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

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 6-29-12

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

1 – A.J. vs. LAYLA

This match is a sensible follow-up to Raw, where A.J. won the Battle Royal. Layla has dropped the LayCool theme and I think she has a remixed version of Tiffany’s song. A quick handshake and the match was underway. Headlock take-over by Layla, then a head-scissors by A.J. Cole again chided Booker for not watching Raw and not knowing Kane called A.J. crazy, to which Booker just laughed. Shoulder knock-down by Layla, and a roll-through got her a two-count. Arm-bar by the WWE Divas Champion. Drop toe-hold by A.J., then a dropkick. Layla fired back with a face-plant using the hair. Spinning kick by A.J. caught Layla coming off the ropes. Daniel Bryan’s music hit and he walked out yelling “Yes!” all the way to ringside and around. Sounds like post-production has added some boos because most of the crowd was chanting along with him. Layla rolled up a distracted A.J. for the win.

WINNER: Layla, at 3:33. I think a lot of the crowd likes A.J., so I’m not sure putting a tepid babyface like Layla in there helps Layla all that much. Then again, I don’t think they were in the business of helping Layla out in this situation.

2 – ZACK RYDER vs. DAMIEN SANDOW - WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE MITB QUALIFYING MATCH

This is also a follow-up from their backstage confrontation last week when Mick Foley was guest GM. Flapjack by Ryder, but Sandow took out a knee and stomped away at him in the corner. Side Russian leg-sweep, then some posing from Sandow. He dropped an elbow for two. Ryder fought back with boots and hit a flying dropkick off the middle-rope. Headbutt, then Ryder with a Broski Boot. “This is it!” shouted Booker as Ryder set up for the Rough Ryder. Sandow dodged the move and connected on his neck-breaker finish for the win.

WINNER: Sandow, at 2:25. WWE must be high on Sandow, and rightly so, to put him in the MITB match.

3 – TYSON KIDD vs. JACK SWAGGER - WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE MITB QUALIFYING MATCH

The announcers made a big deal saying Kidd acknowledged this was the most important match in his career. He didn’t get an entrance for this one. Rear waist-lock, but Kidd rolled through for a one-count. Another unique roll-up using his legs and Swagger was already frustrated. Cole claimed Kidd needs to separate himself from the Hart Legacy, which will always hold him down. Back in, Swagger took control. He worked the arm of Kidd, and just flipped him over with it. Knee-lift, but Kidd grabbed the leg to roll him up for two. Corner charge by Swagger, then a beal to the middle of the ring. Vader bomb for two at 2:28. Kidd planted Swagger with a DDT out of nowhere. He couldn’t really capitalize though. Back on his feet, he did hit some kicks to the legs and chest of Swagger. Back elbow by Kidd, but he climbed Swagger’s shoulders and was sent face-first into the mat. Kidd broke free of the ankle-lock and kicked Swagger in the side of the head. Blockbuster off the top for the win.

WINNER: Kidd, at 4:25. Now that’s an upset, despite the way Swagger has been booked. Match told a good story, but I figured this would be a prime opportunity for Swagger to get back on the upswing. As much as I think Swagger is terribly underutilized, I’m not going to complain about Kidd getting this chance.

4 – SANTINO MARELLA & CHRISTIAN vs. DAVID OTUNGA & CODY RHODES - WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE MITB QUALIFYING MATCH

Marella brought Rhodes over to the babyface corner, where Christian tagged in and worked the arm of Rhodes. Knee-lift turned the tide, then Rhodes hit a front suplex for two at :59. Otunga came in and bodyslammed Christian, then ran him over with a low shoulder tackle. The heels kept Christian at bay and Rhodes worked Christian down on the mat. Cole talked about the live Great American Bash Smackdown on Tuesday night, and how Cody’s father came up with the GAB name. Booker reminisced about meeting Wahoo McDaniel at one of the shows in WCW. Santino made the hot tag and took the fight to Otunga. He brought out the Cobra and it struck Otunga. But Rhodes pulled Otunga out of the ring before a cover. Rhodes poked Santino in the eye while the ref was distracted by Christian. He threw Otunga back in the ring so Otunga could tag Rhodes. He still couldn’t finish Santino, but did throw the Cobra out of the ring. Otunga was back in and he elbowed Marella down then elbowdropped him. “If this was a bodybuilding competition, Otunga would be champion,” said Booker. Back suplex by Santino evened things up. He crawled over and tagged Christian. Rhodes came in as well, but Christian got the better of the exchange. Inverted DDT by Christian, then he set up for the Spear. Otunga gabbed Christian’s leg and Rhodes made the tag. An errant right hand found Rhodes instead of Christian. Marella was sent out of the ring (he was going after Rhodes), but Otunga fell victim to the Spear.

WINNERS: Christian and Marella, at 6:16. Good to have the Intercontinental and United States champions in the MITB match, which helps the prestige of the belts and those holding them.

5 – DAN BARONE & BRENDAN BURKE vs. RYBACK – 2-ON-1 HANDICAP MATCH

The jobbers did some rhyming rap that stunk. Barone was slammed, so Burke tried to run away. Ryback kicked him down outside the ring. I think they did that with a previous set of jobbers too. Barone was pulled out of the ring and back in, Burke kicked at Ryback, to no effect. Barone climbed on Ryback’s back and succumbed to the backpack stunner. Hard powerbomb to Burke, and a clothesline to Barone. Double finish signaled the end.

WINNER: Ryback, at 1:50. Another week, another squash.

6 – JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. TENSAI - WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE MITB QUALIFYING MATCH

Sakamoto still accompanied Tensai to the ring. Tensai powered Gabriel over the top rope at :21. Cole said Cody Rhodes is filing an official protest over what happened in the tag match, saying he didn’t lose the match. Tensai hammered away on the back of Gabriel’s skull. Double underhook suplex for a two-count by Tensai. Bearhug by Tensai, but Gabriel broke free and hit a jaw-breaker. Gabriel attempted a roll-up but Tensai picked him off the mat. Kick to the back of the head wobbled Tensai. Springboard dropkick by Gabriel took Tensai off his feet for the first time at 2:10. Springboard moonsault for two. More kicks by Gabriel, though they didn’t seem to have much effect. Tensai caught Gabriel coming off the middle rope and planted him with a two-handed chokeslam. Back splash for the win.

WINNER: Tensai, at 2:47. Gabriel would’ve been fun, but Tensai certainly gives the match a different dynamic.

7 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. SHEAMUS – TRIPLE-THREAT MATCH FOR THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Sheamus came out firing to start, getting the better of both men early on. Del Rio finally turned the tide with a single-arm DDT. Ziggler low-bridged Sheamus out of the ring and worked over Del Rio out there as well. He bounced Del Rio’s head off the steel steps, and Cole connected that with Del Rio’s recent concussion. Del Rio missed a corner splash and Ziggler got a two-count at 3:17. Both Ziggler and Del Rio were stuck on the middle rope until Del Rio went tumbling to ringside. Sheamus got Ziggler up on his shoulders and landed an electric chair. Sheamus has been holding his wrist an awful lot. They went to break at 4:23.

Back at 8:04 of the match. Del Rio kicked Sheamus out of the ring, and both Del Rio and Ziggler went out there voluntarily to take the fight to the champ. Del Rio tossed Sheamus over the announce table. The heels went on the other side of the table to beat him down some more, so as to not let him recover at all. Back in the ring, Ziggler and Del Rio continued to team up. That is, until Del Rio went for a pin while Ziggler went to the top rope. That was enough to dissolve the working relationship. Ziggler and Del Rio went at it, exchanging right hands in the middle of the ring. Sheamus came off the turnbuckle and took them both out with a shoulderblock. Powerslam by Sheamus for two at 11:07. The heels traded opportunities breaking up pinfalls. White Noise by Sheamus on Ziggler. He didn’t go right for the pin or Brogue Kick, dawdling a little instead. That gave Del Rio the chance to get involved. Divorce court on the arm, but only a two-count. Sheamus countered the cross arm-breaker but ran shoulder-first into the ring post. Ziggler dropkicked the arm into the ring post on the outside. Enziguiri by Del Rio on Ziggler, knocking him off the apron. Cross arm-breaker applied and Sheamus couldn’t get to the rope, but Ziggler broke it up. Fameasser for two. Rodriguez got on the apron to cheer on his charge. Ziggler rammed Del Rio into Rodriguez, then rolled him up for two. Brogue Kick by Sheamus on Ziggler broke it up. He sent Del Rio out of the ring and pinned Ziggler.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 14:29.

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 6-27-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report).

Jim Ross introduces Byron Saxton in the booth with him, and Seth Rollins comes out with a high-energy entrance. His opponent is Jiro, already in the ring.

1 - SETH ROLLINS vs. JIRO

Rollins, the former Tyler Black, has speed and technique to dominate Jiro. He wins rather quickly with the "Blackout," which is one-leg foot stomp to the spine of the opponent bending over (like a K2 leg drop).

WINNER: Seth Rollins in 2:00. Rollins has a ton of energy and speed. It's as if C.M. Punk and Tyson Kidd had a baby.

2 - JASON JORDAN vs. JINDER MAHAL

Mahal quickly dominates with knees to the gut against the ropes. Mahal dominates Jordan for a few minutes. Jordan dodges a kneedrop and starts an offensive flurry, but Mahal counters a dropkick and goes back to the attack. Running high knee and he slaps on the Camel Clutch for the submission win.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal via submission in 3:00. Mahal was fine, as always, but I don't know what it does for him to basically be kicked back to FCW with no change in character, gimmick, or match formula. He's refining and polishing a failed approach.

3 - AIDEN ENGLISH vs. LEO KRUGER

Kruger swats away dropkick attempts and launches a quick mugging on the mat. He wraps himself around English and latches on with a sleeper and English taps quick.

WINNER: Leo Kruger via submission in 1:30. Kruger has a unique, intriguing in-ring style where he stays close to his opponent and doesn't allow them any breathing room. For example, after a whip, he immediately landed the splash to follow-up. It really does come off like a predatory animal killing its prey. I like it, and I hope to see more of him in the future.

4 - THE USOS vs. THE ASCENSION

Jimmy Uso and Cameron to start. Jimmy shows off a bit, but shrugs off headbutts. Jey tags in and they double-team Cameron. Cameron throws Jey right through the ropes and tags in O'Brien. The Ascension isolates Jey for a stretch. Jey gets separation and there's a double tag. Jimmy with traditional Uso hot tag offense, but O'Brien breaks up a pin. The action breaks down and Jey and O'Brien brawl on the outside. The Ascension is able to hit their "Downcast" team finisher (Cameron lands a facebuster and O'Brien follows up with a flapjack) on Jimmy for the win.

WINNERS: The Ascension in 3:30. Too short for a team match. The Ascension is promising, but it depends on how far they try to take a potentially corny gimmick.

5 - RICHIE STEAMBOAT vs. RICK VICTOR

Steamboat shows off some great speed. The camera shows Ricky Steamboat ringside as Steamboat dominates the match. Victor can't get any traction. Victor finally lands a series of European uppercuts, but Steamboat quickly cuts him off. Lots of arm drags from Steamboat in this match. Steamboat lands the "Slingblade" finisher, which consists of him running at the opponent, hooking the opponent's neck, and throwing him to the mat.

WINNER: Richie Steamboat in 4:30. Steamboat has the raw talent, but he really needs to add some signature moves to stand out. His finisher looks very weak. Rick Victor seems to be the NXT version of Heath Slater, but he looks like a shorter version of Mason Ryan with a much less freakish build.

6 - DANTE DASH vs. ANTONIA CESARO (w/Aksana)

Cesaro immediately assaults Dash. Saxton and JR keep referencing his short time on Smackdown, but presenting it as "he's here to visit," not as if "he's not on Smackdown any more." Spinebuster from Cesaro sets up the "Neutralizer" - his inverted Glam Slam finisher - for the win.

WINNER: Antonio Cesaro in 1:30. Fun match while it lasted. Cesaro's in-ring skills are impressive, but I wish they had something useful for him.

7 - DERRICK BATEMAN vs. JOHNNY CURTIS

Curtis slaps Bateman, then runs away. He tries to ambush Bateman on the way in, but Bateman dodges, slips in the ring, and hits a dropkick. Bateman showing lots of intensity. Curtis slips away from a corner dropkick, then starts to work Bateman's knee. Bateman slaps his way out of a leg lock, but Curtis presses the attack. Bateman rallies, but the knee is an issue. Bateman with the "DDD" (I think it's called), a kind of DDT, for the win.

WINNER: Derrick Bateman in 5:00. Fine match between these two. It really lacked the time to tell a story, though.

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 7-2-12

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

1 -- IC champion CHRISTIAN & U.S. champion SANTINO & WWE tag champions KOFI KINGSTON & R-TRUTH vs. DAVID OTUNGA & CODY RHODES & PRIME TIME PLAYERS (TITUS O'NEIL & DARREN YOUNG w/AW)

After a minute-and-a-half of basic action, the two teams had a stand-off ringside as Kofi sold on the mat. They cut to break.

Back live, Rhodes was stretching Kofi in the ring. Rhodes then tagged in Titus as the announcers listened in on AW's running commentary. Titus seemed a bit lost trying to follow up on the attack while trying to keep Kofi away from his corner. Santino then tagged in, as did Otunga. The action broke down moments later with bodies flying everywhere. AW suddenly decided to take his men away from the match during the chaos. Back in the ring, Otunga gained control of the match, but Rhodes walked off, leaving Otunga by himself. Suddenly, Brodus Clay's music played. Otunga tried to run away from Santino's Cobra, but Clay threw Otunga back into the ring, where Santino landed the Cobra for the pin and the win.

Post-match: All of the faces circled Otunga, who took a Killswitch from Christian. Clay then measured Santino for a giant splash to the chest. Cue up Brodus's music and some dancing, which brought the faces and random people from the crowd into the ring. The random people being several nine-year-olds that Cena said last week is the majority of the audience.

WINNERS: Team Santino at 8:27. Way too much added to the soup, like in the opening segment. People leaving the ring, music playing during a match, post-match dancing reinforcing Cena's irresponsible comment last week, etc. And, the poor heels rendered ineffective as usual.

BTW, this was the ONLY official match in the first hour of the show...

2 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS & A.J. vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & VICKIE GUERRERO

Sheamus and Ziggler started things off, with Sheamus dominating as Vickie screamed from the heel corner. Ziggler then kicked Sheamus at the legs to cut him off and land a DDT for a nearfall. Sheamus suddenly blasted Ziggler in the face with a forearm out of the corner before landing White Noise for a nearfall. Sheamus wanted to follow with the Brogue Kick, but Ziggler bailed to his corner to tag in Vickie, who asked Ziggler, "Are you kidding me?" Sheamus blasted Ziggler with a Brogue Kick anyways as Vickie entered the ring. A.J. followed into the ring and smashed Vickie with a Shining Wizard. A.J. with the cover for the win.

WINNERS: A.J. & Sheamus at 3:26.

3 -- HEATH SLATER vs. DOINK THE CLOWN

Doink, still wearing his blue jacket, grabbed a headlock and worked the arm before Slater landed a kick to the face. Doink came back with corner shoulders as Cole and Lawler went back through Doink's mid-1990s career. Suddenly, Slater hit a neckbreaker for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Slater at 1:24.

Post-match: Diamond Dallas Page's music played to bring out DDP to confront Slater. Cole recapped DDP's resume and noted he's a yoga instructor now. The vocal males chanted, "D-D-P" as Slater mocked Page's Diamond Cutter signal. Page said that was good, but then yanked him back into his arms to deliver the Cutter center ring. Page bang'ed the crowd before leaving the ring to slap hands with the ringside crowd.

4 -- KANE vs. BIG SHOW -- No DQ match

Show landed a headbutt sending Kane to the outside. Kane tried to climb back on the ring apron, but Show shoulder-blocked him to the floor. Meanwhile, Cole plugged Show and Kane involved in the 20-man battle royal on Smackdown tomorrow night. Show then tried a big boot against the barricade, but Kane ducked and Show ate the rail. Show came back with a thrust kick before tossing Kane back inside the ring. Show then retrieved a chair and slowly re-entered the ring, where Kane met him with an uppercut. Kane came back with a DDT for a nearfall.

Leading to the finish, the two big men quieted the crowd with a spot that featured Show colliding with a chair as Kane held it out; it wasn't clear who took the brunt of the blow. Show then stood up, sold a shoulder injury, and delivered a chokeslam for the pin and the win. Show left the ring and tried to shake off the pain as Cole repeated the line about Show seemingly unstoppable heading into MITB.

WINNER: Show at 3:47.

5 -- TENSAI vs. TYSON KIDD

Tensai landed big headbutts in the corner before running into an empty corner turnbuckle when Kidd moved out of the way. Kidd suddenly rolled up Tensai from behind for a three count. Not quite Sheamus-Bryan at Mania, going 19 seconds. Post-match: Tensai destroyed Sakamoto to boos. After knocking Sakamoto to the floor, Tensai tried to rip open Sakamoto's face. They replayed the quick pin for Kidd before returning live to show Tensai seething as he stood ringside.

WINNER: Kidd at 0:19.

The PWTorch report does NOT include the final match of the night so I got it from ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete RAW results).


6. John Cena and C.M. Punk vs. Daniel Bryan and Chris Jericho. Punk and Bryan started the match. They both tagged in their partners within the first two minutes. Cena went for the Attitude Adjustment on Jericho, who held onto the ropes. Cena knocked Jericho to the floor heading into the break.

The heels controlled the bulk of the action after the break leading up to the overrun. They took turns tagging while working over Cena. There were dueling "Let's Go Cena" and "Cena Sucks" chants from the crowd.

Cena continued to sell for the heels and eventually got to his corner to make the hot tag. Punk springboarded into the ring and clotheslined Bryan. Punk went on an offensive flurry, including a high knee and an Anaconda Vice. Jericho entered the ring and kicked Punk to break up the pin. Cena tossed Jericho to ringside and they brawled up the ramp and to the backstage area.

Punk and Bryan traded good offense in the ring. Bryan took the advantage with a kick to Punk's head and got a two count. Punk came back with a superplex for a near fall that had the crowd hot. A.J.'s music played and she skipped to and around the ring as Punk and Bryan continued to exchange punches and kicks.

A.J. looked up at them and didn't seem pleased that they weren't looking at her. She climbed onto the ring apron and then went back to ringside and looked underneath the ring. It took her three looks, but she finally pulled a table out from underneath the ring and set it up at ringside.

A.J. slowly climbed to the top rope while looking down at the table. Bryan headed to ringside and pleaded with her. "Don't jump," Bryan said. Punk joined Bryan by approaching A.J. on the ring apron and telling her not to jump. A.J. planted a big kiss on Punk's lips and then shoved him off the ring apron, onto Bryan, and they both went through the table. A.J. pumped her arms and did the "Yes!" bit again to close the show... The new Raw commercial aired after the show went off the air...

John Cena and C.M. Punk fought Daniel Bryan and Chris Jericho to an apparent no-contest.

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 7-3-12

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

1 - LAYLA & THE GREAT KHALI vs. AKSANA & ANTONIO CESARO – MIXED TAG-TEAM MATCH

Hard chop to the chest of Cesaro by Khali in the early going. He missed a corner boot and Cesaro attacked the opposite leg. Cesaro blew a kiss to Aksana but Khali again grabbed Cesaro and chopped him. Before Khali could hit the brain chop, Cesaro ducked into his corner and tagged Aksana. She went right up to Khali and trash-talked him, but Layla jumped her. Layla spanked Aksana, then hit a springboard cross-body for two. Cesaro broke up the pin, but was sent out by Khali. Layla hit the neck-breaker on Aksana for the win.

WINNERS: Layla and Khali, at 1:56. Another extreme tonal shift from the first segment to this one. With Aksana and Khali extremely limited, even a short match wouldn’t amount to much.

2 – CODY RHODES vs. CHRISTAIN – WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE MITB QUALIFYING MATCH

Feeling-out process to start, with a few quick pin attempts by Rhodes. Flap-jack by Christian for only a one-count at :57. Cole even didn’t think Rhodes deserved another shot after losing in his qualifying tag match last week. Rhodes was in control as they went to break at 1:40 of the match.

Back at 5:13 of the match. Rear wrist-lock into a slam by Rhodes. Front suplex by Rhodes for a two-count. Rhodes set Christian on the top rope and Christian fought back. Second-rope dropkick to Rhodes and both men were down at 6:53. Low dropkick by Christian with Rhodes against the ropes. Rhodes dropped down for an uppercut a la Goldust. Alabama Slam turned into a roll-up by Christian for two. A frustrated Rhodes began to take the turnbuckle pad off, but the ref replaced it. Christian set up for a Spear, but Rhodes kicked him low to stop him. Looked like a low-blow at first, but Christian held his arm and wrist. Disaster kick missed, but Rhodes dodged the Killswitch and hit Cross-Rhodes for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 9:10. Nice match between these two – maybe better than their PPV encounter.

3 – ALEX RILEY vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER – WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE MITB QUALIFYING MATCH

Ziggler went into a rear chin-lock about a minute in. Suplex by Riley broke him free. Spinebuster into a near-fall at 1:43. Jumping DDT attempt blocked by Ziggler. Ziggler missed a splash and was rolled up for two. Zig Zag by Ziggler out of nowhere for the win.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 2:26. I can’t imagine anyone thinking Riley had a chance here.

4 – SANTINO MARELLA & SGT. SLAUGHTER & “HACKSAW” JIM DUGGAN vs. HUNICO & CAMACHO & DREW MCINTYRE

No entrances for the heels. Camacho got the better of Marella, then Hunico hit a Swanton coming in from the apron for two. Snap suplex by McIntyre for two. Duggan tagged in, as did Hunico. Rights and lefts from Hacksaw, then a clothesline. Three-point clothesline took Hunico down. Camacho broke up the pin. Slaughter took him down and Cole mocked how these tag matches always end. Back elbow by Duggan, then a clothesline. Marella tagged in and applied the Cobra. It struck Hunico and the faces won.

WINNERS: Marella, Duggan, and Slaughter, at 2:25. If there was ever a time to use Duggan and Slaughter, I guess the Great American Bash-themed show on the eve of Independence Day is it.

5 – CURT HAWKINS vs. RYBACK

Hawkins tried a few punches and a sleeper. That was turned into a backpack stunner. Ryback slammed Hawkins into the mat a few times as the crowd chanted “Goldberg.” Hawkins hit the ropes and then was hit with a clothesline. Ryback with his finisher for the win.

WINNER: Ryback, at 1:11. Finally a step up in competition for Ryback, and Hawkins even got some offense (which was no-sold).

6 – GREAT AMERICAN BASH 20-MAN BATTLE ROYAL – WINNER GETS CONTROL OF NEXT WEEK’S SMACKDOWN

Justin Gabriel was the first one out, thanks to Big Show, at the :16 mark. Show and Clay went at it with Clay being dumped at :33 by Show. Khali headbutted Punk and Kane landed an uppercut on Sandow. Zeke Jackson laid in the clotheslines on Tensai in the far corner. Jackson was out at 1:03, I believe by Tensai. Ziggler tried to toss Zack Ryder as Daniel Bryan kicked away at Heath Slater. Kahli went over at 1:38, courtesy of Tensai, Swagger, and Del Rio. Sandow was out via Ryder at 1:58. Cody held onto the ropes on the apron and got back in. Santino was out at 2:15 by Rhodes. Disaster kick landed on Show, but a second one was no good and Rhodes ended up in a choke. So did Kingston, and they were both eliminated by Show at 2:46. They went to break at 2:57.

Back at 5:55 of the match, down to ten men. Looks like Swagger and Slater were eliminated during the break - no clips though. C.M. Punk dove at Bryan, taking both men out at 6:16. Sidewalk slam by Kane on Del Rio, and he almost lost his grip on the Mexican Aristocrat. Show and Kane did the double choke spot that they seem to do in every battle royal. Chokeslam on Show. Cena cleaned house around the 8:00 mark as everyone bumped for him. Del Rio out at 8:10. Attitude Adjustment for Kane. Crowd was super-hot for Cena. Cena lifted Tensai up and over at 8:39. Show came from behind and tossed Cena over the top at 8:44. Ryder was speared by Big Show. Christian was thrown out by Show at 9:06. Ziggler with a sleeper on Show. Kane hit a running boot that eliminated both men at 9:20. It was down to Ryder and Kane. Will Ryder FINALLY get his revenge? Kane blocked Ryder’s attack and went after Ryder. Big boot put Ryder down. Irish whip, but Ryder landed a drop toe-hold. Broski Boot found the mark. He went for his finish, but Kane caught him with a choke. Ryder snuck out the back, then low-bridged Kane on a charge for the win.

WINNER: Ryder, at 10:48.

Some of the eliminations during the match were shown. Ryder continued to celebrate in the ring as they closed the show.

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 7-5-12

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete report).

1. Sofia Cortez defeated Paige in 2:23. Both women locked up as Ross talked about how Paige’s mother and father were both wrestlers. Cortez hit a beautiful huracanrana which got a nice reaction from the crowd. Paige awkwardly rolled towards the centre of the ring before rolling out of it as if she realised she had gone the wrong way. Cortez hit numerous strikes in the corner before Paige hit one hell of a slap. Sofia came back with an enziguri which Ross described as running head hick. Cortez locked in a rest hold as the crowd booed. Paige got out of it and hit numerous slaps to the chest. Cortez hit a kick to the thigh before a great roundhouse kick to Paige’s head. She ran the ropes and sprung into a very unique DDT (which Paige sold brilliantly) for the win...

2. Seth Rollins defeated Camacho in 4:33. Seth attempted to lock up with Camacho but Camacho pushed him away. Seth hit a few strikes before Camacho took Seth down. and threw him into the corner and started pounding on him. Ross noted that "Camacho’s heritage will not allow him to have a retreat gear" which pokes holes in Camacho’s gimmick doesn’t it? Seth hit several chops before pounding on Camacho in the corner. Ross noted Seth’s uniqueness and also stated that Seth’s offence was reminiscent of CM Punk. Camacho hit a big legdrop and continue to pound on Seth as a "Let’s go Rollins" chant broke out.

Seth attempted to grab Camacho but missed to sell Camacho’s offence. A short time later Seth was on the ground holding the ropes, Camacho pulled him up but Seth hung on to the ropes, springing up, turning in mid air, landing on his feet and hitting an enziguri for a cool spot. He followed it up with a Mic Check into the bottom turnbuckle which looked and sounded great; it also got a great reaction from the crowd. Seth ran the ropes and hit a dropkick as the crowd became a lot louder. He headbanged in the corner, setting up for his splash but Hunico attempted t grab his feat distracting him. Hunico got a dropkick of his own. Camacho attacked Seth from behind and got Seth on his shoulders, Seth countered and pushed Camacho into Hunico before hitting Camacho with The Blackout for the 1-2-3.

3. Corey Graves and Jake Carter defeated CJ Parker and Nick Rodgers in 2:24. Saxton explained Graves and Carter’s gimmick of being ladies men who work and party hard. Parker hit a monkey flip before Graves took advantage and drove CJ into his corner. Parker hit a sunset flip but Carter made the blind tag and kicked CJ in the back before pounding on him. Carter and Graves hit some nice strikes on CJ before Graves locked in a rest hold on CJ. CJ hit a massive backdrop before both men made tags to their partners. Carter hit a sick looking spinebuster on Rodgers. He took out CJ before tagging in Graves and hitting a scoop slam and neckbreaker combination which they call "Bottom’s Up" for the win. They left to a good amount of heat ad Ross talked about their great potential...

4. Kassius Ohno defeated Mike Dalton in 2:32. "K.O" chants started immediately as both men locked up. A loud "Let’s go Ohno/Dalton sucks" chant broke out. Dalton hit a drop toe hold and went for the quick cover. Ohno hit a dropkick as J.R noted how he had wrestled all over the world. Ohno stood in a corner yelled "Oh-No!" before running and an elbow to Dalton’s head which got a good reaction from the crowd. He followed it up with flying lariat.

Ross continued to put over Ohno’s experience and the fact that he knows so many different styles, Saxton chimed in and noted that his combination of different styles made him very different. No shit Sherlock. Dalton managed to get out of a rest hold, went for roundhouse kick but hit a spinning wheel kick instead. A short time later Kassius hit a rolling elbow out of nowhere, which got a great reaction for the clean win.

5. Jinder Mahal defeated Derrick Bateman in 4:02. Both men locked up as a "USA" chant broke out. Jinder went for a suplex but Bateman countered with Northern Lights suplex. Later Bateman hit a suicide dive on to Jinder on the outside. Bateman came up holding his left leg as a "this is awesome" chant briefly broke out. Jinder dragged Bateman over to the ropes and sat on Bateman before hitting several knees like he did last week. Bateman performed several roll ups before hitting a stiff looking flapjack. He then hit a Moonlight Drive which got a great reaction and a near fall. Bateman went for the DBD but Jinder got out of it and hugged the bottom rope. Bateman pulled him up and went for the DBD again but Jinder countered and hit a weak looking knee to the back. Jinder then locked in the Camel Clutch for the win.

6. Michael McGillicutty, Hunico and Camacho defeated Tyson Kidd, Seth Rollins and Bo Dallas in 9:51. Dallas and McGillicutty started, Michael made Bo tag in Kidd only for Michael to tag in Hunico. Nice. Ross questioned why Hunico wears his bandana as he beat on Kidd. Kidd came back with a great huracanrana out of the corner. Hunico locked in the Gory Special before turning it into a pin. Kidd, whilst still locked in the move managed to lift his body weight and hit a sunset flip for a great spot. The action quickened as Bo Dallas and Seth Rollins made quick tags. Hunico took control after Camacho distracted Seth...

Back from the break Camacho locked in a rest hold, Seth fought out of it as Hunico made the tag, Seth hit a big monkey flip which drew a lot of cheers from the crowd. He tagged in Bo Dallas who made a comeback with a variety of clotheslines and other strikes. Camacho took control and tagged in McGillicutty. The commentators continued to put over McGillicutty in a big way. Bo tried to make the hot tag but Hunico tagged in and hit a very nice double underhook backbreaker. A very loud "Bo" chant started as regal talked about how Hunico and Camacho met...

Apparently, Hunico was getting beat up by a gang when one of the gang members stabbed him, Camacho then showed up, grabbed the guy that had stabbed Hunico and bit his nose off. Talk about pushing PG to the limit. Bo continued to play the babyface in peril, he finally made the tag to Tyson Kidd who got really big reaction. He hit his kick whilst he holds on to the ropes which also got a big reaction before following it up with a picture perfect springboard dropkick. Everyone ended up in the ring before the action spilled to the outside, Seth then performed a cross body to the outside which even took out Bo. Only Kidd was left in the ring. A "this is awesome" chant broke out. Kidd went for a dive to the outside but McGillicutty re-entered the ring and hit a chop block on Kidd. He followed it up with a sick looking McGillicutter for the win. The heel team’s win got a great amount of heat...

Jim Ross then thanked everyone for tuning in before closing out the show...

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 7-5-12

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

1 -- TV champion DEVON vs. CRIMSON -- TV Title match

Crimson continued to work on Devon as the announcers wondered if Crimson can bounce back from his singles loss to James Storm at Slammiversary last month. Devon eventually absorbed Crimson's pre-match attack and landed a corner attack, but Crimson cut him off with a big clothesline. Crimson then got in ref Earl Hebner's face, distracting himself, which allowed Devon to nail a lift-up spinebuster for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Madison Rayne stomped down to the ring and walked past Devon to grab Earl Hebner. Madison planted a big kiss on Hebner, who sold shock over the "crush" reveal. Madison left, then Hebner went from shock to a devilish grin.

WINNER: Devon at 2:02 to retain the TV Title. It seems like Crimson is about to go the opposite direction with the losing streak gimmick. Meanwhile, TNA continues to give TV focus and attention to non-wrestlers, with the latest being Hebner.

2 -- FLIP CASSANOVA vs. DAKOTA DARSOW -- X Division tournament qualifying match

Tenay noted Darsow appeared on Impact last year during the X Division invitational. Tenay introduced another lawyer angle, noting Gail Kim has delayed her Knockouts Title challenge against Miss Tessmacher until next week. But, the replacement Knockouts tag match will occur in the next segment. And, of course, the big question is whether Earl Hebner will be special referee with Madison Rayne in the match.

As for the X Division match the announcers were briefly focused on, Flip knocked Dakota to the outside, then landed a twisting corkscrew moonsault springboarding off the second rope. Flip then rolled Dakota into the ring and went for a top-rope body press, but Dakota rolled through into an elbow drop. Dakota followed with an awkward-looking series of leg drops for a nearfall. Dakota, with a busted nose, went for a moonsault, but missed when Flip rolled out of the way. Flip then came off the top rope with a high-flying move before deciding to go back up top, drawing Taz's ire. Flip then went for a 450 splash and kind of crash-landed on Darsow for the pin and the win. Post-match: Flip was covered in blood from splashing Darsow, who continued to bleed heavily from the nose selling frustration with the loss.

WINNER: Flip at 3:54. Awkward throughout, but Flip provided some needed athleticism on this show.

3 -- TNA Knockouts champion MISS TESSMACHER & TARA vs. MADISON RAYNE & GAIL KIM

Of note, Earl Hebner is not the referee, avoiding a serious conflict of interest. After back-and-forth focusing on the Tessmacher vs. Gail feud, Tessmacher eventually scored a clean, decisive victory over Madison. Tessmacher and Tara stood tall, victorious, with no sign of a heel turn or anything mischievous.

WINNERS: Tess & Tara at 3:21. This was presented as just a filler segment to bridge to next week's title match.

4 -- KENNY KING vs. LARS ONLY -- X Division Title tournament qualifier

King dominated things early on as Tenay noted King is a real-life "Magic Mike," incorporating the recent movie release into the broadcast. King continued his domination on the outside before rolling Lars back into the ring for a nearfall.

Lars came back with a flying huracanrana on the outside before celebrating for the crowd. Lars sent King back into the ring for a pin attempt resulting in a nearfall. Lars called for the end with a Tornado DDT, but King fought him off. They kind of fell apart trying a Russian legsweep spot, which Taz said "kind of sucked." King and Lars reset with a corner spot, which King turned into an enziguiri. King followed with a sidewinder slam for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Hemme brought in Kenny King for a post-match interview after a look at the Direct Auto Impact of the Night. King told the "pretty lady" that he didn't come here to play games, but get himself noticed. King said he has a lot riding on this, so if you thought this was special, just wait for Destination X. He said the king will be crowned on Sunday.

WINNER: King at 5:21. Rough at times, but more fine athleticism on the show. Solid post-match promo from King until the clichéd final soundbyte.

5 -- JEFF HARDY vs. JAMES STORM -- BFG Series match

Early feeling-out process as the announcers hyped both men as the front-runners in the BFG Series according to Hogan.

After a minute, Hardy landed a shoulderblock before the two men traded quick pin attempts. They eventually went to their corners after a babyface stand-off, leading to "Hardy, Hardy" chants. Hardy then side-stopped a charging Storm, who found himself on the apron. Hardy landed a punch and Storm landed on the floor to collect himself. Storm paced ringside before slowly re-entering the ring as the announcers discussed Storm's body language slowing down the pace and appearing to be frustrated.

Storm eventually hopped off the apron to the floor as the Hardy chants picked up. After stalling some more, Storm slowly re-entered the ring and measured Hardy for a lock-up center ring. The two men moved the lock-up against the ropes, and Tenay sent the show to break following two minutes of inactivity.

Back live, a side headlock to continue the inactivity. Storm broke free of Hardy's mathold and landed shoulder thrusts in the corner. Hardy came back with a leg drop, but Storm came right back with repeated clotheslines. And, Hardy came right back with clotheslines into a seated dropkick for a two count. Storm returned fire with a turnaround slam out of the corner for a close two count, then Hardy knocked Storm to the outside. Hardy followed with a baseball slide kick, then flying splash to knock down both men on the outside.

At 11:00, Storm rolled back into the ring and Hardy just made it back into the ring before a ten count. The two men reset with Storm landing a big clothesline that took out both men. They reached their feet at a seven count, but sold having nothing left. Storm then built some momentum for a corner splash, but Hardy dodged. Hardy tried to follow with a top-rope Swanton Bomb, but Storm moved just in time. Storm then slowly went up top looking for a finisher, and connected with an elbow drop for a close two count.

At 13:30, Storm sold frustration unable to put away Hardy. Storm then warmed up for the Last Call superkick, but Hardy sold unable to stand up. Storm fixed Hardy, which threw off Storm's rhythm and allowed Hardy to duck a superkick attempt. Hardy followed right up with the Twist of Fate for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Storm sold frustration as he collected himself in the corner. They replayed the finish before coming back live to show Hardy staring down Storm. The two men shook hands center-ring before Storm left the ring to give Hardy center-stage. Tenay and Taz then recapped the standings, which show Hardy moving up to a tie for third place with 14 points.

WINNER: Hardy at 14:04; Hardy gets 7 points in the BFGS. Odd middle before a strong finish and post-match handshake. Overall, good use of the BFGS format to create a clean finish in a TV main event.

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 7-5-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report).

1 - PRIMO (w/Epico and Rosa Mendes) vs. TITUS O'NEIL (w/Darren Young and AW)

Primo gamely rushes O'Neil, only to get tossed to the mat. Primo is struggling to overcome O'Neil's power, and a cross-body finally takes the big man down. It doesn't last long, as O'Neil quickly regains control. Primo's brief comeback is cut off when O'Neil blocks a sunset flip attempt. Primo tries to take a swing at AW, but the distraction lets O'Neil continue the attack. Again, Primo makes a comeback, but O'Neil blocks a sunset flip. AW distracts the ref letting Darren Young to get involved. After the distraction, Primo slips out of a suplex and pins O'Neil with a schoolboy.

WINNER: Primo in 5:30. Who booked this, Donald Duck? Why have half of the #1 contenders lose to a someone who isn't near the title right now? O'Neil and Young are supposed to look strong, and be working towards a match with Kofi Kingston and R-Truth, not continuing a feud with the team that lost their re-match without even getting into the ring.

2 - WWE tag champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. ROB CABILDO

Kingston offers a handshake, but Cabildo turns him down. They go back-and-forth a little, and Kingston shows off his agility. Kingston gets angry after eating a dropkick and fires up big. Boom Drop and Kingston calls for the end. Trouble in Paradise and the match is over.

WINNER: Kofi Kingston in 3:10. More bizarre booking. Who is Rob Cabildo? Why dos Kofi Kingston need squash matches against unknowns? I do not understand what is happening here, it's like someone mixed up some FCW try-out tapes with the Superstars episode.

3 - ALEX RILEY vs. ANTONIO CESARO (w/Aksana)

Great "Team Chest Hair" sign in the audience. Riley and Cesaro do some chain wrestling; it's nice to see some fresh skills from Riley. Big "Let's Go Riley" chant as Cesaro takes control. Riley with a sky high dropkick. Cesaro flapjacks Riley into the turnbuckle out of a Ten Punches in the corner. Lot's of high strength back-and-forth. Cesaro with a number of unique moves, and Stanford says that Cesaro is a one-time member of the Swiss military; no surprise there, since they do mandatory conscription. Riley makes a big comeback. Riley with a flying clothesline from the top rope, Kane style. Cesaro cracks the neck and the Neutralizer picks up the win.

WINNER: Antonio Cesaro in 6:00. I expected better from this match, since both Cesaro and Riley have impressed me in the ring. Something didn't click here. Antonio Cesaro needs new music, his music sounds like some goofy Brit pop stuff, and it is just too "bouncy" for a heel.

4 - ZACK RYDER vs. JACK SWAGGER

Swagger shows off his amateur wrestling skills early on. Huge crowd reaction for Ryder and Swagger keeps him down. Ryder fires back with a dropkick and mocks Swagger's victory laps. Swagger's power continues to let him dominate. Ryder hot-shots Swagger then lands a flapjack to turn it around. Swagger takes out Ryder's knee and starts working Ryder over. Ryder wants the Broski Boot but Swagger gets up. Ryder sends Swagger out of the ring and tries a leap over the ropes, but Swagger catches him and lands a backbreaker.

Out of the break, Swagger is showing off, but misses a leg drop and Ryder drops bombs. Swagger ducks a cross-body and Ryder bounces off the ropes. The crowd rallies, but Swagger continues to control the match. Ryder fights off a superplex and eventually puts boots up to block a Swagger Bomb in the corner. They trade big rights with Ryder gaining the advantage. Faceplant and Ryder gets serious. Broski Boot gets a nearfall. Ryder throws up the "L.I." hand sign, but Swagger ducks the Rough Ryder, and hits the Swagger Bomb for a nearfall.

Swagger looks furious. Ryder then turns a suplex into a reverse neckbreaker for two. Ryder tries a Rough Ryder from the second rope, but Swagger catches him with the anklelock. Ryder sends Swagger to the apron to escape, but when Swagger jumps back into the ring, Ryder nails him with the Rough Ryder for the win.

WINNER: Zack Ryder in 10:30. Very good match. Ryder gets the crowd involved and Swagger is a very good technician. Both men need wins quite badly right now.

[Arcademan]

TNA Destination X PPV Results: 7-8-12 (next three posts)

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

1 -- MASON ANDREWS vs. LARS ONLY vs. DAKOTA DARSOW vs. RUBIX -- X Division Title tournament Last Chance match

The crowd picked their favorite, Rubix, early on in this match. After all four men got some one-on-one spotlight in the ring, Rubix cleared the ring and landed a leaping flip dive onto the other three competitors on the outside. Back in the ring, Scorpio Sky applied a submission on Lars as they cut backstage to show Kid Kash watching intently since he faces the winner of this match. Darsow, Sky, and Lars set up a three-way Tower of Doom spot before Rubix flew across the ring with a coast-to-coast dropkick on Darsow to put everyone on the mat. Next was a series of high-impact moves with everyone getting in their stuff. Sky then dropped Lars with a TKO-like finisher for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Scorpio Sky/Mason Andrews at 8:22.

2 -- KID KASH vs. MASON ANDREWS -- X Division Title tournament match

Kash dominated Sky, who continued to sell the effects of the four-way qualifying match. Tenay noted Kash wrestles professionally and competes in MMA, making Kash and Sky similar opponents. Kash continued to dominate, but became frustrated as Sky continued to kick out of pin attempts. Kash offered a middle finger and slap across the face, but Sky kicked out again. Sky tried to make a comeback, but Kash delivered an emphatic knock-down clothesline. Kash then kicked Sky to the floor and jawed with some fans ringside before sending Sky back into the ring.

Back in the ring, Kash wanted a second-rope moonsault, but Sky got his knees up just in time to block Kash. Both men sold on the mat before Sky came back with a flying elbow into a flying dropkick. Sky followed with a head scissors, then came off the top with a dropkick for a two count. He followed with a leaping bicycle knee, and appeared to have the match won, but Kash kicked out in time. Kash then tried to come back with knee strikes, but Sky ducked a second knee, pushed Kash to the mat, and rolled him up for a quick pin and the win. Sky advances to the Ultimate X title match.

WINNER: Andrews/Sky at 8:10. Sky looked much more comfortable in this singles match than his qualifying match on Impact two weeks ago. Fine singles match, overall. (**)

3 -- KENNY KING vs. DOUG WILLIAMS -- X Division Title tournament match
 
As King and Williams locked up, JB gave a thorough recap of King's journey to TNA and noted his Chippendale's line of work in Las Vegas. Williams dominated early on with matholds as the announcers talked about Williams growing up watching World of Sport in the U.K. Williams and King came to a stalemate, so Williams offered a handshake, but then kicked him in the gut. King quickly returned fire with a twisting press on the floor.
 
Back in the ring, King and Williams exchanged mat wrestling holds, smiling as they countered each other. Williams came back with a corner elbow into a flying European Uppercut for a two count. Williams followed with more offense before King ducked a clothesline, nailed an atomic drop, and followed with an enziguiri to the back of the head, which floored both men. King followed with a spin kick for a nearfall, then a spinebuster for a nearfall. King and Williams awkwardly tried to set up a top-rope move, with King appearing to be blown up, so Williams knocked King to the floor. Williams then landed a running knee to King's face as a fan on the front row shouted, "C'mon, Nigel!"
 
Both men were nearly counted out trying to get back into the ring, but they made it back at nine. Williams scored more two counts on pin attempts, but then King ducked a second-rope attack and nailed sort of a throw-down slam out of the fireman's carry position. King made the cover for the win to advance to the Ultimate X match later tonight.
 
WINNER: King at 10:35. Another match where they seemed to throw together a bunch of moves to make up for a lack of back-story in this tournament. It was good for the most part, but also lacking a key emotional connection with the audience. (**)

4 -- SONJAY DUTT vs. RASHAD CAMERON -- X Division Title tournament match
 
Dutt and Cameron tried to create an issue early on, with Cameron pie-facing Dutt to establish himself as the heel in the match. Meanwhile, JB talked up Dutt's rock-star status in India, but did not mention TNA's cousin promotion, Ring Ka King, by name. Rashad lost control of the match, then Dutt knocked him to the outside and landed a flying dropkick. Rashad re-gained control on the floor, then scored a two count back in the ring. Rashad noticed a quiet crowd, so he screamed at the crowd to look at Sonjay looking pathetic.
 
Rashad continued to scream at the crowd, then applied a body scissors submission center-ring. Rashad lost his focus, though, arguing with ref Earl Hebner. Dutt came back with a corner attack, then springboard splash from the ring apron for a close two count. The two men then traded moves as the crowd and announcers remained silent trying to figure out what they were going for. Rashad then got in Hebner's face again. The unforced error allowed Dutt to make a comeback, then nail his new moonsault double stomp finisher to the stomach for the pin and the win. Post-match: JB brought up Ring Ka King, noting Dutt's journey back to TNA's spotlight.
 
WINNER: Dutt at 7:16. Good showing from both men, especially Cameron in the heel role. The crowd is already worn out seeing similar moves in each match, though. (**1/4)

5 -- ZEMA ION vs. FLIP CASSANOVA -- X Division Title tournament match
 
Ion dominated early on, then pulled out hairspray to accentuate his wild hair-do tonight. The unforced error allowed Flip to come back with a knee to the gut followed by a springboard twisting press for a nearfall. That was Flip's last gasp, as Ion came back with a Widow's Peak-like finisher for the pin and the win. Post-match, Ion played up his cockiness before spraying his hair with more spray on the way out of the ring.
 
WINNER: Ion at 3:55; Ion, Sky, King, and Dutt will compete in Ultimate X to determine the new X Division champion. (*1/4)

[Arcademan]

6 -- SAMOA JOE vs. KURT ANGLE -- BFG Series match
 
JB noted he talked to Angle on the way back to Orlando from Friday's house show and Angle is looking for submission victories from here on out in the Series. Joe and Angle grappled and exchanged holds early on before coming to a stalemate. Joe then grounded Angle in the corner before washing his face and landing a running boot. Joe knocked Angle to the floor, then landed a flying suicide dive elbow to the face. Joe was slow returning to the ring, though, allowing Angle to kick him in the chest and gain control of the match.
 
Angle continued the attack as both men teased submission attempts throughout Angle's attack. Angle then went for three German Suplexes and connected with all three to put both men on the mat selling the effects. Angle then tried an anklelock to get 10 points, but Joe kicked him away. Angle tried to charge Joe, but Joe delivered a frontslam out of the corner. Joe then wanted a Muscle Buster, and he connected center-ring. Joe made a cover, but Angle kicked out in-time. Joe sold frustration as Angle recovered nearby.
 
With 3:30 left in the time limit, Joe went for a rear-naked choke, but Angle dropped down into the anklelock. After fighting the hold, Joe countered into the rear-naked choke center-ring. Angle teased tapping out, but elbowed out before reaching his feet and executing a desperation Angle Slam. Angle with a cover, but Joe kicked out in-time. Angle, fired up, came to his feet and dropped the straps. Joe escaped an anklelock, then slid over Angle into a rear-naked choke. 45 seconds remaining as Angle fought the hold. 30 seconds remaining as Angle faded in the hold. Suddenly, Earl Hebner called for the bell, indicating Angle was out. So, Joe gets a submission win for 10 points.
 
Post-match: Tenay said Angle may not have tapped out, but, in the opinion of Earl Hebner, Angle was not responding, so he stopped the match. Angle then woke up and Hebner explained his point of view that Angle was out. Angle sold frustration with the decision as Joe left the ring in possession of first place in the BFG Series with 37 points vs. James Storm's 36 points.
 
WINNER: Joe via TKO/submission at 14:38. Excellent sports-like match and finish. Everyone played their parts well making sure Joe was credited for a resume-building victory over Angle, while Angle didn't lose anything due to the ref's decision. (***)

7 -- TNA tag champion CHRISTOPHER DANIELS vs. A.J. STYLES -- Last Man Standing match
 
After Daniels tried to play games by stalling early on, this turned into a "fight" with the action spilling to the outside. Back in the ring, Styles took out months of frustration on Daniels with strikes and corner chops and punches. Styles then lost control after he whipped Daniels across the ring to the corner, leading to a kick to the face from Daniels. Daniels then interjected a chair into the match. After some teased moves using the chair, Daniels landed a uranage across the seat of the chair, prompting Styles to sell a back injury.
 
The match moved to the floor, where Daniels jawed with fans ringside in-between smashing Styles into the ring steps. Styles came up bleeding from the forehead before Daniels rolled Styles back into the ring. In the ring, Styles blocked a chair shot before landing a springboard smash that sent the chair into Daniels's face. Daniels rolled to the outside for a breather, but Styles smashed Daniels head-first into the ring steps that Daniels propped up moments earlier. Daniels then came up bleeding from the forehead and staggered into a right hand blow from Styles.
 
At 11:00, Daniels staggered up the entrance ramp to the top of the stage. The two men then traded blows as Daniels teased falling off the stage near the announce position. Styles built a head of steam to send Daniels into oblivion, but Daniels charged him and they double-clotheslined each other. Back on their feet, Styles took control with right hands as the fans chanted for Styles to push Daniels over the stage. Styles paused to hear the chants, which allowed Daniels to block a Clash tease into a back-drop onto the stage. Daniels's control was only momentary, though, as Styles came back with a springboard reverse DDT leaping off a section of the platform to execute his trademark move.
 
The ref started counting out Daniels, but Kazarian came out of nowhere to shove Styles off the stage to the ground below. After reprimanding Kaz, ref Brian Hebner hopped down to Styles to begin a ten count on him. Styles reached his feet at nine, though. Daniels cursed his bad luck, then blasted Styles into a guardrail. Daniels then jogged down to ringside to retrieve a table, which he dragged back toward the stage area.
 
Daniels wanted Angel's Wings through the table, but Styles shoved Daniels into Kaz. Styles followed with a Pele Kick to Daniels. He then wanted the Clash off the ramp and connected through the table below on the ground. Big pop for the move as the announcers went silent to sell the moment. Ref Hebner paused before starting a ten count. Daniels started getting up, but collapsed to the ground. Meanwhile, Styles managed to pull himself up just before ten, then collapsed to the ground after ten. Styles wins.
 
WINNER: Styles at 17:41. Another memorable bout in the Styles-Daniels series, which was enhanced by the Clash off the stage through a table being the finish and not a nearfall. Well-done by both men incorporating the TV feud into this match. (***1/4)

8 -- MASON ANDREWS vs. ZEMA ION vs. KENNY KING vs. SONJAY DUTT -- Ultimate X match for vacant X Division Title
 
The focus was on King early on, and he was the first to tease climbing across the cables toward the X Title belt, but Dutt dropkicked him to the mat. Ion then teased climbing for the belt, but King and Andrews (Scorpio Sky) yanked him down to the mat. Meanwhile, Dutt was taken out of the match when he suffered an apparent injury attempting a running moonsault and landing awkwardly on the bottom rope. So, at least temporarily, it was down to a three-way match. Scorpio Sky made it half-way across the cables toward the belt, but King intercepted him with a mid-air spear.
 
After being "medically evaluated," Dutt returned to the match and scaled the Ultimate X trusses while the other wrestlers battled on the cables. Suddenly, King dropped both he and Sky with a neckbreaker off the cables. Meanwhile, Ion and Dutt climbed to the very tip-top of the structure. They did a spot where Dutt had to look up in order for Ion to spray him in the face with hairspray. Dutt then slowly fell down to the mat, leaving Ion on top of the structure. Ion then reached down and grabbed the title belt, unhooked it, and is the new X Champ.
 
Post-match: Hemme brought in Ion to discuss becoming new X Division champion. As the fans booed, Ion demanded some respect. Ion dedicated this win to all of his haters and critics. But, most of all, he wants to dedicate this win to his biggest inspiration, Jesse Sorensen. "Without you and without breaking your neck, I may never have realized my true potential," Ion said. Ion noted he is now the prettiest X Division champion of all-time.
 
WINNER: Ion at 8:50 to become new X Division champion. TNA is obviously going all the way with an Ion-Sorensen feud if they gave the title to Ion when Ion represented the lack of depth in the X Division after Aries. Overall, an unremarkable finish to the tournament. (*3/4)

[Arcademan]

9 -- TNA World Hvt. champion BOBBY ROODE vs. AUSTIN ARIES -- TNA World Title match
 
Once the bell sounded, JB regained the broadcast and shared a moment he had with Aries in the ring where Aries told him he is so ready for this match. JB also shared his experiences being on the road with Roode, observing his disciplined lifestyle as champion. Aries and Roode went through a feeling-out process early on, exchanging control before coming to a stalemate three minutes in. Aries eventually cleared Roode to the outside and landed a double axehandle to the back. Aries rolled Roode back into the ring to "Next World Champ" chants, but missed with a top-rope splash attempt. Roode then took control of the action.
 
Roode retained control when he side-stepped Aries trying to fly at him with a suicide dive on the outside. After eating the guardrail, Aries sold face-first on the mat before Roode rolled him back into the ring to score a two count on a pin attempt. Roode then went to work on Aries's mid-section as Aries tried to regain his bearings following the suicide dive crash. "Give up! You're not even in my league!" Roode shouted at Aries. Roode continued to taunt Aries, who came up bleeding from the nose. Aries had enough of Roode's taunts and fired off chops and forearms before clotheslining Roode to the floor. Aries then went for the suicide dive, this time connecting on the outside.
 
Back in the ring, Aries landed a missile dropkick before measuring Roode for a corner attack, but Roode intercepted and delivered a powerslam for a nearfall. Roode tried to follow with a spear of sorts, but Aries dipped his mid-section and floated into a Last Chancery submission. Roode countered into a cross-face, though. Moments later, Aries countered into the Last Chancery. Roode teased tapping out, but instead raked Aries's eyes for an escape. The two men then blocked finishing attempts before Roode nailed a spinebuster for a close two count. Aries then missed a desperation corner attack and sold a shoulder injury. Roode followed right up with a cross-face targeting the shoulder and neck. The crowd tried to rally behind Aries, who fought the hold before crawling on his belly to the bottom rope for a break.
 
At 20:00, Roode left the ring and retrieved the title belt. Roode re-entered with possession of the belt, but ref Brian Hebner cut off Roode and sent the belt to the outside. Roode low-blowed Aries during the distraction and made a cover, but Aries kicked out in-time. Roode then argued with the ref, allowing Aries to recover in the corner. Aries then flew at Roode with a corner dropkick before attempting the brainbuster, but Roode escaped and shoved Aries into Hebner. Roode followed right up with a belt shot to the face. Roode then dragged the ref toward a pinning situation, but Aries kicked out just before three.
 
Next, Roode wanted a Fisherman Suplex, but Aries countered into a quick roll-up for a two count. Roode tried again, but Aries slipped out and landed a kick strike to the chest. Aries then followed right up with the brainbuster center-ring. Aries made the cover and it was good for the win as the Impact Zone exploded. New World champ, ending Roode's lengthy title run. Post-match: The announcers excitedly talked up Aries's journey to this moment before confetti fell from the ceiling for Aries to celebrate the moment. Aries smiled and pointed around the ring as Tenay noted Destination X 2012 will always be remembered for when Austin Aries became TNA World Hvt. champion. They signed off nine minutes before the top of the hour.
 
WINNER: Aries at 22:42 to capture the TNA World Title. Excellent, PPV main event-worthy match with a surprising result after Aries stood tall at the end of Impact on Thursday. But, after Ion's win in the Ultimate X match, it seemed like TNA would end on a "feel-good moment" with Aries winning the title, especially after months of cheap finishes for Roode to retain the title. Aries winning makes sense after building momentum on PPV through Bully Ray and Samoa Joe, but it seems like Roode was settling into a groove as top champion. Now, does TNA change the destination of Roode-Storm at Bound for Glory, or does Roode regain the title before the BFG PPV? It should be interesting to see how this plays out. (***1/2)

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 7-9-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed to in-ring results plus some of the other CRAP that went on!

A.J. came out, followed by C.M. Punk and finally Daniel Bryan. Want to know what went on besides a couple of marriage proposals? Click da link! I thought it was kinda cool to have the Mystery RAW GM back...at first.

1 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS vs. JACK SWAGGER -- non-title match

Back from break, Sheamus's music played to bring out the World Hvt. champion as Jack Swagger stood-by in the ring. Sheamus was selling the effects of Alberto Del Rio's beating on the live Smackdown six days ago. Once the bell sounded, Sheamus took it right to Swagger with White Noise followed by an emphatic Brogue Kick for the pin in under one minute.

WINNER: Sheamus at 0:58.

Santino tries to find out who he RAW GM is. Yep...it's going to be one of those nights. I feel sorry for the good folks in Denver.

2 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER & TENSAI vs. TYSON KIDD & IC Champion CHRISTIAN

WWE suddenly cut to the ring, where four men were randomly assembled in the ring for a tag match promoting Smackdown's MITB ladder match. And, Vickie Guerrero was on commentary. After some brief back-and-forth, Sakamoto provided a distraction for Tensai to down Christian, then splash the IC champion for a quick pin and the win. Post-match: Tensai re-targeted Tyson Kidd for another beat down. Dolph and Vickie then high-tailed it away from ringside as Tensai surveyed his damage.

WINNERS: Tensai & Ziggler at 1:35. They're moving too quickly for the audience to digest what's happened since the opening segment.

Cole and Lawler get into an argument...oh wait, RAW GM chimes in. Wrestlemania rematch between the two! Go to WWE.com and vote to see this match.

3 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. DREW MCINTYRE

McIntyre landed an early kick before going up top for a high-flying move, but he ran into a headbutt from Clay. Clay wasted no time following up with a big splash for the pin and the win. Cue up the kids entering the ring to dance as Cole disingenuously said this is what people want from Raw on Monday nights, not Cole vs. Lawler.

WINNER: Clay at 0:35.

4 -- JOHN CENA & KANE vs. CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW

Cena started things off with Jericho and took control of the action, prompting Jericho to scamper over to his corner to tag out to Show. Show then slowly entered the ring to face Cena, who gave way to Kane. The two big men circled each other before trading bombs in the corner. The big men then gave away to Jericho and Cena, who controlled the action before Jericho distracted the ref, which allowed Show to smash Cena from the ring apron. The heels took control on Cena as the show went to break.

Back from break, Show was working on Cena before quieting the crowd to deliver a frying pan-like chop to the chest. Show tried again, but Cena ducked, then tried a bodyslam, but Show fell on top of Cena for a nearfall. Show followed with a bearhug in the middle of the ring, which afforded Cena the opportunity to set up a Feat of Strength side-suplexing Show. Cena then tagged in Kane, who dropkicked Show. Kane tried to follow with a top-rope move, but Show side-stepped Kane and landed a big spear. Show made a cover, but Kane kicked out in time.

Show had enough for now and tagged in Jericho, who double axe-handle smashed Kane off the second rope. Cole talked up Jericho's resume in WWE and role as frontman for "Fozzy" as Jericho continued to work over Kane. Show then cheap-shotted Kane behind the ref's back and they cut to break with Cena complaining about the heels's shenanigans occurring across the ring.

Back from break, Jericho was still working on Kane as Cena tried to rally the crowd. Kane eventually made it to his feet to ram Jericho into the corner before landing a sidewalk slam. Cena desperately wanted a tag, and Kane made the tag at 16:00. Cena exploded on Jericho with trademark offense before setting up for and delivering the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena then wanted the AA, and he connected. Cena made a cover, but Show yanked Cena out of the ring. The ref suddenly called for the bell, apparently throwing out the match. Talk about setting precedent for future inconsistent application of rules.

Post-match: Show chucked Cena into the barricade before clothesline Kane on the floor. Show then went under the ring to retrieve a handful of ladders. He used one ladder to smash Kane, then his own partner, Jericho. Show began playing with the ladders, unable to decide on his next move. "Big Show sucks" chant from the crowd. Show then placed Jericho inside one of the ladders and smashed Jericho with the top rung.

Suddenly, Cena entered the scene with a ladder and blasted the big bully over the top rope. Cena triumphantly hoisted up the ladder as Cole excitedly said that's Cena's equalizer Sunday night. Cole wondered aloud if Cena will be able to win the MITB ladder match. Lawler said what he does know is it's possible to clear out Show, as Cena just demonstrated. Cole also wondered aloud if Cena will make good on his guarantee Sunday night.

WINNERS: No Contest at 16:33. Plenty of tag action to "whet the appetite" for Sunday and promote the idea of Cena as the favorite to win MITB in order to entice PPV buys from Cena's fanbase.

5 -- SIN CARA vs. HEATH SLATER -- Smackdown MITB qualifying match

Slater was already in the ring back from break. Once the bell sounded, the announcers recapped Slater's rough journey against former WWE stars as of late, including taking a Diamond Cutter from DDP last week. Slater worked a headlock early on, but Cara used the mood lighting to his advantage to easily discard Slater with a spinning head scissors into a facebuster for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sin Cara at 1:42; Cara qualifies for SD's MITB match.

Post-match: Slater grabbed the mic and said he is a future champion. He vowed to prove it. Slater requested any former champion to come on down and he guaranteed to beat the person. Suddenly, Bob Backlund's music played to bring out Backlund dressed to wrestle. Cole read Backlund's resume as Bob slowly made his way to the ring smiling for the crowd. Before Backlund even locked up with Slater, a smattering of fans chanted, "You still got it." Backlund then approached Slater for a handshake, which Slater turned into a boot to the gut. Slater mocked Bob, who then ducked a clothesline and slapped on the cross-face chicken wing, which got a pop. Slater tapped as Backlund snapped a la mid-1990s WWF. Backlund eventually released the hold and his music played to cue up a celebration.

6 -- JERRY LAWLER vs. MICHAEL COLE

Back live, the Harlem Heat music was playing. Ringside, Josh Mathews and Booker T were shown joining commentary to call the match, which started with Cole trying to run away. However, Booker made sure Cole stayed in the ring, where Lawler put Cole in the airplane spin. Lawler then made the pin for the win. Post-match: The Raw GM buzzed in again. Mathews stepped up to the podium and said that due to Booker's blatant interference, the decision is reversed and Cole is the winner.

WINNER: Cole via reverse decision at 0:58.

Cole started jumping up and down before Santino's music played. Santino emerged in the arena and said there is only one place left to find the mystery GM. Santino decided to look under the ring, but the GM buzzed in again. Mathews read from the GM, "No, I'm not." The email continued to leave the ring now. Santino decided that was a clue, so he went under the ring, but was pulled underneath. Lawler made the save, though, and yanked out Santino and... Hornswoggle. Everyone reset in the ring, where Swoggle shrugged his shoulders about being the GM tonight. Swoggle then left the ring as Cole, Lawler, and Santino tried to make something out of this segment. WWE cut to Booker and Mathews, who acted dumbfounded by these events. They cut to break with that image. Overall, one of those segments that makes you wonder why you even got out of bed in the morning.

7 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK & A.J. vs. DANIEL BRYAN & EVE

Punk and Bryan started things off trading blows as Cole talked about everything else, including events on tonight's show and what's to come in two weeks on the July 23 Raw recognizing 1,000 episodes. Punk had enough of Bryan, so he tagged in A.J., which meant Eve had to tag in. A.J. stalked Eve, then tackled her and "let her emotion pour out," according to Cole. Eve then wanted a tag to Bryan, but Bryan bailed on his tag partner, which allowed A.J. to roll up Eve from behind for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Punk & A.J. at 3:19.

More stuff happened after the match but I fell asleep. Hopefully for everyone's sake, it'll all end this Sunday but I doubt it.

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact Wrestling results: 7-12-12

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

1 -- JOSEPH PARK vs. BULLY RAY -- Anything Goes match

Ray taunted Park, who put up his dukes to square off against Ray. Park then stumbled across the ring, missing Ray, who slapped him across the back of the head to toy with Park. Four minutes into the show, Tenay referred to DirecTV customers unable to view Impact tonight. Tenay then told viewers to bring a friend over to watch Impact. Meanwhile, Ray continued to toy with Park before pulling out his phone to send out a tweet. Ray had enough of tweeting and went under the ring to retrieve a bunch of weapons to toss into the ring.

Ray went for a chair shot, but Park tackled him and landed sloppy rights and lefts. Park then picked up a chair and stalked Ray, who begged off as Park played to the crowd. The self-distraction allowed Ray to tackle Park and regain control of the action. Tenay then plugged the "first public appearance" by Aries tonight on Impact. So, he hasn't left his house since Sunday? In the ring, Bully set up Park for a big splash on a trashcan lid, but Park moved. Park then fired up with rights and lefts followed by an accidental shoulder tackle. And, Bully cut off Park once more.

Ray went under the ring again and retrieved a black bag, presumably of thumbtacks. Bully proceeded to dump the tacks in the ring, which Tenay noted is a trademark of Park's brother, Abyss. Ray then grabbed a mic and taunted Park before noting he's going to do to him what he should have done to his brother a long time ago. Suddenly, Park drove a cheese grater to Ray's crotchal region before delivering a kendo stick shot. Park made a cover, but Ray kicked out in time. Once again, Park's advantage was short-lived, as Ray regained control with a clothesline. Ray tried to finish off Park with a slam into the tacks, but Park executed a desperation slam into the tacks. It was only good for a two count, though. And, once again, Park's advantage was short-lived, as Ray came right back with a chain shot to the face for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Taz noted the match wasn't as easy for Bully Ray as he thought it would be. Park then stood up and had blood trickling down from his forehead. Ray taunted Park, who suddenly freaked out and hulked up at the sight of his blood. Park suddenly charged at Ray and delivered a Black Hole Slam center-ring. Park went back to being calm as Taz noted he just shocked himself with his actions. Tenay said that blood brought out the monster in Park.

WINNER: Ray at 8:08. The slow-build to Joseph Park realizing he's Abyss continues.

2 -- SAMOA JOE vs. ROB VAN DAM -- BFG Series match

RVD went for an early surfboard submission, selling desperation for points, but Joe easily reached the bottom rope for a break. After a mid-ring struggle that looked like a Sumo Wrestling match, RVD landed a spin kick, which angered Joe, who fired back with a running clothesline. RVD then bailed to the floor for a breather. Back in the ring, Joe slapped on a legbar submission, but RVD reached the ropes for a break. Joe followed with a snap powerslam into a cross arm-breaker submission, but RVD again hit the ropes.

The crowd tried to rally behind RVD, who stopped Joe's momentum with a series of kicks into Rolling Thunder across Joe's back. RVD made a pin for a close two count. In the corner, RVD wanted a monkey flip, but Joe blocked with a running chinbreaker into a figure-four leglock. RVD reached out for the ropes, but Joe pulled him back to center-ring, only to have RVD counter with an inside cradle for a quick pin and the win.

WINNER: RVD at 4:53 to earn 7 BFGS points. Interesting match that wasn't smooth at times, but had a good story of Joe getting greedy aiming for 10 points and RVD using that against him to get points.

3 -- X Division champion ZEMA ION vs. DAKOTA DARSOW -- non-title match

After Ion's cocky heel ring entrance, Darsow decked him with a right hand "fighting for Jesse Sorensen," as described by Tenay. Darsow continued the attack before clotheslining Ion to the outside. As the fight moved to the floor, Tenay offered another DirecTV note, which has nothing to do with the audience able to watch the show. Back in the ring, Darsow continued the assault before Ion came out of nowhere with a neck-snap finisher for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Ion continued the attack, applying an innovative shoulder submission trying to cause injury. Ion eventually dropped the hold as the audience sat quietly. Ion then grabbed the mic and said if Sorensen doesn't want to see any more of his friends get hurt, then Sorensen better realize he's "pretty f'n dangerous."

WINNER: Ion at 2:25. The tourist-based crowd remained very quiet tonight. Poor folks have no idea what's going on.

4 -- KO champion MISS TESSMACHER vs. GAIL KIM -- Knockouts Title match

Gail, angered like Bobby Roode seeing the title on someone else, was the aggressor early on. On commentary, Brooke said she's getting her sea legs under her after trying to settle into a Knockouts supervisory role. Brooke offered an announcement that Tessmacher is going to be on Spike TV's Comic Con All-Access Live show tomorrow night. Brooke added that she learned from her father, Hulk, that being humble gets you far.

Back in the ring, Tessmacher made a comeback with a faceplant. Brooke remained silent during Tessmacher's comeback before chiming in as Tessmacher came off the top rope with a flying elbow for the pin and the win. "I'm so proud of her," Brooke whispered on commentary. After a replay of the finish, Tenay thanked Brooke for joining them on commentary for this "important Knockouts Title match."

WINNER: Tessmacher at 5:24 to retain the KO Title. Brooke is under a microscope, so she seemed reluctant to dominate the conversation and let the announcers do their thing. The match was fine, but there was no sense of the title being in jeopardy.

5 -- KURT ANGLE vs. MR. ANDERSON -- BFG Series match

Anderson used Angle's over-aggressiveness against him early on, trying to slow things down with a mat-based armbar. Angle fired back with punches and stomps in the corner, driving Anderson to the mat before placing a boot on his face. Anderson came back with a dropkick, though, before walking right into a belly-to-belly suplex from Angle. Angle landed a boot to the face before Tenay sent the show to break with a quiet crowd in the background.

Back live post-commercial teaser, Angle was still in control. Anderson then landed a back suplex to get a breather. As the ref applied a ten count, Tenay went back to the DirecTV info, which is being relayed to people who don't have DirecTV. After the third reference, it comes across like Impact is trying to promote the DirecTV service to non-satellite customers.

Angle and Anderson exchanged close pin attempts before Tenay plugged Hogan & Sting "wanting to go old-school" tonight. Angle applied an anklelock at 10:15, and Anderson fought the hold for 30 seconds before Angle yanked Anderson back to center-ring. Anderson managed to break free, then hit the Mic Check on Angle for a super-close nearfall when Angle nearly did not roll the shoulder in-time. After both men sold on the mat, Angle beat Anderson to the punch with the Angle Slam for a decisive pin and the win.

Post-match: Angle came up bleeding heavily from the mouth. Meanwhile, Anderson rolled out of the ring as Angle celebrated in the ring. They cut to a shot of Anderson selling the ankle on the floor before cutting back to Angle, who was selling an injury to his shoulder or chest muscle as he slowly left the ring. Angle continued to bleed from the mouth, then shook off the pain and raised his arms in the air for the crowd.

WINNER: Angle at 11:42 to earn 7 BFGS points. Okay match. They didn't seem to get things started until late, then the finish seemingly came out of nowhere.

[Arcademan]

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report).

1 - JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. HUNICO

To change things up a bit, Scott Stanford is teamed with Matt Striker instead of Josh Mathews in the booth.

There's some nice technical work to start things off. Then they switch to a faster pace. A bit of a stiffer brawling style comes out as the intensity is turned up. Justin Gabriel with the Move of the Month: Hunico is on the outside and Gabriel jumps from the apron, lands on Hunico's shoulders, and huracanrana's him into the barrier in one smooth motion. Camacho looks stunned. I know I was. Camacho distracts Gabriel, letting Hunico recover a bit followed by a nice sequence of covers and reversals.

Gabriel with a crucifix pin attempt out of the break, but Hunico gains control. Gabriel with a flurry of kicks to get a nearfall. Hunico with a sick gutwrech almost-powerbomb for a nearfall. Hunico tosses Gabriel right over his head. Gabriel with a second rope moonsault, but he goes over Hunico, tries a neckbreaker, but Hunico reverses it into a reverse DDT for a close call. Hunico to the top rope, but Gabriel dodges the Swanton Bomb and gets a knee up to the back of Hunico's head, yikes. Gabriel floats over into the cover for two-and-seven-eighths. Gabriel to the top, but Camacho distracts him, so Hunico crotches Gabriel. Struggle on the turnbuckle, and Hunico wants a belly-to-back superplex, but in mid-air Gabriel reverses into a crossbody; Hunico rolls through the cover, grabs a fistful of tights, and steals the win.

WINNER: Hunico in 10:00. Every time these two meet, it is a clinic, and tonight raised the bar even further. Reversal after reversal, counters, and a variety of styles make this a must-see match.

2 - ALICIA FOX & KAITLYN vs. BETH PHOENIX & NATALYA - Tag Team Match

Before the match, when Phoenix's music came on, you can see a lot of folks in the ring going nuts for her. They really need to repair her character and make her a clear face or heel. There's just nothing heelish about her, and too many people respect her work and enjoy watching her dissect people to keep her heel. She's like Kane in that regard.

Fox and Natalya start, and Natalya take it to Fox. Fox spanks Natalya, so Natalya beats the snot out of her. Fox trades speed for power, and brings Kaitlyn in. Natalya takes Kaitlyn in the corner and Phoenix gets tagged in. Cross body takes Phoenix down for two. Fox clears the ring of both opponents. Phoenix can't believe that Fox is keeping up with her, and Natalya comes in, then Fox tags in Kaitlyn, whose knee the heels target. Kaitlyn can't get a break. The action breaks down, but Fox gets dumped out of the ring. Kaitlyn surprises Phoenix with an inside cradle for the win.

WINNERS: Alicia Fox and Kaitlyn in 4:50. I really feel like WWE is trying to find out if the audience will buy either Fox or Kaitlyn as a stand-in for Kelly Kelly. Matt Striker spent most of the match talking up Kaitlyn, but he usually does. I honestly think that Kaitlyn is the more likely of the two to pull it off, she has a better look, and a lot more charisma than Fox. The really need to have a Diva other than Beth Phoenix win a match with an actual move instead of a roll-up.

3. ALEX RILEY vs. JINDER MAHAL

The crowd is hot for Riley, as usual. They tussle for a while up-front, then Mahal finally gets the upper hand and proceeds with his usual offense. Riley with a short-lived comeback.

Mahal is still in charge. Striker: "What is a 'broski' anyways, is that Polish?" Riley is finally able to mount sustained offense. Riley to the top for a flying clothesline and a two count. Mahal wants the Camel Clutch, but Riley slips out and jackknifes for a two count. Riley dodges Mahal's running high knee, but whiffs on an enziguiri. Mahal struggles to get the Camel Clutch on, but when he does, Riley taps.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal in 10:30. Good match between these two. Alex Riley has an insane amount of crowd support, and WWE really should do something more with him considering he has good mic and in-ring skills.

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 7-13-12

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

1 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. SIN CARA

During Cara’s entrance, they replayed Del Rio beating him down on Raw two weeks ago before their scheduled match. Cara went after Del Rio with punches but Del Rio clotheslined Cara from his knees. Vertical suplex and a two-count from Del Rio. Following a missed corner charge, Cara again aggressively went after Del Rio. DDT for a near-fall. Del Rio missed a feet-first dive and went through the ropes. He landed on the apron, then took a spill to the floor when Cara kicked him in the head. Cara then dove through the ropes onto Del Rio. They cut to break at 2:43.

Back at 5:35 of the match. Cara was still on offense, until Del Rio chopped him and headbutted him when Cara went to the top rope. Shoulder-breaker by ADR for two at 6:16. Cara attempted a comeback, but was felled with a tilt-a-whirl back-breaker. Del Rio isolated the shoulder and went to work on it. Missed charge by Del Rio led to a headscissors take-down by Cara. DDT by Cara (Del Rio flipped before he took the brunt of the move) for a near-fall. Cara went off the top but missed a Swanton. Del Rio smelled blood and applied the cross arm-breaker for the submission win.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 9:35. One of Cara’s longer singles matches in his WWE tenure. He got more offense in than I expected, but he’s on the PPV too so they probably wanted to keep him relatively strong.

2 – DARREN YOUNG vs. PRIMO

Both men’s tag partners were at ringside with them, as well as Rosa Mendes. A.W. again had the mic gimmick where his headset was heard throughout the arena. Primo got his boots up on a charge then took Young down with a flying headscissors off the second rope. Primo and Titus O’Neil shared some unpleasantries outside the ring. Back in, Primo walked into a hot-shot from Young. Young dropped a leg across the throat of Primo on the apron. Neck-breaker by Young for two. Primo turned the tide with chops and a springboard cross-body. However, Young rolled through and put Primo on his shoulders. Backstabber by Primo was attempted, but Young held the ropes. Inside cradle by Primo for the win.

WINNER: Primo, at 4:07. Fine match, but it looks like the tag division is falling victim to everyone trading wins and no one getting over. The PTP’ers should be put over strong heading into their tag title match.

3 – CHRISTIAN & SANTINO MARELLA vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & CODY RHODES

Rhodes pointed to the MITB briefcase hanging above the ring after a shoulder knock-down of Christian. Well, it’s not the Wrestlemania banner, but it’ll do. Christian worked the arm and tagged Santino in. “I want nothing to do with you,” Rhodes told Marella. He tagged out to Ziggler to avoid facing the United States Champion. Ziggler got the better of Santino, leading to Marella hip-tossing Ziggler out of the corner. Booker admitted that looking back on it, he didn’t try as hard as he should have to win the MITB match he was in. Christian fought out of the heel corner, but was thrown off on a Tornado DDT attempt. Patented Ziggler dropkick for two. Cole proclaimed Ziggler his favorite to win the MITB match. Rhodes took Christian up for a suplex, let him think about it, then brought him back down. The announcing was just a mess here. Marella tagged in as did Ziggler. Marella connected on his signature moves before bringing out the Cobra. Rhodes attacked him from behind, but Christian deal with him. Ziggler hit the Zig Zag on Marella for three.

WINNERS: Ziggler and Rhodes, at 5:35. I’d almost prefer a TNA-like presentation where the guys are interviewed backstage about what winning MITB would mean to them, a la the BFG Series interviews, rather than tag matches that don’t really build much for the match.

4 – THE BIG SHOW vs. THE GREAT KHALI

Show and Khali exchanged chops, which I’m convinced is the only way fans can get into their matches. Khali celebrated, but Show nailed him out of nowhere with a knockout punch.

WINNER: Show, at :34. Good strong showing for Show heading into the MITB.

5 – TYLER REKS vs. RYBACK

During the entrance of Reks and Curt Hawkins, they showed Hawkins getting destroyed by Ryback last week. Reks got the mic and said he’d hand Ryback his very first loss tonight. Reks took the fight to Ryback in the corner with boots and punches, but he made the mistake of hitting the ropes. Ryback connected on a big boot, then sent him to the outside. Mathews said Ryback eats 8-10 large meals every day. Belly-to-belly suplex by Ryback. Some more offense for Reks before a clothesline decked him. Finisher by Ryback ended it.

WINNER: Ryback, at 1:50. I love the “It’s Monday” sign someone had in the crowd. Ryback at least gets to show off more (safer) moves when he’s climbing the ladder of competition.

6 – JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. DAMIEN SANDOW

No pre-match comments from Sandow. Back heel trip by Gabriel after he landed on his feet on a hip-toss attempt. Side Russian leg sweep, then an elbowdrop for two at :28. Kick to the back of the head by Gabriel, but Sandow grabbed him and gave him a number of knees to the mid-section. Neck-tie neck-breaker from Sandow for the win.

WINNER: Sandow, at 1:28. Still haven’t seen much of Sandow in the ring to make a judgment call about his work, so it’ll be interesting to see him on Sunday.

7 – SHEAMUS vs. CHRIS JERICHO

The match began as soon as the show returned from break. Jericho made the mistake of slapping Sheamus, which only made the Great White angrier. Jericho went to ringside, then back in when he was chased. Sheamus propelled himself into the ring over the top rope, catching Jericho with a shoulder tackle. Dropkick by Jericho caught the World Champ by surprise. Sheamus came back with knees in the corner, then those overhead forearms he’s known for. He bumped Jericho off the apron and onto the announce table at ringside. Sheamus sent Jericho head-first into the apron, then they cut to the final break at 3:06.

Back at 6:02, with Cole noting that it was a brawl at ringside during most of the time away. Jericho missed a corner charge and went shoulder-first into the ring post. Knee-lift found the mark on Jericho, as did a back-breaker for two at 7:20. An eye rake by Jericho turned the tide, but Sheamus shrugged off a Codebreaker. Sheamus got hung up on the top rope on a Brogue Kick attempt and Jericho dropkicked him. Lionsault hit for a two-count. Again, Jericho’s attacked was not sustained. Jericho countered Sheamus to lock in the Walls of Jericho. Sheamus reached the bottom rope, forcing a break. White Noise was turned into the Walls again. He had this one in for some time before Sheamus finally reversed the move after coming close to tapping out. Jericho ran at Sheamus, but Sheamus hit White Noise for only a two-count. Both men were slow to re-group, but Sheamus signaled for the Brogue Kick. He missed and Jericho connected on the Codebreaker. Jericho, still struggling to get his bearings, crawled to a cover. Sheamus kicked out at two at 12:26. Sheamus came off the top and Jericho caught him with a Codebreaker. Both men doing a good job of selling the effects of the match here. Sheamus again kicked out at two. Jericho yelled for Sheamus to get up, and as he ran toward him Sheamus Brogue Kicked him.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 14:50.

The finish was replayed and Sheamus began to walk to the back with the title. Even the TitanTron read “Zackdown” instead of “Smackdown.” When Sheamus reached the top of the ramp, Alberto Del Rio’s music hit. His car came out to its usual spot in the arena, but Del Rio attacked Sheamus from behind with a kick to the head. Del Rio kicked Sheamus off the stage and applied the cross arm-breaker on Sheamus against the stage. Rodriguez was the one driving the car. Referees came out to break up Del Rio’s attack. They played his music to end the show.

[Arcademan]

The remaining wrestling results for the month of July can be found at the Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread. Link is below by signature picture.

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 7-30-12 (next 2 posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Very condensed here since it's now a three hour show and 'taking you back at what happened moments ago' or 'here's what went down last week' really does stretch out a show.

HOUR ONE- Fire before the start of the show so no pyros tonight. Lots of CM Punk to kick off the show though.

1 -- U.S. champion SANTINO vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO -- non-title match

Del Rio picked apart Santino, testing the limits of the referee's five count. Santino suddenly found some offense and knocked Del Rio to the outside. Del Rio acted stunned as they cut to commercial. Yes, this match is getting two segments instead of being a basic squash.

Back live, Del Rio was in control of the match as Cole requested Tout responses to Punk's explanation in the opening segment. Del Rio continued to work over Santino before applying an arm submission. Santino escaped, then fought back, only to take a knee to the temple. Del Rio continued a slow assault on Santino, who suddenly yanked out the Cobra, only to take a smash into the ringpost. Del Rio then slapped on the cross arm-breaker and Santino was forced to tap out.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 7:35. When people were thinking about matches they would like to see given extended TV time now that Raw is three hours, this isn't what people had in mind. Apparently one-minute squash matches will be extended another 5-10 minutes to fill the time going forward.

HOUR TWO- Yes, one extended squash match and a whole lot of recapping events.

2 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- non-title match -- Street Fight

Bryan started the match with kick blasts to Sheamus, who absorbed the blows before delivering a backbreaker for a two count. Bryan came back with a corner kick targeting Sheamus's arm. Meanwhile, Lawler congratulated A.J. on a job well-done so far tonight. The match moved to the floor, where Sheamus rammed Bryan into the guardrail before back-dropping him onto the entrance ramp. The match moved to the stage, where Sheamus bounced Bryan's head off the platform WWE logo. Sheamus took too much time playing to the crowd, allowing Bryan to cut off Sheamus before delivering multiple Yes! kicks. Bryan then built some momentum and dropkicked Sheamus off the stage to the floor below. Sheamus sold an ankle injury, then Bryan came flying off the stage with a running kick. Bryan was in control heading to break.

Back live on Raw, Bryan was working on Sheamus's left arm while shouting, "Yes!" toward the crowd. Sheamus eventually broke free of Bryan's submission hold before accepting a knee to the gut. Bryan then dropkicked Sheamus through the ropes as Cole noted Eve is not happy with A.J. as the new Raw GM.

The match moved to the floor, where Sheamus overhead-slammed Bryan into the guardrail after intercepting Bryan in mid-air. Sheamus then spread out Bryan across the guardrail and landed his trademark Ten Punches to the chest. Sheamus followed with a suplex over the guardrail to the floor. Sheamus then went under the ring and retrieved a chair and Kendo Stick. Bryan quickly pushed both out of the ring, so Sheamus clotheslined Bryan over the top rope to the floor. Sheamus was slow to follow up, which allowed Bryan to blast Sheamus across the face with a Kendo Stick. Bryan followed with multiple stick shots inside the ring as the crowd chanted, "No!" with each blow.

Bryan left the ring to retrieve the chair, then wedged it in the corner. Sheamus used the interval to retrieve the stick and blast Bryan with it, but then Bryan ducked a stick shot and dropkicked Sheamus and the stick into the chair in the corner. Big oohs from the crowd. Bryan made a cover, but Sheamus kicked out in-time. On the floor again, Sheamus recovered and blasted Bryan with multiple weapon shots. Bryan and Sheamus teased moves, then Bryan shoved Sheamus into the ringpost.

As Sheamus recovered ringside, Bryan slid ring steps into the ring, then whipped Sheamus into the ringside guardrail. Back in the ring, Bryan tried to grab the Kendo Stick, but Sheamus intercepted, leading to a tug of war. Sheamus then yanked Bryan into him, walked up the ring steps, and wanted White Noise, but Bryan shoved him away. But, Sheamus rebounded off the ropes and nailed a Brogue Kick onto the ring steps. Sheamus yanked Bryan off the steps to the mat and covered him for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 14:06. When people were thinking about matches they would like to see given extended TV time now that Raw is three hours, this is what people had in mind. Another excellent TV match on Bryan's resume and Sheamus continues to grow as a top babyface being able to back up his championship status with tough-guy wins. (***)

3 -- WWE tag champion KOFI KINGSTON (w/WWE tag champion R-Truth vs. TITUS O'NEIL (w/Darren Young and AW)

As Titus took control early on, AW offered a very dated joke about Titus being like Kobe Bryant at a hotel in Colorado. A more relevant attempted joke would have been Kobe losing his shirt at a party in London. Titus continued to dominate Kofi before Kofi came back with a flying clothesline into the Boom Drop. Young decided now was the time to get involved, which drew Truth onto the ring apron to clothesline him. AW then shouted at Kofi before throwing his shoe at his back. Kofi turned around, grabbed the shoe, and chucked AW's shoe toward him on the entrance ramp. But, Kofi turned around and ate the Clash of Titus for the pin and the win. Cue up AW's post-match celebration.

WINNER: O'Neil at 2:52.

HOUR THREE- I heard someone said this was a great two hour show...that was unfortunately stretched into three.

4 -- RANDY ORTON vs. HEATH SLATER

Slater was the aggressor early on, driving Orton into the corner. But, Orton came back with punches, clotheslines, and a trademark snap powerslam. Orton then set up Slater for a trademark DDT from the second rope and connected. The crowd was nuts for Orton, who got into position for the RKO. Orton got ready to strike and connected with the RKO center-ring. Orton with the pin for the win. Afterward, Orton let out two months of pent-up energy with a post-match celebration in front of a hot crowd. WWE replayed the high points from Orton's return before cutting back live to show Orton standing tall in the corner.

WINNER: Orton at 1:18. That's a return.

5 -- CHRIS JERICHO & CHRISTIAN vs. IC champion THE MIZ & DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Just before the bell sounded, the announcers stressed Raw permanently moving to three hours. Ziggler and Christian started things off, Ziggler showed off, and Christian popped Ziggler in the face to begin things. Ziggler had enough of Christian, so Miz tagged in. Miz took offense from Christian, then decided to tag in Ziggler. Christian then tagged in Jericho, which led to Ziggler tagging out to Miz. Lots of gamesmanship early on. Jericho then took control of the match by clotheslining Ziggler over the top rope, dumping Miz to the outside, and setting up Christian for a flying splash from the top rope. The heels recovered on the floor as Raw went to break.

Back from break, Cleveland was on top of Canada on points. Meanwhile, Vickie was shown holding Ziggler's MITB briefcase, prepared to use it as a weapon. Jericho eventually tagged in Christian, who decked Ziggler with right hands, then landed a slap to the face. Christian followed with an elbow smash from the second rope, then a sunset flip for a close two count. Christian continued to show aggressiveness, smashing Miz off the ring apron, but then ran into a dropkick from Ziggler for a close two count. The heels then worked over Christian for a few minutes, but they were unable to put Christian away.

Jericho eventually took a hot tag at 12:00 and cleaned house. Jericho bulldogged Miz, then went for the Lionsault and connected. The action broke down with all four men in the ring, then Christian snapped Ziggler with a spear. But, Miz posted Christian. Jericho then caught Miz with the Walls of Jericho, but Miz countered out and then big-booted Jericho. Impressive. Miz wanted the Skullcrushing Finale, and WWE inexplicably went to a split-screen replay, which gave away that Jericho would escape Miz's finisher. After Jericho escaped, Christian smashed Miz from behind, which led to Jericho landing a Codebreaker on Miz for the pin.

WINNERS: Jericho & Christian at 13:23. Solid, very physical tag match. The post-match continued to build toward Jericho-Ziggler at Summerslam...

Post-match, Ziggler smashed Jericho from behind with his MITB briefcase. Ziggler stood over Jericho, then left the ring to stand tall with Vickie. They cut to a shot of Jericho, who had a small cut on his forehead, as he recovered in the ring.

[Arcademan]

6 -- TENSAI vs. TYSON KIDD

Tensai waited for Kidd to wear himself out, then began dominating Kidd. Meanwhile, the vocal males picked up an "Albert, Albert" chant. Kidd was shown bleeding from the forehead as the camera zoomed in on Kidd as he was locked in a submission. Kidd broke free, then nearly scored a pin on a roll-up. Kidd followed with a top-rope Blockbuster, but Tensai kicked out in time. Kidd tried to follow with strikes, but Tensai blasted him with a two-hand bomb. Tensai followed with a giant splash for the pin and the win.

Post-match, Tensai picked up Kidd and dismantled him with clotheslines and power offense as the ref called for the bell. Tensai then finished off Kidd with a shoulderbreaker. The referee had enough and decided to reverse his decision and award Kidd the win. More refs then came out to try to get Tensai out of the ring as Sakamoto stood off in the corner. Tensai then brought Sakamoto toward him, slapped him, and chucked Sakamoto out of the ring. Raw cut to another Bryan segment.

WINNER: Kidd via reverse decision at 2:14. There's just no sense of advancement for the Tensai character.

7 -- JOHN CENA vs. BIG SHOW -- #1 contender match to WWE Title

As the crowd picked up a dueling chant of "Let's Go Cena / Cena Sucks," Show knocked down Cena and began dismantling him very early on. Cena sold near-unconsciousness less than a minute in as Show taunted him. Cole then rattled off the names of past WWE champions who Punk could surpass if he remains champion another month. Show continued to slowly dismantle Cena as Punk cut a promo on Lawler's commentary and the crowd continued their dueling chant. Show then missed with a big open-hand slap and Cena hopped on Show's back to apply a modified sleeperhold. Show fought the hold, then rammed Cena into the corner to escape. But, Cena reversed a powerslam into another sleeperhold. Punk and Lawler continued to trade barbs as Cena put Show on the mat with the sleeper. Show then fell on the mat and Cena covered Show, but Show press-slammed Cena clear out of the ring to escape the pin attempt. They cut to break with Punk intently watching the TV monitor.

Back from break, Show was in control of the action as Cole reset the match. Cena tried to fight back against Show, but ran into a brick-wall. Show then stepped across Cena's chest before taunting the ringside fans. Show then squashed Cena in the corner and taunted Punk ringside, asking him how he's going to stop him. Punk said he thinks it's great that Show is more concerned with him at ringside than his opponent right now. Lawler then asked Punk about whether he's changed since becoming champ. Punk said he thinks the WWE champion should be spotlighted and respected. Lawler retorted that the title should be respected, but not necessarily the champion.

At 10:00, Show locked Cena in a bearhug center-ring. Cena tried fighting the hold as Show tried to tighten his grip. Cena fought out, then tried a bodyslam, but Show fell on top of Cena for a two count. Show then called for the Chokeslam as Cena slowly made his way to his feet. Show grabbed Cena around the throat, but Cena countered with a mid-air DDT. Both men sold on the mat before Cena reached his feet, charged Show, and ran into a sidewalk slam from Show.

At the top of the hour, Show slowly pulled himself to his feet, then climbed to the second rope. Show wanted a Vader Bomb, but Cena rolled out of the way just in time. Cena then landed a shoulder tackle that took Show off his feet. Cena followed with a sit-out slam, then called for the Five Knuckle Shuffle. He delivered it, Show popped to his feet, and grabbed Cena around the throat for a giant chokeslam. Show immediately covered Cena, but Cena kicked out just before three. Cena then rolled out of the ring as WWE replayed Show's atomic wedgie chokeslam that only resulted in a nearfall.

The match moved to ringside, where Show rolled Cena back into the ring. Show then punched Cena in the gut and Cena rolled to the outside again. Show and Cena had an exchange that resulted in Show shoving Cena clear over the announce table into Punk's lap, knocking out both men. Show rolled back into the ring as the ref began applying a ten count, then Cena leaped back into the ring just before ten. Show grimaced as Punk sold a shoulder injury resting on the floor next to the announce table.

At 16:00, Show called for the KO Punch as Cena slowly recovered across the ring. Cena ducked the KO Punch, though, then lifted up Show for an AA. However, Punk entered the ring and blasted Cena, causing the match to be thrown out without a decision.

WINNER: No Contest at 16:17.

Post-match: Punk then popped Show in the head with a kick. Lawler said he knows the bell has rung, but he doesn't know what the decision is. Punk continued to sell his shoulder as Show and Cena remained KO'ed in the ring.

Punk then slipped out of the ring, yanked the mic from Justin Roberts, grabbed his title belt, and returned to the ring. Punk said the winner of this contest is...nobody. Punk said they are both losers. Punk dropped the mic and left the ring as both Cena and Show sold in the ring. Punk shook off his shoulder, then marched up the stage. Punk was about to leave with focus on him, but A.J. emerged on-stage. Punk kept walking and disappeared, then A.J. announced that Punk will defend his WWE Title at Summerslam against Big Show...pause...and John Cena in a triple threat match. A.J. smiled, then Punk re-emerged on-stage and told A.J. that she's crazy. Punk told her she's a bad GM. He shouted that A.J. can't do this to him. Punk told A.J. to show him some respect as A.J. just smiled and batted her eyes. They signed off six minutes past the top of the hour with Punk furious with A.J.

[Arcademan]

Due to circumstances beyond my control, there will no longer be Wrestling results posted in this messageboard at this time however I will continue to post results in the following forums:

ComicBloc Forum: Official Wrestling Thread
-Membership to forum required to view the thread.
-Lots of discussions plus usual real-time RAW posts every Monday.

Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread
-Membership not required to view thread however required to participate in discussions.
-Over 8 years of posted TV and PPV results.

Both threads also have real-time pay-per-view posts when available.

Hopefully the wrestling thread in this messageboard will continue on with discussions and if time permits, I may post upcoming news and information. Thank you for allowing me to set up and enhance a wrestling thread and I apologize for any inconvenience that may occur from my personal decision to no longer carry results in this forum and/or messageboard. Thank you.

[Arcademan]

William Moody passed away at 58 today. Better known to the most of the world as Paul Bearer, the manager and father of The Undertaker and Kane. Here's a nice tribute via PWInsider.com:

WILLIAM 'PAUL BEARER' MOODY PASSES AWAY
 By Mike Johnson on 2013-03-05 23:11:02
 We are heartbroken to report the passing of William "Paul Bearer" Moody, one of the top managers of the 1980s and 1990s. He would have been 59 next month.
 
Details aren't known as of this writing, but Moody had openly told several that he hadn't been feeling well for some time. He had pulled himself off some of his regular bookings next month, citing that he wasn't feeling well.
 
Moody was a lifelong wrestling fan (he and Michael Hayes were friends way before either broke into the business) before breaking in the Gulf Coast area as a photographer. After serving in the military, he returned to pro wrestling as a manager in Championship Wrestling from Florida, Percy Pringle III, not realizing at the time that he was indeed the third person to use the name.
 
Pringle would move onto World Class Championship Wrestling, where his high pitched promos, heavyset body and platinum blonde hair provided the perfect foil for the buff, cut, ripped, chiseled and jacked Rick Rude, who had a run as the World Class champion. He also managed the Dingo Warrior, who would go on to morph into the more famous Ultimate Warrior.
 
Amazingly, the Pringle character would eventually turn babyface, aligning with Eric Embry in his war against Skandar Akbar's Devastation, Inc. during a storyline that saw the USWA name replace the WCCW name during a time period where the Jarretts took over control of the company from the Von Erichs. While the storyline was entertaining as hell (and still holds up today), it was also the last hurrah for the promotion and in some ways, Texas wrestling.
 
In 1990, Pringle signed with WWE (WWE actually signed Konnan the same day, although his run was much shorter) and was immediately paired with The Undertaker after being re-christened as Paul Bearer. With jet black hair and ghoulish make-up, Moody was the perfect mouthpiece and mascot for the Undertaker during the heyday of Taker's undead persona, leading the way to the ring while carrying the mystical urn that held the power of the Undertaker.
 
The two were immediately inseparable as an act. Moody was in many ways born to play the role, as he was, in real life, an actual mortician, a job he returned to after leaving WWE full-time.
 
We all know the story. The streak. WWF title runs. Feuds with Ultimate Warrior, Hulk Hogan, The Rock, Mankind and any and every major name that came through the WWF and WWE doors from 1990 on. The duo were made to be together.
 
But in pro wrestling, nothing is ever forever and WWF actually booked Pringle to turn on Undertaker to side with Mick Foley's Mankind. The heel turn led to the introduction of another of WWE's longest tenured performers, Kane, who was the illegitimate son of Paul Bearer and Undertaker's mother in a story so convoluted that WWE jumped back and forth over the lines of good taste and continuity in order to tell it.
 
In the end, Undertaker went back to the dark side and was reunited with Bearer again. The pair remained together until 2000 when Moody was removed from TV and worked for the company as a talent scout and road agent/producer. He eventually left and made some forgotten appearances in TNA.
 
WWE wanted him back but Moody initially refused, citing his weight. It had gotten away from him and he was morbidly obsese, by his own admission. WWF signed him and paid for Moody to undergo gastric bypass surgery. Moody would tell everyone that WWE saved and lengthened his life with the surgery.
 
The Bearer persona returned with the return of the undead version of the Undertaker at Wrestlemania 20. Fittingly, it was against Kane. He remained with Taker until a silly storyline where he was kidnapped by Paul Heyman and the Dudley Boyz that climaxed with Bearer trapped in a concrete crypt and if Undertaker didn't agree to lose to the Dudleys, a switch would be thrown, filling the chamber. Undertaker won the match, then flipped the switch, effectively killing off the character, although since WWE didn't "do" murder - the explanation was that Bearer was badly hurt and he was written off.
 
Moody was done with the company at that point, but returned to once again turn on Undertaker during a storyline feud with Kane during another reprisal of that feud. This led to a storyline where Edge later kidnapped him to torment Kane. Beyond a few cameos for comedic purposes, including a funny bit where Kane left him trapped in a meat freezer, the Bearer character was not used again.
 
Moody was still active, however on the indy scene, working as a manager and appearing at different conventions and signings. He popped up in ROH for a show and filmed a number of excellent DVD interviews about his career. He was a regular on Championship Wrestling from Hollywood TV. He tried his hands at promoting independently in the Gulf Coast and was very proud of his son, Michael, getting into the business. He regularly conversed with fans via Twitter, Facebook and his website. Through it all, he loved pro wrestling as much as he did when he was just a fan.
 
There are going to be a lot of people very saddened by Moody's passing and with good reason. He was loved by just about everyone. I talk to a lot of wrestlers and all of them have gripes and complaints about each other, promoters, etc. I can't remember one negative thing ever said about the man. In pro wrestling, that's pretty damn rare.
 
If there is one silver lining, it's that Moody is no longer left behind by his late wife Dianna, who passed away following a long battle with cancer. Moody spoke often and lovingly of her and how much he missed her, both privately and publicly during interviews. There was an obvious sadness and pain that he never recovered from after she passed away. One can only hope they are happily reunited in whatever the next world truly is.
 
There's no doubt that Percy, as everyone called him, left a unique, colorful mark on the world of pro wrestling. More importantly, he left as much of a mark on everyone he encountered. He was a good man. For all of that and so much more that can't ever be properly conveyed with words, we thank him. We will deeply miss him here at PWInsider.com, where he was a very good friend and supporter of the site.
 
We'd like to again express our deepest condolences to Percy's friends, family and fans. He was one of a kind.

[Arcademan]

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's real-time report).
Pre-Show Match...
 
A -- IC champion WADE BARRETT vs. THE MIZ -- Intercontinental Title match
 
The stadium looked completely packed, unlike during the pre-show last year in Miami when empty seats could be seen atop the stadium. In the ring, Barrett controlled the action early on as the crowd felt out the match. Barrett cut off Miz's comeback, then teased The Bullhammer elbow, but Miz ducked. Miz flowed right into the figure-four leglock center-ring. Barrett reached for the ropes, then finally reached back to grab the bottom rope.
 
Barrett then used the ref to cause confusion allowing Barrett to nail Wasteland for a very close two count. Miz then took down Barrett by the ankle and flowed right into the figure-four leglock. It appeared he practiced that all week, as it looked clean. Barret then tapped out, giving Miz the win and the IC Title. After the match, Miz celebrated in the ring, then celebrated with family members on the front row.
 
WINNER: Miz via submission at 4:06 to capture the Intercontinental Title.
 
Of note, it's now raining in the stadium.

The opening match is Orton, Sheamus and Big Show vs The Shield.

Hunker down folks...it's going to be a long night.