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

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 11-29-10

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

1 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO -- King of the Ring tournament first round match

Del Rio took early control as the crowd chanted Bryan's name. Cole recapped the origins of the tournament as Del Rio continued to work on Bryan. Moments later, Bryan busted out the LeBell Lock out of nowhere, but Del Rio fought to the ropes to force a break. Del Rio rolled to the outside and caught his breath as they cut to break.

Back from break, Del Rio was in control after landing an enziguiri kick. Del Rio continued to stomp and kick on Bryan while Cole plugged Out-think The Fink. Bryan made a comeback and scored a two count on a roll-up before scoring another nearfall via a crucifix pin. Bryan followed with an uppercut before flipping over Del Rio and landing a German Suplex for a two count. Bryan then fired up, got the crowd behind him, and landed a big flying dropkick in the corner for another nearfall. Del Rio then ducked a clothesline and came back with a German Suplex of his own for a two count.

Del Rio missed with an attack near the ropes, then Bryan came flying through the ropes with a suicide dive that sent both men crashing into the guardrail. Bryan sold the shoulder injury from last week, which was key for the finish. Back in the ring, Bryan climbed up top and missed with a missile dropkick. Del Rio got that look in his eyes and instantly capitalized with the cross-arm breaker submission. Bryan immediately tapped, giving Del Rio the win. He will face Morrison or Rhodes.

WINNER: Del Rio at 9:40 to advance to the second round. Good, solid TV match. (**)

2 -- CODY RHODES vs. JOHN MORRISON -- King of the Ring tournament first round match

Punk tried to introduce some "over the audience's head" commentary on winning a make-believe King of the Ring tournament in Rio De Janeiro, like Pat Patterson winning the first IC Title. Punk followed with a Ted Turner reference and a loose Vince McMahon reference on his haircut. Rhodes took control of the match as the announcers discussed Miz as new WWE champion. Morrison made a comeback and landed a leg whip for a two count. Both men went for a springboard Chuck Kick, but Morrison landed his. Morrison then hit a flying knee to the face for the pin for the win. Morrison gets Del Rio in the second round.

WINNER: Morrison at 3:38. Not much chemistry in the ring and the chemistry on commentary was far worse. It was awful listening to that banter. (*)

3 -- EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. DREW MCINTYRE -- King of the Ring tournament first round match

McIntyre acted cocky early on, which drew a big clothesline from Jackson in the corner. Jackson followed with a forearm to the back of the head while McIntyre was trying to loosen the turnbuckle pad. Mac then rammed Jackson into the exposed steel, which Punk pointed out he called while the announcers doubted him. Punk said that's why he's the wrestler and Cole is the whatever-he-is. Cole corrected him that he's a Superstar, not a wrestler. The announcers tossed around one-liners about sports entertainment while McIntyre worked over Jackson.

The action moved to the floor and the camera focused on the referee making a ten count, which meant a count-out was coming into play. Zeke and McIntyre battled each other on the entranceway and tried to climb over each back into the ring, but they were both counted out. They're both out of the tournament and the winner of Sheamus vs. Kingston will advance to the finals. After the match, they brawled some more until McInytre lived to fight another day.

WINNER: Double count-out at 2:42. In the back of your mind, you had to expect a double count-out somewhere in this tournament. Okay, but not memorable with the announcing continuing to drag down the in-ring content. (*)

4 -- SHEAMUS vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- King of the Ring tournament first round match

They teased a double count-out early on before returning to the ring where Kingston landed a standing dropkick. Sheamus and Kingston then teased finishers before Kingston landed Trouble in Paradise. Sheamus avoided a pin by rolling under the ring apron. Kingston then walked into a knee to the head, but came back with a pendulum kick. Kofi wanted a top rope move, but Sheamus nailed him with the Brogue Kick in mid-air. Sheamus scored the pin to advance to the KOTR finals.

WINNER: Sheamus at 4:05. As expected, Sheamus moves to the finals. They didn't give this match enough time to stand out, but it was good for the time allotted. (*1/2)

5 -- WWE tag champions NEXUS (JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER) vs. MARK HENRY & YOSHI TATSU -- non-title match

Less than one minute into the match, the crowd roared as John Cena emerged through the crowd with tickets in hand. Cena shook hands with fans ringside before sitting down on the front row. Punk noted Cena is a camera hog buying a ticket on the camera side. Cena shouted encouragement from the front row as the action broke down in the ring. Slater then came off the top, but Henry caught him in mid-air for the World's Strongest Slam. Henry made the pin for the win.

WINNERS: Henry & Yoshi at 2:30. The decline of the tag division continues. (n/a)

Post-match: Immediately after the match, John Cena hopped the guardrail, dragged Slater out of the ring, and gave him the Attitude Adjustment through the announce table. Punk said they have the worst security in WWE. Cena then scampered through the crowd to the production area to taunt Nexus as they came out to drag Slater away.

6 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. JOHN MORRISON -- King of the Ring tournament semi-final match

Punk and Cole ran down the list of former KOTR winners before Punk paused to reflect on William Regal being the last winner. Punk said he spoke with Regal, who is on a "sabbatical" finding his next path. They continued to list random past winners. Cole said it was an "interesting time" in 1995 when Mabel won. Still no references to Owen Hart or Angle. Morrison and Del Rio went back and forth before Del Rio went to work on Morrison's left arm to set up for his submission finisher. Del Rio landed a step-up enzuigiri on Morrison.

Suddenly, a vehicle began honking. JBL cameo? It was Rey Mysterio in Del Rio's vehicle. Mysterio popped up through roof and stared into the ring, which drew Del Rio's attention. The distraction gave Morrison an opening to pop Del Rio with the Flying Chuck for the pin and the win. Morrison goes to the finals. Afterward, Morrison smiled toward Rey, who posed on the roof of Del Rio's vehicle.

WINNER: Morrison at 3:22 to advance to the finals. As expected when the bracket was released, it's Sheamus vs. Morrison in the finals. (*)

Continued in next post...

[Arcademan]

Continued from previous post...

7 -- MARYSE & ALICIA FOX & TAMINA vs. Unified Divas champion NATALYA & MELINA & GAIL KIM -- six-Divas tag match

Melina and Maryse resumed their long-standing feud with an aggressive start to the match. The heels isolated Melina for a while. Suddenly, Santino emerged and started to serenade Tamina with a musical number on the guitar. Tamina lovingly put him in a headlock and dragged him to the back. After that interlude, they resumed the in-ring action with Natalya tagging into the match to square off against Fox. She slapped on the Sharpshooter and Fox tapped out moments later. To the surprise of no one, Gail Kim did not enter the match.

WINNERS: Team Natalya at 3:36. Another week of Natalya dominating and Santino continuing the light comedy with Tamina. Natalya continues to look strong in her role.

8 -- SHEAMUS vs. JOHN MORRISON -- King of the Ring tournament finals

The bell sounded and Morrison began rubbing his shoulder to sell the injury. Sheamus immediately targeted Morrison's injury before knocking him hard off the ring apron to the floor below. Sheamus posed and the crowd booed him as they cut to break.

Back from break, Sheamus drove an elbow into Morrison's throat as he made a cover for a nearfall. Sheamus followed with a single arm DDT before landing clubbing forearms to the chest to continue grounding Morrison. Sheamus proudly stood over Morrison's fallen body before settling into a seated hammerlock. Morrison tried to fight back from his feet with right hand blows before landing a knock-down clothesline. Morrison scored with a heel kick, but Sheamus kicked out of a pin attempt.

Sheamus regained control moments later before setting up for the High Cross. Morrison slipped out, though, and tried a backslide, but Sheamus blocked. Morrison then spun around Sheamus and landed a DDT for a two count when Sheamus grabbed the bottom rope for a break. Morrison tried to follow with a running knee, but Sheamus kicked Morrison in the thigh. Morrison sold an injury, then was caught up top. Sheamus yanked Morrison down to the mat on the injured shoulder and made a cover, but Morrison kicked out.

Sheamus immediately slapped on an armbar, but Morrison moved to his feet, only to have Sheamus flip him back onto his stomach. Morrison teased submitting to the armbar again, but he escaped with a kick to the head. Morrison tried to follow with Starship Pain, but Sheamus got his feet up to block. Sheamus followed right up with the Brogue Kick as the crowd was eating this all up. Sheamus wanted the High Cross again and he connected this time. Sheamus made the cover and that was good for the pin and the win. Sheamus is the 2010 King of the Ring.

WINNER: Sheamus at 12:05. Awesome singles match. The house show reports were right from the European Tour that these two have great chemistry in the ring. We saw a glimpse of it at Survivor Series, but this was a stronger showcase match. A rubber match, perhaps at TLC, could be a very strong PPV match if given 15 minutes. (***1/2)

Post-match: Sheamus slowly walked to the platform as Cole rattled off the names of past Kings of the Ring, including Triple H. Miss USA handed Sheamus his giant scepter before he was given the royal robe. Sheamus sat down on his throne and was given the royal crown. Sheamus caught his breath before taking the mic. Sheamus said the royal lineage of the high kings of Ireland has finally been fulfilled. "Long live the king!" he declared. Sheamus's music hit and he sat down on his throne again. The set up for Triple H's return continues.

9 -- WWE champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) vs. JERRY LAWLER -- WWE Title match -- TLC match

Methodical start to the match before Miz flung Lawler to the outside. Miz then brought a chair across Lawler's back. And a second blow. Back in the ring, Miz set up two chairs. He teased a suplex onto the chairs, but Lawler blocked. Miz then recovered and dropped Lawler with the Reality Check onto a chair. The crowd chanted, "Mis is awful," as Miz slowly worked over Lawler. Miz then called for a ladder from Riley, who took forever, allowing Lawler to pop Miz across the back with repeated chair shots. Lawler retrieved a ladder, decked Riley, and then set up a table ringside. Lawler entered the ring with the ladder and tried to ram it into Miz, but Miz moved.

At the top of the hour, Miz took a back drop onto a ladder propped up in the corner, which drew a pop. Lawler was then run over by Riley, who surprised Lawler with a left-arm lariat from the ring apron. Riley tried to follow with a right hand blow, but Lawler blocked and punched Riley off the apron through a table on the floor below. Back in the ring, Lawler set up a ladder looking for the WWE Title, but Miz cut off Lawler and landed a weak-looking boot to the head. Punk called Miz stupid for not climbing the ladder right now. Instead, Miz re-focused on attacking Lawler, who was selling on the mat. Miz then delivered a chair shot to the back and told the crowd about it. He delivered another chair shot.

Miz decided to go up top, but Lawler crotched him. Lawler tried to climb up top for a superplex, but Miz headbutted him. Lawler then landed a big palm thrust and Miz went flying off the top through a table below. Miz was out cold and the crowd went nuts seeing Lawler with an opportunity to climb the ladder.

Suddenly, Cole dropped his headset and checked on Miz. Lawler began climbing the ladder inch by inch as Punk called Cole's actions out of line. They had the shaky hard camera as Lawler reached the belt, only to have Cole grab Lawler by the foot. Lawler asked Cole what he's doing. Cole begged off and said he's sorry. They circled around the ladder before Lawler decked Cole with a right hand to a big pop. Lawler mounted Cole and landed right hands.

In the background, though, Miz climbed up the ladder. Lawler turned around and knocked him down and got a hand on the belt. Miz and Lawler traded blows as Miz hung onto the belt. Lawler landed another right hand and another. Miz then swung the belt into Lawler's face and Lawler fell off the ladder like a tree in the woods. Miz reached up and grabbed the title belt, giving him the win.

Post-match: Punk was alone on commentary recapping Miz still WWE champion thanks to Michael Cole. Punk said he has tremendous respect for both Lawler and Miz. They went to a replay of Cole grabbing Lawler's foot, setting up Lawler decking Cole and Miz eventually retrieving the WWE Title. Punk said Miz is the WWE champion...and he is awesome. The show went off the air with Miz smiling as he clutched the title belt and gasped for air.

WINNER: Miz at 11:52 to retain the WWE Title. That was an example of telling a great story with a basic formula. Of course, the next step is how they reconcile Cole and Lawler on commentary going forward, which should make for interesting TV, but doesn't necessarily do anything for business. That is, unless Cole is taken off Raw. (**3/4)

[Arcademan]

Ring of Honor TV Results: 11-29-10

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

1 -- EL GENERICO vs. STEVE CORINO

The bell sounded, Corino approached Generico, and Generico grabbed him for a small package to score a quick three count. Post-match: Corino jumped Generico from behind to inflict damage before backing off to the corner. Generico then blindsided Corino with a Yakuza Kick, followed by a second one. Generico followed with a brainbuster that KO'ed Corino center ring. Generico stood over Corino as Hogewood and Prazak set the stage for Generico vs. Steen at Final Battle.

WINNER: Generico in 0:05. A classic, old-school wrestling angle continuing to set the stage for Final Battle. It still works in 2010.

2 -- JON DAVIS vs. RHETT TITUS

They returned to the ring where Jon Davis of the Dark City Fight Club was already in the ring along with Rhett Titus of the All Night Express team. Davis and Titus went back and forth before Titus scored a close nearfall following a leg lariat. Titus started thrusting and dancing before losing control and taking a running knee to the face. Davis then fired off a series of forearms followed by a shoulder tackle from the ring apron. A spinebuster resulted in a nearfall only. Davis then scored with the Pounce to knock Titus to the floor. Davis tried to follow on the floor, but Titus caught him in the face. In the ring, Titus hit a fallaway neckbreaker across his leg for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Titus in 6:00. ROH hasn't done anything with Davis for him to standout as a singles wrestler. Titus has at least improved as a more serious act. Overall, this was your basic TV singles match.

3 -- ADAM COLE & KYLE O'REILLY vs. GRIZZLY REDWOOD & MIKE SYDAL

The rapid-fire series of plugs, videos, and interviews led to a tag match already ready to go in the ring. O'Reilly blasted Sydal, the brother of WWE wrestler Evan Bourne, with a series of kick strikes before tagging in Cole for a double-team move. Grizz then entered the match and used his quickness to run circles around the opposition. Sydal was then caught alone in the ring to bump around for Cole and O'Reilly, who hit a backstabber combination on Sydal for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Cole & O'Reilly in 6:00. A fine dose of athleticism while trying to get over some new personalities. Cole and O'Reilly seem a bit unsure of themselves at times in the ring, but they'll find their groove with more TV exposure.

4 -- HOMICIDE vs. NECRO BUTCHER (w/Prince Nana and Ernie Osiris) -- Butcher's Rules match

Necro and Cide had a chair duel to start before Necro cracked a chair across the back. The action moved to the floor where Homicide flung Butcher off the apron onto a chair. Homicide then wound up for a chair shot to the head, but hit the guardrail above Necro's head (thankfully). They strategically cut to another camera angle to leave it to the imagination of the viewer. Necro came up bleeding and Homicide tried opening up his cut with right hands to the forehead. Homicide began tearing apart the ringside area and using various ROH signage to inflict punishment.

The match eventually returned to the ring where Homicide landed a mule kick, did an Eddie shake, and suplexed Butcher through a table propped up in the corner. Homicide immediately looked into the ringside camera to sell the intensity of his character. Necro continued to bleed on the ring. Homicide wanted the Cop Killer, but Osiris stormed the ring. Osiris took the Cop Killer for good measure and Nana could only sell concern with his failed plan.

Necro crotched Homicide to momentarily take control before landing multiple bodyslams onto a stack of chairs. Homicide then stole a chair from Necro and bounced it off the side of Necro's head. It wasn't a direct chair shot to the head, but still too close for comfort. Nana got involved to give Necro control again. The crowd rallied behind Homicide, who blocked another slam onto a chair before landing an Ace Crusher across the chair followed by n Ace Crusher center ring. Homicide with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Homicide in 10:00. Strong match getting over Homicide's intensity, which TNA completely failed to capitalize on when he was in the company. Necro and Homicide worked a relatively safe match for this style of hardcore brawl while still getting over the important story of Homicide on a quest for the ROH Title.

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 11-30-10

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

1 -- ALICIA FOX & MAXINE & AKSANA vs. BELLA TWINS & A.J.

Cole said they put six Divas in the ring because "what we can't make up for in quality, we make up for in quantity." A.J. worked over Aksana early on as Cole dryly said he can't remember anything that happened last week. Cole said he has a lot of other things going on in his life right now. He also said these last 13 weeks have been the most horrible experience of his life. Cole said he even had his gong taken away. A.J. eventually made a hot tag to Brie while trash-talkin' Nikki talked trash from the ring apron.

The action broke down as Cole wondered aloud what this has anything to do with anything happening tonight. A.J. eventually re-tagged in and landed a cross-body block on Maxine for the pin and the win. Cole excitedly shouted the win means nothing because she's already been eliminated. "What's next?" he asked. Post-match: Carlito took it upon himself to slip into the ring, then slip A.J. a rousing kiss. Primo then celebrated with A.J. and the Bellas to conclude the segment.

WINNERS: Bellas & A.J. in 5:00.

2 -- NAOMI vs. KAITLYN

The bell sounded and they stared at each other. Cole showed no enthusiasm as the proceedings began. Kaitlyn then did the Big Swing and Cole showed he doesn't keep up with the wrestling product outside of WWE saying he hasn't seen that since the 1980s. Cole then offered an apology to Harley Race, saying he forgot to note Race's King of the Ring victory last night on Raw. He said Race texted Talent Relations and the word was passed along to him. The match moved to the floor where Kaitlyn catapulted Naomi into the ring apron. They cut to a shot of the Pros on the stage with blank looks on their faces.

The action resumed in the ring with a mighty struggle to impress the Pros. The announcers gave a shout-out to Tony Chimel as Naomi scored a nearfall. Cole then shouted at the referee to count faster. The crowd rallied up with a "Let's go Kaitlyn" chant before Naomi and Kaitlyn crashed and burned in the ring. They cut to Vickie groaning and Fox laughing. Kaitlyn eventually scored the pin for the win and Cole complained about the ref's count.

WINNER: Kaitlyn in 6:00.

In-ring: Matt Striker was with Naomi and Kaitlyn in the ring to finally find out who's winning Season 3. Striker cued the drumroll and they cut to the video screen. And the winner is...Kaitlyn. Kaitlyn dropped to her knees in the ring to celebrate while Vickie leaned back on her stool with her arms folded. Naomi and Kaitlyn hugged each other in the ring.

Naomi was given talking time. She said she's bittersweet, but she's proud of Kaitlyn. Exit Naomi. Kaitlyn took the mic and shouted, "I promised myself I wouldn't cry." She said she got a call two days before NXT Season 3 started and had nothing to wear. Kaitlyn thanked everyone, including her ridiculous Pro, Vickie Guerrero. Kaitlyn was booed by the crowd for her attempted babyface promo. She gave a shout-out to A.J. and Naomi before trying a "You suck Aksana" chant. "That's classy," Cole whispered. Cole said he's shocked Kaitlyn didn't thank him.

The Pros entered the ring and hugged it out with Kaitlyn. Aksana then walked out on stage twirling her hair. A.J. hugged Kaitlyn and practically wrapped herself around Kaitlyn. Cole walked off the set and banged his headset on the announce table as they replayed Kaitlyn winning and celebrating. They went to a shot of Vickie selling disgust with the result before a final in-ring shot of the Pros and Rookies clapping for Kaitlyn.

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 12-2-10

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

1 -- TRENT BARRETA vs. TYLER REKS

Reks took control early on as Hawkins said his beef with Barreta is he just doesn't like the guy and he keeps copying him. Hawkins said he's a future main-eventer, a future "top guy." Equating it to Attitude Era, Hawkins said he's The Rock and Barreta is Headbanger Mosh. Barreta came back with a dropkick before Reks landed a headbutt to the mid-section. Barreta then knocked Reks to the outside and nailed a springboard Asai moonsault on the floor. Back in the ring, Barreta scored a nearfall after beating a ten count back in the ring. They cut to break.

Back from break, Reks was in control as Hawkins continued getting over his talking points about wanting to shake Barreta from his spotlight. Reks slapped on a bearhug to slow down the pace before transitioning into a gutbuster. Barreta came back with a kick strike before landing an elbow and running knee to the face for a two count. Barreta followed with a top rope missile dropkick to the back of the head, but only scored a two count. Reks then avoided a corner attack and caught Barreta with the Burning Hammer (torture rack into a facebuster) for the pin and the win. Hawkins said that's just a shame. Afterward, Reks did his Neanderthal pose as Hawkins continued to express contempt for Barreta.

WINNER: Reks in 10:00. The highlight of the match was Hawkins on commentary. WWE gave him an opening to show personality and he took advantage of it. Well done. Reks just isn't connecting right now, which made it tough for Barreta to work from behind when the crowd wasn't interested in the action. (*)

2 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. DARREN YOUNG

Punk noted he was Young's Pro on NXT Season 1 before complementing Young on cutting his hair. Stanford said Young was the first member of Nexus to be excommunicated, which would be ignoring Daniel Bryan's storyline write-off when he was fired. Regal and Young battled back and forth while Stanford provided a soundtrack of nervous laughter trying to sell Punk's material. Young scored a nearfall, then Regal backed off to the corner to lure Young into a trap of eating the ringpost. Regal followed with the Regal Stretch and the crowd popped. Young submitted, giving Regal a third victory over Young on Superstars. Regal looked down at Punk while Stanford suggested Punk should help out Young.

WINNER: Regal via submission in 5:00. Good to see Regal back on TV looking dominant. WWE simply hasn't done anything with Young post-Nexus. (*)

3 -- TYSON KIDD vs. D.H. SMITH

After a few opening moves, Kidd and Smith had a verbal joust, shouting at each other about their tag team split. Smith then kicked Kidd to the outside and followed him around on the floor. Smith rammed Kidd into the ring apron before press-slamming him back into the ring. Smith was too aggressive looking for a clothesline and Kidd ducked before nailing an enziguiri to the back of the head. Smith rolled to the floor as they cut to break.

Back from break, Kidd was in control of the action trying to wear down the larger Smith. Kidd went into his trademark chinlock while shouting at the ref, "Ask him!" Stanford noted Natalya isn't ringside showing support for either man, prompting a round of sexist remarks by Punk. Stanford then name-dropped Bret Hart and wondered where he is while this is going on. Punk said he's letting them sort out their issues. Smith made a comeback and executed a Northern Lights suplex for a two count.

Smith teased the Sharpshooter, but he took too long setting up the move, allowing Kidd to escape. Kidd then snapped off a spinning Fisherman Suplex for a two count. Kidd tried to follow with a Sharpshooter of his own and he executed the hold center ring. Smith fought the hold and teased a tap-out before making a final gasp for the bottom rope to break the hold. Moments later, Kidd went for a springboard sunset flip, but Smith trapped Kidd's body to the mat and scored a pinfall for the win.

Post-match: Smith showed some enthusiasm shouting toward the hard camera to celebrate the win. Kidd sold despair before Smith started to leave the ring. Smith returned and wanted a handshake. Kidd the classic "hands-on-hips, what-should-I-do?" look before slapping Smith across the face. Kidd scampered out of the ring and told Smith he got lucky tonight. End show with Smith looking for revenge.

WINNER: Smith in 12:00. Strong second-half of the match with Smith scoring an un-decisive victory to keep the issue going. We'll see if the program advances to Raw for the next chapter of the feud. Kidd is developing nicely as a heel while Smith needs time to develop his face persona. (**)

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact! Results: 12-2-10

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

(1) INK INC. vs. THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS vs. GENERATION ME vs. BEER MONEY
Non-Title Match

We start with a hot open as Jesse Neal flies out onto Gen Me, followed by Moore doing likewise. Ric Flair is on commentary. Beer Money swoop in and take control. They take Moore into the ring and set him up on the top rope. They look for a Beer Money Superplex, but Neal comes up behind and hits a Tower of Doom. Jeremy Buck flips in with a Springboard X Factor, but gets yanked out and double teamed by the Guns. The Guns pull a ladder out from under the ring, but Max pops them from behind and the ladder falls ramp-like against the ring. Sabin drives Max into the ladder (briefly sandwiching Jeremy) and then take turns hitting flying forearms. Jeremy attacks and sets up the ladder, taking a moment to hurl a chair into Shelley's head (damnit!). While Shelley fends them off Sabin slips to the top of the ladder and nails a Cross Body Block off the top. In the ring Ink Inc. are picking on Roode, but Storm yanks Neal to the outside. Roode drives Moore to the mat for a two count. Storm comes back in and they Stomp a Mudhole in Moore. Storm decides to work a chin lock. He and Roode and trading tags, but they seem to be the only ones. Roode stomps Moore's hand. Moore gets up firing, then bounces off the middle rope with a Cross Body Block. Storm tags back in and hits some slow strikes in the corner, gaining speed to some nice right hands. He pops Neal off the apron as he tries to come back in. They look for a Back Body Drop but lower their heads to early. Moore fights out, but right into a DWI which he somehow kicks out of. Roode and Storm argue with the ref (Jackson?), which gives Moore the opening to hit a School Boy (I think with tights) for the quick win.

WINNERS: Ink Inc. in six minutes (shown). That was a good hot open.

(2) KAZARIAN vs. DOUGLAS WILLIAMS

Kazarian goes for a quick start, charging Williams but getting caught by an Arm Drag. Williams bounces off the ropes with a European Uppercut, then nails a few standing ones. The crowd's behind him but can't figure out what to chant. He hits a high knee and a nice Suplex for two. He looks for Rolling Chaos but Kazarian elbows him back and hits a Slingshot Leg Drop for two. Kaz works a front face lock. Williams powers half-way out, but Kazrian freezes him with some knees and brings him back down with a Neck Breaker for two. Williams fights back from his knees, but Kaz rakes the eyes. Kazarian lifts him up but he slips behind—before he can do anything Kazarian slips out and nails a leg lariat. Kazarian drives his arm into Williams's face and talks some trash. He stands on Williams's back against the bottom rope. Kazarian whips Williams off the ropes and dropkicks him for two. Williams hits open-hand haymakers as he gets up, but is too weak to keep the offense going—Kazarian shoves him back into the middle rope. He whips Williams off, but Williams catches himself. Kaz charges and gets elevated up and over the top rope. He lands on the apron and tries to come back with a Slingshot DDT. Williams looks for the German Suplex, but at the apex of the Suplex Kazarian reverses into a Victory Roll which Williams re-reverses into a cover for two. Sweet. Kazarian hits a quick Wave of the Future for two, but no one but me seems to remember the name of that move (picture a Lethal Combo that doesn't actually connect on the Back Breaker). Kazarian signals for the reverse Pile Driver, but Williams slips out and connects with Rolling Chaos Theory.

WINNER: Doug Williams in five minutes—great match (for five minutes)--I'm not sure why they didn't give this more time as a PPV match, but maybe we'll just do it again?

(3) SARITA vs. MADISON RAYNE (w/TARA) vs. ANGELINA LOVE
Non-Title Match

Mickie jumps Tara before the start of the match, and they drive each other into walls towards the back. While the ref is giving Love instructions Rayne pops Sarita with the belt. Love drags Rayne into the ring and hits a couple flying forearms, then a dropkick to a seated Rayne for a two count. Rayne kicks Love in the gut as she gets up, then yanks her down by the hair a few times. She pulls on the hair some more. She works a rear chin lock. She wraps her legs around Love's head, but before she can do the mat pound Love slips out and hits a big clothesline. She hits a Power Slam, then whips Rayne chest-first into the turnbuckle. She tosses Rayne from the ring. Rayne grabs the belt, and as the ref is checking on Sarita whacks Love with it. However, Sarita quickly shoves Rayne back out of the ring and falls onto Love for the cover and the win.

WINNER: Sarita in 3 minutes—this wasn't much of a match, but I'm always happy to see Sarita get over.

(4) MATT MORGAN vs. RHINO

Morgan shoves Rhino back to start. Rhino comes back with some strikes. He works a side headlock, but Morgan shoots him off and into a shoulder block. AJ vs. Williams is official for Sunday. Morgan hits his step-over-top-rope-choke-thing. Rhino comes back with a quick strike and shoves Morgan into the ring post. He rolls Morgan into the ring and stomps his forehead, which is bleeding some. Rhino hits a couple shots to the forehead, then chokes Morgan against the middle rope. He steps on the wound. He kicks Morgan in the head and covers for two. He works a choke. I'm bored, but the crowd's come alive for Morgan, who powers out. Rhino shoves him into the corner and goes back to right hands, but Morgan no sells them. He touches his own blood and gets a furious look. Rhino backs off. Morgan comes with a trio of clotheslines, then charges Rhino in the corner. A Side Slam gets two. Morgan signals for a Choke Slam. Rhino elbows out but then runs right into a discus clothesline for two. Morgan hits his series of back elbows. Morgan goes for another charge but Rhino stops him with an elbow to the abdomen, then hits a Belly-to-Belly Suplex. Rhino goes for a Gore, but Morgan side-steps. Morgan signals for the Carbon Footprint and nails it. Fortune swarm right when the count is at two.

WINNER: Matt Morgan by DQ in five minutes. Rhino's offense felt a bit slow, but the crowd was really digging the Morgan comeback.

(5) ABYSS & JEFF JARRETT vs. "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO & SAMOA JOE

Jarrett goes behind Pope to start, but Pope flips him down. They get in some quick chain-wrestling on the mat, culminating with Jarrett shooting Pope off. Pope hits a shoulder block and they grapple into the corner. Pope unloads with a series of quick strikes. Joe asks for a tag. Pope does, but takes so long that Jarrett tags out too. Joe is not happy. Abyss shoves him into the corner, where he dodges a charge and hits his version of the Pele. Joe face washes Abyss, and Pope blind tags himself in on the running boot. Joe is not happy, and as they bicker Abyss nails a double clothesline. He beats Pope into the corner, then charges him. Jarrett tags back in. He goes for an arm bar, but Joe kicks him in the back before he can really get it locked in. He maintains the hold anyway, but then lets it go to tag in Abyss. Pope tries for a series of rights, but then walks right into a Big Boot. Jarrett tags in and works a rear naked choke. Pope hits a back drop as Impact ends. Joe tags himself in as Jarrett tags out. Joe unloads with jabs, hits an inverted atomic drop, a yakuza kick, and a Senton Splash for a long two count. Abyss tries to whip Joe into the corner, but Joe stops him with an elbow and comes off the middle rope with a kick for two. Abyss gets up firing, but Joe nails a Snap Slam for a long two count. Joe charges into the corner but gets goozled. Abyss hits the Choke Slam. Pope comes in and hits his big uppercut, then clotheslines Abyss out of the ring. Jarrett comes behind and picks Pope's leg. Neither of them is legal, but the ref doesn't appear to care. Pope crawls to the rope, but Jarrett pulls him off. Pope rolls through, sending Jarrett into the ref. Pope goes over the top rope and onto Abyss. Jarrett grabs his guitar, but Abyss kicks right through it. Joe picks up the guitar to taunt Jarrett, but that's when Brian Hebner comes back in. He sees Joe with the broken guitar over the prone Jarrett and calls for the bell.

WINNERS: Jeff Jarrett & Abyss by DQ in 8 minutes.

As Joe yells at the ref Jeff comes behind and locks in his own Kokido Clutch. Abyss has whipped Pope into the coffin, but Jeff calls him over to help him get Joe in. The casket opens and Kurt Angle comes out. The crowd goes nuts, and Jeff figures something's fishy. Abyss attacks Kurt and eats an Olympic Slam, but Jarrett flees.

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 12-3-10

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

1 – DOLPH ZIGGLER & DREW MCINTYRE vs. KAVAL & MVP

MVP’s final WWE match here, and after recently getting new music. Todd Grisham asked Michael Cole about what happened with him and Jerry Lawler on Raw. Cole got angry and said he will address it on Monday. Crowd chanted for MVP as soon as the bell rang. Striker said Mac went blow-for-blow with “Whoa Nellie” Zeke Jackson, a play on the nickname of football star Keith Jackson (which came from the homespun whimsy of football announcer Keith Jackson). Several covers on Drew early by the face team. McIntyre took a shot to the gut and Mac was able to tag out. MVP tagged Ziggler with a clothesline. There looked to be a miscommunication, as MVP was going to hit the ropes but saw McIntyre wasn’t on the apron, and hesitated. After a few more shots to Ziggler, he hit the ropes with Mac on the apron and McIntyre interfered illegally. Kaval launched onto both heels on the outside with a springboard (off MVP’s back) cross-body. They went to break at this point.

Ziggler was in control for the heel team out of break. MVP came back and planted Ziggler on his face. Face-buster on the knee by MVP, who then set up, for the final time, his ballin’ elbowdrop. MVP got distracted and Ziggler went after the knee. McIntyre tagged in and continued to work over that body part. Grisham plugged that Ziggler would be an NXT pro on Season Four coming up. Does Vickie try to make Ziggler jealous by macking on Ziggler’s rookie? MVP nearly made a tag, but Ziggler cut him off. MVP kicked away and tagged Kaval. He used his kicks to keep the heels at bay, then hit a springboard knee to the skull. On a cover attempt, McIntyre interfered. MVP got hold of him outside the ring, but was sent into the announce table. Ziggler tried to lock on a sleeper, but couldn’t. Kaval turned a suplex into a dragon sleeper. Vickie got on the apron to cause a distraction, and McIntyre knocked Kaval off Ziggler. Zig Zag on Kaval and that was that.

WINNERS: Ziggler and McIntyre, at 11:24. Fine match, but not sure the purpose. I guess a Ziggler vs. Kaval feud could develop, and they’re resolving some KOTR qualifying match issues.

2 – KOFI KINGSTON vs. JACK SWAGGER - INTERCONTINENTAL TITLE #1 CONTENDER MATCH

The second match of the night began at 8:48 EST. Looks like Swagger has a new t-shirt to plug. Swagger wrestled Kingston to the ground and kept him there until Kingston got to the ropes. Collar-and-elbow tie-up, and the two held it for a while, until Kingston monkey-flipped Swagger. They came to a stalemate after that. Again, the two briefly scuffled, but came up with neither man getting the better of the other. Swagger finally seemed to one-up Kofi, using his hair to take Kingston down. He tried to get Kofi out of the corner, but Kofi held on. When he got to his feet, he used his speed to avoid Swagger, and then nailed him with a dropkick to the chest. Couple punts to the chest by Kingston, who then went to the top. Swagger met him up there and threw Kingston off, though it almost became ugly as Swagger nearly lost his balance. Kingston got his foot on the rope on a pin attempt, then rolled out of the ring as they went to break about 5:00 in.

Swagger again went for a near-fall, but Kofi kicked out. Swagger stayed on top of Kofi, not giving him room to breathe. He clipped Kingston in the knee, then did it again and got a two-count on a cover. Swagger grabbed an abdominal stretch in the middle of the ring. He really wrenched it and did a gator role (called by my roommate, then Striker). Outside the ring, Kingston avoided the steel steps and Swagger ended up running into them. Kingston then jumped off the stairs and onto Swagger with a forearm. Kofi got back into the ring, and Swagger made it in at the nine-count. Back in the ring, Kofi stung Swagger with uppercuts and kicks. Flip roll-up looked ugly and Striker tried to cover for it. Swagger tried for a gutwrench powerbomb, but Kingston rolled out, only to be met by a big boot. Pin attempt got a two-count. Beal out of the corner by Swagger, but he got tripped up by his foe trying the Vader bomb. Kofi pounded on Swagger with his fists in the corner. Things went into slow motion for a bit as the guys seemed to be gassed. Springboard cross-body by Kofi for two. Trouble in Paradise was blocked and Swagger tried the ankle-lock. Kingston wiggled enough to where Swagger threw Kofi out of the ring. Swagger ducked through the ropes to get him, but he was hit in the face with Trouble in Paradise. Kofi came back in the ring and made the pin.

WINNER: Kingston, at 15:51. 15 minute match, and no Boom Drop? The guys were obviously tired by the end, but did a good job overall. Not terribly thrilled about seeing another Ziggler vs. Kingston match, this time at TLC.

3 – CHRIS MASTERS vs. “DASHING” CODY RHODES

Masters was about to punch Rhodes, but Rhodes ducked under the middle rope to avoid getting hit in the face. He was on the apron, and Masters grabbed a Masterlock, which he was forced to break. Rhodes then took control with knees to the mid-section. He then worked the left arm of Masters. Masters made his comeback and chopped Rhodes in the chest. Rhodes avoided a collision in the corner, then landed the Beautiful Disaster kick. Cross-Rhodes followed for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 2:58. A good win for Rhodes until they find something for him to do. I’d like to see him get an IC Title shot; he has really improved.

4 – ROSA MENDES vs. LAYLA

Layla mocked Rosa by pretending to jump rope. Rosa attacked, but Layla took over offense soon after. Rosa towers over Layla, by the way. McCool got on the apron to distract Mendes. Rosa threw Layla into McCool, then rolled her up for a two-count. Layla came back with the Layout neck-breaker for the win.

WINNER: Layla, at 1:04.

As LayCool attacked Rosa, I expected Beth to make the save for another babyface (after doing so for Natalya and Kelly in recent weeks), but Hornswoggle came from under the ring. LayCool mocked him by getting on their knees and readying for a fight, but Beth Phoenix ran out. She brawled with LayCool at ringside, and pushed McCool over Hornswoggle. She then axe-handled Layla out of the ring. Once it was cleared, the Swagger soaring eagle came out and wanted to fight Horny. He boxed with the little guy and Hornswoggle imitated the Ultimate Warrior. Unfortuantely, he walked right into a big boot (talon?) from the eagle. As he danced, Phoenix picked him up and gave him the Glam Slam in an odd scene. She then called for Hornswoggle to give him the Tadpole splash, which he did. Striker claimed this segment added levity to the show. Judge for yourself.

5 – KANE vs. EDGE – WINNERS DECIDES STIPULATION FOR RE-MATCH AT TLC

The match quickly went to the outside, where Kane took control and slammed Edge’s back into the side of the apron. Edge took out Kane’s knee in the corner back in the ring, and kicked away as Kane was on his back. Back to the outside, where Edge ran into an uppercut. Back in the ring, a basement dropkick by Kane kept Edge down. Edge lowered the top rope and low-bridged Kane over the top. Edge speared Kane off the apron and to the arena floor. They took the final break of the show here.

They came back with Kane crotching Edge on the top rope. Edge headbutted Kane down, however. Another change in offense came when Kane locked in a rear chinlock. Edge came back, but Kane avoided a charge and threw Edge over the top and to the outside. Back to the outside for the third time, Kane’s knee went off the steps and Edge flew off the steps onto Kane. Kane went back into the ring and Edge dove onto him off the top rope. Only a two-count. Swinging neckbreaker by Edge. Edge-O-Matic for only two. Soon after, Kane came off the top with a clothesline. Impaler DDT by Edge turned the tide again. Edge went for a spear, but Kane clotheslined him. He set up for the chokeslam, but Bearer came on the Titan-Tron screaming for Kane to come get him. Kane went to the aisle and was torn between going back to the ring and going after his father. He chose the match. As he got back in the ring, Edge speared him for the win.

WINNER: Edge, at 13:19. This match felt like it took a half-hour. In addition to this feud not clicking, they don’t seem to mesh well in the ring, either.

[Arcademan]

TNA Final Resolution PPV Results: 12-5-10

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

1 -- INK, INC. (Shannon Moore & Jesse Neal) vs. BEER MONEY (Robert Roode & James Storm) -- #1 contender match for TNA Tag Titles

Tenay and Taz set the stage that Immortal/Fortune want all of the gold in TNA, so Beer Money is looking to get the Tag Titles back. Tenay apologized for the technical difficulties at the start of the PPV as the opening match began. The females in the crowd were hot for Ink, Inc. early on as they executed flashy offense to control the match early on. Beer Money had miscommunication issues to keep feeding the crowd's interest in the match before Beer Money cheated to take control of the match.

After being isolated for a few minutes, Neal made a hot tag to Moore, who landed high-flying offense before playing to the partisan crowd. The action broke down moments later and both members of Beer Money were cleared to the outside to set up some moves on the outside. Shannon executed an Asai moonsault on Roode, then took a ride on Storm's booze cruiser for a babyface pop. Back in the ring, Moore executed a neckbreaker on Roode for a two count. Neal then tagged in and cleaned house. He looked like the Red Rooster with his red Mohawk flapping. Neal charged Roode, but ran into a superkick from Storm. Beer Money hit the DWI on Neal and that was good for the three count.

WINNERS: Beer Money at 10:45. Basic, formula tag match to start the PPV. The match was fine and sets up another potential classic between the Guns and Beer Money. The vocal females in the crowd were firmly behind Ink, Inc., which kept the crowd into the match. (**)

2 -- MICKIE JAMES vs. TARA -- Falls Count Anywhere match

Tara came to the ring on her motorcycle before dipping out of the ring when Mickie made her entrance. Tara pointed to the floor, saying she wants to start the fight on the floor. So, they did. Jackson James is the special referee, of note. The action moved into the ring for a short while before returning to the outside. From the outside, they went deeper into the Impact Zone exploring the entire building. A few onlookers cheered on Mickie, who was whipped into a trash receptacle.

The Knockouts left the building and Tara sent Mickie flying into a row of wheelchairs against the wall of the soundstage. One of the Universal Studios rides was in the background as Mickie took a bottle of water from the Impact Zone concessions and sprayed Tara with it. Mickie and Tara trash-talked each other as Mickie shoved Tara into the chainlink fence separating the Impact Zone from Universal Studios. They moved closer to the theme park exchanging control of the "match."

Next was the men's restroom outside of the Soundstage. A couple of guys were taking care of business. One guy was taking the Browns to the Super Bowl and he charged out of a stall with newspaper in hand. Taz noted he failed to wash his hands. The ref had enough and stormed off. Suddenly, Madison came out of a stall with a fire extinguisher. She sprayed Mickie, who dropped to the restroom floor. Tara made the cover and told the referee to come back. Three count and it was over.

WINNER: Tara at 10:25. Only in TNA can there be outside interference in a Falls Count Anywhere match. They took an intense, physical feud that was hot at last month's PPV and turned it into comedy here. At least it seems to be setting up Madison vs. Mickie for the Knockouts Title. (n/a)

3 -- X Division champion ROBBIE E. vs. JAY LETHAL -- X Division Title match -- Cookie suspended in a shark cage

Before the match, Cookie complained that she was not going in the shark cage. Lethal had enough and dragged Lethal into the ring to star the match. Cookie decided to peace out and started to leave. You knew this was coming. Shark Boy returns. Shark dragged Cookie to ringside and threw her in the shark cage. Ref Earl Hebner called for the cage to be raised and the bell sounded to officially begin the match. Cookie continued to interject herself into the match by screaming down at Lethal from inside the cage. Lethal dominated early on and Robbie accepted one hard chop, then a second, and a third. Robbie sold like a pro here.

Robbie took control moments later and gave a shout-out to Cookie that he has this under control. Cookie screamed at Hebner to count faster following a two count. Robbie slapped on a hard reverse chinlock and maintained the hold for a while. Lethal sold fading out as his hand was dropped twice before clenching his fist on the third drop. Lethal mounted a comeback and landed a handspring elbow smash followed by the Lethal Combination for a two count. Lethal and Robbie then collided mid-ring as Cookie shouted instructions from the cage. She managed to toss an object to Robbie over Hebner's head, but Hebner took it away when he saw it. Cookie then tossed a second hairspray object to Robbie, but Lethal stole it and used it. Hebner felt the spray as Lethal went for a pin, so Hebner DQ'ed Lethal.

Post-match: Cookie was lowered to ringside in the cage and escaped with the win. Cookie posed in the ring with the X Division Title as Robbie sold on the floor and Lethal dejectedly walked off. Cookie continued to parade around with the title belt until Shark Boy re-emerged. Shark took a slap to the face, then a second slap. Shark turned around, then hit a Stunner on Cookie.

WINNER: Robbie via DQ at 8:11. An expected over-booked finish to continue presenting The Shore as heels who effectively circumvent the rules. Unfortunately for Lethal, the babyface to finally give Robbie and Cookie (or just Cookie) their comeuppance wasn't the babyface in the match, but a character who hasn't been on TV in months. Whether it's on PPV or TV or at a house show, violence against women doesn't need to happen, and it fits TNA's traditional misogynistic booking. As for Robbie, I was really impressed with his work in this match first selling for Lethal, then his offensive attack. It was a step up for him. (**)

4 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. RHINO -- First Blood match

The match began with RVD in control of the action. He showboated to the crowd several times before the action moved to the floor. Rhino landed a suplex on the floor to take control of the action. Back in the ring, Rhino landed a Gore that temporarily KO'ed RVD. Naturally, Rhino began celebrating and playing to the crowd. Why not immediately grab a knife or a cheese grater from under the ring and try to slice open RVD's forehead? Rhino took his time retrieving a trashcan that he placed in-between the turnbuckles in the corner. It didn't come into play immediately, as RVD made a comeback and hit a Five-Star frogsplash. The trashcan came into play when RVD tried to smash Rhino, but Rhino punched him in the groin before hitting a DDT.

Rhino tried to finish off RVD with a piledriver into a trashcan lid, but RVD blocked. RVD then surfboard kicked a trashcan lid into Rhino's face. No blood yet. RVD placed a trashcan into Rhino's body, then went to the opposite corner. Poor Rhino had to sell for a while as RVD showboated on the top turnbuckle before going coast-to-cast with the Van Terminator. Rhino came up bleeding heavily from the forehead, giving RVD the win and more time to showboat. The announcers speculated on Rhino's future in TNA and Immortal after the loss.

WINNER: RVD at 12:24. Rhino showed a different side to his character working heel, while RVD seemed to be going through the motions in a middle-of-a-PPV match. The First Blood stipulation is inherently flawed, as there are so many ways to make someone bleed without needing to go through the steps of a standard wrestling match. Considering the parameters of the match were not established ahead of time, it created unintended logic questions. On a show with so many stipulation matches, this match won't stand out on the overall PPV line-up. (**1/4)

5 -- TV champion A.J. STYLES vs. DOUGLAS WILLIAMS -- TNA TV Title match

Styles played heel by stalling early in the match, but the crowd was split on supporting Doug or Styles. Williams cleared Styles to the floor early on and landed a cannonball splash off the ring apron. Back in the ring, Styles and Williams went back and forth showing how evenly matched they are in the ring. Styles took momentary control and did his signature high-flying moves to get babyface pops. Styles then caught Williams's knee on the middle rope, giving him an opening to slap on the figure four leglock. Williams escaped, then mounted a comeback with uppercuts and elbow strikes. Williams executed an exploder suplex that resulted in a two count.

The action continued to go back-and-forth with Styles in control and Williams fighting back from his knees. Styles landed a Pele kick that could have resulted in a fall, but Williams fell to the outside. Styles tried a high-flying move, but Williams caught Styles with a waistlock and proceeded to bounce Styles off the guardrail into Rolling Chaos onto the ringside padding. Great sequence. Back in the ring, Williams teased the Styles Clash and connected. Williams made a cover and it was good for a three count to win the TV Title.

WINNER: Williams at 14:50 to capture the TV Title. Terrific match with Williams showcasing his technical skills to eventually win over the crowd, which was partial toward Styles early on. Very interesting finish with Styles losing clean to Williams. (***1/2)

[Arcademan]

Continued from previous post...

6 -- TNA tag champions MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN) vs. GENERATION ME (MAX BUCK & JEREMY BUCK) -- TNA Tag Title match -- Full Metal Mayhem match

GenMe came out first and waited for the Guns to meet them on the entranceramp to initiate the match. The tag belts were suspended above the ring TLC-style. The teams went back and forth trading offense early on. Sabin took a chair near the head/neck region when Jeremy tossed a chair toward his face, which was too close for comfort. Max Buck was the first to tease climbing a ladder looking for the tag belts, but Shelley yanked him down. The Guns then crunched Max inside the ladder before suplexing Jeremy on top of the ladder. Next, Max was hung up in the tree of woe to take a surfboard dropkick. This led to Shelley coming off the top with a double foot stomp onto both GenMe'ers, who were stacked up inside chairs and ladders. The Guns backed off to the corner to let the audience soak in the climax of the sequence of moves punishing GenMe.

Shelley began climbing the ladder, but it was apparently too short for the champs to reach up and grab the tag belts. Cue up the short jokes. The Guns then brought in two more ladders, which were of equal height. So, after stalling for time to allow GenMe recover, all four men battled on top of the three ladders in-play. Eventually, all four men came back to the mat where the Guns took control again. The Guns then placed a table on top of the three ladders positioned in the center ring of the ring. The construction area did not come into play immediately, as Shelley KO'ed Jeremy on the outside by delivering Sliced Bread #2 off the apron through a table.

Sabin and Max then climbed up the ladders and stood on the table about 10-15 feet in the air. They traded chair shots and Max took a flatback bump off the table through a table on the mat below. Sabin then reached up and took the TNA Tag Titles. Sabin was bleeding from the forehead as the camera zoomed in on Sabin selling shock they kept the ittles. Meanwhile, Shelley sold a left knee injury as he re-entered the ring to celebrate.

WINNERS: Guns at 16:27 to retain the TNA Tag Titles. Ambitious, creative match, but that was almost the match's downfall with several overly-choreographed spots that seemed too complicated at times and almost canceled out the really innovative spots they brought to the table. On a PPV heavy with stipulation matches, the teams tried to stand out, but with mixed success. Individually, Sabin continues to stand out as a future singles star for this company. Sabin vs. Max Buck in a singles feud down the road could be money. (***)

7 -- THE POPE D'ANGELO DINERO vs. ABYSS -- Casket match

Abyss called for the casket to be opened 20 seconds into the match, but Pope blocked and moved the action to the floor. Pope rammed Abyss's head into the guardrail several times and teased a casket entry, but Abyss blocked and they re-entered the ring. They returned to the floor and Abyss dropped Pope onto the edge of the casket in a painful-looking spot. Back in the ring, Abyss nailed a charging corner splash and took control of the match. Abyss called for the lid and headbutted Pope into the casket. Abyss took a deep breath and slowly approached the lid, but Pope kicked the lid open. Pope then fired himself up and made a comeback, including a bulldog from the second rope that always looks so dangerous with the head/neck region involved.

Pope called for the casket to be opened and he dumped Abyss inside. Pope tried to close the lid, but Abyss grabbed Pope around the throat and knocked Pope back to center ring. Abyss then rolled Pope into the casket and again took his sweet time approaching the lid. He tried to close it, but Pope blocked by pushing against the top of the plastic-looking lid. Pope made another comeback and connected with the DDE double knee smash to the back. Pope rolled Abyss into the casket again, then tried to close the lid while standing on the floor, but Abyss punched through the Styrofoam-looking side of the casket and connected with Pope's groin. Abyss proceeded to chokeslam Pope into the casket and he closed the lid this time for the win. Abyss showed off his fist, which was bleeding from the punch-through-the-casket move.

WINNER: Abyss at 11:40. It was what it was - another gimmick match that seemed laughable at times because of how cheap the casket looked. (*1/4)

8 -- JEFF JARRETT vs. SAMOA JOE -- Submission match

Joe circled around the ring early on to avoid locking up with Jarrett. Joe eventually lured Jarrett into an armbar, but Jarrett reached the ropes for a break. Joe remained seated on the mat to taunt Jarrett before applying a keylock that Jarrett escaped. Jarrett came back with a front anklelock, but Joe escaped and landed right hand blows. Joe then rolled Jarrett onto his stomach and applied an anklelock, but Jarrett broke the hold again. Joe came back with a Texas Cloverleaf and Joe sat down on the hold center-ring. Jarrett, again, escaped to the ropes.

Jarrett had enough and teased leaving the ring, but Joe slapped on a rear naked choke. Jarrett tapped, but they were outside of the ring. The announcers noted Hebner's pre-match instructions the finish must happen inside the ring. So, inside the ring, Joe applied a Crossface. Jarrett tapped, but his foot was under the ropes, so ref Hebner waved it off. Joe then hit the Musclebuster and slapped on a rear naked choke, but TNA security hit the ring to distract the ref. Joe cleared them from the ring, but it gave Jarrett an opening to slap on the Anklelock. Joe was forced to tap out, giving Jarrett another win over Joe.

WINNER: Jarrett via submission at 9:05. Fun, different match focused on actual wrestling holds. It was a classic heel victory with Jarrett winning only because of circumstances rather than actual skill. The feud doesn't seem to be over, as Joe needs to conquer Jarrett before the program is over. Big picture - is this the best use of Joe? Probably not, but it's keeping him in the main event picture. (**1/4)

9 -- TNA World Hvt. champion JEFF HARDY vs. MATT MORGAN -- TNA World Title match -- No DQ match -- Mr. Anderson special referee

Anderson called for the bell and the match was on. Morgan dominated early and landed signature rapid-fire elbow smashes in the corner. Morgan then choked Hardy across the top rope and Anderson casually leaned against the top rope before saying, "Yeah, it's No DQ." Hardy then slingshot Morgan across the top rope to take control of the match. Hardy settled into a chinlock before Morgan came to his feet. Hardy tried right hands, but Morgan no-sold and side-stepped a desperation Whisper in the Wind attempt. Morgan then smashed Hardy with a discus clothesline for a close two count. Morgan scored another close two count and kept his cool as Anderson told him it was a two.

Hardy suddenly came back with a Twist of Hate, but Morgan kicked out. Hardy didn't like the count, then took out his anger on Morgan. Morgan suddenly nailed the Carbon Footprint, but he sold a knee injury immediately afterward. It gave Hardy an opening to put his foot on the bottom rope to break a subsequent pin. Morgan continued to sell the knee and couldn't execute a suplex, so Hardy nailed a Twist of Hate for another two count. Hardy ripped off his t-shirt and went for the Swanton Bomb, but Morgan got his knees up to block. On commentary, Taz said Hardy was behind closed doors all day, so they didn't know what mindset he was in for the title match.

Hardy and Morgan came to their feet, but Hardy ducked out of the ring and dared Anderson to count him out. Anderson slowly counted to eight, reached nine, and stopped before ten. He left the ring and told Hardy to get back in the ring. Hardy piefaced Anderson, then again. And a third time. Anderson then reached back and popped Hardy with right hands before rolling Hardy back into the ring. Morgan rolled up Hardy, but Hardy kicked out with Anderson maintaining a normal cadence. Back on their feet, Hardy nailed a third Twist of Hate. Anderson then very slowly dropped to his knees, made a one count, made a two count, held the two, Morgan kicked out, and Anderson dramatically said it was a close nearfall.

At 10:00, Hardy slipped out of the ring and lured Morgan into popping him with a chair to the knee. The chair entered the ring with Hardy and Anderson was bumped to the outside. Morgan then smashed Hardy with the Carbon Footprint and had the visual three count with Anderson on the floor. Suddenly, Eric Bischoff showed up and led Jackson James to the ring. Bischoff rammed Anderson into the ringpost before throwing Jackson into the ring, not realizing Morgan still had a pin going. Morgan almost scored a three count, which would have been hilarious if Bischoff accidentally cost Hardy the title. Morgan glared at Bischoff, who turned to leave. Morgan then held up the chair and wanted a chokeslam, but Hardy kicked him low. Hardy then hit another Twist of Hate, this one on the chair. Hardy made a cover and it was good for a three count. Hardy retains the TNA Title.

WINNER: Jeff Hardy at 12:31 to retain the TNA Title. Another over-booked TNA Title match with the heel winning to keep the program going, although they seemed to be looking ahead to Hardy vs. Anderson rather than another re-match for Morgan, who has another "out" after the visual three count and ref bump. As for Hardy, he can put together a good performance in his sleep, which seems to be part of the problem where he can get by with his "I don't care" attitude because of how good he is as a performer. We received word prior to the PPV that he was almost pulled because he was hammered backstage, but TNA stuck with the original PPV line-up. And they kept the TNA Title on him. (**1/2)

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 12-6-10

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

1 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN & BRIE BELLA vs. TED DIBIASE & MARYSE

Five seconds into the match, Nikki headed to ringside for a closer look at the action. Punk said he hopes another Maryse comes to the ring. Bryan started things off in control of the match. Punk slipped and called him "Bryan Daniel" before wondering aloud why Bryan has his own locker room. The Divas then entered the ring and collided center-ring. Suddenly, the Bellas pulled the Switcheroo while Maryse was arguing with Bryan, who smiled at her. Nikki then rolled up Maryse with a small package for the win.

Post-match: Bryan congratulated his other date while Brie half-clapped ringside. "Yeah....go team." DiBiase and Maryse had their own issues, with Maryse telling DiBiase to talk to the hand. She bailed and DiBiase flashed his angry face. Meanwhile, Bryan celebrated on the stage with the Bellas.

WINNERS: Bryan & Bellas at 2:07. Interesting developments coming to a head. Bryan could certainly be utilized in a different way, but it keeps him on TV while waiting for an opportunity to be involved in something more important. (n/a)

2 -- TYSON KIDD (w/Jackson Andrews) vs. D.H. SMITH

Kidd took control early on as Punk noted he doesn't believe Kidd needs "this guy" ringside. Mathews said his sheer presence ringside is enough to intimidate an opponent. Smith and Kidd traded control of the action before battling up top. Smith went for like a delayed vertical suplex, teased dropping Kidd on his neck, then flexed Kidd over his head for a superplex. That was a sick display of power. Moments later, Kidd scored a surprise pin for the win.

Post-match: Smith tried to attack Kidd on the outside, but Andrews grabbed Smith and threw him back into the ring. Andrews executed a developmental-quality left-arm clothesline that floored Smith. Kidd and Andrews then stood over Smith ala Michaels and Diesel.

WINNER: Kidd at 2:11. Too short to amount to much in the ring, but Smith's three-step superplex was sick. Andrews is pretty rough around the edges, but we know why he was called up to the main roster.

3 -- WWE tag champions NEXUS (JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER) vs. SANTINO & KOZLOV vs. THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY w/Tamina) vs. MARK HENRY & YOSHI TATSU -- Tag Title match -- Elimination style

Gabriel and Yoshi started things off. They collided mid-ring before trading chops to the chest. Henry tagged in, then Gabriel scrambled to the Usos. The Usos wanted no part of Henry, picking up their issues from the Superstars show. The action broke down momentarily allowing Slater to drop Yoshi with his finisher that looks like a transition move for a pin. **Yoshi & Henry eliminated at 3:04**

The Usos and the tag champs battled, then Slater forced Kozlov into the ring with a "collision tag" near the ropes. Kozlov gladly entered and dropped Jimmy with the Iron Curtain for an elimination. **Usos eliminated at 4:38** The Usos started to leave, but Tamina stayed behind to stay in Santino's corner. She nervously bit her lip looking back and forth between Santino and the Usos. Back in the ring, Nexus controlled Kozlov until Santino took a tag at 6:00.

Santino landed two moves before Nexus cut him off and began double-teaming him. Tamina continued to nervously bite her lip as Santino tried to fight out of the heel corner. Despite the relatively rapid-fire nature of the falls in the match, they cut to a break with the heels maintaining control of Santino.

Back live, referee Chioda audibly told Kozlov and Gabriel, "Okay, we're live." Whoops. On cue, Kozlov broke free and hot-tagged Santino, who landed signature offense. Santino did like a Stunner while doing the splits and it resulted in a nearfall. The action broke down and John Cena suddenly appeared from under the ring. The crowd popped as Cena hopped on the ring apron and distracted Gabriel, who then walked into the Cobra from Santino. Santino made the cover for the win to capture the tag titles.

Post-match: Cena ran into the stands and smiled toward the ring while celebrating with the crowd. Santino and Kozlov celebrated with the belts, then Tamina joined them. Santino encouraged Tamina to do the big trumpet dance celebration, which she obliged on. Lawler laughed before agreeing with Punk that it's weird.

WINNERS: Santino & Kozlov at 11:56 to capture the WWE Tag Titles. Another weak endorsement of the Nexus also-rans behind Barrett, while also setting up Barrett's follow-through on addressing Cena. Santino & Kozlov as tag champs fits WWE's harmless "entertainment for the family" type marketing that seems to be more prominent by the week. (*1/2)

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

Natalya landed a delayed vertical suplex early on, then Melina caught Natalya in the ring ropes and delivered a backstabber. Melina tried to work on Natalya's back before Natalya made a comeback and applied the Sharpshooter. They zoomed in tight on Melina fighting the hold, then Natalya leaned back on the hold, and Melina tapped out.

Post-match: Lay-Cool slowly left the announce table and circled the ring. Natalya was too wrapped up in celebrating her victory that Layla and McCool high-lowed her in the ring. They followed by grabbing a handful of hair to slam Natalya to the mat. Meanwhile, they spotshadowed Melina walking off to the back selling her back. Lay-Cool left Natalya KO'ed in the ring to conclude the segment.

WINNER: Natalya at 2:26. Fine match to continue building up Natalya's hot streak. WWE is playing fast and loose trying to keep up with their explanations of how certain people can appear on the show. In any event, the next chapter of Natalya vs. Lay-Cool begins.

5 -- RANDY ORTON vs. ALEX RILEY (w/WWE champion The Miz)

The bell sounded and Miz distracted Orton, which allowed Riley to start attacking the "injured" left knee from Raw two weeks ago. Punk said he doesn't believe it was a good decision by Orton to take the match two weeks before TLC. He suggested the match at TLC could be a ladder match, which would hurt Orton's cause trying to climb a ladder on a bum knee. Orton made a comeback with a clothesline, then he delivered a snap powerslam. Orton then caught Riley on the ring apron and delivered a spike DDT. Orton stared down Miz, then turned around and entered IED mode. Orton wanted the RKO, but Miz stormed the ring and dropped Orton from behind with the Skullcrushing Finale for a DQ.

Post-match: Miz took the mic and said he's going to show Orton what kind of match they're going to have at the PPV. Miz went looking for an object under the ring and found a table. (Punk with the red herring of a ladder match.) There was also a big tub of what appeared to be sports drinks underneath there. Miz set up a table in the ring and teased the SCF into the table, but Orton slipped out. They teased a table spot in Orton's favor, but Miz slipped out and bailed from the ring. Miz retrieved his WWE Title belt and stood his ground on the outside. Suddenly, Orton turned toward Riley, who was selling in the corner. Orton scooped up Riley, stared down Miz, and proceeded to powerbomb Riley through the table. (Orton channeling his inner Batista.) Miz clenched his jaw and slowly backed away, not giving into Orton's mind games. Orton paced around the ring while Miz clutched the WWE Title and backed away.

WINNER: Orton via DQ at 2:45. Expectedly short with the inexperienced Riley in the ring opposite Orton, whose in-ring time needs to be limited while nursing an injury. Miz not over-doing his reactions after his plan was foiled was a good touch. (*)

Lots of talking at the start (Cole apologizing, then not apologizing to Lawler, then eats a RKO), the middle (Cena attacking + distracting Nexus, King Sheamus and Morrison going after each other) and the end (Barrett facing Cena and the rest of Nexus turning their backs to Barrett) so there was a little over 20 minutes of in-ring wrestling action tonight.

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 12-7-10

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

The cast of Season Four of WWE NXT:

-- Rookie: Johnny Curtis. Pro: R-Truth.
-- Rookie: Byron Saxton Pro: Chris Masters.
-- Rookie: Brodus Clay. Pro: Ted DiBiase.
-- Rookie: Jacob Novak. Pro: Dolph Ziggler.
-- Rookie: Derrick Bateman. Pro: Daniel Bryan.
-- Rookie: Conor O'Brian. Pro: Alberto Del Rio.

1 -- JOHNNY CURTIS (w/R-Truth) vs. JACOB NOVAK (w/Dolph Ziggler)

Mathews noted the situation on Raw where Wade Barrett was given an ultimatum from Nexus to re-hire John Cena or be exiled. The announcers said Curtis is the favorite this season as he worked from behind with Novak working as the heel. Curtis landed a dropkick, then came off the top with a leg drop. It was good for the pin and the win. The crowd cheered while Ziggler rolled his eyes.

WINNER: Curtis (1-0) in 4:00. Neither wrestler showed much of an "it" factor. Curtis is being presented as the babyface favorite, so we'll keep an eye out on whether WWE protects him throughout the season.

On-stage: Striker introduced Capture the Flag with an obstacle course setting. Poor Brodus is at a disadvantage here. Curtis was the first man up. Curtis awkwardly ran up the entranceramp and finished at 28.6. O'Brian was next. Someone in the crowd audibly said, "Rat man!" O'Brian struggled to get the ladder in the ring, but scored a 28.2 time to take the lead.

Contestant #3 was Brodus Clay. Clay charged the ladder and worked his way up the ladder in the ring to capture the flag. He charged the entrance stage, but finished at 33.5. Byron Saxton was next. Saxton tip-toed down the ramp and approached the ladder before slowly setting it up inside the ring. Saxton celebrated grabbing the flag, but fell off the ladder. Saxton slowly walked out of the ring and finished at 56.8.

Contestant #5 was Novak. No heat on this as Novak got the flag and gracefully made it up the stage to finish at 26.9 to set the new mark. Bateman was last. Alberto Del Rio added his own commentary as Bateman climbed the ladder. Bryan led the crowd in a "Bate-man, Bate-man" chant. The official time on Bateman was 27.3. The clock operator seemed to add an extra second. Mathews noted the questionable clock work as Del Rio told Bateman he's a loser. So, Novak earns the immunity point.

2 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN & DERRICK BATEMAN vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO & CONOR O'BRIAN

Grisham made a "Late Night with Conor O'Brian" joke and said he got it out of his system Week 1 so he doesn't have to say it ever again. Del Rio worked over Bateman early on before bumping Bryan off the ring apron. O'Brian then executed a foot stomp to the head as Grisham segued from an immunity points discussion to a question of whether Mathews received his flu shot this year. On-stage, Maryse and DiBiase were huddled up while Ziggler picked up a conversation with Maryse.

Suddenly, O'Brian and Bateman dizzied themselves. Bateman stumbled over to Bryan for a tag, then Bryan proceeded to airplane spin O'Brian for about 30 seconds. Bryan sold dizziness, then instinctively started a babyface clap. Bryan dumped O'Brian to the floor, then knocked Del Rio off the ring apron. Bateman tagged in and flew through the ropes with a suicide dive on Del Rio and Rookie. The babyfaces were in control going to break.

Back from break, Bryan was perched up top to deliver a double axe handle smash on O'Brian. On stage, Maryse picked something off DiBiase's shirt before they cut back to the ring where Bryan smashed O'Brian with rapid-fire kicks. Del Rio then cheated to give his team control working over Bryan. Grisham noted "Del Rio" means "The River" in Spanish. He segued into a comment that O'Brian would be "up the river without a paddle" without Del Rio. Team River continued to work over Bryan. Suddenly, Dolph Ziggler told the crowd, "This match sucks." That was apparently in response to the crowd chanting that Del Rio sucks.

Bryan came flying out of the heel corner with a roundhouse kick on Del Rio, which led to Bateman tagging in and cleaning house on Del Rio. Bateman walked into a boot to the gut, but came back with a boot and a swinging neckbreaker for a nearfall. The action broke down with Bryan clearing O'Brian on the outside. Back in the ring, Bateman airballed a cross-body press and Del Rio slapped on the cross-arm breaker. Bateman immediately tapped out.

Del Rio didn't let go immediately, giving Bateman some extra punishment in the first Rookie hazing moment of NXT. Del Rio and O'Brian then celebrated in the ring while Bryan checked on Bateman. Mathews and Grisham signed off as the show went to a final shot of Del Rio and O'Brian celebrating on the way out of the ring.

WINNERS: Del Rio & O'Brian (1-0) in 12:00. Fine match. Similar to The Miz standing next to Alex Riley, Bryan will benefit from the juxtaposition of being a Pro standing next a Rookie.

[Arcademan]

Ring of Honor TV Results: 12-6-10

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

1 -- ROH TV champion EDDIE EDWARDS vs. COLT CABANA -- TV Title match

Basic feeling-out process to start things off as they cut to a shot of Bennett watching intently from the front row. After a stalemate, they came to their feet and started trading chops as the time limit box flashed in the upper right corner of the screen. They traded nearfalls, then started rolling across the ring interlocked in a series of one count pin attempts. Cabana then hit a butt bump for a two count before applying a neck wrench submission center ring. Edwards was able to roll into a pin attempt, then both men came to their feet and traded blows again.

Cabana gained the upperhand and connected with a top rope moonsault, but Edwards kicked out of a pin attempt. Cabana continued to attempt pin attempts, but Edwards escaped each time. Cabana sold frustration as the crowd tried to rally behind him. The men traded rapid-fire pin attempts, which drew applause from the crowd. Edwards then hit a chinbreaker from the second rope for a nearfall of his own. As they approached one minute remaining the match, Edwards was able to roll Cabana out of the corner into a bridging leverage pin for the three count.

WINNER: Edwards at 14:00. Very nice, evenly-matched contest. Cabana didn't lose anything from the loss, as Edwards was presented as a strong champion who is on a roll as TV champion. (***)

2 -- EL GENERICO vs. BOBBY SHIELDS

Generico came to the ring sporting his black mask to sell his change in demeanor. Shields tried to jump Generico before the bell, but Generico thwarted his attack and eventually hit the Brainbuster for a quick victory on Steen. After the match, Generico grabbed a chair from ringside and the t-shirt Steen left behind during his promo. In the ring, Generico put the shirt on the chair, then gave Shields a brainbuster onto the chair. Hogewood said this has to be the end of the feud.

WINNER: Generico in 1:00. Effective squash to continue setting up Steen vs. Generico at Final Battle. (n/a)

3 -- SHANE HAGADORN vs. BLAIN RAGE -- Exhibition match

Hero was still on the mic narrating the exhibition. Rage attempted a waistlock on Shane, but Hero cut him off. "That was not an exhibition waistlock," he told him. Hagadorn tried to take down Rage, but he wasn't strong enough, so Rage threw himself down. Rage went for another wrestling hold, which upset Hero again. Hero screamed at Hagadorn to take him down already. Rage had enough and shoved Shane, so Shane slapped him. Rage, enraged, tackled Hagadorn, but received a boot to the head from Hero for good measure. The KOW then hit their KRS One finisher to drop Rage on the mat. Claudio resumed his coffee consumption without breaking a sweat as Shane dropped an elbow on Rage to score the "pin" that Claudio counted.

WINNER: Shane. Another simple, effective piece of hype for Final Battle promoting Kings of Wrestling vs. Briscoes. Claudio was simply great in this segment playing off Hero's stronger heel persona. (n/a)

4 -- DAVEY RICHARDS vs. ERICK STEVENS (w/Prince Nana and Osiris)

The crowd tried to get under Stevens's skin early on as Prazak noted there is talk in the locker room that Nana is becoming frustrated with Embassy's inability to get the job done recently. Richards took the early advantage, but lost control on the outside when Stevens side-stepped a baseball slide and sent Richards flying into the guardrail. In the ring, Stevens worked on Richards for a few minutes. Richards made a furious comeback with a series of headbutts leading to a superplex that floored both men. Richards hit a handspring elbow smash that resulted in a nearfall, then Richards knocked Nana to the floor and connected with a missile dropkick. The crowd was hot for Richards hitting a combination of moves that culminated with a diving headbutt for a nearfall.

At 10:00, Stevens elbowed out of a suplex and both men traded blows before Stevens landed a lariat for a nearfall. Stevens wanted to follow with the Doctor Bomb, but Richards escaped and slapped on the Anklelock center ring. Stevens escaped again, then countered Davey's finisher and scored a close nearfall that drew Nana's ire. Stevens wanted the Dr. Bomb again, but Richards countered into the Anklelock again. Stevens tried to escape again, but Richards blocked the escape and transitioned into a Cloverleaf for the submission win.

WINNER: Richards via submission in 13:00. Richards sure gave Stevens a lot of offense and key moments countering his signature offense as the #1 contender leading to an ROH Title match at Final Battle. It helped elevate Stevens in defeat and, at the end of the day, showed off Davey's toughness and resiliency heading into the ROH Title match at Final Battle. (***)

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 12-9-10

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

1 -- TYLER REKS vs. JTG

Striker said JTG will have to deal with the "quick, street style" of JTG. Reks informed pre-PPV announcer guy that he believes JTG is just average. On the other hand, Reks believes he is a "future main eventer" in WWE. Reks focused on JTG's back early on as Striker held the audience by the hand to walk viewers through the basics of a heel trying to slow down the action to focus on a body part. JTG made a comeback with some unconvincing offense before he pulled out a pair of fuzzy dice. JTG chucked the dice into the stands, then hit the Mug Shot for a two count. Reks then threw JTG off the second rope and got that look in his eyes before delivering the Burning Hammer for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Reks in 4:00. About as basic as it gets from the in-ring moves to the commentary to the formula match to getting over a heel's dominating finishing move. (*)

2 -- CURT HAWKINS vs. TRENT BARRETA

Hawkins was mic'ed for sound talking trash to Barreta after the opening bell. Barreta had enough and slapped Hawkins across the face to jumpstart the third match in the recent even-steven series of matches on Superstars. Barreta controlled the action with a side headlock trying to frustrate Hawkins. They came to their feet and nearly botched a Frankensteiner attempt mid-ring. Barreta then calmly re-applied a headlock. Korpela suggested they could be watching the future of WWE. Suddenly, Hawkins flung Barreta over the top rope to the floor, with Barreta selling that he smashed his head into the ring steps. They cut to break with Hawkins catching his breath in the ring.

Back from break, Hawkins was working on Barreta, who came back with an enziguiri kick that stunned Hawkins. Barreta followed with a kick strike to the face, but Hawkins kicked out in time. Barreta tried a suplex, but Hawkins blocked. Korpela said it was a "tremendous" block, which drew a question from Striker. Barreta then knocked Hawkins to the floor and followed with a springboard twisting somersault splash on Hawkins. The announcers noted the high-risk nature of the move, which led to a nearfall back in the ring. Hawkins then blocked a Dudebuster DDT, Barreta blocked the Taste of Pain, and Barreta came back with a Tornado DDT for the pin and the win. Kids in the crowd were shown pumping their fists in excitement over this outcome.

WINNER: Barreta in 12:00. WWE obviously sees something in Barreta since they kept him and cut his partner, Caylen Croft. It's a good call to invest in Barreta, who could develop into a marketable babyface. Hawkins is still finding himself in the ring, but he definitely showed something on commentary last week. Both wrestlers have something tangible to offer WWE; they just need an opportunity on Smackdown. (**)

3 -- ZACK RYDER vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON

Ryder quickly grabbed a headlock, but Jackson flung him across the ring. Asked what a wrestler can do to combat Jackson, Punk suggested throwing a fireball in his face. Stanford wondered why Ryder continues to sign on for matches against Jackson, who began punishing Ryder. Jackson said he had this one, but Ryder slipped out of a suplex and raked Jackson across the eyes. Ryder followed with a dropkick for a nearfall, then delivered a knee drop for a one count. Zeke began no-selling as Ryder went to the second rope, which turned into Jackson clubbing Ryder in mid-air. Jackson warmed up a big clothesline, then nailed his Book of Ezekiel finisher for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Jackson in 4:00. Ryder was allowed to showcase some offense and he received a full ring intro, so that's a victory for Ryder this week. Meanwhile, Jackson continues to dominate as WWE tries to find a slot for him on Raw.

4 -- EVE vs. ALICIA FOX

Basic start with Eve scoring early offense before Fox cut her off and applied a reverse chinlock. Eve fought out with elbows, then found herself suspended in mid-air on Alicia's back. They awkwardly crashed to the mat with Alicia scoring a backbreaker across her knee for a two count. Eve then snapped off a series of dropkicks, but Fox caught her off-guard with a Northern Lights suplex with a bridge for a two count. Eve came back with a neckbreaker after countering a suplex, then went up top to execute a moonsault. It was good for the pin and the win. After a replay of the high points of the match, Eve celebrated in the ring to close out the show.

WINNER: Eve in 5:00. Fine showcase for the Raw Divas in the TV main event. They were off on a few moves, but overall worked hard to deliver a good match with a nice exchange of offense. (*1/4)

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact! Results: 12-9-10

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

1 -- BROTHER RAY & "BROTHER DEVON" vs. INK INC.

During ring intros, Ray made Devon walk about ten steps behind him. Ink Inc. brought chains to the ring, and those always sound like fingernails on a chalkboard with the mics. Ray told the New Devon what to do move-by-move. Taz said he's one of his green students. Neal hot-tagged in at 2:00 and went on a flurry against New Devon. Ray broke up the pin attempt by Neal, then tagged in and went on offense on Neal. The New Devon did the top rope diving headbutt on Neal between his legs. He then went into Original Devon's mannerisms. Ray told New Devon to get the tables. The crowd didn't chant along with him this time. New Devon slid in a table. Ray and Devon set it up, but Moore and Neal recovered in the mean time and speared Ray and New Devon. Moore then gave New Devon a Mooregasm off the top rope for the win. Ray looked around upset with the result.

WINNERS: Ink Inc. in 4:00.

-Afterward Ray attacked New Devon with a kick to the back of his head. He then put him through a table. Original Devon's new music played and ran to the ring. Ray bailed out and hid behind So Cal Val.

2 -- MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS vs. GUNNER & MURPHY

Gunner and Murphy arrived with night sticks. After the Guns entered the ring, Beer Money distracted them on the entrance stage. That gave Gunner and Murphy an opening to jump them before the bell. Beer Money joined Tenay and Taz on commentary. Storm asked: "What do you call a woman with only two front teeth? A bottle opener." He laughed at his own joke. Taz complimented Beer Money for hiring two goons like Gunner & Murphy to soften the Guns. Storm said the Guns are boys in a men's world holding their belts. He made fun of them for playing their game consoles or Nintendos. Gunner and Murphy were DQ'd for using a night stick. The Guns grabbed the sticks and used them to beat down the thugs. The Guns stared down Storm and Roode from the ring.

WINNERS: Machine Guns in 3:00.

3 -- SARITA & DAFFNEY vs. ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY -- TNA Knockouts Tag Team Title Tournament

Taz declared, "Let the pigeons loose!" When Sky rubbed her crotch against the middle rope, Taz said he's never been so envious and he'd like to know where he can sign up to be a middle rope. Sarita said every time Sky gets in trouble, she runs back to Love. She butted her chest against her and said she can't do it alone. She asked when she would grow herself a set. Love tackled her to the mat to jump-start the match. At 3:00 both Daffney and Love tagged into the match. A minute later Love scored the clean pin.

WINNERS: Love & Sky in 4:00.

-Afterward Sarita said at the end of the day Sky still didn't beat her and she never will because she's a loser. Sky huffed and puffed and fumed. Tenay said Sarita got in Sky's head.

4 -- DOUGLAS WILLIAMS vs. ABYSS -- TV Title Match

Williams did his head bob, which always makes my day. He proudly wore his newly won TV Title around his waist on his way to the ring. In the end, Abyss blocked a Rolling Chaos attempt and then tore the turnbuckle pad off the corner and attempted to crash into Williams. Williams moved and Abyss hit the exposed buckle. Williams then schoolboyed Abyss for the clean win.

WINNER: Williams in 4:00.

STAR RATING: 1/2* -- Not a lot to the match. Has Abyss forgotten how to work a good match without weapons?

-Afterward Styles attacked Williams on the ramp. He gave Williams the Styles Clash on the stage. Styles then leaned over and trash-talked Williams for stealing his belt and his finishing move.

5 -- MICKIE JAMES vs. TARA -- Cage Match

They fought in the cage for a few seconds and then cut to an early break. Okay, now there's just two minutes left in the second hour, so this rating won't be so telling after all since that's two commercial breaks in this segment. To pop a big rating, they needed to get the commercials out of the way. So much for TNA not interrupting matches in progress.

At 9:00 Tara met Mickie on the top rope and went for a powerbomb. They slipped and ended up with an awkward execution. Taz called it "ugly." Tara landed on her hip. Mickie landed on her back. That could have been way worse. Tara beat down Mickie for a minute and tried to escape through the cage, but Mickie stopped her. Tenay officially signed off Impact and they immediately began Reaction after just a split second of a black screen.

REACTION

Taz said it's disturbing to see two women beat each other into steel like this. Mickie climbed to the top of the cage and his a Thesz Press on Tara for the clean win.

WINNER: Mickie in 14:00.

STAR RATING: *3/4 -- Some good intensity, but mixed results on the athleticism and big spots. Tough to rate this one as the novelty of a women's cage match did carry it a little bit.

-Afterward Tara sold being totally out of it. Mickie got up on one leg, unable to put pressure on one of her legs. Tenay said nothing stands in the way of Mickie achieving her goal of becoming TNA Knockouts Champion.

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 12-10-10

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

1 – JACK SWAGGER vs. KAVAL

Kaval gave a double-boot to the chest of Swagger, then got a near-fall from a kick to the chest. Swagger had Kaval up for an electric chair, then threw him off in front of him, and Kaval came up lame. The ref gave Kaval room to try to get to his feet. Swagger picked Kaval up by the foot and almost flipped him on his head, but Kaval was able to come down on his leg to continue selling it. Kaval chopped Swagger in the corner, to give him some breathing room. He fought out of a gutwrench powerbomb, and both men ended up on the mat. Kaval surprised Swagger with a kick to the face, then one to the chest. Kaval continued with kicks, all the while selling the left ankle. Kaval got a good pop coming out, but the fans haven’t really been into him during the match. Cover after a knee to the temple got Kaval a two-count. Kaval tried to go to the top with Swagger flat on the mat, but Swagger took out his leg with Kaval on the apron. Back in the ring, the ankle-lock was immediately applied, and Kaval fought it for as long as he could, but ended up tapping.

WINNER: Swagger, at 5:24. Another loss for Kaval, but he showed good fight with an injury within the match, so he certainly didn’t lose much heat.

2 – HORNSWOGGLE vs. THE SOARING EAGLE

Hornswoggle was accompanied by Rosa Mendes. Justin Roberts was doing ring intros instead of Tony Chimel, and he announced the Eagle’s wingspan. They chyron simply read “The Eagle,” while Roberts announced him as the Soaring Eagle. Cole said this was a PG show and Hornswoggle couldn’t “flip the bird.” Mendes handed Horny a paper bag that read “Acme Birdseed.” Striker noted that Acme was spelled wrong (AKME on the bag) and Mathews said Acme was probably copyrighted. Hornswoggle knocked the bird down after distracting him with birdseed. He got a napkin, put salt on the leg and bit the bird. He then rode him on his back until the eagle kicked Horny. Cole was vociferous in his support for the eagle. He kicked at Horny and missed MVP’s Ballin’ elbowdrop. Horny to the top, Tadpole Splash, which finished it.

WINNER: Hornswoggle, at 2:18. The only worthwhile thing here was the commentary, which was well into NXT Season 3 commentary territory.

3 – KOFI KINGSTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Kingston went for a few quick roll-ups. Ziggler stopped him and went on the offensive, attempting to keep Kingston grounded. Crowd was into Kofi early on. Kofi countered a clothesline into a monkey flip. Off the ropes, forearm to the face. Trouble in Paradise attempt, but Ziggler rolled out of the way and out of the ring. He and his main squeeze, Vickie Guerrero, had a pow-wow outside the ring as they went to break.

The show resumed with Ziggler holding Kingston on the mat with a rear chinlock. High dropkick from Ziggler for a two-count. High elbowdrop, another two-count. When Kofi tried to come back, Ziggler gave him a swinging neck-breaker. Back to the headlock from Ziggler. Kingston got back to a vertical base and monkey-flipped Ziggler into the corner. Kofi got to his feet first and nailed Ziggler with a couple chops and a dropkick. Boom Drop attempt, But Ziggler got out of the way. Kofi missed a corner splash, but he hit Ziggler with the corner flip kick. Dropkick off the top by Kingston. Vickie got on the apron briefly to distract the ref and Kofi, leading to Ziggler getting out of the pin. Small package by Ziggler for two. He got to his feet and landed a big front kick. Kingston knocked Ziggler off the second rope and landed a cross-body from the top. Mathews proclaimed Kingston as new IC Champ so of course, Dolph kicked out. Ziggler countered a suplex with a sleeper hold. Kingston was sent into the corner, but Kofi surprised Dolph with a Trouble in Paradise that caught Dolph in the shoulder or back. As he went for the pin, Jack Swagger ran in to break up the pin.

WINNER: Kingston, via DQ, at 12:44. Three-way IC Title match at TLC? The usual Kingston vs. Ziggler match, which is not bad, but Ziggler’s offense is a bit too methodic at times.

4 – SANTINO MARELLA & VLADIMIR KOZLOV vs. CHAVO GUERRERO & DREW MCINTYRE

Arm-lock take-over, but Santino got too cocky and walked into a punch by Drew. Kozlov tagged in and he and Drew traded offense. We’ve got an Italian, Russian, Mexican and a Scotsman in this match. Chavo cheated to help his team keep Kozlov at bay. Santino tried to tag in, but almost ate it as he was leaning too far over the top rope. That was funny. Marella tagged in and so did McIntyre. Hip-toss and he went for his headbutt, but McIntyre got his boot up. Drew lined up for a DDT, but Chavo tagged himself in. Chavo then missed the frogsplash and Santino gave the cobra to him, then rolled him up for the win.

WINNERS: Marella and Kozlov, at 3:09. Pure comedy match with the new champs now able to go to Smackdown.

5 – LAYLA vs. NATALYA

Natalya evened the odds by bringing Beth Phoenix out to second her for this match. Single-leg take-down and roll-up, nicely done by Layla. Standing suplex and squat by Natalya. Layla rolled out of the ring afer that one. Natalya pushed McCool down and Layla kicked Natalya to the ground. Beth helped her up and kept McCool at a distance. Nattie slammed Layla into the corner, and the two connected on a double dropkick. Dropkick was caught by Nattie and she tried a Sharpshooter. McCool grabbed Layla by the hand, and Natalya dragged Layla across the ring while in the move, which brought McCool into the ring. Beth peeled McCool off Layla and Layla submitted.

WINNER: Natalya, at 2:02. Better-than-average two-minute Divas TV match. Layla has really improved, and it’s especially noticeable against a good woman wrestler like Natalya Neidhart.

6 – REY MYSTERIO & EDGE vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO & KANE

Before the match began, Teddy Long walked out onto the stage, as Kane did not show up. Long said this would be a handicap match. Mysterio started with Del Rio. Legdrop and cover got two from Rey. Shoulder into the corner by Edge, then a dropkick from Rey. Del Rio fired back with elbows to the back of Edge’s head. Flapjack by Edge and a tag to Rey, who splashed Del Rio with an assist from Edge. Both Mysterio and Del Rio sporting the gold look tonight. Del Rio was sent to ringside right in front of the announce table. Finally, Kane showed up. Edge met him in the aisle and the two brawled briefly, until Edge went backstage. Kane followed. Rey was distracted by this, and Del Rio took advantage. Gutbuster by Del Rio for a two-count. Body-scissors applied by Del Rio as the crowd chanted “619.” Enziguiri by Del Rio knocked Mysterio off the apron. Alberto rolled to the outside and kicked Rey in the gut. He bounced Rey’s head off the announce desk as Ricardo Rodriguez directed traffic at ringside. Perched on the top rope, Del Rio went to suplex Rey off. Instead, Rey knocked Del Rio off. Seated senton by Mysterio, then a bulldog. Del Rio came back with a tilt-a-whirl back-breaker. Mysterio landed the 619, to the delight of the crowd. Splash of the top rope sealed the win for Rey Rey’s team.

WINNERS: Edge and Mysterio, at 7:10.

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 12-13-10 (Part 1)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results. Slammy Awards list courtesy of WWE.com (direct link to WWE Slammy page).

1 -- WADE BARRETT vs. BIG SHOW

Barrett stalled for the first 1:30 of the match before entering the ring and accepting a huge chop across the chest. Barrett sold in the corner, then lured Show into an eye-rake. Show started throwing errant right hands, so Barrett began stomping and kicking toward Show. The crowd rallied with a loud "Cena, Cena" chant, then Show knocked Barrett to the outside and delivered another huge chop to the chest. Show chased Barrett back into the ring, but Barrett rolled out of the ring, grabbed his Slammy, and went home. Barrett disappeared to the back and Show was declared the winner.

WINNER: Big Show via count-out at 3:45. WWE didn't give away much in the ring, but the idea of just giving away Show vs. Barrett with no advanced notice is inefficient when the talent pool is so limited to create compelling match-ups. (*)

2 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/the Bellas) & KOFI KINGSTON vs. IC champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) & TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse)

The action was joined in progress with Bryan locked in a headlock. Punk was back on commentary with Cole and Lawler as Bryan fought back to his feet. Cole asked Punk who he was sending a message to, but Punk turned his attention to the ring. Cole noted some of the Slammy Awards were already handed out on WWE's website earlier today. The heels continued to work over Bryan while Vickie and Maryse jockeyed for position ringside looking for the most camera time. The Bellas tried to rally behind Bryan, who collided with DiBiase mid-ring.

DiBiase rolled to the floor, then Kofi tagged in. Ziggler entered to feed Kofi, who was looking around for someone to attack. Kofi landed the Boom Drop on Ziggler before nailing Trouble in Paradise. Kofi made a cover and DiBiase appeared to break it up, but the ref counted a quick three count for Kofi anyways. The Bellas celebrated with Bryan while Maryse sold shock and disappointment ringside.

WINNERS: Bryan & Kofi at 3:07 of what aired. Not enough time given to a match featuring what should be the novelty of Raw and Smackdown wrestlers mixed together. There were just too many people involved in-ring and out-of-the-ring for anyone to stand out. WWE needs to rebuild the brand split to the point of it generating a reaction on the level of a TNA wrestler hypothetically appearing on Raw...or just get rid of the brand split altogether. (*)

3 -- MARK HENRY vs. CODY RHODES

Rhodes tried to duck under the ropes to avoid Henry, who then clotheslined him and tried to rearrange his face. Rhodes started screaming at Henry, who smiled. Punk said some people think Rhodes is soft because he's concerned about his face, but he has a mean streak. Rhodes showed it off by dropping Henry with a drop toehold before stomping and kicking away at him. Henry recovered and made a comeback with a big corner splash. Rhodes avoided a second splash and nailed the Disaster Kick to floor Henry. Rhodes then dropped a knee to the upper back region from the second rope. Rhodes made the cover and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes at 2:48. Henry's stock falling or Rhodes's stick rising? Or, another Raw vs. Smackdown give-away that won't mean anything? (*)

4 -- WWE champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley and David Arquette) vs. REY MYSTERIO -- non-title match

The action quickly moved to the floor as Cole plugged Rey having his own PPV match against Alberto Del Rio at the PPV. They cut to a break 35 seconds into the match with Rey in control.

Back in the ring, Rey broke free from a chinlock. Rey tried a wheelbarrow move, but they botched the move and kind of fell to the mat. Miz and Rey recovered, then Rey set up the 619, but Alberto Del Rio's music interrupted. The distraction allowed Miz to smash Rey into the ring apron for a two count. Up top, Miz teased a superplex, but Rey knocked him to the mat and landed a sentaun followed by a cross-body splash for a two count. Rey then set up the 619 again and confusion ensued with Del Rio and Riley interfering, but Rey scored a two count on a pin attempt. Rey set up the 619 again. This time, the interference worked and Miz was able to roll up Rey for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Miz at 7:05. The botched spot, interference, and Del Rio's scarf will probably be most remembered from this match-up. The crowd was hot for Rey, which was good for the TV presentation. (*1/2)

Post-match: Rey chased Del Rio to the back while Miz, Riley, and Arquette celebrated in the ring. Miz heldup the WWE Title belt, but the GM interrupted. Cole apologized for interrupting Miz's celebration before announcing Orton will be in a handicap match tonight against Alex Riley and his partner...former WCW World Hvt. champion David Arquette. Riley was stunned. Arquette sold excitement. "That is a handicap match if I ever heard one," Punk said.

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 12-13-10 (Part 2)

5 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. SHEAMUS

They went after each other before the bell sounded and maintained an aggressive tone to the match. The referee tried to separate them, but they continued to fight in the ropes. The ref called for the bell, throwing out the match.

WINNER: Double DQ at 0:33.

Post-match: more referees intervened to separate the two men before the crowd chanted, "Let them fight." The Raw GM interrupted again. Cole read that Sheamus and Morrison can't settle their issue tonight, so he (or she) is raising the stakes. The winner of the match at TLC will become the new #1 contender to the WWE Title. The winner will be the man who retrieves a contract suspended above the ring...in a ladder match. Morrison smiled, then Sheamus blind-sided him. Sheamus knocked over Morrison, then screamed at Cole that he should already be #1 contender. Sheamus removed the ladder and jabbed Morrison with it when Morrison came to his feet. Then, Sheamus delivered a boot to the head as referees tried to get Sheamus to back off. Sheamus proceeded to chuck Morrison over the top rope onto the ladder and Morrison writhed in pain selling his back as Sheamus stood tall in the ring.

6 -- DIVAS BATTLE ROYAL -- Winner is Diva of the Year

Back from break to begin the ultra-important top of the 10:00 p.m. EST hour, Lay-Cool were still celebrating with their Slammy in the ring. A parade of Divas came to the ring for the battle royal. They all circled around Layla and McCool, who threw the first blow and set off a brawl. NXT3 winner Kaitlyn was the first one out. More Divas started exiting as they pared the field down to the relevant competitors. Kelly took a hard spill on the way out. Beth then gave Melina the Glam Slam onto the top rope to eliminate her. Layla was eliminated by Beth, then distracted Beth to get her eliminated. Natalya cleared multiple Divas on the other side of the ring, then McCool surprised Natalya by eliminating her.

WINNER: McCool at 3:30. I will be very surprised if someone was not injured during that match. Of note, no hint of a Melina heel turn.

Post-match: Lay-Cool celebrated McCool winning Diva of the Year. Suddenly, the very busy Raw GM buzzed in. Cole read that Lay-Cool will meet Natalya and Beth Phoenix at TLC in the first-ever Divas tag team tables match. Lay-Cool sold shock and disbelief while Beth and Natalya smiled. Two tables matches on the same PPV?

7 -- EDGE vs. JACK SWAGGER

Cole announced Smackdown GM Long has booked Swagger vs. Kofi vs. Ziggler in a three-way ladder match for the IC Title at TLC. Two ladder matches on the same PPV? Swagger dominated early on as the announcers tried to plug all of the new TLC matches announced tonight. Swagger shouted at the crowd after scoring a handful of nearfalls. He tried to put away Edge, but Edge came back with an inverted drop. Edge built momentum and landed a knock-down clothesline for a two count. Cole labeled this standard one-on-one match a "traditional match," as if it's a dated concept compared to the over-gimmicked TLC matches. Swagger tried the Anklelock at 4:00, but Edge blocked. Swagger teased the gutwrench, but Edge countered with a lift-up DDT. Edge then got that look in his eyes wanting the Spear as the crowd came to life. He measured Swagger and dropped him clean with the Spear for the win. Punk posed the question of whether Edge will be the new World champion on Sunday.

WINNER: Edge at 4:45. This is where a squash match would have easily accomplished the task of getting over Edge, his finisher, and his quest for the World Title without sacrificing Swagger, who's challenging for the IC Title on Sunday. (*1/2)

8 -- RANDY ORTON vs. ALEX RILEY & DAVID ARQUETTE (w/WWE champion The Miz)

Orton and Riley started things off. Orton landed a big knock-down clothesline, then stared a hole into Arquette. Riley suddenly gained control, then Arquette excitedly tagged in. DQ landed a sledgehammer to the back, but Orton popped up and no-sold. He landed a kick to the gut, then went into RKO mode. Arquette crapped his pants and quickly tagged out. Lawler cracked a joke about "Ready to Rumble," but Cole talked it up. Riley gained control on Orton, then Arquette choked Orton in the corner behind the ref's back. Orton made a comeback and stalked Riley for the RKO. He connected and made the cover, which was good for a three count.

Post-match: Miz immediately smashed Orton with the MITB briefcase that continues to be present for the third straight week despite Miz having to physically cash in the briefcase. Anyways, Miz brought a table into the ring. He tried to hook up with Arquette on a suplex through the table on Orton, but Orton blocked. Orton cleared Miz, but Arquette was stuck in the ring. Orton realized the opportunity he had and he proceeded to powerbomb Arquette through the table. That was a vicious-looking powerbomb. Orton had a little spit coming from his mouth to sell his intensity. He then stared down Miz, who sold that he was unfazed ringside. Orton celebrated in the ring and medics stormed the ring to give Arquette medical attention to sell the bomb.

WINNER: Orton at 3:24. I can't believe Arquette was back in a wrestling ring in 2010. Overall, decent final build-up for Miz vs. Orton, who went through the "mini-bosses" of Riley last week and Arquette this week leading to Miz at TLC. Selling PPVs will require a macro overhaul for WWE that one week of decent build-up won't be able to overcome. It's a culture and mindset that WWE has created. (*)

9 -- DAVID OTUNGA vs. JOHN CENA

The bell sounded seven minutes past the top of the hour with Cena delivering a quick beat down on Otunga. Cena put a serious look on his face before delivering a clothesline. Otunga then blocked a corner attack and started landing right hand blows. Otunga followed with a back elbow smash for a one count. Out of nowhere, Cena came back with the STF and Otunga was forced to tap out. Sometime during this, Barrett made his way back on the stage to take a seat to watch.

WINNER: Cena via submission at 1:44.

Post-match: Cena brought a chair back in the ring. Cena smashed Otunga across the back while Barrett simply watched from the stage. Otunga reached out for Barrett, but no help was coming as Cena cracked the chair over Otunga's back again. Cena pointed toward Barrett to tell him this will be him on Sunday. Barrett shook his head no. Cena then measured Otunga for another chair shot to the back, then multiple shots to the legs. Otunga rolled to the outside and Cena fired himself up. Barrett shook his head before holding up his chair to say his is bigger than Cena's. Cole tried to give that final sales pitch for TLC that only Jim Ross can nail as they went to a final camera shot of Cena standing tall in the ring. They went off the air 11 minutes past the hour.

Superstar of the Year Winner: John Cena
Diva of the Year Winner: Michelle McCool
WWE Moment of the Year Winner: The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XXVI
"Oh Snap" Meltdown of the Year Winner: Edge destroys the anonymous GM's computer
Shocker of the Year Winner: The Nexus debuts
Despicable Me Award Winner: CM Punk sings "Happy Birthday" to Rey Mysterio's daughter
Holy %&^*%&* Move of the Year Winner: John Cena's Attitude Adjustment on Batista through the stage
Guest Star Shining Moment Winner: Pee-wee Herman vs. The Miz
Knucklehead Moment of the Year Winner: Lay-Cool gets beat by Mae Young
WWE Universe Fan Reaction Winner: "Angry Miz Girl" Cayley
"And I Quote ..." Line of the Year Winner: Michael Cole

[Arcademan]

The wrestling results from the week of 12-13-10 including the WWE TLC PPV can be found at my TOKYOPOP Wrestling Blog (link under my signature picture) or at PWTorch.com (lots of pop-up).

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 12-20-10

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

1 -- MELINA vs. ALICIA FOX vs. EVE -- #1 contender match to the Divas Title

Melina came out first for the triple threat #1 contender match to the Divas Title. Alicia Fox, then Eve came out to round out the field. After some sequences of one Diva being dumped out of the ring on a rotational basis to set up one-on-one action, the Divas traded pinning sequences in the ring. Melina and Eve started trading aggressive shots before Melina suddenly countered a Doomsday Device attempt into a victory roll on Alicia for the pin. She gets the next shot at Natalya. Post-match: Melina sold excitement over getting another title shot. Natalya entered the ring to congratulate her, but Melina slapped her across the face, scowled, and stomped out of the ring for an abrupt heel turn. Natalya sold shock in the ring.

WINNER: Melina at 2:54. It's apparent why they did not air the "Tribute to the Troops" Divas match on the NBC special since Melina was set to turn heel on tonight's Raw prior to the extended, two-hour version airing on Wednesday night where she'll team with heel Divas. It creates an issue for Natalya and Melina to build some momentum for the women's division. (*1/4)

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

Lawler sold excitement over seeing this match as the two men locked up and traded holds. Regal backed away to the corner as they continued to feel each other. Punk cut off Lawler talking about Cena as the two men in the ring traded blows. Bryan landed multiple kick strikes to the mid-section in the corner before flipping over Regal, who came back with a big running fist to the forehead for a nearfall. Regal then applied a neck vice and Bryan attempted a suplex, but Regal maintained the vice grip. Regal followed with knee strikes for a nearfall as the announcers debated Bryan's social skills. Oh, how Ross is missed calling a match like this.

Bryan fought back to his feet and they started trading European uppercuts. The crowd did the boo/yay to follow along. Regal cut off Bryan with an uppercut to the gut, followed by a forearm to the back of the head. Regal wanted the Regal Stretch, but Bryan blocked. Bryan also blocked a butterfly suplex and slipped Regal to his mid-section. He wanted the LeBell Lock, but Regal fought it, so Bryan landed signature elbows to the head/neck region. Bryan then fully applied the LeBell Lock and it was good for a submission victory.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 4:30. It is well with my soul. Could WWE put a "1" before the 4:30 and put this on PPV? Just an excellent five-minute wrestling exchange. It creates an interesting question of whether it's the beginning of a program for Bryan and Regal or simply Regal being able to say he wrestled Bryan on live TV once in his career before retiring. (**1/4)

3 -- WWE tag champion SANTINO & TAMINA vs. TED DIBIASE & MARYSE

The bell sounded and Tamina squeezed Santino to crack his back into place. Punk noted the Divas are smart, sexy, powerful, and chiropractors. Santino and DiBiase traded offense early on before DiBiase worked on Santino's back. Santino made an inspired comeback before calling for the Cobra. DiBiase tagged out to Maryse, though. Santino suddenly stopped short when he realized a woman was in the ring and he could not deliver the Cobra to Maryse. Maryse shot the Cobra back into Santino's throat, but Tamina blindsided Maryse with a superkick.

Tamina did a long routine setting up a top-rope move as DiBiase and Santino did a comedy routine knocking themselves over the top rope to the floor. Maryse had to sell for a long time before Tamina executed a textbook Superfly Splash for the win. Tamina then helped Santino out of the ring as the crowd applauded their efforts. Tamina comically tried to carry Santino up the ramp, but had to stop halfway up the ramp.

WINNERS: Santino & Tamina at 2:52. More of that Santino Comedy giving the crowd some light entertainment fare. The heels aren't threatening, but the crowd knows enough about their characters to enjoy a good, hearty laugh when they're the butt of the joke. (*)

4 -- JOHN CENA vs. IC champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- non-title match

Cole complained to Lawler about doing fat jokes and Lawler justified it. Cole then complained to Lawler about trying to make himself "the show" again by getting the main event. Punk shot back that Cole came out here dressed like Ebenezer Scrooge. Cole was quiet. The crowd went after Vickie early on, so the wrestlers paused before locking up to begin the match.

The match picked up with Ziggler taking control of the action as the crowd did a loud dueling chant. Ziggler couldn't capitalize on a series of right hand punches and Cena came back with a gutwrench suplex for a nearfall. Ziggler then punted Cena in the face after being shot off the ropes and applied a modified Crossface. The two men traded instructions in the hold and Cena came to his feet. Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Ziggler came back with a face jam for a two count. They cut to break, giving Cena, Ziggler, and Vickie a big three-segment spotlight tonight in front of a hot crowd.

Back from break, Cena and Ziggler were trading right hand blows. Cena then hit a sidewalk slam as the crowd cheered on Cena. Both men came to their feet before hitting a double knock-down clothesline. Vickie screamed at Ziggler to get up while the referee applied a ten count. Ziggler was up first and delivered a jawbreaker for a two count. Vickie screamed and stomped up and down to sell anger. Ziggler then hit a big dropkick for another nearfall. Punk noted Ziggler's aggressiveness in the match and both men likely aching after the TLC PPV last night.

Cena and Ziggler talked across the ring, then Cena fired up the Cena Comeback Routine. "This here...is vintage John Cena," Cole predictably said. Cena hit the Five Knuckle Shuffle before looking for the Attittude Adjustment. Ziggler elbowed out, though, and slapped on a sleeper. Cena escaped, then applied the STF. Ziggler fought the hold, Vickie distracted the referee, and Ziggler tapped out. Cena thought he won, but the ref said he didn't see it. Ziggler tried to capitalize with the Zig-Zag, but Cena kicked out. Finsih time. Ziggler removed the top turnbuckle pad, the ref was distracted trying to replace it, Ziggler took the IC Title belt, Cena ducked the shot, and Cena hit the Attitude Adjustment for the pin and the win as the crowd exploded.

WINNER: Cena at 13:23. This turned into the Cena-Dolph-Vickie show for about 30 minutes and it made for some very good TV playing to the audience. The match was good with an extended Cena singles formula match and a hot crowd buying into the action. As for the post-match, a Cena vs. Punk feud appears to be one way to bridge the gap between TLC and the Rumble. (**1/2)

5 -- RANDY ORTON & JOHN MORRISON & JERRY LAWLER vs. WWE champion THE MIZ & ALEX RILEY & SHEAMUS

Each team jockeyed for position looking at the match-ups to see who should start things off. They teased Miz vs. Orton, but Miz tagged out to Riley. Orton quickly took control on Riley before tagging in Morrison, who pounded on Riley. Morrison landed some hard European uppercuts before tagging in Lawler. Lawler with a boot to the gut, then a dropkick. Yes, a dropkick from Lawler. Cole heeled on Lawler "putting himself in the spotlight" as Mathews said it's the pot calling the kettle black. Miz tagged in for the heels, then Orton tagged in, and Miz ran away wanting nothing to do with Orton. Sheamus accepted Miz's desperation tag, then slowly entered the ring to circle around Orton. They cut to break.

Back live, the heels were working over Lawler trying to use a numbers game to their advantage. Lawler eventually broke free from Sheamus and tagged in Morrison, who sold the left knee injury after a corner attack. Morrison tried to fight it off before nailing the Flying Chuck. Morrison tried to finish off Sheamus with Starship Pain, but Sheamus cut him off and Morrison ate the middle turnbuckle. The heels began working over Morrison's left knee and cut off a few attempted hot tags to either Lawler or Orton. The crowd bought each of the teases, building anticipation for the big hot tag to Orton at 13:00. Miz also tagged in and he was trapped having to face Orton. Orton went nuts on Miz with a snap powerslam and an Angle Slam. Orton followed with the elevated spike DDT off the second rope for a nearfall.

The action broke down with bodies starting to fly. Orton stalked Miz for the RKO, but Riley snuck in, so he took the RKO. Miz then blindsided Orton with a kick that sent Orton flying to the corner. Lawler blind-tagged in and Miz nearly dropped him with the Skullcrushing Finale, but Orton caught Miz from behind with the RKO with the ref preoccupied with Riley. Lawler then pinned Miz and Mathews noted Lawler has pinned the WWE champion. Orton and Lawler celebrated in the ring together as Cole said he can't believe this.

WINNERS: Team Lawler at 14:18. One of those traditional Raw six-man tag main events where the faces get revenge on the heels for past wrongdoings. Lawler got his "win" on Miz for Raw three weeks ago, Orton got a measure of revenge on Miz with an RKO for TLC last night, and they kept something for Smackdown tomorrow night with Orton getting Miz one-on-one again. Fine action that overall served its purpose. (**1/4)

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 12-21-10

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

1 -- THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) vs. RANDY ORTON

Cole said Miz is the "most must-see WWE Champion ever." Loud chants for "Randy" in the opening minute. Miz bailed out and ran from Orton, who chased him back into the ring and then took him down with a Thesz Press and a full mount with a barrage of punches. Miz again bailed out after a kick. Orton met him on the floor and threw him into the security wall twice, then flattened him with a clothesline. He then turned to "The Apprentice" Alex Riley, who backed off. Miz dropped off the ring apron and snapped Orton's neck over the top rope at 2:00 and then gave him a boot to the face for a two count. Miz got frustrated after a couple more two counts. Orton then took over with punches and a backbreaker at 4:00. At 5:00 Riley yanked Orton off the ring apron and he fell head-first into the edge of the ring apron. Miz then whipped Orton into the ringside steps. They cut to a break.

Orton knocked Miz off balance on the top rope, then superplex him at 10:00. Miz showed some fight, but Orton stayed on offense. Cole said Orton is more aggressive than he's seen him in recent weeks with "emotion pouring out of his veins." A minute later Miz countered an Orton clothesline with a neckbreaker for a two count at 11:00. Orton came back seconds later with a high dropkick for another two count. Riley distracted Orton leading to a Miz comebackat 12:00. Miz struck with a DDT for a two count. Orton then came back and pounded the mat. Riley against jumped on the ring apron, but Orton turned to punch him and then turned back with an RKO. As Orton went for the cover, Riley interfered and stopped the count. The ref DQ'd Miz.

WINNER: Orton in 14:00.

STAR RATING: ***1/4 -- Really good action. The DQ finish, perhaps a necessary evil at this point, was a letdown after such a good, emotionally-charged match. It's good for Miz to be in that type of match with Orton, even if he did rely on cheating to avoid getting pinned. It's also a good start to Smackdown, but very different from how WWE opens Raw most often.

2 -- SANTINO MARELLA (w/Vladimir Kozlov) vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Cole and Matthews argued over whether Santino was out of line for looking for some action on Smackdown. Matthews defended Santino, saying "don't hate the player, hate the game." At 3:00 Santino hit the Cobra and schoolboy for the win. Cole said, "Maybe Santino should have pulled the cobra out for Beth." Striker found that funny.

WINNER: Santino in 3:00.

3 -- KAVAL vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Drew attacked Kaval just as he somersaulted into the ring. The ref asked Kaval if he was willing and able to fight. Kaval said yes, but he was still almost out of it. Drew finished him with the Future Shock DDT seconds later.

WINNER: Drew in about 20 seconds.

4 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO & JACK SWAGGER vs. REY MYSTERIO & KOFI KINGSTON

At 2:00 Swagger broke up a pin by Kofi on Del Rio. Del Rio tried to jump at Kofi, but Kofi ducked and he flew through the ropes to the floor. Swagger followed behind. With both heels down, Kofi and Rey leaped off the top rope and landed bodyblocks on the floor. They cut to a break at 3:00.

Back from the break Del Rio had Rey in a headlock. Cole pushed the fact that these wrestlers were all competing just two days after putting their careers on the line at TLC. Nice to see that being stressed, unlike last night on Raw. Kofi hot-tagged in at 8:00, bunt Swagger cut him off with a boot to the face. Rey hot-tagged in at 11:00 and gave Del Rio a DDT for a two count. Swagger tagged in and took over offense against Rey. Rey fought back with a 619 set-up on Swagger. When Del Rio entered, Ray set him for it, too, but Del Rio moved. Rey hit Swagger and then knocked Del Rio to the flor. Kofi hit the Trouble in Paradise and then Rey landed a springboard splash for the win.

WINNERS: Rey & Kofi in 14:00.

STAR RATING: **3/4 -- Good high-energy tag match with some nice athleticism from Rey and Kofi. Matthews touted it as the type of high-flying action you'll only see on Smackdown.

5 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER & VICKIE GUERRERO vs. JOHN CENA

Striker said Vickie has the face of Adrian Barbeau and the body of Adrian Adonis. Before the match began, Ziggler had to talk Vickie out of going after Cena and then grab her. Cole said she's crazy. He said it's not the first time she was made fun of. Striker said it won't be the last. Cena leapfrogged Ziggler in the first exchange, then settled into a chinlock. Cole said it's been a while since Cena did a leapfrog, which is evidence now of him having a spring in his step. Ziggler took control after a Vickie distraction. Vickie tagged herself in at 2:00. Ziggler didn't approve, but threw his hands up. Vickie stepped on Cena's face and made some hideous faces. Cole said it looks like a cow stepping on his face. Ziggler tagged himself back in. He went back to punching Cena's head. Cena teased an Attitude Adjustment out of nowhere, but Ziggler escaped easily and DDT'd him for a near fall. Ziggler knocked Cena to the floor at 5:00. Zigger rammed Cena head-first into the announce table. Cena, though, blocked Ziggler's attempt to ram him into the ringside steps. Cena reversed it and then threw Ziggler back into the ring. Ziggler caught Cena as he entered the ring with a dropkick. Cena made a comeback, but Ziggler ducked his flying shoulder block. Cena rolled to the floor. Vickie observed from the ring apron as the ref began to count Cena out. She walked over and kicked him on the leg lightly and laughed. Cena rolled into the ring as the fans began a battle of "Let's Go Cena!" and "Cena Sucks!" chants. Cena made a comeback, but Ziggler cut him off and applied a side headlock. Cena tried to escape, but Ziggler dropped down with a chin buster for a two count. When it appeared Ziggler had Cena where he wanted him, Vickie tagged herself back in. She waved her hand in Cena's face and then went for a splash. Cena moved. Cole wondered what that measured on the Richter Scale. Ziggler tagged back in, but Cena had his feet back and went into his finishing sequence. He waved his hand in front of Vickie, then gave Ziggler a Five Knuckle Shuffle and the Attitude Adjustment. Ziggler countered, though, landing on his feet and hitting a Fameasser for a very near fall. Ziggler set up the Zig Zag, but Cena countered into the STF. Vickie yanked Cena off of Ziggler and yelled at him. Cena forced a kiss on her. Cole said he has more guts than he ever thought. "Cena's a real man!" Cole declared. Vickie cried as Cena hit the Attitude Adjustment on Ziggler for the win.

WINNER: Cena in 14:00.

-Afterward, as Cena set up Vickie for an Attitude Adjustment, C.M. Punk attacked Cena with a chair again. He then walked to the back looking very serious, never looking back. Cole said, "I just don't get it." Cena winced in pain in the ring.