Barrett then blindsided Orton with a boot to the head, but Orton recovered and tried to climb the cage to escape as the crowd screamed in excitement, but the heels yanked him back into the ring. The crowd chanted for Orton, who tried to fight off both men. Sheamus knocked down Barrett, then tried to escape, but Orton cut him off. Orton finally tried to escape through the door, but then turned back to both men and teased the RKO. He remained perched on the mat staring at the heels as they cut to break.

Back live, Orton was sitting on top of the cage trying to escape as Sheamus tried to pull him back in. Orton's body dangled over the side of the cage as Sheamus tried to pull him back in. Barrett then joined the effort to drag Orton back inside the cage. Sheamus ended up standing right next to the door, which he could have escaped through, but opted to go back on the offensive against Orton, who made a full comeback. Orton wanted the spike DDT, but the crowd shouted at him to get Barrett, who was trying to escape on the other side of the cage. Orton cut off Barrett, then threw him into the side of the cage. The crowd popped as Orton positioned both men on the ropes for the spike DDT, but Barrett blocked and Sheamus back dropped Orton into the side of the cage.

At 9:00, Sheamus began stomping on Orton before teasing an escape. Orton cut him off, then Barrett attacked Orton from behind. The heels double suplexed Orton, trying to take out their biggest threat. Sheamus and Barrett then traded blows, their alliance not lasting very long. Barrett got the best of Sheamus and started climbing, but Orton grabbed him and pulled him back into the cage to deliver a superplex from the top turnbuckle.

Cole and Mathews reset the show as all three men collected themselves. Sheamus delivered power offense on Barrett, then tried to escape through the cage door, but Orton yanked him back in. Barrett recovered and dropped Sheamus with a pumphandle slam as Orton came to life again. Barrett landed a belly-to-belly suplex, saw everyone was down, and began climbing the cage again. Barrett fought off Sheamus, then opted for a top rope elbow drop, but Sheamus blocked with his knees. Sheamus then measured Barrett, but Orton surprised him with a series of clotheslines and a powerslam. Barrett also took a powerslam. Sheamus then took the Angle Slam from Orton before Barrett took a spike DDT off the second rope.

Sheamus suddenly blocked an attack and tried to climb out, but Orton cut him off. They traded headbutts before Barrett crotched both men. Barrett was alone and he slowly began climbing, but C.M. Punk suddenly came to ringside. Punk climbed the cage and extended a hand for Barrett. Punk then ripped off Barrett's Nexus armband and kicked Barrett off the cage. Barrett took a dramatic flatback bump and Punk left the ringside area with Barrett's N armband.

In the cage, Sheamus called for the cage door trying to leave. Sheamus gave Barrett the Brogue Kick, then Orton sprung out of nowhere with the RKO on Sheamus. Orton stared at the open door as the crowd roared. Orton slowly approached the cage door, stared back at his opponents, and escaped the cage to win and become #1 contender. The crowd applauded and cheered as Orton stared inside the cage. Cole gave a quick wrap-up eight minutes past the top of the hour and they signed off with the visual of Orton confidently staring back inside the cage.

WINNER: Orton at 18:45 to become #1 contender, Barrett is out of Nexus. Exciting cage match if you can get past the logic hole of why the wrestlers opt for the difficult path of escaping over the top of the cage rather than trying to escape through the door until the very end. It's similar to the suspension of disbelief required for a ladder match when the wrestlers take forever to climb a ladder. (***)

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 1-17-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE tag champions SANTINO & KOZLOV (w/Tamina) vs. THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO) -- WWE Tag Title match

Cole noted the Usos earned the tag title shot by winning a non-title bout against Santino and Kozlov a few weeks ago. A basic tag match ensued setting up Santino dropping Jey with the Cobra for the pin and the win. Post-match: Tamina celebrated with the tag champs while the Usos backed away selling frustration with the loss.

WINNERS: Santino & Kozlov at 2:32 to retain the WWE Tag Titles. Expectedly short match. Back to square one with the tag division. (*)

2 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/Bella Twins) vs. JOHN MORRISON -- non-title match

Bryan and Morrison locked up as Cole plugged the "biggest Royal Rumble match in history" with 40 men in the match this year. Bryan scored with a dropkick that sent Morrison to the floor, then Bryan and Morrison had a stand-off on the floor. They quickly rolled back into the ring simultaneously and had a stare-down to sell the idea of two eventually matched babyfaces having a competitive bout. Cole robotically fed to a break.

Back from break at 4:30, Morrison had Bryan in a side headlock as they cut to a shot of the Bellas encouraging Bryan from ringside. Morrison knocked down Bryan, then wanted Starship Pain, but took too long, and Bryan rolled out of the way. Bryan followed with a kick to the head for a nearfall. The crowd was clearly behind Morrison in this match. Bryan and Morrison suddenly ran the ropes ducking clotheslines before running into each other with a double cross-body block. After a six count, they came to their feet and traded bombs. Morrison then countered a suplex into a head scissors that Bryan countered into a pin for a nearfall. More counters and reversals. Bryan teased the LeBell Lock, but Morrison came to his feet and catapulted Bryan into the top turnbuckle. Bryan set up too early to accept the springboard flying chuck and Morrison connected with a glancing blow. Morrison then hit a running knee smash and scored the pin for the win.

WINNER: Morrison at 7:22. Good match, but it could have meant more if given more time and a chance to anticipate the match. The emphasis, though, was on Morrison, the character, and they used the match to get to the larger point of the Sheamus vs. Morrison feud in the post-match... (*3/4)

3 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. RANDY ORTON

Back from break, the bell sounded to begin the top-of-the-second hour main event. Cole claimed it's the first they've met in a singles match. Orton landed early punches, followed by a knock-down clothesline. Cole talked up Orton's quest for the WWE Title at the Rumble while Orton continued to dominate. Orton slapped on a reverse chinlock that he sold convincingly before Ziggler hit a jawbreaker to escape the hold. Ziggler followed with a dropkick to the left knee and began working on Orton's leg.

As Cole reset the show at the top of the hour, Ziggler wrapped Orton's left leg around the ringpost. Orton teased a comeback that popped the crowd, then Ziggler cut him off with a dropkick to the chest that floored Orton. Ziggler missed with a wild clothesline and missed with a desperation corner splash that gave Orton an opening to make his signature comeback starting with a snap powerslam. Orton wanted the trademark DDT off the second rope, but Ziggler slipped out and took out Orton at the left knee.

Ziggler hit the Fameasser for a close two count. He followed with his finishing sleeperhold as Orton sold he was fading. Orton reached the ropes for a break, though, and the ref forcibly removed Ziggler from the hold. Ziggler then tried the Zig-Zag (which the crowd didn't quite recognize), but Orton grabbed the top rope to avoid Ziggler's finisher. Orton then sprung with the RKO out of nowhere (the crowd didn't quite recognize the sudden RKO counter). Orton scored the pin for the win.

WINNER: Orton at 8:26. Good showing by Ziggler in defeat. The match was designed to eventually get over Orton as the triumphant face, then transfer that heat to Miz in the post-match. (**)

4 -- Divas champion NATALYA vs. MARYSE -- non-title match

Maryse controlled the action early on as they cut to a shot of Melina studying Natalya from the announce position since she is the #1 contender to the Divas Title. Natalya made short work of Maryse, forcing her to submit to the Sharpshooter in under two minutes. Natalya then posed in the ring as Melina shot her a dirty look and Eve smiled.

WINNER: Natalya via submission at 1:40. More emphasis on Natalya as a dominant champion and set-up for more post-match activity...

5 -- MARK HENRY vs. TED DIBIASE

After a brief back-and-forth, Henry dumped DiBiase over the top rope to win the challenge in less than 30 seconds. DiBiase acted stunned ringside.

WINNER: Henry at 0:26. More of the same with DiBiase and set-up for more post-match activity...

6 -- JOHN CENA vs. C.M. PUNK

The bell sounded and they slowly walked toward center ring to stand nose-to-nose. Punk told Cena to bring in, then Punk fired the first strike and the fight was on. Cena whipped Punk hard into the corner turnbuckle, then saluted the crowd. A few more moves by Cena, with the crowd not popping for Cena's offense since they hadn't built up a comeback for Cena and there was no way the finish was coming. Punk and Cena came to a standstill trying to figure out the next spot, so Cena audibly said, "Kick me." Cena shot Punk off the ropes, then Punk kicked him in the shoulder to send Cena to the outside. They cut to break with Punk temporarily on the offensive.

Back from break, Cole recapped that Nexus was banned from ringside and if they interfered in the match, they would be removed from the Rumble. Punk was in control of the action as Cole and Lawler debated the merits of Punk's leadership. Lawler suddenly blurted out, "It's a cult," which was the heaviest verbiage WWE has used thus far to describe New Nexus under Punk. Moments later, Lawler said it's "cult-like."

Cena started to make his trademark comeback, but Punk cut him off. Punk then wanted the Go 2 Sleep, but Cena grabbed Punk's knee in mid-air and transitioned into the STF. Cole called Cena a "submission specialist" before Punk reached the bottom rope for a rope break. After a pause, they came to their feet and hit a double knock-down clothesline to put both men back on the mat. Back on their feet, Punk landed a knee to the side of the head before executing a springboard flying clothesline for a nearfall.

At the top of the hour, Punk sold frustration with Cena and started landing right hand blows. Cena suddenly teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Punk countered with an STO into the Anaconda Vice. The camera zoomed in tight on Cena's face as he sold the effects of the submission hold. Cena tried to power his way to the bottom rope, then sold fading out. "Give up!" Punk screamed. Cena eventually reached the bottom rope to break the hold. Cena tried to recover on the ring apron, but Punk kicked him in the head and Cena fell to the floor. Punk wanted a plancha, but Cena caught him in mid-air and rammed Punk into the ring apron.

Back in the ring, Cena teased a top-rope move, but Punk cut off Cena and landed an enziguiri kick. Punk then teased a superplex, but Cena blocked and headbutted Punk to the mat. Cena measured Punk for a leaping guillotine leg drop and connected for a close two count. Cole exclaimed Punk was setting a great example for the rest of the Nexus members. Suddenly, Mason Ryan from FCW showed up on the ring apron. The Batista-lookalike scared Cena, then entered the ring and smiled at Punk. Punk extended his arms and Mason creamed Punk with a kick to the head, resulting in Cena being DQ'ed since Ryan interfered against Punk. Technically, that's how it would go. The crowd didn't know how to react, but Cole said Punk was offering himself as a sacrifice.

WINNER: Punk via DQ at 15:44. They delivered more of a match than I expected, but the non-finish was expected. Ryan is an impressive figure, not just with the obvious Batista-like muscularity he brings to the table, but in the way he handled himself with his presence and not over-selling his intensity. He looks national TV-ready. (**1/2)

[Arcademan]

ROH on HDNet Live Results: 1-17-11

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. The Briscoes defeated The Elite at 4:04. Jay and Adam Revolver started. Jay hit a running boot and tagged in Mark. Ted McNailer tagged in and they hit a double team move on Mark. Jay tagged in and the Elite worked double team moves on him. Mark got the hot tag and hit redneck kung-fu and a running knee. They hit the Doomsday Device for the "Slap the Porpoise" win…

Shore's Slant: Good squash match. The other guys got in a little offense, but it was a Briscoe clinic. When those guys lock it up with Shelton Benjamin and Haas next month it could be the best tag team match of the year already in February.

2. MisChief defeated Daizee Haze at 7:12. Daizee started with a waist lock, but MisChief quickly recovered and Matrix ducked a clothesline. The women worked stomps and chops back and forth. They climbed to the top and battled. Daizee knocked her off and hit a missile drop kick for two.

They worked a very weak reversal chain and then Daizee hit the German Suplex for two. Daizee setup for the Heart Punch, but MisChief hit an elbow and the desecrator for the win. Post-match, MisChief still wouldn't shake hands. Daizee grabbed her and spun her around. MisChief spit green mist in her face and Daizee oversold it…

Shore's Slant: A pretty good match except for that one chain. And boy was it slow and bad. Daizee went a little over the top there, but I appreciate a story for the women.

3. Christopher Daniels defeated Chris Hero (w/Shane Hagadorn and Sara Del Ray) at 15:53. They did shake hands before the match and went right into some mat wrestling. They worked around again and Daniels hit a knee drop to the wrapped elbow to take control. Daniels continued to work the elbow on the rope. Hero shoved Daniels to the floor. He was distracted by Del Ray and Hagadorn. Hero hit a dropkick through the ropes on Daniels.

Hero stomped Daniels on the floor and then rolled him in the ring. Hero hit several strikes, but Daniels hit a German suplex for two. Hero hit the rolling elbow to send Daniels to the floor. Daniels reversed a whip to the barricade, but Hero jumped on the top and spun and hit a flying elbow. Daniels made it in at 19 and Hero hit a stiff kick for two.

At 10:13, Daniels reversed a whip to a stomp to the chest and went to work. He hit a STO for two and then a springboard moonsault for two. Hero came right back and hit a running powerbomb for two. Hero lifted Daniels, but Daniels reversed into a serious looking submission hold with his legs around Hero's head.

Daniels setup for Angel's wings, but Hero escaped. Daniels hit a powerbomb and covered, but Hagadorn distracted the ref. Daniels knocked Hagadorn down, and Hero hit an elbow. Del Ray distracted the ref and Hagadorn tossed the loaded elbow pad in. Hero put it on, but Daniels ducked and hit a slam. He followed with the BME for the win…

Shore's Slant: Fantastic match that I thought was better than the Hero vs. Richards match I saw in Charlotte. The roster in ROH is so talented when you figure you have great tag teams that can also hold their own as singles wrestlers. I think these matches ought to help them get a new TV contract.

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 1-18-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results and elimination.

1 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. BYRON SAXTON (w/Dolph Ziggler)

Masters scored with an early shoulder tackle before landing a series of hip tosses. Saxton developed an attitude and slapped Masters, who slapped him right back. Saxton rolled to the floor and used Ziggler as a distraction to deck Masters on the floor with a clothesline. Back in the ring, Saxton dropped Masters with an inverted jawbreaker to begin working over Masters. Masters made a standard comeback at 3:30 and landed a sit-out slam for a two count. Saxton then cut off Masters and became frustrated with his inability to put Masters away. Masters then used Saxton's over-aggression to slap on the Masterlock and score the submission victory.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 4:50. Basic match setting up Masters to serve Saxton with something "special" for the finish.

2 -- TED DIBIASE & BRODUS CLAY (w/Maryse) vs. U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN & DERRICK BATEMAN

DiBiase tried to take off Bryan's head with an aggressive clothesline early in the match. Clay then tagged in and picked up where DiBiase left off working on Bryan. Ziggler suddenly interrupted from the stage telling Bryan to go ahead and give up the match. The crowd responded with boos for Ziggler, then rallying cheers for Bryan, but Clay ran over DiBiase with more power offense. Clay wanted the Claw-like finisher, but DiBiase blind-tagged into the match. Clay didn't appreciate that, but bowed to his Pro. DiBiase wanted Dream Street, but Bryan countered with a hip toss. Bateman then tagged in and landed consecutive clotheslines on DiBiase for a nearfall. DiBiase cut off Bateman with a clothesline, then slapped Clay and accused him of blowing the match. Clay argued back that he had him beat and DiBiase lost it. Clay dropped off the apron, frustrated, and Bateman rolled up DiBiase from behind for the win. Maryse just laughed. It was a "I can't believe this is happening again" laugh. DiBiase sold frustration ringside while Maryse just walked away on the other side of the ring. Maryse flashed her phone to DiBiase across the ring and walked off.

WINNERS: Bateman & Bryan at 4:34. Fine tag match. Bryan's role was to lower himself (as has been the trend lately) to advance the DiBiase-Clay-Maryse issues while setting up Bateman for a needed win on NXT.

3 -- RICARDO RODRIGUEZ vs. CONOR O'BRIAN

O'Brian quickly knocked Ricardo to the outside and Ricardo tried to beg off. They cut to a shot of Del Rio nervously watching on a backstage monitor. Ricardo suddenly tried a flurry of strikes, but O'Brian cut him off. O'Brian then removed the top turnbuckle pad, drawing the ref's ire. O'Brian proceeded to miss with a corner splash and eat the exposed steel. Ricardo stumbled to his feet. "Not like this!" Ziggler sarcastically shouted. Ricardo, with the crowd actually behind him for a surprise win, stumbled to his feet, then tripped over himself to splash O'Brian for the three count. Backstage, Del Rio sold that he was impressed. Ricardo tried celebrating, but tripped over himself again.

WINNER: Ricardo at 1:49. What do you say? What can you say?

Derrick Bateman had immunity and Conor O'Brian was eliminated from NXT.

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 1-20-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JTG vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Tentative start with the two men feeling each other out looking for an advantage. Early in the match, WWE production explored tighter camera shots inside the ring, which they went for a few weeks ago on Superstars to enhance the action. Chavo dominated the first four minutes before JTG teased a comeback with a back body drop to escape Chavo's offense. JTG scored with consecutive clotheslines followed by a neck-tie-like drop for a two count. Chavo came back with a Northern Lights suplex, followed by clotheslines and punches. Chavo missed with a corner attack, then JTG hit the Mug Shot to set up the Shout-out for the pin and the win.

WINNER: JTG at 5:47. Nice, simple formula match. No one is buying JTG or Chavo as contenders to win the Rumble, but the announcers were able to focus on the overall journey each wrestler is on trying to get to WrestleMania via the Rumble. (*1/4)

2 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. CURT HAWKINS

Masters confidently took control of the action while the announcers focused on Hawkins being in the midst of a losing streak. Hawkins comes in 0-2 to start 2011. Masters tried to finish it early with a splash from the second rope, but Hawkins moved and Masters ate the mat before eating Hawkins's boot. Hawkins tentatively worked over Masters before Masters suddenly sprung with the Masterlock. Hawkins was trapped and was forced to give it up, sending him to 0-3.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 3:23. Effective match. In front of limited audiences lately on NXT and Superstars, WWE is getting over the Masterlock. Also, wrestlers selling how tentative they are to wrestle Masters because of the Masterlock is a nice piece of booking. With how little depth there is on WWE's roster, you never know when WWE will need to tap into their investment in Masters for a featured program on Smackdown. (*)

3 -- DARREN YOUNG & D.H. SMITH vs. PRIMO & ZACK RYDER

Young quickly decked Ryder with a clothesline, then dropped Primo with an arm drag. Smith tagged in and lost control of the match. On commentary, Scott Stanford was amused at Ryder's antics as he worked over Smith. Enter Primo to work on Smith. The announcers noted all four men were in the eight-man tag main event last week, but were apparently instructed to ignore Primo randomly being assigned to Young and Smith's babyface team last week. The heels continued to work over Smith before he finally made the tag to Young. Stanford with his weekly "house of fire" line. That must be the only line he knows to sell a babyface comeback. The action broke down and Ryder suddenly dropped Young with the Rough Ryder for the quick pin and the win for the heels.

WINNERS: Ryder & Primo at 5:01. Rare TV victory for Ryder, who improved to 1-2 on TV this year. WWE doesn't seem to have anything for Smith and Young right now, but they haven't stood out to warrant further investment by WWE. (*1/2)

4 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. TYSON KIDD

Yoshi tried an early roundhouse kick, but Kidd ducked and quickly rolled to the apron to get a breather and re-size Yoshi. Yoshi resumed his fighting stance and Kidd re-entered the ring with a cocky smile. They tentatively locked up center ring and Kidd kicked Yoshi in the mid-section to put him in a submission. Yoshi bridged out into a monkey flip for a nearfall. Stanford was popping for the counters as if he were watching the finish of an ROH match. Kidd escaped another bridge attempt by Yoshi and executed a dragon screw leg whip. Yoshi immediately began clutching his left knee and rolled to the outside selling agony. Stanford fed to the final commercial of the show.

Back from break, Kidd was screaming at the referee to ask Yoshi if he wanted to give up. Kidd continued to work on Yoshi's left knee while also flashing his cocky smile to the crowd. Kidd screamed at Yoshi to give up and Yoshi tried to fight back with forearms before Kidd cut him off again. Kidd applied a front anklelock, but Yoshi pushed Kidd through the ropes to the outside with his one good leg. Yoshi continued to sell the left leg as Kidd slowly returned to the ring apron and airballed a springboard elbow drop.

Yoshi, on one good leg, landed chops and a roundhouse kick to the gut. Yoshi executed a Northern Lights suplex, but he sold not being able to maintain the bridge pin because of his knee. Nice attention to detail. Yoshi then went up top, which Mathews noted was questionable strategy. Yoshi attempted a top-rope roundhouse kick, but Kidd ducked and Yoshi crashed to the mat. Mathews said he believes Yoshi is done now. Kidd then cockily set up for the Sharpshooter, but Yoshi suddenly pinned Kidd with a small package for the three count.

Post-match: Kidd huffed and puffed while Yoshi tried celebrating the match victory on one good leg. Yoshi eventually made his way out of the ring and waved to the crowd. Kidd just wiped his face in frustration as Stanford wondered aloud what the loss means for Kidd's U.S. Title quest. Oh yeah, that storyline. Stanford signed off as they went to a final shot of Yoshi hobbling to the back.

WINNER: Yoshi at 12:04. Good TV main event. Basic, fundamental, easy-to-pick-up and understand story with Kidd trying to take away Yoshi's high-flying, Yoshi showing "fighting spirit" making a comeback, and then Yoshi showing he can be resourceful with a small package to score the all-important three count. Kidd is underrated as a performer and it's only a matter of time before WWE finds something for him to sink his teeth into, with or without Jackson Andrews. Kidd really carried the middle portion of the match with his heel mannerisms and constant chatter in the ring. Good chemistry between Kidd and Yoshi to close the show. (**1/4)

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact! Results: 1-20-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Thank God it's condensed to in-ring results because there was a whole lot of jawwing going on

1 -- Knockouts champion MADISON RAYNE vs. SARITA vs. VELVET SKY vs. MICKIE JAMES -- non-title four-way match

Mickie and Velvet argued over who should start the match since they each wanted a piece of the heels. So, they decided to start the match against each other. About a minute into the match, Tenay plugged the Impact TV taping in Fayetteville, N.C. on February 24. Four-way action broke out at 2:30 with everyone battling in the ring. Mickie went up top for a finishing move on Madison, but Tara showed up out of the ref's view to pop Mickie in the face. Madison then tried a KO Punch on Mickie, but she ducked and Sarita sorta took the blow. Clunky spot. Mickie then rolled up Madison for the pin.

WINNER: Mickie at 4:17. Basic story. Mickie with the pin on the champion to advance her quest for another KO Title shot. (*)

2 -- MATT MORGAN vs. ROB TERRY (w/Ric Flair)

The bell sounded and Terry was still getting pre-match instructions from Flair. Terry then turned around and took the Carbon Footprint from Morgan. Pin and the win for Morgan to make short work of Terry.

Post-match: Flair tried to attack Morgan with chops, but Morgan no-sold. Flair tried bouncing off the ropes for a chop, but Morgan no-sold and Flair begged off. Suddenly, Abyss wedged himself through the ropes to enter the ring for an attack on Morgan. Abyss landed several punches as the crowd chanted for Morgan. Morgan avoided a clothesline, then dropped Abyss with a discus clothesline. Terry then took a sidewalk slam. Taz said Morgan is amped up. Morgan still wanted Flair, so Abyss attacked him from behind. Terry then slowly got up to help Abyss double-team Morgan, who ran through the men with a double clothesline.

Morgan still wanted a piece of Flair, but Terry took out Morgan's left knee. "Morgan, Morgan" chant as the two big men worked over Morgan as Flair stomped the ring steps. Abyss landed a big splash, then Flair put a boot in Morgan's crotch for the exclamation mark on the post-match attack.

WINNER: Morgan at 0:11. The post-match went on pretty long with Terry and Abyss continually recovering from Morgan's offensive attack, but the angle at least got babyface sympathy on Morgan. TNA has to be careful not killing Morgan's momentum after booking him in three straight PPV main events. Being paired up with Terry following a big #1 contender program is a risky proposition. (n/a)

3 -- X Division champion KAZARIAN vs. JAY LETHAL -- X Division Title match

The announcers were so focused on the X Division Title match that they were produced to spend the first two minutes talking about the Angle-Jarrett deal. Taz said that's coming up next, though. Lethal scored with a handspring back-elbow smash on Kazarian, who tried to scamper to the ring apron, but Lethal yanked him back into the ring. Lethal hit the Lethal Combination, then played to the crowd and stalled for time while having Kazarian down and out. Lethal continued to showboat as if he stopped to take a nap at the one yardline, then finally hit a top-rope elbow drop for a two count. Kazarian then slid to the outside to recover and Lethal complained to the ref about the nearfall. Lethal and Kazarian re-entered the ring and Kazarian suddenly rolled up Lethal and hooked the ropes for additional leverage to score a three count. Rookie referee Jackson James missed the call, again, which the announcers noted.

WINNER: Kazarian at 4:33 to retain the X Title. Hard to get sympathy on a babyface character when he's showboating, stalling, and doing everything but trying to win a match. Not enough time for the match to stand out or be anything more than filler leading to the Angle-Jarrett business. (*)

4 -- JEFF HARDY vs. TOMMY DREAMER

Taz called the match-up a "clash of styles from a physical standpoint." Dreamer landed a clothesline sending Hardy to the floor, then landed another clothesline from the ring apron. Taz wondered aloud if Dreamer was wearing knickers. Tenay called his ring attire a potential "fashion risk." The announcers then plugged Mr. Anderson vs. Jeff Hardy for the TNA Title on the February 3 Impact. Back in the ring, Hardy took control and played to the crowd. He then executed an innovative slingshot out of the corner into a low dropkick in one motion.

Hardy slapped on a headlock, which Dreamer fought out of while selling a knee injury. Dreamer chopped his legs executing short-arm clotheslines before avoiding Whisper in the Wind. Dreamer wanted a move from the second rope, but Hardy blocked with a boot to the gut. Dreamer came back with the Dreamer Driver and Hardy put his foot on the bottom rope to avoid a three count.

Hardy rolled underneath the ropes and kicked the bottom rope into Dreamer's crotch. Hardy then nailed the Twist of Hate back in the ring and it was good for a three count. Hardy gloated about his win and the announcers plugged Hardy's TNA Title return match in two weeks on Impact.

WINNER: Hardy at 4:21. Okay match. There's only so much movement that can be created in a Tommy Dreamer match. At the end of the day, the match served its purpose warming up Hardy for his title re-match in two weeks. (*)

5 -- TNA tag champions BEER MONEY (JAMES STORM & ROBERT ROODE) vs. TNA World Hvt. champion MR. ANDERSON & ROB VAN DAM -- non-title match

The bell sounded 31 minutes into the second hour to begin the main event. The match wasn't joined in progress, but it seemed to be already in progress with RVD and Roode exchanging offense at a rate typically reserved for the middle of a match. Anderson then tagged in and Beer Money cut off his offense to begin working over the champ. RVD eventually hot-tagged into the match at 6:00 and caught Storm with a leaping thrust kick. RVD wanted Rolling Thunder, but Roode grabbed his foot from the outside. Storm then tried to end it on RVD with a backstabber, but RVD kicked out in time. Beer Money wanted the DWI, but Anderson broke it up and four-way action broke out.

On the outside, Roode and Anderson battled. In the ring, RVD and Storm went through a finishing sequence that included RVD hitting a Five-Star Frogsplash on Storm. For no reason, ref Jackson James bailed from the ring to argue with Jeff Hardy, who emerged on the floor. RVD casually walked around in the ring after seeing that a pinfall would not be happening following the Five-Star. Suddenly, a rough-looking individual wearing a flannel shirt and jeans entered the ring. The announcers said it was Matt Hardy. Hardy dropped RVD with the Twist of Hate, then hid on the outside. The ref re-entered the ring and Storm pinned RVD for the win. Post-match: The Hardys and Beer Money backed up the entrance ramp gloating about the win as RVD sold disbelief in the ring.

WINNERS: Beer Money at 8:07. Rushed tag match that served two purposes of advancing RVD's frustrating quest to get his hands on Jeff Hardy and continue building toward some sort of breaking point in ref Jackson James's incompetency/Immortal collusion angle. It's like the DiBiase Losing Streak angle where the audience doesn't care, but they just want to get to the breaking point already. (*1/2)

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 1-21-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. R-TRUTH

Del Rio backed Truth into the corner and kicked him in the ribs. Truth caught Del Rio with a clothesline out of the corner. Del Rio fled to ringside, where Truth came after him. Back in the ring, Truth worked Del Rio into an arm-bar. Backstage, the camera was running into Teddy Long’s office. Doctors, Dolph Ziggler, Vickie Guerrero…and is that Michael Tarver standing over an apparently unconscious Long? They called for paramedics as the camera went back to the ring. Hurricanrana off the top by Truth. Mathews brought up Long’s past heart issues as Del Rio rolled to ringside, trying to recover.

Back with Del Rio in control out of break. Mathews touched on the “developing situation” with Teddy Long backstage. Cole said EMT’s have arrived backstage. No one has mentioned Tarver, or whoever that was, with Vickie and Ziggler in Long’s office. Rear chinlock by Del Rio. Truth fought out but fell victim to a drop toe-hold. Back to Long’s office, where Teddy was strapped onto a stretcher. Vickie was nearly in hysterics, but a doctor said Long has a good pulse but is unconscious. One of the EMT’s looks like Jamie Noble. Tony Garea ushered Tarver out of the office at the behest of the doctor. Cole said he’s hearing that Long has suffered severe trauma to the back of the head. Enziguiri by Del Rio, but he was then backed into the corner. Big hip-toss by Truth. Rodriguez grabbed Truth’s foot, and Del Rio came from behind and draped the arm of Truth over the top rope. Cross arm-breaker in the ring, but Truth was close to the ropes. He couldn’t reach, and had to tap out.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 10:48. Just kinda there, as a back-drop to a discussion of the Corre, and Long’s health. Does he really need Rodriguez to help him beat Truth?

2 – LAYLA vs. BETH PHOENIX

Layla kicked at Beth’s legs, but Beth caught her in the giant swing. She just ran over Layla, garnering a two count after that. Layla countered a powerslam, and took Beth down while working the arm. Cover by Layla for two. Modified key-lock applied by Layla. Cole admitted he had no idea what Striker was talking about. That’s a great thing for your lead announcer to admit. Phoenix came back with rights, then a clothesline. She looks like she’s actively trying not to hurt Layla. Slingshot suplex for a two-count. Phoenix was still favoring her arm. Layla tried another arm-bar, but Beth countered, and a Glam Slam followed.

WINNER: Phoenix, at 3:35. A lot of losses piling up for LayCool…I can see this leading to the recruitment of Awesome Kong.

3 – REY MYSTERIO vs. “DASHING” CODY RHODES

Our new HD TV always has trouble during Rey’s entrance. Rhodes got the early advantage with a hard clothesline, but Rey came back with a headscissors take-down. Back to Rhodes, who kicked at Rey’s leg. The announcers discussed the Rumble match early on. Rhodes tossed Rey under the bottom rope, but Rey just rolled and landed on his feet. Rhodes went to the outside and received a drop toe-hold into the steel steps. Back in the ring, Mysterio dropped the dime off the top for a two-count. Cole announced that we’d get an update on Long’s condition in a matter of moments. Springboard cross-body for a two-count. Side Russian leg-sweep from Rhodes for two. Why are the announcers not asking the obvious question about Tarver’s presence? Mysterio kicked Rhodes into position, then connected on the 619. In the face! Off the top rope, a splash by Mysterio, followed by a three-count.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 4:00. Nice match while it lasted, but ultimately didn’t mean a whole lot.

4 – JACK SWAGGER vs. KOFI KINGSTON – AMATEUR WRESTLING CHALLENGE

Striker described the rules before the match. Ten seconds in to the first three-minute round, he got a two-point take-down. It was 2-1 at the :40 mark. Another take-down for two points by Swagger. Swagger was letting Kofi get up, giving him another point. Swagger even had the amateur head-gear. Two points for Swagger, and he may have been able to pin him, but his ego again getting in the way. Another point for Kofi in getting up. Swagger argued that he should be awarded two more points because Kofi was on his back for two seconds. They changed the ruling to an 8-4 score. Another take-down with 30 seconds to go. Swagger was on Kofi’s back and did some trash talking. Take-down for Kofi with ten dseconds to go. He kept Swagger on his back and the clock ran out with Swagger up 10-9. I guess that’s the only round. Swagger did get the win.

WINNER: Swagger, at 3:00, by a score of 10-9. The format was not really well executed, and the whole bit felt tacked-on.

5 – TRENT BARRETA vs. DREW MCINTYRE

During Drew’s entrance, they showed the attack on Barreta backstage last week, and Kelly Kelly telling McIntyre to take a hike. “He cannot let this woman cloud his career,” said Cole, presumably of Kelly (but it could be WWE’s way of talking about Tiffany). McIntyre got the advantage, but Barreta nailed McIntyre with a big dropkick. Kicks to the chest from Barreta. He tried a springboard move, but McIntyre caught him and powerbombed him. Somehow, that got only two. McIntyre put Barreta on the top rope, but Barreta fought back. Barreta set up from the top, but McIntyre climbed the ropes and hip-tossed him off. Mathews predicted that would finish it and surprisingly, it did.

WINNER: McIntyre, at 2:06.

6 – EDGE vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL

I love how they never bothered to clarify what Grisham’s update on Long was going to be when he was interrupted by A-Ri. Edge hammered away on Gabriel. Gabriel missed a kick and Edge hit the Edge-O-Matic for two. Gabriel came back by choking Edge in the corner with his foot. Edge sent Gabriel crashing to the floor, while the rest of Corre watched from ringside. They went to break under 3:00 into the match.

Gabriel had the advantage, and got it during the break by kicking out Edge’s leg when the champ was on the apron. Edge elbowed out of a rest-hold and both men struggled to get to their feet. STO by Gabriel, who then went to the top rope. Edge rolled out of the way then got up. He tried to dive at Edge, but Edge dropkicked him. Once both men got up, Gabriel again found himself crashing to the floor. Edge kept an eye on the rest of Corre while he put Gabriel in the ring. Gabriel met Edge at the top rope and attempted to suplex him down. Edge held on and headbutted Gabriel down. He perched himself on the top rope, then came down with a cross-body for a very near-fall. Edge wet up for a Spear, but took out Barrett, who got on the apron to distract. While the ref dealt with that, Edge speared Slater, who was also on the apron. He couldn’t avoid a hard clothesline by Jackson though, and Gabriel picked up the pinfall win.

WINNER: Gabriel, at 10:30. Decent enough match, with a Corre/Nexus member finally getting a win in a meaningful match, even if it was due to distraction.

[Arcademan]

My apologies for not posting the results of the wrestling shows due to a recent death in my family. My schedule is more or less back to normal now.

To view all of the wrestling results from the beginning of 2011, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #10,901 and posts thereafter. Thank you.