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

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 2-18-11

Results courtesy of Guess Who? Blah, blah, in-ring, yadda...

1 – EDGE & RANDY ORTON & JOHN MORRISON & R-TRUTH & REY MYSTERIO & JOHN CENA vs. CM PUNK & KING SHEAMUS & WADE BARRETT & DREW MCINTYRE & KANE & DOLPH ZIGGLER

Booker mentioned his reign as King Booker when Sheamus came out. Mathews mentioned that Kane competed on the very first Smackdown, and during each entrance, the announcers talked about their association with Smackdown and/or their chances in the Chamber match. Mathews sounded like he was reading from a script for most of them. After all the entrances, the match started at 8:09 EST.

McIntyre began the match with Edge, and the two traded aggressive tactics in the corner. Edge finally got the dupe and tagged Truth. Ziggler came in and was taken down with a hip-lock take-over. Truth tagged Orton for a nice pop. “Randy” chant as Ziggler bumped around for Orton’s offense. High knee-drop found the mark and got two in the first cover of the match. Cena was next to give Ziggler a beating. He ran into an elbow in the corner and Ziggler got some heat back, but only briefly. Bulldog by Cena as Cole mentioned Cena was the victim of a verbal beat-down from The Rock on Monday, the first mention of Rock being on Raw. Morrison was in and he tripped up Ziggler. He set up for Starship Pain, but Ziggler stopped him and did an inverted slam off the top rope. Match continues after break, which they went to at just under the four-minute mark.

After break, they returned with Sheamus suplexing Morrison, then going for a cover. It only got one. Punk came in and mocked Morrison for what happened to his eyes courtesy of Nexus. Crowd was really hot. Punk held Morrison’s leg, but Morrison tagged Rey anyway. Huge reaction for the hometown hero. After a near-fall, Mysterio set Punk up for the 619. Punk caught him and gave him a back-breaker. He hooked the outside leg and his pin attempt got two. Kane was next in and he pounded away at Rey in a neutral corner. Bearhug by Kane. Rey got the crowd behind him and broke out of the hold. Mysterio tried to fight out of the heel corner, but walked into a choke. Kane threw Rey out of the ring and his shoulder ran right into Punk’s gut, as Punk was on the arena floor. Punk didn’t seem to sell it much, so I’d assume it was a miscue of sorts. They went to break again at the 12:00 mark.

Rey was still being worked over by the heels, and this time, it was Sheamus having his way with the little man. Not that he won’t normally play this role, but they’re in the right town for him to gain sympathy with the fans. Rey was a few fingertips away from tagging, but Sheamus overpowered him and gave him the Irish Curse back-breaker. Back to the heel corner, where Barrett got to get his licks in. Cole noted that The Miz will be in action later tonight. Barrett missed a corner charge and Rey climbed to the top. He moonsaulted onto Barrett and both men were down. Both men tried to make tags at the 18:00 mark, and both did. It was Edge and Ziggler, and Edge got the better of the presumed-World Champion. Edge had the crazy eyes, but Sheamus stopped a spear attempted. Everybody came in and hit their finisher on everyone else (where’s the DQ?) until it was Rey and Barrett. Rey dialed up the 619 on Barrett, and he also hit Ziggler, who kinda stumbled into position. Then Edge speared Ziggler for the pinfall win.

WINNERS: Cena, Edge, Mysterio, Morrison, Truth and Orton, at 20:15. Pretty hot match with enough tags and fresh men in there so that there was no down-time.

2 – EVE TORRES & BETH PHOENIX vs. LAYLA & MARYSE

Michelle McCool was on commentary. She said Layla injured her a few weeks back when her head went into McCool’s foot. Maryse slapped Beth, who didn’t’ take kindly to it. Maryse desperately made the tag and Layla started to work the arm of Beth, but Beth just shoved her down. She lifted Layla up by the arm, but the landing wasn’t smooth. Eve tagged in and hit a few dropkicks. Suplex by Eve, float-over for a two-count. Sunset flip by Eve, but Layla rolled through and slammed Eve’s head into the mat. McCool left the commentary table and got on the apron to yell at Eve. Beth took a shot at McCool’s injured leg, and while the ref was distracted, the heels gave Eve a double superkick and Layla made the pin.

WINNERS: Layla and Maryse, at 2:27. Eh. I feel like the whole division is just running on a treadmill until Kong debuts.

3 – KOFI KINGSTON vs. THE MIZ

Alex Riley seconded The Miz. Miz started slowly with a wrist-lock, and Kofi responded with a deep arm-drag. Flying cross-body for two, then another by the IC Champion. A third, and he still only got a two-count. He worked an arm-bar at 1:30 of the match. Miz got a cheap-shot on Kingston in the corner and had to be restrained by referee Charles Robinson. Kofi fought out of the corner and whipped Miz back into it. Kingston missed a charge but hopped onto the second rope; Miz kicked his leg and Kingston hit the mat. They went to break at the 2:36 mark.

The show returned just shy of 6:00 into the contest. Miz was in control and he used Kofi’s hair to keep the Ghana native at bay. Kingston got to his feet, but Miz took him back down to one knee, working the back and shoulders of Kingston. They continued to counter each other, and Kofi got Miz with a backslide for two. SOS was countered by Miz, but then Kingston landed a hurricanrana that sent Miz into the corner. Miz backed Kingston into the corner at 8:00, and Kingston hit the flip kick, then a cross-body off the top for two (of course, Mathews thought it was going to be the finish). Superman punch by Kofi, followed by the Boom Drop. Kingston started clapping, signaling that he was ready for the Trouble in Paradise, but Alberto Del Rio made his way to the ring, distracting Kofi. Miz rolled Kofi up, but Kofi reversed it for two. Riley got on the apron and Del Rio swatted Kofi with his scarf for another distraction, which allowed Miz to come from behind and hit Kofi with the Skull Crushing Finale for the win.

WINNER: Miz, at 10:09. Not a particularly inspired match, but it was okay. Miz could’ve used a decisive win here, but I also understand them wanting to build Kofi vs. Del Rio for the PPV too.

5 – JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER vs. VLADIMIR KOZLOV & SANTINO MARELLA – WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSIHP MATCH

Kozlov caught a cross-body attempt by Gabriel and gave him a fall-away slam. Gabriel rolled to the outside, bringing Barrett and Ezekiel Jackson out to ringside. Barrett got on the apron to distract Kozlov, and Gabriel ran in and took out Kozlov’s legs. Tag in to Slater, who continued to work the leg. Kozlov took Slater down and made the hot tag (at 1:22) to Marella. Hip-toss by Marella, then a diving headbutt. Cover got two, interrupted by Slater. He was thrown out of the ring by Kozlov. Marella readied for the Cobra and struck Gabriel with it. At that point, Jackson and Barrett ran in to save their fellow Corre member from a pinfall loss.

WINNERS: Marella and Kozlov, via DQ, at 2:00.

Big Show came out to help Marella and Kozlov. “The odds are even!” proclaimed Mathews, but I count Corre still up four men to three. Show took out Gabriel and Slater, and Jackson teased getting in the ring to face Show one-on-one, but he declined the opportunity.

6 – DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. EDGE – WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Edge took Ziggler down early, and Edge set up for a spear. Ziggler leap-frogged it, and Edge ran into the turnbuckle. On the outside, Ziggler kicked Edge in the head. Edge was rolled into the ring, but Edge got stuck in the ropes, not allowing Ziggler to make a legal pin. Rear chinlock by Dolph, but Edge fought out. Ziggler caught Edge coming off the ropes and applied the sleeper hold. Zig Zag countered by Edge, but Edge speared Ziggler in the middle of the ring and picked up the win and the title.

WINNER: Edge, at 3:02. A bit surprising the finish was so abrupt. I don’t like the idea of recognizing Ziggler as champion for such a short time (I don’t think holding the title for what amounted to one show does anything for him as much as being a main eventer did), if they go that route.
.

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 2-21-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here mostly to in-ring results however there were several other non-action highlights I'll touch upon...

- John Cena started the show going 'old-school thuganomics' with a verbal assault on The Rock.

1 -- C.M. PUNK vs. JOHN MORRISON

The bell sounded and the two men danced around the ring tentative to lock up. Morrison landed right hand strikes, then limped out of the corner. Morrison landed an uppercut, but Punk pulled down Morrison from the outside and rammed Morrison's knee across the ring apron. The 2/21/11 countdown clock flashed starting from 38:38. Punk continued to work on Morrison's injured knee from the Chamber match and scored successive nearfalls.

Morrison fired back with right hand strikes moments later, but hopped up to his feet selling the knee injury. Punk then kicked Morrison in the injured knee and capitalized with the G2S. It was good for the win. Punk was slow to his feet still selling the effects of the match as the announcers tried to cover for Morrison's loss, not being 100 percent for the match.

WINNER: Punk at 2:53. Morrison and Punk were really limited on what they could do selling the effects of the PPV, which they should have been doing, so that was good. The decision to make this match was odd, though, when WWE could have booked this match next week where Morrison could still look strong in defeat. This spot could have been a showcase opportunity for non-Chamber match wrestlers while the Chamber match participants were kept completely out of the ring to sell the ramifications via promos. (*)

2 -- Divas champion EVE & GAIL KIM vs. BELLA TWINS

The match quickly spilled to the outside, getting over the animosity in-play between the two sides. For the finish, the Bellas pulled the Switcheroo behind the ref's back and Eve was rolled up for a quick three count. Afterward, Eve was furious as the Bellas quickly hurried away, content with the victory. They did the belt-around-the-waist motion to show they want the Divas Title.

WINNERS: Bellas at 2:28. Fine to get over the Bellas's more aggressive personalities and give Eve a new heel challenger(s).

- The Undertaker returns. No surprise. Triple H returning and interrupting him...to most people, that WAS a surprise.

3 -- SHEAMUS vs. MARK HENRY

Henry grappled Sheamus and tossed him over the top rope. It's odd to transition from that big Taker-Hunter moment into the rest of the show. It seemed like an end-of-the-show segment to fade into next week's Raw. Sheamus and Henry traded power offense early, then Henry went for a big splash, but Sheamus rolled out of the way. Sheamus landed a kick to the head, then decided to remove a top turnbuckle pad for some reason. It back-fired, as Henry smashed Sheamus into the corner steel. Henry then hit the World's Strongest Slam for the win. The announcers said Sheamus apparently became frustrated after losing in the Chamber last night and he went for a shortcut against Henry.

WINNER: Henry at 3:48. It could be interesting to see where both men are heading on the way to WrestleMania. Sheamus being the first man out following Triple H's big return was pretty interesting considering that could have been Sheamus's WrestleMania opponent. (*)

- Cole interviewed Jerry Lawler and The King challenged him to a 1-on-1 match. Don't know about the rest of you but I can't stand Cole anymore!

4 -- WWE tag champions CORRE (HEATH SLATER & JUSTIN GABRIEL w/Jackson and Barrett) vs. WWE champion THE MIZ & JOHN CENA -- WWE Tag Title match

Mathews said Miz and Cena are teaming together for the first-time ever. Miz and Slater started things off and Lawler dropped "wrestling" into the broadcast, saying Miz was trying to give Slater a "wrestling clinic." Gabriel tagged in and Miz taunted Cena while landing punches on Gabriel. Cena casually extended his hand and accepted a tag from Miz to knock Gabriel around a bit. Cena executed a fisherman suplex on Gabriel, then Miz smirked at him and asked for a tag. Cena obliged and Lawler said the two men are trying to one-up the other. Miz hit the corner clothesline on Gabriel and Cena mock applauded him. Miz then casually dropped Gabriel with the Skullcrushing Finale. One, two, three and there are new tag champs.

WINNERS: Cena & Miz at 3:12 to capture the Tag Titles. Um, that was anticlimactic.

Post-match: Cena acted dumbfounded as Miz accepted a Tag Title belt. Cena, still on the apron, accepted the other Tag Title belt. Cena then shrugged his shoulders and walked across the ring to celebrate in an opposite corner, having fun with the situation. Wade Barrett then took the mic and demanded a re-match for the Tag Titles right now. Santino & Kozlov are still owed a Tag Title shot somewhere in this. Suddenly, the Raw GM buzzed. Mathews took Cole's place and stepped to the podium to read from the laptop. Mathews said the GM says, "Ring the bell." The bell sounded and Corre huddled ringside as the tag belts were held up for the hard camera. They cut to break with the arena completely silent for these proceedings.

5 -- WWE tag champions JOHN CENA & WWE champion THE MIZ vs. CORRE (HEATH SLATER & JUSTIN GABRIEL w/Barrett and Jackson) -- WWE Tag Title match

Back live, Gabriel and Slater were assigned for the re-match. Why not mix up the team after the quick loss in the first match-up? Jackson and Gabriel? Barrett and Gabriel? Miz was knocked to the floor early on and the other Corre members kept Alex Riley away from Miz, who took a boot to the head from Gabriel. Back in the ring, Gabriel scored a nearfall on Miz. Miz teased a comeback (to some cheers), then Corre isolated Miz in their corner. From the outside, Barrett landed a cheap shot for good measure, but it was only good for a two count. Miz hit the Reality Check at 7:25 and the crowd cheered for Miz to tag in John Cena, but Slater cut off Miz before a tag could be made.

Cena continued to extend his hand for a tag as Mathews reset the show and noted Cena & Miz are indeed the new tag champions. Cena curiously surveyed the crowd as they cheered for a tag. Miz teased it, but Gabriel pulled him back to center-ring for a reverse chinlock. Gabriel wanted a top-rope move, but Miz blocked with a boot to the head. Cena then asked the crowd to will on Miz, who crawled across the desert and hot-tagged Cena, who came in hot. The usual comeback routine ensued before Cena dropped Slater with the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Suddenly, Miz snuck in from behind on Cena and dropped him with the Skullcrushing Finale. Gabriel covered Cena and it was good for the pin.

WINNERS: Corre at 11:08 to re-capture the WWE Tag Titles. What we learned: Miz can't be trusted, Miz could get over as a top face way down the road after this test-run, Cena can be gullible, and the tag champions have zero credibility. (*1/2)

[Arcademan]

Ring of Honor TV Results: 2-21-11

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

1. Christopher Daniels defeated Devon Storm to retain the ROH Television Championship at 7:49. For those who don't know, Devon Storm wrestled in WCW and TNA as Crowbar. They traded headlocks to start and then ran the ropes. Storm hit a punch to the stomach and a front hook suplex for two. Daniels came back with a heel kick and worked a wrist lock.

Storm made the ropes and broke dirty. He choked Daniels and raked his eyes in the corner. He backed up and charged and he and Daniels tumbled over the top rope to the floor. He hit a hangman drop on the barricade and rolled Daniels in the ring for a near fall.

Storm whipped Daniels to the corner and charged. Daniels got the foot up and took control. He worked his offense and hit an enziguri followed by a STO for two. Daniels setup for Angel's Wings, but Storm reversed and hit a suplex with a bridge for two.

He followed with a front flip leg drop for two. Daniels awkwardly reversed a clothesline attempt into the bulldog to the turnbuckle. He followed with a slam and the BME for the win…

Shore's Slant: That was a good match, but the end series was slow and awkward looking. It really hurt the match because that was the last thing we saw.

2. Claudio Castagnoli (w/Shane Hagadorn and Sara Del Ray) defeated Rhett Titus at 6:13. They shoved each other to start, and then traded chops and punches. Claudio played to the crowd and whipped Titus to the corner. He charged in and Titus hit a back elbow. He charged at Claudio, and Claudio hip tossed him over the top rope. He went to the floor and worked Rhett on the barricade and apron. Rhett made it back in at 19.

Claudio stomped on Titus and worked a rest hold. Titus drove him back to the corner and tried for a bulldog, but Claudio reversed into the UFO for two. Claudio lifted for the Riccola bomb, but Rhett flipped out and hit a standing dropkick.

Titus went to the top and hit a double knee to the stomach from the top rope for two. He hit a kick off the ropes and went for another. Hagadorn grabbed the foot to cause Rhett to stumble and Claudio hit a clothesline for the pinfall victory.

Post-match, Kenny King ran out and argued with the ref. Chris Hero ran out and all four men battled. Claudio slipped to the floor and the ANX clotheslined Hero over the top. Titus hit a Thesz Press from the apron on Claudio on the floor and the ANX celebrated in the ring…

Shore's Slant: Good match that played out well. My guess is King goes over in the next match in some fluke way so that everyone comes out of this looking good. I'm glad they reminded me of the PPV. I forgot.

3. Kenny King (w/Rhett Titus) defeated Chris Hero (w/Claudio Castagnoli, Shane Hagadorn and Sara Del Ray) at 9:56. The bell rang as soon as the show came back and they started on the floor. King hit a flipping back elbow from the barricade and rolled Hero in the ring.

Hero hit a kick to retake control and hit a high vertical suplex for two. Hero said something that got bleeped and chopped King in the corner. He whipped King to the corner and charged. King reversed into a twisting Sunset flip for two. Hero threw King to the floor and Rhett distracted the ref so Claudio could get a few cheap shots in.

Hero hit the rolling elbow and then a clothesline splash in the corner. He went for a moonsault from the springboard and landed on his feet. He spun for another elbow and King hit a Trouble in Paradise type kick. He hit two more kicks to the head and then a spine buster for a great near fall.

King charged and Hero hit a knee. He followed with a rolling kick for two and tried for a Liger bomb. King hooked a small package out of the lift for two. Hero hit the running Liger bomb for another great near fall. Del Ray distracted the ref and Hagadorn held King in the corner.

Hero tried for a splash, but King moved and hooked a surprise roll up for the win. Post-match, the KOW destroyed the ANX and tossed the ref from the ring…A final video hyped the 9th Anniversary Show on iPPV this Saturday…

Shore's Slant: Excellent match to close the show and serve as the go-home for the PPV. This has the potential to be the best match on the card. But so do many of the others. I had forgotten it was this weekend, and I didn't feel like they did a great job of reminding me. All the elements were there, but it just didn't click with me until half way through. Not sure why.

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 2-22-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). There was only one match and an elimination.

1 -- DERRICK BATEMAN vs. BRODUS CLAY vs. JOHNNY CURTIS

Bateman and Clay slowly eased toward Clay, trying to corner the big man, who just threw Bateman over the top rope to the floor. Grisham recapped the immunity points at this point as Clay worked over Curtis. Bateman re-entered the ring as the announcers spent about 60 seconds debating whether the first challenge or the second challenge was worth three points, neither, or both. Organized chaos from the NXT announcers.

Clay stuffed a boot in Bateman's throat, but Curtis smashed Brodus from behind. Bateman and Curtis then double-clotheslined Clay over the top rope. Bateman followed with a dive onto Clay ringside, clearing both men to the floor. Curtis then showed off some aerial ability flying over the top rope with a somersault dive onto both men. He landed on his feet, then celebrated as they cut to break.

Back from break, Curtis was working over Bateman in the ring while Clay caught his breath on the floor. Bateman and Curtis exchanged holds while Mathews noted Curtis's problem on NXT has been being lost in the shuffle between Bateman's "antics" and Brodus being Brodus. Bateman was in control at 7:00 and landed a big flying dropkick on Curtis in the corner. Clay then grabbed Curtis's head and tried squeezing it like a melon while ref Scott Armstrong just watched rather than requesting a break in the corner. Clay followed with a butt bomb on Bateman and two men were down in each corner.

Clay followed up on Curtis with a snap suplex for a two count, then resumed a corner attack on Bateman. Bateman then took a modified t-bone suplex and took his sweet time attempting a cover on Bateman, allowing Curtis to come off the top with a big guillotine leg drop. He was slow to make a cover on Brodus and scored a nearfall. A pin on Bateman also resulted in a nearfall. All three men recovered to their feet moments later, then Bateman and Curtis executed a ring-rattling double suplex, as Mathews called it. Curtis followed with a suplex smashing Bateman on top of Clay. Curtis then rolled up Bateman and it was good for the three and the win.

WINNER: Curtis at 11:01. Nice finish to the match. Also, nice tease that Curtis has a shot of ending up in the finals.

Clay had the most immunity points and Bateman was eliminated.

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 2-24-11

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

1 -- WWE tag champions THE CORRE (JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER) vs. JTG & TRENT BARRETA -- non-title match

Prior to the bell sounding, the announcers noted "chaos in WWE" has led to JTG and Barreta banding together to form a unit. Korpela and Striker then talked up the Corre's interesting week related to the Tag Titles, and Striker questioned Wade Barrett invoking Corre's immediate re-match for the Tag Titles on Raw if they are "equal units" in the group. Korpela then noted the close bond between Slater and Gabriel, even going to the club together.

The match built to a hot tag to JTG, who landed signature offense on Slater before the action broke down. The tag champs then used a double-team attack on JTG behind the ref's back and Slater hit his finisher, "Sweetness by Slater," for the pin on JTG. Gabriel and Slater shared a moment post-match celebrating with the tag belts.

WINNERS: Corre at 4:08. Standard fare for the makeshift tag division.

2 -- TYLER REKS vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Immediately back from break, Reks and Masters were in the ring for the second Smackdown match of the show. Korpela said Reks had destroyed everything in his path before he met his match in the form of the Masterlock. Reks, itching for a piece of Masters, quickly went on the offensive as Korpela stretched an odd comparison between Masters and Peyton Manning. To their credit, the announcers stuck with a sports theme throughout the call as Reks wore down Masters. Masters rebounded with a shoulder block from the second rope, then he teased the Masterlock. Reks initially broke free, but Masters re-applied the move and Reks was forced to submit. Masters sold intensity after his second victory over Reks as the announcers referenced Masters's quest to get on the WrestleMania 27 card.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 3:28. WWE is building up Masters under the radar on Superstars, but I don't see a place for him at WrestleMania unless it's in Money in the Bank.

3 -- SANTINO MARELLA (w/Tamina) vs. TYSON KIDD

Mathews said Santino is viewing this as a "new beginning" after Santino & Kozlov dropped the Tag Titles at the Elimination Chamber PPV. Stanford noted Kidd's lost storyline of seeking a U.S. Title shot. Santino taunted Kidd with an early Cobra sighting, causing Kidd to back off into the ropes. An ugly dropdown/leapfrog exchange ensued that Santino played off as Kidd making a fool of himself. Kidd came back with aggressive offense driving Santino to a seated position in the corner. Kidd attempted his springboard elbow drop finisher, but Santino moved out of the way, kipped up, and warmed up The Cobra. Santino then popped Kidd in the mouth to the delight of the kids and it was good for a pin. Cue up the trumpet celebration for Santino and Tamina.

WINNER: Santino at 4:05. Basic singles match focusing on Santino as a mid-card singles wrestler on Raw.

4 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse) -- non-title match

Bryan scored with an early thrust kick for a nearfall, then DiBiase came back with kicks and stomps. Bryan came back with another flying kick as Stanford acted incredulous about Bryan's vegan lifestyle. DiBiase returned fire on DiBiase with an inside-out clothesline as they cut to break.

Back from break, DiBiase had Bryan in a neck vice that Bryan fought out of with forearm strikes. DiBiase then nailed a backbreaker into a dropkick to the back for a nearfall. DiBiase continued to score nearfalls, working himself into frustration as Maryse just smiled along. Bryan came back with a signature back flip, clothesline duck, and flying forearm smash to cut off DiBiase. Stanford said it was ninja-like. "Ninja?!" Mathews replied. DiBiase teased Dream Street moments later, but Bryan back-dropped DiBiase over the top rope to the floor. Bryan followed with a suicide dive.

Back in the ring, DiBiase avoided a top-rope attack and turned a Dream Street attempt into an overhead release suplex for a nearfall. Suddenly, Yoshi Tatsu (in a suit) walked to ringside with flowers in-hand. Yoshi approached Maryse and offered her flowers, which drew DiBiase's ire. Maryse smiled and accepted the gift. Yoshi offered his lips for a kiss, but Maryse turned him down. DiBiase screamed at Maryse, "What are you doing?!" She then popped DiBiase in the face with the apparent loaded boutique, as DiBiase sold like he was hit with a brick. DiBiase fell backward into Bryan, who slapped on the LeBell Lock. DiBiase was forced to tap out after showing brief resistance.

Post-match: Maryse high-tailed it to the entrance ramp selling frustration with the turn of the events. She then left to the back, showing no remorse for her actions. Bryan celebrated with the U.S. Title belt as Yoshi slowly made his way up the ramp. They closed with two final shots of DiBiase recovering on the mat, his head about to pop off his shoulders selling anger, and Yoshi standing on the ramp with an Urkel-like "Did I do that?" look.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 10:37. Fine main event, certainly a step-up compared to recent main events on Superstars. Apparently DiBiase vs. Yoshi will be coming to a Monday or Thursday night broadcast in the near future. DiBiase is still portraying a castrated heel, but at least it's a slightly more interesting castrated character. (**)

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact! Results: 2-24-11

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

1 – GUNNER & MURPHY vs. ERIC YOUNG & ORLANDO JORDAN

Right off othe bell, Murphy went to tackle E.Y. but he moved, sending Murphy face-first into Orlando’s crotch. Naturally, he rubbed his junk in Murphy’s face, leading to a quick roll up by E.Y. for a one count. Gunner was quickly tagged in and he went for a running clothesline. Young ducked again and started running the ropes in opposite directions. EY went from left to right and Gunner went from north to south. They kept running until Gunner got tired and put his hands on his knees to huff and puff.

Unfortunately, he did this right in front of Jordan, who smacked him on the rear. Right as Gunner was getting slapped, Tenay announced that Beer Money would defend the Tag Team Titles against Immortal’s Gunner & Murphy at next week’s big show. Young tried to start the criss-cross sequence again, but Gunner quickly dumped Jordan to the side, decked E.Y., and tagged in Murphy.

Meanwhile, Beer Money did their best trying to talk up G&M as threats to their titles next week. Roode said that they’ve hung out with them before and know they’re for real and Storm chimed in to remind everyone that they were in Immortal with them and they had been in plenty of bar fights on the same side. Storm said that Beer Money was responsible to prove they are the best.

Back in the ring, Murphy had Young in a tight headlock. After Young fought out, Gunner tagged in and was quickly hit by a jawbreaker. Murphy tagged back in and then Young managed to push him into the corner. Bizarrely, Young then dropped his pants to reveal his old Team Canada trunks before Gunner clotheslined him from the ring apron.

As Jordan came into the ring to protest the interference, Murphy leveled him with a clothesline. Roode was in the process of telling the announcers that Flair made a really bad decision crossing Fortune last week as Gunner hit a flying elbow off of the top turnbuckle into E.Y., who was being held up for a side slam by Murphy. I guess Immortal’s tag team now has a tag team finisher. That ended things, as Gunner & Murphy picked up their first win in TNA.

WINNERS: Gunner & Murphy in 3:00.

2 - CRIMSON vs. MAGNUS

Crimson quickly hit an exploder suplex on Magnus before landing a big neckbreaker. Magnus tried to bail out of the ring, but Crimson grabbed him over the top rope by the head. However, Magnus guillotined him on the top rope, which allowed him to slither back into the ring and hit a big boot to knock Crimson to the ground.

Magnus then played to the crowd, saying he was going to hit a move (didn’t catch the name), but Crimson sprang up and hit the impressive-looking finisher not yet seen on TNA TV (Tenay called it the Red Alert). The Red Alert is a move where Crimson picks his opponent up like he’s setting up for the World’s Strongest Slam but instead spins him to his left and then uses the momentum to hit a powerful DDT. Needless to say, the debut of this move was enough for him to get the quick pinfall victory.

WINNER: Crimson in 1:00.

3 – Knockouts champion MADISON RAYNE VS. ODB

ODB got a big cheer early from the crowd and was in control early with a big bodyslam followed by a huge Flair chop on Rayne’s chest. She stomped Madison in the corner and then went for the Bronco Buster, but Rayne moved in time.

Madison jumped back into dominant position by putting a stunned ODB’s face between her knees and slamming her face repeatedly into the mat. After ODB got back up, Rayne hit her with a backstabber. Madison tried to set up another series of face slams, but ODB managed to fight out and deck Madison in the face. After a couple of stiff punches, she hit a series of clotheslines on the Knockouts Champion.

ODB was really feeling at as she hit an overhead fallaway slam on Madison before kipping back up and playing to the crowd. She realized that Madison was down in the corner and ODB finally hit her Bronco Buster. As ODB put Madison on her shoulders, Rayne managed to fight out and hit a with some sort of swinging knee to the back of the head for an abrupt victory.

WINNER: Madison Rayne in 5:00.

4 – MR. ANDERSON vs. ROB VAN DAM vs. KURT ANGLE

No answer to either of my questions, so I’m guessing No and No. The bell rang directly upon return from break as both Angle and RVD jumped Anderson right off the bat, taking turns punching and kicking him around the ring before hitting a double back body drop in the middle of the ring. They then followed that up by hitting a double vertical suplex. Angle then stood back and let RVD hit three consecutive shoulder blocks on Anderson in the corner. However, Angle went for a spear and missed as Anderson moved, sending Kurt out to the floor.

RVD didn’t let Anderson get far, though, as he threw him into the corner and hit a big monkey flip across the ring. He then lined Anderson up in the corner and hit a few punches before Anderson shoved him off. However, Angle re-entered the ring at that point to clothesline Anderson to the mat. However, RVD had enough of cooperation and clotheslined Kurt down next to him. With both men lying side by side in perfect position, RVD went for a double Rolling Thunder. However, as RVD was flipping onto them, Anderson rolled out to ringside to leave Angle to take the full blow.

This allowed Anderson to get back into the ring and hit RVD hard before throwing him into the ropes and nailing a swinging neckbreaker. However, as he was getting up, Angle had recovered enough to grab him and hit him with a snap suplex. At 3:00, Angle was whipped into the corner but hit Anderson with a big boot before exploding out of the corner with a big clothesline to send Anderson to ringside.

RVD and Angle then stared each other down before going head to head. This didn’t last long as Angle went to bounce off the ropes near the ramp and Anderson pulled the top rope down, spilling Kurt to the floor. Anderson climbed back into the ring but RVD was ready for him, hitting a spinning heel kick followed by a spinning leg drop. This was good for a two count. RVD then Irish-whipped Anderson across the ring but Angle tripped him and pulled him out to ringside. The two men started brawling but were both quickly taken out by RVD flipping over the top onto both. All three combatants were laid out at ringside as the Main Event went to break.

-Back from a three-minute commercial, Van Dam was tangled on the top rope before kicking Angle in the chest. A quick standing moonsault gave him a two count on Kurt. Both men fought back and forth before a charging Angle was back-body dropped over the top rope by RVD.

Immediately, Anderson appeared back in the ring (I guess he was still sprawled outside when they returned from break) and hit a big double sledge on RVD from behind. He then hit a backdrop suplex on RVD before dropping a big knee onto Van Dam’s face. Anderson then locked in an armlock as the crowd cheered on RVD to get back to his feet.

Eventually, RVD managed to elbow his way out and managed to kick Anderson in the chest before hitting a springboard kick off of the second rope. With both men down, Angle managed to get back in the ring and clothesline both men twice. RVD blocked an attempt to whip him into the corner at 10:00, but Angle caught him charging out with a big suplex. Angle immediately turned to Anderson and hit him with one, two, three big German Suplexes before catching a recovered RVD with a big release German Suplex to cap off just a flurry of Angle awesomeness.

Angle then stalked Anderson and hit him with the Angle Slam as soon as he got to his feet. Kurt pulled the strap down to go for the Anklelock, but RVD hit him with a Super Kick. RVD sold exhaustion on the ropes before trying to climb up top for the Five-Star Frog Splash. He ended up taking too much time as Angle charged up to the top and hit his signature Super German Suplex from the top turnbuckle that actually propelled Van Dam out of the ring after hitting the mat on the far side.

But, Kurt was feeling the effects of the move as well, which allowed Anderson to try to hit him with a Mic Check. However, Angle elbowed out of the move and promptly hit Anderson with a overhead throw. Kurt was fired up and pulled down both straps, going for the Anklelock on Anderson.

The match was then interrutped by the sound of wedding music hitting and the Jarretts coming out on the ramp in wedding regalia. This distracted Angle, who dropped his focus on the match to yell at them. This gave Anderson the opening to quickly hit the Mic Check on him for the pinfall victory.

WINNER: Mr. Anderson in 13:00 (10:00 Televised).

Afterward, Taz said that he didn’t think that Anderson cared about any of the Angle-Jarrett drama, he was just aiming for a victory in this match

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 2-25-11

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

1 – REY MYSTERIO vs. KANE

Both men are coming off the Elimination Chamber match on Sunday night. Kane overpowered Rey at the outset, and landed a low dropkick, getting a two-count thirty seconds into the match. Kane countered a flip by Rey and seemed to set up for the Tombstone, but instead, he slammed him into the corner. He took Rey to the mat and made another pinfall attempt, for only two again. Tilt-a-whirl back-breaker by Kane for two. It’s been pretty much all Kane in the first 2:00 of this one. Rey tripped Kane up and put him in position for the 619, but Kane rolled to the outside. Rey didn’t let him rest, as he caught Kane with a dropkick through the ropes. High-risk move on the outside didn’t pay off for Rey, as he turned around right into a big boot. They went to break at the 3:07 mark.

Back to action three minutes later. I love this new stopwatch app on my phone! Kane continued to work Rey’s back, then caught Rey and gave him a sidewalk slam for a two-count. Two big elbowdrops by Kane for a near-fall. Bearhug applied by the Big Red Machine. Mysterio fought out at 8:00, but he walked right into Kane’s grip, and was slammed back-first into the corner. Booker put over Rey still being injured and fatigued from the Chamber match. Rey was placed on the top rope, but he fought away from Kane and landed a seated senton. He went to work on Kane’s knee and kicked him in the head for a two-count. To the top rope went Rey, but he got uppercut in the throat by Kane. This time it was Kane who went to the top. He missed his clothesline, but Rey walked right into a chokeslam set-up. He countered and kicked Kane into 619 position. It connected and Rey went for another seated senton, but Kane caught him. Rey twisted around and rolled up the big man for the victory.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 10:32. Rey has a lot of momentum now after looking strong as one of the last two in the Chamber match, then picking up a hard-fought win here over Kane.

2 – ROSA MENDES vs. LAYLA

Both women were already in the ring, while Michelle McCool provided commentary. Rosa attacked Layla to start, but Layla fought back as McCool addressed the tension between LayCool. Rosa missed a shoulder attack and Layla, who was on the apron, pulled her out of the ring. Both ladies spilled to the floor in a dangerous-looking bump. Mendes gave her a forearm, then whipped her hard into the barricade. They came near the announce table, and Layla pushed Rosa into McCool. Michelle fought shoved Mendes from behind, drawing the DQ.

WINNER: Mendes, by DQ, at 1:22. Rosa is a brunette now. Maybe her hair was like that the last time she was on TV, but it’s been so long, I don’t remember. That’s about all I have for this match.

3 – JACK SWAGGER vs. KOFI KINGSTON

No entrance for Swagger. Kingston’s arm was heavily taped, as they showed Alberto Del Rio attacking the arm on Raw this past Monday. Mathews said WWE physicians advised Kofi not to take this match tonight. Swagger was all over Kingston to start and followed through with a shoulder knock-down for a two-count. Kingston fought back with right hands, then kicks. Kingston had to be restrained by referee Chad Patton while attacking Swagger in the corner. Boom Drop connected, then he landed a flying clothesline in the corner. Swagger came back by slamming Kingston’s leg into the ring post from the outside. Kingston missed a kick and Swagger applied the ankle-lock in the middle of the ring. He tapped out.

WINNER: Swagger, at 2:46. Interesting result. Kofi did have the injury excuse, but he came out the clear loser of his feud with Del Rio. However, Swagger also needed a win. I hope they have plans for at least one of these guys for Wrestlemania, other than throwing them in a possible MITB match.

4 – WADE BARRETT vs. THE BIG SHOW – CORRE BANNED FROM RINGSIDE

Show immediately took Barrett to the corner and slapped him in the chest. He did it again in another corner. Body shots from Show, but Barrett caught him with a boot on a charge. He jumped on Show’s back and applied a chinlock. Show got to the ropes to force a break, and Barrett proceeded to stomp a proverbial mud hole in him. They went to break with Barrett in control at 1:52 of the contest.

Back at the 5:03 mark with Show on the mat at the hands of Barrett. Show made his comeback and got to his feet, but Barrett dropkicked the knee of Show. DDT by Barrett with Show on his knees. Cover got two. He won with that move a few weeks ago. Show regrouped and threw Barrett over the top rope. He bent Barrett over the barricade and slapped him in the chest again. He tried to run Barrett into the ring post, but Barrett got off Show’s shoulders and rammed him into the post. Barrett tried to get into the ring before the count, but Show pulled him out before he could get in and Show made it in. So much for selling the post shot.

WINNER: Show, via count-out, at 7:09.

After the match, Show tried to continue the beating, but Corre came out. As they got into the ring, Show fled, but he grabbed a chair and came back in, nailing Justin Gabriel with it. It looked like it was to the head, too. I guess Gabriel got his hands up, but it sounded like it caught his head.

5 – DREW MCINTYRE & VICKIE GUERRERO vs. EDGE & KELLY KELLY – MIXED TAG MATCH; IF DREW AND VICKIE LOSE, VICKIE WILL BE FIRED

Kelly and Vickie started things. Vickie was a bit hesitant to leave the apron at first. Vickie tried a kick and Kelly caught it, then pushed Vickie to the ground. Kelly jumped Vickie and slammed her head into the mat. Vickie got away and tagged out to McIntyre. Mac barked at Kelly that he was the only one who stood up for her. I’m not sure what’s in this for McIntyre, since why would he want to defend Vickie and her position? She fired the woman he was in love with. Sunset flip by Edge for two, but McIntyre came back and mounted Edge, punching away at Edge. Cole did say that if Mac wins and Vickie stays, he may get a shot at the title as a reward. Okay, I can buy that. McIntyre pulled Edge’s hair and slammed him to the mat. McIntyre got distracted by Kelly and Edge face-planted him. Both men were down at the 3:30 spot of the match. They got to their feet and Edge fired away with clotheslines. Face-buster for two. Edge missed a charge in the corner, but caught himself. Vickie slapped him and Edge turned around right into a big boot from McIntyre. Drew set up for a Future Shock DDT, but took too long and Edge countered with the Edgecution. Edge lined up for the spear, but Vickie entered the ring and pleaded with Edge, standing between him and McIntyre. Kelly came in and speared Vickie, allowing Edge to spear McIntyre. Bye bye, Vickie.

WINNERS: Edge and Kelly, at 5:36. Didn’t last as long as I expected. Still a lot of show left, so we’ll see what this leads to now.

Other highlights: Cody Rhodes getting payback on Rey Mysterio with help from his dad Dusty Rhodes, Vickie fired from Smackdown and Del Rio jumping Edge from behind to end the show.

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 2-28-11

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

- Triple H hyped his match against The Undertaker, then dropped Sheamus through the announcer table with the Pedigree.

1 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. SHEAMUS

The bell sounded and Bourne smashed Sheamus with a corner dropkick. Bourne followed with a spin kick before going straight to the top. Bourne set up for the Air Bourne and connected flush. Bourne with the cover and it was good for a three count. The crowd popped as Bourne waved to the crowd and smiled.

WINNER: Bourne at 0:35. Sheamus gets two for the price of one, and Bourne looked good in victory. It was what it needed to be for Bourne, but Sheamus is on the wrong road to Mania right now.

- Cole accepted Lawler's challenge if his personal trainer can be at ringside and if he can pick a special guest referee. Lawler says yes and Jack Swagger comes down and puts Lawler in an anklelock.

- RAW GM makes an Orton-Punk match at WM with stipulations: Over the next few weeks, Orton will face individual members of Nexus. If Nexus wins, they get to be in Orton's corner. If a Nexus member loses, he is banned from Mania. If Nexus gets involved in any of the matches, the GM will personally disband New Nexus.

2 -- RANDY ORTON vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

Orton dominated, then cleared Mike to the outside early on. He posed for the crowd and they cut to break one minute in. Back live, Orton and Mike were battling in the ring as Cole recapped the "major stipulations" involved. Mike cut off Orton's momentum as the announcers continued to try to explain the five bullet-point stipulations in-play leading to WrestleMania. Orton made a comeback with clotheslines, followed by a snap powerslam. Orton then measured Mike for a fallaway backbreaker. Orton got in his zone and measured Mike for his classic spike DDT from the middle rope. He then dropped down to the mat and measured Mike for the RKO and he connected. Orton rolled him over and it was good for a three count. Mathews noted Mike will not be representing Nexus at WrestleMania. Cole said it's one down for Orton.

Post-match: Punk walked out on-stage and peered into the ring. Orton seemed to sense Punk's presence and slowly, slowly, slowly turned toward the stage to eye Punk. Orton then stood over Mike's fallen body and slowly backed up looking for The Punt. Punk told him to stop. He said Orton has done enough and he doesn't want to do this. The crowd roared they want to see it. "Do...not...punt him in the skull," Punk said. Orton then reset in the corner and connected with Mike's skull.

Orton then bailed from the ring as Punk tried to chase him down. Orton ran a few flights of stairs, then looked back to Nexus. Orton pounded his chest and shook his head like Brock Lesnar telling him he's ready. That was great imagery. They cut back to Punk shooting Orton a wide-eyed glare. Cole shouted that Orton should be arrested. Punk then led Nexus back into the ring to check on Mike before they went to a replay of Orton delivering The Punt to Mike's head. Back live, Mike continued to sell the effects as Orton stood tall on the arena steps.

WINNER: Orton at 7:18. The match was just there to get over Orton's signature moves, establish his quest to WrestleMania, and set up the post-match. Orton really turned it up a notch with his post-Punt celebration on the steps looking like Brock Lesnar. Nice intensity. (*)

- Miz and Cena exchanged words (about 13 minutes too long!) and a steel cage match was made between Cena and Riley. Cena wins, Miz fires Riley. Riley wins, then Cena must admit Miz is the greatest of all-time.

3 -- DIVAS BATTLE ROYAL -- #1 contender match

A random assortment of Raw Divas were already in the ring. It quickly came down to Maryse, Gail, and one of the Bellas. Maryse was eliminated, then Gail eliminated Bella #1, but the Bellas pulled the Switcheroo and Bella #2 eliminated Gail while the refs were occupied with trying to get Maryse away from ringside. Eve then stormed the ring trying to report the injustice. The Bellas beat her down, though, and left Eve out cold.

WINNER: Bella #2 at 2:02. That was the fastest battle royal ever.

- The Rock talk via video from Los Angeles. Yep...over 8 more minutes of talking.

- Shawn Michaels talks about the Underaker-Triple H match. Then The Miz jumps Daniel Bryan from behind and takes him out.

4 -- JOHN CENA vs. ALEX RILEY (w/The Miz) -- steel cage match, only way to win by escaping

Cena dominated the early portion of the match as Miz stretched an analogy putting Rock in the same category as Pee-wee Herman and Mini-me as former guest hosts. Cena then tried to leave through the cage door, but Miz bolted from the announce table to slam the door in Cena's face. Mathews noted Miz gave his word he wouldn't get involved. Riley then slammed Cena into the cage door to take control. Miz then snapped a photo on his phone and Tweeted it. He proceeded to slide his phone to Riley, who used it as a foreign object blow to the forehead. We've seen it all now. Ref Armstrong then casually moved the phone out of the way using his foot for unintentional comedy. Riley tried to escape through the door, but Cena grabbed his feet to pull him back in. Miz ran back over to the door and tried to pull Riley out of the cage, but Cena fought him off. Cena then tried to climb over the cage, but Miz slammed a chair against the cage wall from the outside trying to threaten him. Riley took advantage of the distraction by executing an electric chair. They went to an overhead shot of the cage as Cole fed to a commercial two minutes into the over-run.

Back live five minutes past the top of the hour, Cena bounced off the ropes, then took a dropkick from Riley. Miz stood up to applaud Riley as the announcers recapped the stipulations involved. Cena then made his standard comeback and Miz stood up to sell concern. Cena dropped the Shuffle on Riley and Cole warned Miz he could be looking at his fate at WrestleMania. "Oh, shut up, Cole," he retorted. Riley and Cena then battled on the top rope while hanging on the cage. Riley knocked Cena off the ropes, then tried to climb out as Miz encouraged him. Cena came to life, though, and pulled Riley back inside the cage to deliver a bulldog from the top rope. Cena then dropped Riley with the Attitude Adjustment center ring.

Cena picked up Miz's phone, which was still inside the cage, and took a picture of Riley KO'ed. The crowd didn't react much to the bit. Cena approached the cage door again, but Miz ran over to close the door again. Cena popped his knuckles, then did a "feat of strength" to pry open the door. Miz let go of the door at the last second, though, and Cena fell to the floor in victory. Miz then quickly capitalized with the Skullcrushing Finale on the floor.

To close the show, Miz took his WWE Title belt to the top of the ramp as Cena sold the effects. "Take that John Cena, take that Rock!" Cole shouted as the show ended eleven minutes past the top of the hour with Miz standing tall on this night.

WINNER: Cena at 12:46, Riley is "fired" from Miz's employ on next week's Raw. A bit gimmicky, too cute for their own good, and really heavy on the "social media aspect" of this Rock-Cena-Miz issue that will apparently be the central theme leading to WrestleMania. The match just didn't seem to click. (*1/2)

- Show had over 40 minutes of talking segments and about 23 minutes of in-ring action. The crowd in Buffalo really wasn't into this show, especially toward the end.

[Arcademan]

Ring of Honor TV Results: 2-28-11

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

1. Mike Bennett (w/Brutal Bob) defeated Adam Cole at 7:42. Bennett refused to shake hands and went to a headlock to start. Cole couldn't whip out, so he reversed it. Bennett reversed into a head scissor, and Cole popped out and hit two arm drags. Bennett slapped Cole and screamed, "I'm the prodigy!"

Cole chopped Bennett back in the corner and the ref made the break. Bennett rolled to the floor and talked with Brutal Bob. Cole jumped over the top rope and hit a flying head scissor on the floor. He rolled Bennett into the ring and grabbed his feet. Bennett kicked him back against the railing and then followed with a slam on the floor.

Bennett rolled Cole in the ring for a near fall and then stomped him in the corner. Bob screamed at Cole right up in his face. Bennett pulled him out and worked a rest hold on the back. Cole escaped and ran the ropes, but Bennett picked him up and tossed him into the turnbuckle. Bennett whipped Cole and popped him up. Cole reversed into a DDT.

Cole hit a kick to the face and a strike from the second rope for two. They worked a series of reversals at the ropes and Cole hit a flying cross body from the top for two. Cole hit a superkick to the back of the head, followed by a bridging German suplex for two. Bennett reversed a whip and hit a side effect type move for the win.

Shore's Slant: Well that's the best I've ever seen Bennett to date, but it wasn't very impressive. The ending came out of nowhere. One move, over. I like the idea of that, but I don't think they've build Bennett to the point where that looks believable. Still, I'm encouraged by Bennett's growth in this match.

2. Mike Elgin (w/Truth Martini) defeated Bobby Dempsey at 3:22. I don't know what the history is with Bobby Dempsey, but the crowd loves him. They shook hands and locked up. They pushed each other off and Elgin conferred with Truth.

They did the big guy shoulder tackle challenge until Elgin cheated with an elbow. Dempsey came back with a body block and then charged at Elgin in the corner. Elgin moved and then hit a Samoan drop on Dempsey for two.

Dempsey powered back and took his single strap down. He hit a sidewalk slam for two and then climbed the ropes. Elgin ran up and lifted Dempsey into a running powerbomb for the win. Post-match Corino put over Elgin. He said Elgin had what it took, but he didn't need Truth. He wished him luck in the next round.

Shore's Slant: Fun match really. I was surprised at the two big guys. They were very good. I'm much more impressed with Elgin than I am Bennett. Not sure that's the plan.

3. Andy "Right Leg" Ridge defeated Grizzy Redwood at 5:56. Grizzly took early control and hit a log roll on a running Ridge to send him to the floor. He ran for a dive, but Ridge hit a sick looking kick. Ridge followed with a few more kicks and worked a chin lock.

Grizzly made his feet and Ridge worked kicks in the corner. Grizzly traded spots and hit two chops. He ran the ropes and did a tilt a whirl lift into an abdominal stretch. Ridge rolled him up for two to escape. They traded blows in the center of the ring and Ridge hit a stiff kick to the face.

He called for a superkick, but Grizzly blocked it and dropped Ridge on the second rope. He botched a 619, botched jumping over the top rope and then may have botched the jump off the rope. Ridge superkicked him out of the air to put him out of his misery…

4. Christopher Daniels defeated Kenny King for the ROH Television Championship at 11:21. They put on a two and a half minute clinic on mat wrestling that included just about every reversal I have ever seen. Head locks, hammer locks and arm bars, oh my! It ended when they started trading chops in the corner and then fought out into the center of the ring. King hit a back elbow for one and went to work.

King hit a suplex and floated over into punches. Daniels reversed a whip to the corner. King tried to go up and over, but Daniels pushed him off and hit a neck breaker for two. King sold it as having his bell rung and Daniels attacked the neck. He hit a drop toe hold that dropped King on the second rope and followed with a rude awakening neck breaker for two.

Daniels hit a front suplex and floated over into a crossface. King spun around until his foot made the ropes. Daniels setup for another neck breaker, but King arm dragged out and hit a heel kick to take control.

King hit a spinebuster for two, and then a sommersault into a double knee for two. Daniels came back with the palnt and hopped up for the BME. King rolled out of the way and Daniels landed on his feet. King tried for a crucifix and then they rolled it all the way to the ground in reversals. Daniels made his feet and hit the Angel's wing's for the pinfall victory. They shook hands to end the show…

Shore's Slant: Very good match. No surprises here because we saw Daniels with the title Saturday and ROH works in real time, not TV time. That took away from it a little bit, but not horrible. Kenny King is a stud, and someone I think we'll see bought out soon.

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 3-3-11

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

1 -- R-TRUTH vs. WILLIAM REGAL

Things viewers learned from Scott Stanford early on: Regal hates humans, so has a pet collection and "Getting Jiggy With It" is still relevant in 2011. Regal slowed down the pace of the match trying to wear down Truth, who made a comeback at 4:00 before missing with a spinning Lie Detector. Regal tried to follow with a butterfly suplex, but Truth countered with the What's Up (formerly known as Paydirt) for the pin and the win. After a replay of the finish, Truth was shown dancing and celebrating in the ring.

WINNER: R-Truth at 4:24. Basic five-minute TV match spotlighting R-Truth.

2 -- SANTINO (w/Tamina) & KOZLOV vs. ZACK RYDER & PRIMO

Stanford noted Santino and Kozlov's quest to regain the Tag Titles from The Corre, then said Ryder & Primo have been "trying to get in each other's heads" to form a cohesive unit to challenge for the Tag Titles. Santino and Primo exchanged arm drags early on, then Santino teased the Cobra, prompting Primo to bail to the floor. Kozlov and Santino then cleared the heels to the outside leading to break.

Back from break, the heels were in control working over Kozlov while Stanford shared a story about Tamina and Santino from a conversation he claimed to have had with Tamina. Santino took a hot tag at 9:00 and landed offense on Ryder before the action broke down. Bodies started flying to the outside, then Santino avoided the Rough Ryder, warmed up the Cobra, and dropped Ryder for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Santino & Kozlov at 9:55. Basic, formula TV tag match designed to get over the characteristics of the wrestlers involved in the match. If you've seen one, you've seen them all, but it fit WWE's objective for anyone watching the show to be able to "pick up the book" and easily understand the stories.

3 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. CURT HAWKINS

Striker noted that Undertaker will address Triple H on Friday's Smackdown episode. The announcers were focused on hyping WrestleMania while Hawkins tried to wear down Masters, who responded with a catapult into the top turnbuckle. Masters then mounted a comeback, shook off a clothesline attempt, and slapped on the Masterlock. Hawkins put up a mild fight, but eventually tapped out to give Masters the win. Post-match: Tyler Reks stormed the ring and blindsided Masters before dropping him with the Burning Hammer.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 3:21. Decisive victory for Masters setting up the next Superstars chapter in Masters-Reks. It at least gives the involved wrestlers something consistent to work with on TV.

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact! Results: 3-3-11

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

1 -- TNA tag champions BEER MONEY (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM) vs. GUNNER & MURPHY -- TNA Tag Title match

Before the bell could sound, G&M attacked Roode to quickly take control of Storm in the ring. They quickly built to a hot-tag for Roode, who cleaned house on the heels from Immortal. Roode wanted a side effect on Gunner, but transitioned into a spinebuster for a nearfall. Gunner then accidentally smashed Murphy with a double sledgehammer, giving Beer Money an opening for a double suplex on Murphy. The tag champs then did their Beer...Money routine and set up Gunner for the DWI. It was good for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Beer Money at 3:07. Quick, decisive victory for Beer Money, which is what it should have been against inferior opposition. The in-ring action looked big-league in a slick-looking arena setting compared to the Impact Zone. (*)

2 -- VELVET SKY (w/Angelina Love) vs. SARITA (w/Rosita) -- Sky retires if she loses

One minute in, Angelina and Rosita brawled into the ring, so ref Earl Hebner booted them from ringside. One minute later, Velvet hit a DDT for the pin and the win to keep her career. Angelina then celebrated with Velvet.

WINNER: Velvet at 2:01.

3 -- SCOTT STEINER vs. ROB TERRY

Terry tried to get a headstart, but Steiner quickly cut him off and clotheslined Terry to the floor. On the floor, Terry took control by reversing a whip into the ringpost. Back in the ring, Terry executed a powerslam for a nearfall. Steiner came back with a trademark belly-to-belly suplex before warming up for a big clothesline. He connected, then warmed up an elbow drop for a nearfall before doing some push-ups. Steiner wanted a top-rope fallaway slam and connected. Steiner called for the end and applied the Steiner Recliner center-ring. Terry eventually tapped, giving Steiner a decisive win.

WINNER: Steiner via submission at 3:18. Two decisive victories for Fortune/They/Crimson's Crew over Immortal on tonight's show. (*)

4 -- MATT MORGAN vs. HERNANDEZ

Morgan shoved a boot into Hernandez's throat, drawing ref Hebner's ire. Morgan followed with a big corner clothesline followed by a sidewalk slam for a nearfall. Hernandez tried to leave, but Morgan gave chase and threw Hernandez back into the ring. Morgan then slowly re-entered the ring and Hernandez begged off. Morgan blasted him with a boot to the face anyways, then shook of an attempted t-shirt choke and grabbed the t-shirt. Morgan proceeded to t-shirt choke toss Hernandez clear across the ring. Morgan continued the assault with rapid-fire left and right elbow strikes before clotheslining Hernandez over the top rope to the floor.

On the floor, Hernandez begged off again, then Hernandez yanked Morgan by the tights face-first into the ring steps. Hernandez rammed Morgan face-first into the steps three more times and the ref called for a DQ. Hernandez confidently walked off as the camera focused on Morgan bleeding from the forehead.

WINNER: Morgan via DQ at 4:23. Morgan dominated most of the match before the DQ ending, so it looks like they're keeping the program going until Hernandez gets his comeuppance. (*1/4)

5 -- TNA World Hvt. champion JEFF HARDY vs. STING -- TNA World Title match

Once Hardy entered the ring, the bell sounded and Sting quickly teased the Scorpion Deathlock. Hardy bailed out of the ring, though, and the ref started a ten count while Sting remained in the ring. Hardy slowly re-entered and kicked Sting in the gut before landing a forearm to the back. Sting quickly came back with a second Scorpion Deathlock attempt. This time, he applied it and Hardy teased tapping out before getting the bottom rope for a break.

On the floor, Hardy tried to hobble away, but Sting caught up to him and landed a suplex on the entrance ramp. Sting then dragged Hardy down the entrance ramp and rammed him face-first into the guardrail. Sting then went for a Stinger Splash near another section of the ringside area, but Hardy moved and Sting ate the rail.

Back in the ring, Hardy stomped away on Sting before applying a reverse chinlock. Hardy teased the Twist of Hate, but Sting shoved him away. Hardy then tried right hand blows, but Sting no-sold and did the big shout in Hardy's face. Sting followed with a faceplant, then the Scorpion Deathdrop. Sting made a cover, but Hardy kicked out. Sting then hung Hardy upside down in the corner and landed a super Scorpion Deathdrop. Sting wasn't done and he landed a third SDD, this time center-ring. Sting made a cover for the win and there's a new TNA champion.

Post-match: Sting took Hardy's TNA Title belt and held it up for the crowd as Tenay and Taz wondered how Hogan and Immortal will react to this. With as much TV time as Hogan and Bischoff got on this show, there was oddly no "backstage reaction shot" before, during, or after the match. They signed off ten minutes past the top of the hour with a wide shot of Sting celebrating with the title.

WINNER: Sting at 6:15 to capture the TNA Title.

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 3-4-11

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

1 – EDGE vs. DREW MCINTYRE

The match began as soon as they came back from break. Booker T spoke his first words of the evening soon after the match started. McIntyre choked Edge in the ropes while working the arm in the first minute. McIntyre cinched in an arm-bar. The crowd aided Edge in getting to his feet, but as Edge hit the ropes, McIntyre met him with a big boot. “Edge is DOWN,” proclaimed Booker. That’s insight you can’t get anywhere else. McIntyre slammed Edge’s arm into the announce table, then predicted loudly that he’d end Edge’s career tonight. Back in the ring, McIntyre took Edge’s elbowpad off and dropped a few knees on the injured limb. Edge ran the ropes but McIntyre met him with an elbow to the face as soon as Edge hit the rope. It knocked Edge out of the ring, but McIntyre took his time trying to capitalize, allowing Edge to land a back body-drop at ringside. In the ring, Edge landed a cross-body for a two-count. Both men struggled to their feet at 4:40 of the match. A second big boot was blocked by Edge, and he hit the Spear out of nowhere. Edge, though, lifted McIntyre’s head up at the two-count. Cole was incensed at that. He brought the Educator out of the mothballs, applying that move for the submission victory.

WINNER: Edge, at 5:20. McIntyre looked good working over Edge for the body of the match, and Edge got to shine at the end, picking up a victory over someone who has had some upward mobility in recent weeks.

2 – JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER vs. VLADIMIR KOZLOV & SANTINO MARELLA – WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Marella showed the Cobra early on and Gabriel retreated to the safety of the ropes. Single-leg slam by Marella, then he took Gabriel over by the arm. Kozlov tagged in and tagged Gabriel with a knee-lift. Headbutts, followed by a throw. Gabriel went to ringside and the faces chased Slater off the apron as well. They went to break at 1:08 of the contest.

They returned 3:20 later. Kozlov plowed over Slater, but some double-teaming allowed the Corre duo to take over control. Kozlov eventually made the hot tag to Marella, who took the beating to Slater. Gabriel interrupted the pin and Kozlov dispatched of him, with Ezekiel Jackson and Wade Barrett helping to pull Gabriel out of harm’s way. Kozlov was knocked to the outside by Slater. Marella set up for the Cobra, but distractions by Jackson and Barrett allowed Slater to hit his finisher from behind on Marella and pick up the win.

WINNERS: Slater and Gabriel, at 7:29. Formula tag match. Hopefully we’ll see some new tag teams develop to challenge the Corre next.

3 – BETH PHOENIX & ROSA MENDES vs. LAYCOOL

They showed Mendes beating Layla by DQ last week. Michelle McCool and Phoenix began the match, with Beth going right for McCool’s injured foot. Rosa tagged in, as did Layla. Hair toss by Rosa, then McCool distracted her and Layla kicked Mendes in the mid-section. Rosa shoved Layla into McCool and the two argued, but McCool stayed on Rosa after a tag. Mendes again went for that injured foot, and made the hot tag to Beth. Layla tagged in as well, and ended up bumping around for Beth’s offense. Layla found herself on Beth’s shoulder, and was slammed down. McCool broke up the pin and as the ref ushered Rosa out of the ring, McCool booted Beth down with her reinforced boot and Layla got the pin.

WINNERS: LayCool, at 2:18. Beth has been terribly underutilized since her return from injury.

4 – THE BIG SHOW vs. KANE

After a lock-up, Kane fought out of the corner with right hands. Big Show went for a chokeslam, but the two ended up double clotheslining each other with neither clothesline looking like it would knock down a 180 pound guy let alone two men over 300 pounds. The Corre came to the ring as both men tried to get to their feet. Wade Barrett had a chair and slid it in to Kane, who used it on Show for the DQ.

WINNER: Show, by DQ, at 1:15.

After the match, Corre attacked Big Show. Kane didn’t join in however and flattened Gabriel with a hard chairshot to the back. Rough couple weeks for Gabriel as it pertains to him and chairs. Barrett dragged Gabriel out of the ring as Corre retreated up the ramp. After replays, Kane was shown in the ring, chair still in hand, as Corre looked on from the top of the stage.

5 – JACK SWAGGER vs. JTG

Match began right after the break, so no entrance for JTG. Cole was really pumped up on commentary, so much that he did his job standing up. Vader Bomb by Swagger. And another. I hope Cole’s guest ref is Daddy Swagger. Ankle-lock applied and JTG struggled for about ten seconds before finally tapping.

WINNER: Swgager, at 1:06. Good win for Swagger, even if it is to just put him over as Cole’s trainer.

The final segment was the Edge/ Del Rio contract signing. Both fought after signing it, Del Rio was about to finish Edge off when Christian came in for the save.

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 3-7-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to mostly in-ring results. *- My personal summaries

*- Nexus jumps Orton and drag him to the ring.

1 -- RANDY ORTON vs. DAVID OTUNGA -- Otunga's WrestleMania slot on the line

Otunga quickly blasted Orton to continue the assault. The announcers recapped the match stipulation that Otunga could be ringside for Orton vs. Punk at WrestleMania if he wins the match. Otunga scored with a scoop slam for a nearfall, then pointed to the WM27 banner hanging in the arena. Otunga nailed a dominator, then made a cover, but Orton kicked out. Otunga then slowly pulled Orton to his feet and Orton sprung out of nowhere with the RKO. Orton slowly made the cover for the win.

Post-match: Mason Ryan charged the ring and blasted Orton. Big Mase slowly picked up Orton for a power move, but Orton sprung out of nowhere with the RKO again. Orton came to his feet with his t-shirt ripped as Punk charged the ring, but stopped short when Orton threatened to give him some too. Punk, on the floor, and Orton, leaning against the top rope, stared at each other while time stood still. Orton then slowly turned his head as the camera focused on Otunga.

Punk tried to run around the ring to save Otunga, but Orton creamed him in the head with The Punt. Punk ranted and raved while Cole demanded something be done about Orton using The Punt. Punk then slowly backed away from ringside before Orton's music hit. Cole recapped neither McGillicutty nor Otunga going to WrestleMania as a replay aired of Orton smashing Otunga in the head with the Punt.

WINNER: Orton at 1:59. Basic booking with Orton going through the lesser "bosses" on the way to the "big boss" of C.M. Punk at WrestleMania. Right now, it looks like they're building to Nexus being written off at the hands of Orton.

2 -- CHRISTIAN vs. BRODUS CLAY

The two men locked up and Clay shoved Christian down to the mat as Mathews built up Clay. Christian teased the Killswitch early on, but Clay smashed him in the chest. Mathews plugged the new Kmart Live Event tour sponsorship as Christian made a comeback, only to have Clay run him down with a chest bump. Clay followed with consecutive elbow drops before applying a nerve hold. The crowd tried to rally behind Christian, who accepted a t-bone suplex. Clay wanted a splash, but Christian moved and went to the second rope for a missile dropkick that only rocked Clay. Christian went for a second one, this time from the top rope, and it floored Clay for a two count.

Christian called for the Killswitch, but Clay smashed him in the face. Clay then went for a running powerslam, but Christian slipped out, avoided a corner splash, and nailed a Tornado DDT for the three count.

Immediately after the match, Del Rio stormed the ring to whip Christian with his scarf. Del Rio pointed to the WM27 sign, then dropped Christian with the rolling cross arm-breaker. Christian tapped furiously as Del Rio kept the hold locked in. Del Rio eventually released the hold before Del Rio's music hit. Del Rio pointed to the WM27 sign as Cole noted Del Rio just sent a message to the World champion, Edge.

WINNER: Christian at 2:41. Fine spotlight for Clay in a good post-NXT role as Del Rio's bodyguard, a needed win for Christian, and acceptable advancement of the Del Rio-Edge feud leading to WrestleMania.

3 -- Divas champion EVE (w/Gail Kim) vs. NIKKI BELLA (w/Brie Bella) -- Divas Title match

Back live: Gail Kim had joined Eve ringside for the Divas Title defense. The Bellas then came out together for the title challenge. Cole suddenly stood up on the announce desk and said he has a major announcement to make and he cannot wait. He will announce the special referee up next. He told them to end this match whenever they want. Eve and Nikki continued to wrestle while Cole ranted & raved that he's the "main event." The Bellas tried to pull the switcheroo, but the ref saw it, restored order, and Eve hit her neckbreaker finisher for the win. Post-match: Cole told them good riddance before announcing he will reveal his special referee at WrestleMania.

WINNER: Eve at 3:06 to retain the Divas Title. It was what it was with Cole playing up his heel character.

*- Cole presents the person he picked as the guest-referee as JBL. Before the contract is signed, Stone Cold comes out, stuns JBL, signs the contract making HIM the referee, pours beers on Cole and after he comes too, Austin gives JBL a beer and stuns him once more.

4 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. SHEAMUS -- non-title match

The bell sounded and Sheamus tried to take out his frustration on Bryan with an aggressive attack. Bryan then knocked Sheamus to the floor and Sheamus clutched his left ankle. The ref began a ten count as Sheamus came to his feet and started hobbling. It was a fast ten count as Sheamus continued to hobble around the ring selling the ankle. Mathews noted it was a quick count as Bryan celebrated with the U.S. Title in the ring.

Post-match: Bryan peered down at Sheamus, then started to leave the ring. Sheamus took the mic and acknowledged he's been on a losing streak for the past couple of months. He vowed to become new U.S. champion next week, though, and change his luck. Sheamus paused and said if he doesn't beat Bryan for the title next week...he'll quit. Sheamus hobbled around ringside as Bryan non-verbally accepted the challenge. Lawler said perhaps Sheamus isn't thinking clearly.

WINNER: Bryan via count-out at 1:09. Interesting development to put Bryan and Sheamus in a relevant position going into next week.

5 -- C.M. PUNK (w/Mason Ryan) vs. R-TRUTH

Lawler, recapping the Orton-Punk business tonight, slipped and called Orton the "Rattlesnake" rather than the "Viper." Punk dominated early on as Truth tried to rally the crowd. Truth wanted a top rope move, but he sold an injured hand. Punk tried the G2S, but Truth slipped out and nailed a leg whip for a nearfall. Punk came back with a side effect-like maneuver before applying a neck vice for a submission victory. Post-match: Punk directed Mason Ryan to deliver a running shoulderbreaker. Truth continued to sell an injured shoulder. "WrestleMania! WrestleMania!" Ryan shouted down at Truth. Punk then stood up and smirked toward the hard camera.

WINNER: Punk via submission at 2:33. The match was randomly thrown out there, but served its purpose re-establishing Punk as a threat to Orton at WrestleMania.

*- Vickie Guerrero comes out and announces that Ziggler has been hired by RAW.
 
6 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. JOHN MORRISON

Lawler asked Vickie to explain her relationship with Ziggler after she threw Ziggler under the bus on Smackdown to get him fired. Vickie said it's strictly business at this point. "Just business, eh?" Lawler asked. Ziggler knocked Morrison to the floor and they cut to break 27 seconds into the match.

Back from break three minutes later, the match was over and Khali was doing the Kiss Cam. Okay, not so much. In actuality, Morrison had his eyes closed while flat on the mat as Ziggler worked him over with a side headlock. Vickie noted her "business associate" looks great tonight. She then cut a promo on Snooki and said she better keep her eyes off her man...that she's been involved in. Morrison made a comeback as Vickie pleaded with her business associate. Morrison executed a spinning neckbreaker, then made a cover for a two count when Ziggler put his foot on the bottom rope. Vickie continued to comment on Ziggler's looks before Ziggler caught Morrison with the Zig-Zag for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Ziggler at 5:28. Another short match with only a few minutes airing live. Odd to see Morrison lose clean here, but it's clear WWE is looking to emphasize Ziggler over Morrison heading to WrestleMania.

*- Vickie was informed if she wants to stay on RAW and keep her job, she has to beat Trish Stratus next week.

*- John Cena dissed Rock and then is laid out by The Miz to end the show.

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 3-8-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James' complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results and rookie-pro information.

The show opens with new graphics on the 'Tron: "NXT Redemption." Grisham says that this season is about "redemption" as well. William Regal is announcing with Grisham. Awesome. And Maryse is the co-host. She gives "air kisses" to Striker, who introduces the Rookies.

Striker and Maryse provide the new rules. The winner gets to go on to NXT 6, and Rookies can win "redemption points" not immunity points. Redemption points can be used to offset the voting from the WWE Universe.

- Chavo is the Pro to Darren Young. Chavo talked up Young after receiving a strong reaction.
- Vladimir Kozlov comes out in a suit to be Conor O'Brian's Pro. He says that O'Brian needs to be himself. Probably the longest promo of his career.
- Tyson Kidd is Lucky Cannon's pro. I think Lucky Cannon might be wearing lipstick. Regal notices it too. Orlando Jordan wants his gimmick back.
- Yoshi Tatsu is Byron Saxton's Pro and cuts his first promo since ECW.
- JTG is Jacob Novak's pro. JTG blames Novak's problems last season on the issues with Dolph Ziggler and Vickie Guererro. 
- Hornswoggle is paired with Titus O'Neil. Hornswoggle does his mumble routine and imitates Titus's dog bark.

1 -- JACOB NOVAK (w/JTG) vs. DARREN YOUNG (w/Chavo)

Young and Novak lock up and eventually spill to the outside. They get back in the ring and Young takes over with a clothesline. Basic back and forth with William Regal doing a great job talking up the Rookies and the competition. More basic back and forth, big boot from Novak gets a two count and Novak moves to a headlock. Regal stands out, talking about "earning a spot" on the roster, which means a lot coming from a veteran like him. Novak and Young are both much more aggressive than we've seen in the past. Young is in control as Regal talks up his experience as a pro. Young pulls out a victory with a nondescript finisher.

WINNER: Young in 4:00. Boring match, I didn't even realize the end was coming.

2 -- TITUS O'NEIL (w/Hornswoggle) vs. LUCKY CANNON (w/Tyson Kidd)

Cannon plays the heel early on but O'Neil takes him to the corner. Cannon kicks him out of the ring and shows a mean streak as Kidd encourages him. Cannon's showing a lot of energy with a rear chinlock. Meanwhile, Regal drops a Finlay reference. Cannon puts his feet on the ropes while keeping O'Neil in a hold, and Hornswoggle kicks him off the ropes. Basic chain wrestling, but both O'Neil and Cannon make it look good.

O'Neil finally gets a break with a suplex, then lands a series of punches, and a furious shoulder tackle off the ropes. O'Neil catches boots to the face, then Kidd catches up to Hornswoggle, which distracts the ref. Cannon goes to the top rope, but Hornswoggle knocks him down. O'Neil catches Cannon with a jumping spinebuster for three. Innovative finisher. Post-match, Kidd tries to put Hornswoggle in the Sharpshooter, but O'Neal kicks him off. O'Neil and Hornswoggle stand tall in the ring.

WINNER: O'Neil in 4:00. I never thought I'd equate either of these two wrestlers with a good match, but I thought they put on a good match. I like O'Neil's finisher; it's better than the dozens of variations of neckbreakers and chokeslams from the rest of the roster. I thought Cannon did a good job playing a heel.

Winner of the obstacle course : Darren Young with three redemption points.

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 3-10-11

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

1 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. TYLER REKS

Aggressive start to the match and Masters teased the Masterlock, which Reks escaped by dipping to the floor. Reks kicked the ring steps in frustration, then returned to the ring as Striker plugged Triple H on Friday's Smackdown episode. Striker also threw out a plug for John Cena appearing on Smackdown as Masters clotheslined Reks to the outside. On the floor, Masters continued the assault as they cut to break.

Back from break, Reks was acting like a "wild dog," according to Korpela, taking it to Masters with more aggression. Korpela then tried to compare Masters vs. Reks to the Sox vs. Yankees and Lakers vs. Celtics. What? "Far be it for Jack Korpela to use hyperbole," Striker quickly said under his breath before calling a nearfall for Reks. Reks teased the Burning Hammer moments later, but Masters countered into a Masterlock attempt. Masters locked the hold in and it was good for a submission victory.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 10:51. Solid TV bout with a sense of urgency throughout the match and another endorsement for Masters, even if it's on the small scale of Superstars. (*1/2)

2 -- ZACK RYDER (w/Primo) vs. KOZLOV (w/Santino and Tamina)

Stanford noted Ryder wants to become a big deal in WWE, so he requested this singles match against Kozlov. Primo was still wearing his not-so-stylish sunglasses that make him look ten-years-old. Kozlov dominated early on, drawing laughs and smiles from a confident Santino. Primo then tried to get involved, prompting Santino to equalize him on the outside. The distraction gave Ryder an opening to hit the Rough Ryder for the pin and the surprising win. Post-match, Ryder and Primo confidently walked off as Kozlov took a knee in the ring selling that he was trying to figure out how he just lost to Ryder.

WINNER: Ryder at 2:58. Effective way to continue the tag division feud with Ryder scoring an upset victory. The match was fine for three minutes.

3 -- GREAT KHALI & MARK HENRY & NATALYA vs. WILLIAM REGAL & TYSON KIDD & MELINA -- six-person tag match

Stanford noted the oddity of Kidd and Natalya being opposite each other following their run in Hart Dynasty and long history together. The crowd started the match with a "Regal sucks" chant as the Divas matched up against each other. Kidd then tagged in and got in Natalya's face to tell her to get out of the ring. Natalya, indignant, tagged in Henry, who scared Kidd away. Enter Regal, who was abused by Henry and Khali for a bit, before Regal chopped down Khali at the knees. Kidd tagged in, then tried slapping Khali, who brushed him away. Kidd tried to tag out, but no one wanted anything to do with Khali. Kidd was left alone to accept a Khali Chop and the Punjabi Plunge for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Henry added insult to injury with a big splash to Kidd. Natalya then scooped up Kidd and slapped on the Sharpshooter. Kidd tapped out as Melina just watched on with wide eyes. Natalya waved Kidd good-bye, then the babyfaces left the ring. Regal decided to get some of Kidd and he slapped on the Regal Stretch while the faces danced ringside. Melina seemed embarrassed by Kidd and decided to slap him for good measure. The show signed off with the faces dancing on the entrance ramp.

WINNERS: Team Khali at 3:08. Ridiculously short six-person tag match ending with the curious picking-apart of Tyson Kidd, who extended his TV losing streak to eight matches. Odd end to an odd show.

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact! Results: 3-10-11

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

1 – SAMOA JOE vs. "THE POPE" D’ANGELO DINERO

Joe had control early but Pope managed to fight back within a minute of the start of the match. Pope his hair in shoulder-length dreadlocks now. At 2:00, Joe hit a big powerslam, leading to a two count and some Pope begging. But, he was playing possum as he ducked a Joe clothesline and took him down in the middle of the ring. While the ref was checking on Joe, Pope pulled the pad off of the turnbuckle. However, when he went to whip Joe into the corner, Joe reversed the move into a nice exploder suplex. At this point, the ref realized that the turnbuckle pad was off and went to put it back on. While he was doing so, Pope grabbed his chain and wrapped it surreptitiously around his fist. As Joe set him up for the muscle-buster, Pope hit a knockout blow on Joe and earned a dirty win as the ref didn’t see the cheap shot.

WINNER: Pope in 3:30. This feud is clearly not over. I’d really like to see these two wrestle a 10-15 minute match on PPV because both guys are top-notch performers. However, dragging it out another month smacks of the writing team not having an idea of what to do with these two in the near term.

2 – TNA KNOCKOUTS CHAMPION MADISON RAYNE vs. ROXXI -- Knockouts Title match

Roxxi started off hot, hitting a few splashes before Madison managed to sidestep a running kick. However, she played to the crowd instead of focusing on Roxxi, leading to a spinebuster for a Roxxi two count and a roll up for another two count. However, Madison hit her random finishing move that is difficult to see what she actually does (is it like a codebreaker with one leg or something?) for the win.

WINNER: Madison Rayne in 2:00.

3 – ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY & WINTER vs. SARITA & COOKIE & ANGELINA (from Jersey Shore)

Velvet started off in the ring with Angelina. They stared each other down before the heels interfered to allow Angelina to tackle Velvet. Things quickly turned into a schmoz in the ring before Love & Sarita were dumped outside. Suddenly, Robbie E appeared and held Velvet’s arms behind her back. As Cookie & Jersey Shore Girl argued over who was going to hit Velvet, Winter stepped in and teased hitting Velvet before clearing the Jersey Shore Reject & the Jersey Shore Knockoff instead. Winter then went all vampire on Robbie, snacking on his wrist to send him running. Winter then stared down Angelina, who backed into a rollup from Velvet Sky for the pinfall win.

WINNERS: Angelina & Velvet & Winter in 2:00.

4 – A.J. STYLES vs. RIC FLAIR vs. MATT HARDY -- Street Fight

A.J. was slamming Hardy’s face into the top turnbuckle coming out of break. However, Flair distracted him at ringside, allowing Hardy to hit A.J. with a clothesline. Flair came in and tried for two elbow drops before catching Styles’s foot mid-kick. While Flair was laughing, A.J. kicked him in the head.

[Q6] This allowed Styles to put Flair into the Figure Four leglock. However, Hardy hit a flying legdrop off the second rope with the hold still on Flair to break up the submission. After a two count, Hardy tossed A.J. to ringside. A.J. brawled with both men, causing Flair to bleed. However, he lost his advantage when Hardy hit him from behind with a trash can. Flair hit some chops before rolling Styles into the ring.

Hardy climbed in after him with a big ladder and took Styles out with a running ladder clothesline. Hardy continued to beat on Styles and went for the Twist of Hate, but Styles reversed it and tossed Hardy into the ladder. A.J. then jumped all over a really bloody Flair and hit ten big punches on the top turnbuckle, getting a great reaction from the crowd (who counted along with glee) before a Flair Flop.

However, Hardy fought back with a Side Effect and a body slam. Moments later, A.J. managed to take Hardy down and then kicked Flair in the face as Naitch went to hit him with a Steel Chair. Styles then hit a Pele Kick on Hardy and set up for the Styles Clash on a steel chair. But Flair crawled over to hit A.J. with a low blow, which allowed Hardy to hit the Twist of Hate on the chair. Flair ‘picked the bones’ to get the cover for the victory.

WINNER: Flair in 6:00 (televised). Another good showing, though it would have been better to see the action that went on during the commercial break instead of an unnecessary promo exchange. Good storyline advancement to build towards Styles vs. Hardy at Victory Road with Flair looming over the proceedings.

5 – INK, INC. (SHANNON MOORE & JESSE NEAL) vs. GENERATION ME (MAX BUCK & JEREMY BUCK)

Good fast-paced action early as Storm did his best to put over Ink, Inc. as a credible threat. Considering they did a good job trying to put over friggin’ Gunner & Murphy two weeks ago, it must have been a lot easier to put over an established team like Ink, Inc. Crowd had a lot of “BEER! MONEY!” chants during the match. In the ring, Gen Me had a lot of quick tags to isolate Shannon Moore. However, Shannon tried to make the comeback out of a sleeper hold and got support from the crowd before Max Buck stopped him cold. Moore got a two count on a surprise roll-up, but Gen Me caught him again. Finally, Moore fought his way out to allow Neal to enter the ring on a hot tag. Neal eventually got a two count on a big cross-body off the ropes. But, a Jeremy Buck superkick stopped him cold. Gen Me put him on the top turnbuckle and went to go for a high-risk springboard move.

But, Jesse Neal came off of the top turnbuckle with a huge spear on a jumping Max Buck. Moore ran into the ring and threw him out to ringside and Ink, Inc. hit their double team Mooregasm finishing move to score the pinfall win and good momentum going into Victory Road.

WINNERS: Ink, Inc. in 4:00.

After the match, Shannon Moore got on the mic and told Beer Money that the Book of Dilligaf says that at Victory Road, Ink, Inc. would become Tag Team champions. Storm replied that at Victory Road, Beer Money would whip their asses. Sorry about your damn luck.

6 – TNA World Hvt. champion STING & ROB VAN DAM vs. JEFF HARDY & MR. ANDERSON

Anderson held his momentum early as the crowd started a ‘We want Sting!’ chant. RVD looked to have broken Anderson’s momentum going for a big monkey flip but posed for the “R! V! D!” chant on the top turnbuckle and Anderson blocked it into a self-inflicted powerbomb. Anderson then tagged Hardy in by smacking him in the back of his head.

Hardy came into the ring and was immediately jumped by RVD, who hit a big thrust kick and Rolling Thunder. Jeff fought out but Anderson dropped down to ringside to prevent Hardy from tagging out. Moments later, Hardy managed to tag Anderson in with another punch in retaliation. RVD tried to fight back against both men, knocking Anderson to ringside before walking into a Twist of Hate.

As Hardy went for the pin, Anderson jumped in the ring to stop the count at two, reminding the ref that Hardy wasn’t the legal man. This angered Jeff, who came after Anderson only to find himself laid out by a Mic Check from his own tag partner. But, right after that happened, the arena went dark and Sting’s music played.

When the lights came up, Sting was staring Anderson down nose to nose in the corner. Anderson tried to fight, but Sting hit him with the Scorpion Death Drop in the center of the ring. Suddenly, he pointed at RVD with both hands. RVD had a great facial expression with his eyes wide as he realized that Stinger was calling for the Five Star Frog Splash. Van Dam hit his finisher and won the match.

WINNERS: RVD & Sting in 5:00.

After the match, RVD got up and stared at Sting before nodding his head in acceptance. Sting moved back and pointed both of his hands at RVD again and Van Dam smiled, presumably showing that he now trusted Stinger because he vaulted up onto the turnbuckle to pose to the crowd with his back to the TNA Champion. The show went off the air with Sting and Van Dam standing tall in the middle of the ring.

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 3-11-11

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

1 – KANE vs. WADE BARRETT

Booker called Kane “a molotov cocktail ready to explode.” As Kane had things in control, the rest of Corre ran out for the DQ.

WINNER: Kane, via DQ, at :42. A short match like this makes sense in this context, given that Barrett probably told Corre to come out as soon as he gets in trouble so Kane doesn’t do any major harm to him.

Kane held off everyone, except for Zeke Jackson, who took Kane down. Big Show quickly came out to diffuse the situation, with a chair as his weapon of choice. Corre exited the ring as he entered it. They cut away to commercial faster than usual there.

2 – BIG SHOW & KANE vs. WADE BARRETT & HEATH SLATER

This match had been made and joined in progress out of break. I wonder if they had to edit something off of TV, which is why they went to break so awkwardly and came back in progress. Hard chop to the chest of Barrett by Show, after Slater tagged out. Barett countered a chokeslam and went after Show’s knee. Big boot put Show down, and he stomped on Show’s knee. Slater tagged in and kept Show on the mat. He was aggressive and stayed on Show in order to keep him from getting to his feet. Show picked Slater up, still in a reverse chin-lock, and dropped him. At 2:37, both men were down and looking for a tag. Show successfully brought in Kane, who hit Slater with a sidewalk slam. He took out Barrett, then booted Slater down. As he set up for the chokeslam, but the rest of Corre ran in. “I thought Teddy Long said these guys were banned!” said Booker. Did that happen during the announcement of the match during the break, a part that had to be edited out perhaps?

WINNERS: Show and Kane, via DQ, 3:16 shown. Fine continuation to presumably set something up for ‘Mania.

The attack didn’t last long, as Show fended them off with a steel chair. Then he nailed Kane with the chair, revenge for what Kane did to him last week.

3 – CODY RHODES vs. JTG

Rhodes went after JTG in his dress shirt, pants and dress shoes. He headbutted JTG several times in the corner. Cross Rhodes by Cody and the man who is “Dashing” no longer picked up the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at :51.

4 – LAYLA vs. KAITLYN

They are in Kaitlyn’s hometown, hence her appearance. She’s looking a little like Ashley Massaro, which can’t be a good sign. Kaitlyn dropped Layla on her tail-bone. Michelle McCool got on the apron and Kaitlyn pulled her hair a bit. She turned around into a kick from Layla, followed by her patented neckbreaker for the win.

WINNER: Layla, at :54. I wish they could find a non-wrestling role for Kaitlyn.

After the match, Layla set Kaitlyn up so that she was sitting in the corner, legs around the post, facing the turnbuckle. McCool ran at her and kneed her in the back. LayCool celebrated to end things.

5 – REY MYSTERIO vs. DREW MCINTYRE

As Rey came to the ring, the announcers discussed Cole’s big interview with Cena. McIntyre took Rey down right off the bat. He booted Rey in the face, then gave him a tilt-a-whirl back-breaker. Drew shouted that Rey wasn’t going to Wrestlemania. Cole volunteered to be Booker’s life coach. Drew was set up for the 619, but McIntyre avoided it. Rey slid outside and McIntyre greeted him with more abuse. In a sweet move, he gave Rey a sidewalk slam onto the apron. They went to break a little over 2:00 in.

Back at the 5:50 mark, with Rey in a bow-and-arrow submission. After Rey worked his way out of it, Mysterio was whipped hard into the buckle. Rey came off the top with a seated senton, but missed a cross-body. McIntyre wrapped Rey up in a pinning predicament, getting only a two-count. Booker spent most of the match putting McIntyre over. Mysterio came back with a 619, then splashed McIntyre off the top rope, picking up the victory.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 8:16. Good match…McIntyre doesn’t lose much by losing to Rey, who is pretty high on the totem pole, plus it was a competitive match.

6 – BRODUS CLAY & ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. CHRISTIAN & EDGE

E&C had separate entrances. Clay manhandled Christian at the start, but Christian went to the top rope to attempt a Tornado DDT, but Del Rio distracted him. Clay with an overhead suplex that sent Christian to ringside. Del Rio whipped Christian into the barricade while the ref was dealing with Edge. Edge chased Del Rio, who fled into the crowd. He came back over when Edge went back to the apron. Clay brought Christian back into the ring and dropped an elbow. Bodyslam by Clay, then a tag to Del Rio, who connected on a running kick to Christian’s arm/shoulder. Arm-bar by Del Rio as the crowd chanted for Christian. Christian continued to take the punishment from the heels. He pulled Christian’s elbow pad off, exposing his injured arm. Christian was able to recover and counter Del Rio, leaving both men on the mat. They both made tags at around the 4:00 mark. Big slam by Brodus for two. Edge tripped Clay up into the turnbuckle. He clotheslined Del Rio off the apron and lined up for the Spear. Instead, he ran into a Clay clothesline. He set Edge up in the corner, but missed a butt splash. Del Rio attacked Edge from behind, but Christian made the save. Del Rio got flipped to the floor, then Christian was Tornado DDT’d. Edge came off the top rope with an elbowdrop and made the pin.

WINNERS: Edge and Christian, at 5:48. Serviceable main event. Clay didn’t look too out of place.

After a replay of the finish, Del Rio looked on from the arena floor as Edge and Christian had their arms raised in the ring.

[Arcademan]

TNA Victory Road PPV Results: 3-13-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report).

1 -- BULLY RAY vs. TOMMY DREAMER -- No DQ, Falls Count Anywhere match

As expected, the match moved to the floor early on. Dreamer used audience participation with a chair, bottle of water, and a giant stuffed yellow toy from one of those recent animated movies you've seen 1,057 commercials for and can remember the name of the movie. Taz had trouble determining what the object was. Dreamer took the fight into the crowd where Ray gained control of the match. Back ringside, Dreamer started chucking objects into the ring, including an inflatable doll. Didn't that ruin an X Division match about three years ago? Ray ended up in 69 position on the inflatable doll. Really tacky. Wasn't this a serious feud on TV?

Dreamer scored a nearfall following a DDT at 7:30, then dumped the doll to the outside and retrieved a table. Ray blocked a table spot, then smashed a trash can over Dreamer's head. Ray then took a mic and started yelling at Dreamer while smashing him with Kendo stick shots. He called out to Devon, telling him this is for him. Suddenly, Team 3D's music hit. Devon's sons came out on-stage, one wearing a neckbrace. Devon then snuck into the ring behind Ray, who took a 3D from Dreamer and Devon. Dreamer fell on top of Ray for the win. Devon, Dreamer, and Devon's sons took a curtain call standing over a fallen Ray to conclude the bit.

WINNER: Dreamer at 10:45. The match felt like the type of match a promotion that knows no one is watching their PPV would produce to get easy laughs and pops from an easy crowd. Overall, it felt like an extended version of a TV match. (n/a)

2 -- Knockouts tag champions ANGELINA LOVE & WINTER vs. SARITA & ROSITA -- Knockouts Tag Title match

Before the match, the heel challengers cut a promo vowing to take the Tag Titles. Out came Angelina and Winter, who was sporting a blindfold for some reason, and the tag champs were sans Velvet. The tag champs dominated the first three minutes with quick in-and-out tags working over Rosita. The match broke down at 4:00 with the tag title belts involved behind the ref's back. Velvet Sky then ran out attempting to help the champs, but she inadvertently helped the challengers, as they pinned Winter for the win. (Winter had to hold in pin position for a while until the ref turned around.) Afterward, more tension was teased between Velvet and Winter & Angelina, as Velvet tried to explain what happened. Winter & Angelina just left, ignoring her explanations.

WINNERS: Sarita & Rosita at 4:58 to capture the KO Tag Titles. Fine match to advance the TV program teasing more tension for a potential Beautiful People break-up.

3 -- MATT MORGAN vs. HERNANDEZ -- First Blood match

Morgan came out second and quickly hit the ring to jump-start the grudge match by attacking Hernandez. Morgan landed a big elbow, then another, and a third. Morgan followed with a headbutt, then clotheslined Hernandez over the top rope to the floor. On the floor, Morgan ran Hernandez into the ring steps. No blood yet. Morgan then re-entered the ring and removed the top turnbuckle pad. Hernandez recovered on the floor, though, and tried to jab a sharp object into Morgan's forehead, but Morgan blocked. Hernandez then tried to rip out Morgan's eyeballs. Hernandez followed with a corner attack, then he played to the crowd rather than trying to draw blood.

Morgan, behind "Morgan, Morgan" chants, slowly climbed up Hernandez's leg and waited for Hernandez to bounce the ropes, where he delivered a discus clothesline. Morgan made a big comeback, including a fallaway slam. Morgan pointed to the floor, then went to the outside to retrieve the sharp stick introduced by Hernandez. Hernandez kicked it away, though, back-flipped to the top turnbuckle, and Morgan dropped him with a top-rope toss.

Suddenly, what appeared to be a fan charged the ring as Morgan was about to finish Hernandez. Meanwhile, Hernandez pulled out a chain. Morgan stole it, then popped Hernandez in the face. No referee. Hernandez then picked up what appeared to be a ketchup packet and squirted it across Morgan's chest. Still no ref. Morgan wanted to follow with the Carbon Footprint, but ref Jackson James suddenly stormed the ring and saw blood on Morgan's chest. He called for the bell, giving Hernandez the win. Hernandez, with blood on his forehead after a poor attempt to gig, walked off bragging about the win. Morgan argued with ref Jackson, then flipped him off and left the ring.

WINNER: Hernandez at 8:35. Decent undercard match before the awkward, latest over-booked finish that the crowd did not react to. Three for three on non-clean finishes so far. (*1/4)

Continued...

[Arcademan]

4 -- X Division champion KAZARIAN vs. MAX BUCK vs. JEREMY BUCK vs. ROBBIE E. (w/Cookie) -- Ultimate X match -- X Division Title match

The bell sounded and Cookie tried to get involved by grabbing Kaz's leg from the outside. Where's Traci to fight her off? On cue, Tenay referenced Traci, calling her "one of Kazarian's girlfriends." Max and Jeremy accidentally knocked each other down, then Robbie cleaned house as Cookie screamed encouragement. Well, "encouragement." Robbie took his sweet time approaching the cables to attempt to climb toward the belt, giving Kaz time to kick him down to the mat before dropping a leg from off the cable.

On the floor, Robbie ate a plancha from Kaz, then Max dropped Kaz with a baseball slide kick. Max and Jeremy were alone in the ring, then Max slingshot Jeremy over the top rope to splash Kaz and Robbie. Max was alone in the ring, but apparently still needed Jeremy's help to try to climb the cables. This gave Kaz an opening to re-enter the ring, where Kaz and Max battled. Max was apparently fine to climb the cables by himself moments later, as he nearly grabbed the belt, but Kaz cut him off. GenMe then nailed a tandem dropkick on Kaz. Max then climbed the cables and nearly reached the belt, but Kaz swung him off the big cable into a mid-air cutter.

Robbie re-entered the match, but Max cut him off. Cookie freaked out some more, then Kaz shoved Max off the top turnbuckle face-first into one of the trusses holding up the structure. That drew oohs and aahs. Jeremy, Kaz, and Robbie then set up a three-way Tower of Doom spot that floored all three.

After the dust cleared, Jeremy found himself up top, but Kaz dropped him with an enziguiri. Kaz followed with the Flux Capacitor, which was captured with a nice overhead camera shot. Everyone was down, then Kaz and Robbie started climbing from opposite sides of the cable. GenMe then yanked Robbie down and landed a double kick. Kaz found himself caught hanging from the cable and GenMe rocked him back & forth before dropping him to the mat. Jeremy tried to climb the cable, but Max told him it's about him winning the X Title. Max pulled Jeremy down, then they argued. Max thought they had an agreement, but Jeremy climbed the cable and they met at the middle.

The two brothers traded blows while hanging on the cable. Max eventually kicked Jeremy down, then Robbie used a ladder to knock Max down. Kaz then started tight-rope walking across the top of the cable. Robbie tried using a ladder to grab the belt, but Kaz kicked him with his foot, grabbed the title, climbed down the ladder, and fell to the mat with possession of the belt to win and retain.

WINNER: Kazarian at 14:22 to retain the X Division Title. Good story to the match with the brothers battling over the belt and Kaz taking advantage of their issues. They didn't over-do the big spots and focused more on telling a good story to differentiate the match from past Ultimate X matches. (***)
   
5 -- TNA tag champions BEER MONEY (JAMES STORM & ROBERT ROODE) vs. INK, INC. (SHANNON MOORE & JESSE NEAL) -- TNA Tag Title match

It looked like Neal was sporting the USC Trojan headgear with a dark red Mohawk and the sides bleached blonde. Less than a minute into the match, Taz made the same reference. Tenay added that he's like Tommy Trojan. The two teams went back and forth throughout the first part of the match. Beer Money then double-teamed Neal and the action broke down with all four men in the ring. Moore took control with a glancing moonsault on Storm, then a bulldog on Roode. Neal started playing to the crowd looking for a response, then Ink, Inc. attempted a top-rope combo, but Roode knocked down the challengers. The ref let the action go with all four men loosely in the ring before Moore landed another moonsault on Roode.

At 10:00, Roode came back with a spinebuster on Moore for a nearfall. All four men remained in the ring as the action continued. Beer Money executed a double suplex on Moore, then did their Beer...Money routine. They wanted the DWI, but Neal tackled Storm. Moore hit a neckbreaker on Roode, but Roode kicked out and Moore pounded the mat in frustration. Moore wanted to use the Book of Dilligaf, but Neal waved him off. Moore insisted, giving Storm an opening to hit a superkick on Neal. Beer Money followed with the DWI on Moore for the pin and the win. Taz called it a very physical match.

After the match, Beer Money showed respect to the challengers. Neal accepted their respect, but Moore took a swig of Storm's beer and spewed it in Roode's face. Moore bailed from the ring and Neal begged him to be reasonable. Moore told Neal they need to toughen up to become tag champs.

WINNERS: Beer Money at 12:30. This one fell off the rails around the 9:30 mark with all four men in the ring with no order restored. If it's going to be a Texas Tornado style tag match, then make it Texas Tornado. It's my pet peeve about tag wrestling in this era, especially on the independents, and it was exemplified in this match. Otherwise, the match was fine. (*1/2)

6 -- A.J. STYLES vs. MATT HARDY (w/Ric Flair)

Styles started off in control with right hand strikes that sent Hardy reeling across the ring. Hardy followed with his trademark drop down, leap frog, dropkick that sent Hardy to the outside. Styles tried a flying move, but Flair grabbed his foot from the outside and chucked his jacket at Styles. The distraction gave Hardy an opening to take control. It was only momentary, as Styles cut off Hardy near the ropes and landed a moonsault on the floor. Flair distracted Styles again, giving Hardy an opening to ram Styles into the ringpost. Hardy tried to whip Styles into the guardrail, but Styles slid underneath the guardrail, then popped to his feet and landed a flying forearm smash that drew a reaction from Flair.

Back in the ring, Hardy dropped Styles on the back of his neck/head in the corner. Hebner checked on Styles, then Hardy threw Styles to the outside where Flair landed chops and strikes. Back in the ring, Styles tried running the ropes, but Styles fell down. Hardy then slingshot him across the middle rope. He followed with a unique submission hold wrapping his legs around Styles's back and wrenching Styles's neck forward while hanging in mid-air. Styles reached the bottom rope for a break to escape. Hardy then put Styles across the middle rope and Flair proceeded to grab Styles's crotch with a claw grab. Taz called it "five on two."

Hardy followed with a cravat hold wrenching Styles's neck with another submission hold. Styles escaped, though, and they started trading right hand bombs. Styles won the exchange with a clothesline, then a DVD into a backbreaker from the fireman's carry position for a two count. Styles tried to follow with a discus clothesline, but Hardy ducked and hit the side effect for a nearfall. Hardy, breathing heavily, teased the Twist of Hate, but Styles countered into a backslide for a two count. Styles then nailed the discus clothesline and both men collapsed to the mat.

At 15:00, Styles called for the Clash, but Hardy blocked with the Alabama Slam for a two count. Hardy then stalked Styles for a corner clothesline, but Stlyes blocked with a back elbow smash. Styles tried to follow with his trademark springboard back flip, but Flair had the ref distracted and he didn't see Styles's pin. Flair then poked Styles in the eye from the ring apron, but Styles came back with the Pele kick to Flair. Hardy took advantage with a spike DDT of sorts, then hit a top rope moonsault, but it was only good for a two count. Hardy sold that he was stunned.

At 17:00, Styles blocked the Twist of Hate, then caught Hardy on the top rope with a Pele kick out of nowhere. Styles went up top, posed, then hit the Spiral Tap. Styles made the pin and ref Hebner countered through Flair trying to grab his arm to give Styles the pin and the win. Refreshing to see a ref count through an outside interference attempt. Post-match, Flair stomped his feet in anger before Styles bounced from the ring. Styles then came back to ringside and punched Flair in the crotch before walking off with two victories for the price of one.

WINNER: Styles at 17:38. That was a pretty good to very good PPV singles match. Hardy has almost been forced to reinvent himself as a full-gutted, brawler-type, which suited him well in this match opposite the more athletic Styles. It was good to see Styles back in a singles spotlight where he can be of most benefit to TNA. (***1/4)

Concluded...

[Arcademan]

7 -- MR. ANDERSON vs. ROB VAN DAM -- #1 contender match to TNA Title

RVD was out first, then Anderson paused on the stage to do his customary pre-match mic work. In the ring, the two challengers stared off each against each other to sell the intensity of the match-up. Early on, Van Dam tried a leap frog spot, but he fell on Anderson's head and the two men fell to the mat. A few fans did a "You f'ed up chant," and Anderson shouted back that he meant to do that. On the floor, RVD set up Anderson for a trademark spin kick as Anderson was draped across the guardrail, but Anderson moved and RVD ate the guardrail. Anderson laughed in RVD's face, then took him back into the ring to wrap RVD's leg/knee around the ringpost.

Anderson resumed the attack in the ring with submission holds and strikes trying to work over RVD's knee and leg. Moments later, RVD grabbed a headlock and walked around the ring selling no effects of the leg work by Anderson. RVD then came to his feet again not selling the effects and Anderson dropped him with a clothesline. Next was a double knock-down clothesline that put both men on the mat at 10:00. They started trading bombs like in the Hardy-Styles match, then RVD did a back-flip and ate the ringpost. They proceeded to bump heads and both men fell to the mat.

In any event, RVD followed with a cross-body block near the ropes that took both men over the top rope to the floor. RVD got up, started walking up the ramp showing no effects of the leg work, and walked into a Mic Check from Anderson. Meanwhile, Jackson James was doing a ten count. Some kids were screaming at Anderson to get in the ring. James reached a ten count as Anderson dove just short of the ring apron. "Now what?" Taz asked. JB announced it's a double count-out. Taz said this is a number one contender's match. Tenay said he wants to see one of these two men advance. There was a subsequent chant of "Re-start the match" followed by a responsive "No." The ref stood between RVD and Anderson as they tried to recover to their feet. Meanwhile, Tenay and Taz were shown on-camera talking about them hopefully getting an answer on who's the #1 contender on Impact this week.

WINNER: Double count-out at 12:54. The finish was fitting considering how bad of a match this was for its place on the card. Not aesthetically-pleasing, clunky, and they seemed to get lost several times. RVD appears to just be going through the motions at this point and him completely no-selling Anderson's extensive leg work was pretty bad. (1/2*)

8 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. JEFF HARDY -- TNA World Title match -- No DQ match

Hardy spent the first minute teasing which side of the crowd he would toss his t-shirt to. Seriously. In a TNA Title match. Sting then cornered him, Hardy kind of ducked, walked across the ring, and dropped the t-shirt in the ring. Moments later, Sting grabbed Hardy and dropped him with the Scorpion Death Drop. Sting made the cover for a three count. Afterward, Sting shot Hardy a look and Hardy sold that he was upset he lost the title. Sting took his belt and walked to the back. A fan shouted something at Sting and he shouted back, "I agree, I agree."

WINNER: Sting at 1:28 to retain the TNA Title. The word from backstage at the PPV is that Hardy was in no condition to perform. TNA needs to step up and start holding people accountable. They're playing with fire continuing to play games with the likes of Jeff Hardy, who obviously has health issues that need to be addressed. If they're not going to give him the help he needs, then cut ties with him rather than continuing to put him on TV. Someone in TNA management needs to step up and do something before something worse than a 90-second main event title match on PPV happens. (n/a)

Announcers: They went to Taz and Tenay, who narrated a full-length video package recapping all of the events from the PPV matches trying to stretch out the PPV. Taz encouraged people to watch Impact for fall-out from the Anderson-RVD match. Yes, watch the free TV show to figure out what viewers spent $35 on. Tenay and Taz signed off at 10:44 p.m. EST, one of the earliest PPV sign-offs in TNA history.

FINAL THOUGHTS: I'm not sure who had a worse night - the NCAA Selection Committee or TNA. What can you say? This was a promotion reinforcing a minor league, health-risk reputation. It's not even the quality of the matches in the final two slots, but trotting out Jeff Hardy in a PPV main event in no condition to perform.