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

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact! Results: 4-14-11

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

1 -- CRIMSON (w/Scott Steiner) vs. JESSE NEAL (w/Shannon Moore) vs. DOUG WILLIAMS (w/Magnus) vs. ORLANDO JORDAN (w/Eric Young)

Taz said it's like a captain's match previewing the four-team match at Lockdown. He tried to promote an actual tag team rankings, with the winning team supposedly having a chance to move up said rankings with a win at Lockdown. There was more action on the outside early on with Steiner stalking Shannon Moore, who has antagonized Steiner recently. Shannon kept flexing in Steiner's face, then Neal tried to wave off Shannon's antics. Steiner eventually rammed Shannon into the guardrail and Neal gave chase. Crimson then went looking for Steiner and Abyss randomly showed up to clothesline Crimson. On the other side of the ring, Young and Magnus were doing a dance move or something. The camera caught it mid-action, so it looked completely out of place. Abyss then removed a portion of the guardrail and chokeslammed Crimson onto the guardrail.

In the ring, Jordan and Williams battled, then EY randomly entered the ring and tried to suplex the referee. Jordan then dropped Williams with the Gender Bender - a spinning facebuster - for the win. Taz noted there were a lot of moving parts, which is code for it was horribly over-booked. Medics quickly checked on Crimson and they quickly cut away.

WINNER: Jordan at 4:28. What a mess to start the in-ring portion of the Lockdown lead-in show. How is that first match action out of the chute going to inspire anyone to order a PPV in three days?

2 -- X Division champion KAZARIAN (w/Fortune) vs. MATT HARDY (w/Immortal) -- non-title match

Kazarian scored an early nearfall with a surprise crucifix pin right after the bell sounded, then Hardy regrouped and went to work on Kazarian. Hardy focused on Kazarian's neck as Tenay noted it will be Storm vs. Abyss later tonight and Ric Flair will be wrestling if a third match is needed. Yes, they barely slipped in an ad for Flair possibly wrestling on this show. By TNA's attempted booking logic, if The Network wants ratings, wouldn't they promote the heck out of Flair possibly wrestling and book Flair in match #1 or #2 to ensure he wrestles tonight?

In any event, Kazarian made a comeback and went for his inverted piledriver, but Hardy rolled through. Kazarian came back with a springboard missile dropkick and made a cover, but Hardy got his foot on the bottom rope. Hardy then crawled to his feet and ate a boot to the face. Hardy sold the heck out of it, suckering Hebner in to help bump Kazarian from the top rope. Hardy then applied the...Ice Pick...a neck-vice submission hold that forced Kaz to tap out, giving Hardy the win.

WINNER: Hardy via submission at 5:10. Fine match with Hardy working the neck throughout the match setting up his submission finisher. (*1/2)

3 -- SAMOA JOE & MATT MORGAN & KURT ANGLE vs. JEFF JARRETT (w/Karen Jarrett) & HERNANDEZ (w/Mexican America) & "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO

Jarrett feigned starting the match off with Angle and danced around the ring a bit before quickly tagging out to Hernandez. Jarrett quickly slipped to the outside and Jarrett pointed to his head to show how smart he is, then they cut to an early break.

Back from break, Pope landed right hand jabs to Morgan's mid-section, but Morgan came back with his trademark rapid-fire elbows in the corner. Morgan missed with a big boot in the corner when Pope moved, so the heels went right to work on Morgan's left knee. Hernandez cockily tagged in and went to work on his injured opponent at Lockdown, but Morgan came back with a big discus clothesline. Angle then took a tag and ran right into Hernandez's boot, but Angle responded with a cat-like leap up top for an overhead toss. Angle sold the effects more than Hernandez did, then Angle tagged in Joe as Jarrett tagged in for Hernandez. Joe tried to submit Jarrett, but the action broke down. Bodies started flying, then Jarrett took off running to the back. Angle, hunched over, chased Jarrett to the back. In the ring, Joe tried the rear naked choke on Hernandez, but Pope came off the top with an elbow smash. A gimmick was introduced, which took the ref's eyes off the ball. Pope then smashed Joe with the knucks and made the cover for the win.

Post-match: MexAm put the boots to Morgan before rolling Morgan back into the ring. Hernandez then landed a pulled punch to the forehead that put Morgan out cold next to Joe in the ring. MexAm and The Pope stood over their Lockdown opponents confident with their work this week.

WINNERS: Team Pope at 9:28. Fine for setting up three matches at Lockdown in one match, but not well-paced moving right along to the Hogan Show rather than letting the events sink in. (*1/4)

4 -- ABYSS vs. TNA tag champion JAMES STORM

Tenay plugged the Angle vs. Jarrett match at Lockdown with the new stipulation of a best-of-three falls match via pin, submission, and escape. Early on, Abyss wanted a charging corner splash, but Storm waited for the hourglass to expire before moving out of the way. Tenay advertised match three of the series was still to come tonight. He was cut off mid-sentence before he could add the qualifier that only if Storm won this one. Storm landed a backstabber on Abyss for a nearfall, then wanted a superkick, but Abyss countered with a Black Hole Slam for the win.

Post-match: Bully Ray led Immortal to the ring to celebrate Abyss's victory, giving them the man advantage at Lockdown. Taz noted Flair wasn't even dressed to wrestle. Immortal teased a post-match attack on Storm before Fortune stormed the ring to save Storm.

WINNER: Abyss at 3:45. TNA picks the oddest times to have rare clean finishes on TV, as their X Division champ and one-half of the tag champions were both pinned clean on the same show. For the Lockdown, the heels are supposed to cheat to get the man advantage. Now, the babyfaces just look like chumps. Skipping ahead, at least there was follow-up from Beer Money at the very end of the show vowing revenge on Immortal, which was a nice recovery touch. (*)

5a -- MR. ANDERSON vs. MURPHY

Anderson finished off Murphy rather easily with the Mic Check.
WINNER: Anderson at 1:27.

5b -- MR. ANDERSON vs. ROB TERRY

No rest period for Anderson here as Terry hit the ring and nearly walked into a small package for a pin, but Terry kicked out in time. Anderson then ducked a clothesline and hit the Mic Check.
WINNER: Anderson at 3:23.

5c -- MR. ANDERSON vs. TV champion GUNNER -- non-title match

Bully Ray sent Gunner to the ring and Gunner focused on Anderson's injured knee and leg. Gunner is just too over-the-top with his intensity to be taken seriously. Anderson fought out of the corner with a series of clotheslines before executing a neckbreaker for a nearfall. Ray paced nervously on-stage as Anderson avoided a corner splash. Anderson then hit the Mic Check again for a pin.
WINNER: Anderson at 5:14. That makes three champions taking clean losses on this week's show.

5d -- MR. ANDERSON vs. BULLY RAY

Ray slowly made his way to the ring as Anderson sold on the mat. Ray shouted down at Anderson to get up and fight him. Ray landed repeated elbow smashes "with all the weight behind it," as Tenay put it. Ray then hung Anderson upside-down in the corner and pounded on Anderson's knee. Taz wondered what condition Anderson will be in at Lockdown. Taz heeled on Anderson for disrespecting Immortal and questioning their authority. Shouldn't there be a pro-babyface talking point advocating Anderson standing up to authority figures who abuse their power and try to put people in compromising positions for their own gain? Anderson scored a desperation nearfall after a rolling gutbuster, then both men slowly made it back to their feet.

Rey knocked Anderson to the floor, then cracked the ref over the head. Ray dragged Anderson up the stage looking for the powerbomb ala A.J. Styles, but Hogan's music interrupted. Hogan wanted the honors here. Hogan took off the backbrace, then set up Anderson for a powerbomb off the stage, but Sting snuck up behind Hogan. Abyss came out, but Sting smashed him with a baseball bat. Sting and Ray then came face-to-face and Sting jabbed him in the gut. Sting then stood over Anderson and his music played. Anderson begged off as Taz tried to save the Lockdown main event sales pitch by introducing RVD into the equation, wondering what he must thinking right now.

WINNER: No Finish at 13:08 when they cut to break.

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 4-15-11

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

1 – EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Jackson was already in the ring, with the rest of Corre on commentary. That’s a bit of overkill. Corre teased dissension almost immediately. Jackson powered Kingston down, but Kofi came back with some kicks to the body. He went to jump on Jackson in the corner, but Zeke pushed him off. Springboard forearm by Kingston, followed by a dropkick. Jackson was sent to ringside, then Kingston dropkicked him through the middle rope. Jackson pushed Kofi into the side of the ring, then press slammed Kofi right into the rest of Corre at the announce table. Back in the ring, Kofi caught Jackson and was about to finish him off when Barrett tried to get involved, though it wasn’t clear if he was trying to go after Jackson or not. That distraction led Jackson to hit Kingston with the uranage for the win.

WINNER: Jackson, at 2:23. So much for building up some mid-card babyfaces to fill in for Edge’s loss. And why have Josh Mathews call out Heath Slater for his grammar on commentary? The announcers should be putting the wrestlers over, not making them look like fools.

2 – REY MYSTERIO vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Cole said McIntyre is upset at having been left off the Wrestlemania card. Yeah, he and the rest of the locker room that wasn’t on the show, I’m sure. McIntyre slowed Rey down with a scoop slam for a near-fall. He stepped on Rey’s head as Rey was set up under the bottom rope. Hard whip into the buckle by Drew. Mac paused before hitting a side slam, allowing Rey to come back. Dropkick by Rey, followed by a baseball slide on the outside. McIntyre caught Mysterio as Rey tried to do a headscissors at ringside, and Mac slammed Rey head-first into the barricade. They went to break at 2:50 of the match.

Back to action at the 6:17 mark. Mysterio fought out of a rest-hold, then ushered McIntyre through the middle rope and out of the ring as McIntyre had him in a rear waist-lock. Rey caught Mac trying to come back in and gave him a legdrop with McIntyre draped over the middle rope. Mysterio ran the ropes and ended up being caught in a tilt-a-whirl back-breaker for two. Hard shots to the chest of Mysterio. Another rest-hold at 8:26 of the contest, but it was a quick one. McIntyre rammed his shoulder into Rey’s gut in the corner, but missed a second time and caught all ring post. To the top went Rey, and he dropped the dime on McIntyre. Headscissors take-over then a springboard cross-body for two. Sunset flip by McIntyre, but Rey flipped out and ran right into a big boot for a near-fall. Booker called him out for a lax cover. Rey came off the top and DDT’d McIntyre. He made the cover, but McIntyre got his foot on the rope to break it up. Big clothesline almost took Rey’s head off. And it was done in the kneeling position by Drew. Short clothesline attempt, but Rey flipped around Drew’s back and set up the 619. It connected, as did his splash off the top rope for the win.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 12:17. Above-average TV match. They were really playing up how McIntyre had his chances to win, but was taking too much time.

3 – KELLY KELLY vs. LAYLA

McCool walked to the ring ahead of Layla. She joined in on commentary when the match began. Layla was on offense to start but Kelly came back with a Thesz Press. Kick to the knee by Layla, but Kelly came back and choked Layla in the ropes with her legs. She pulled Layla out of the ring, with Layla landing face-first on the ringside mat. More fighting at ringside and Kelly pushed Layla into the Cole Mine. Layla stared at McCool, and Kelly gave Layla the face-buster on the outside. As Layla was on her way to being counted out, McCool aggressively grabbed Layla and threw her into the ring. Kelly rolled her up for the win.

WINNER: Kelly, at 2:03.

After the match, McCool confronted Layla in the ring. Layla tried to talk to Michelle, but Michelle was having none of it. Layla grabbed McCool’s hand, but McCool pulled it away and shoved Layla down. Then she left the ring. Hate to see the two break up, but at least they’re making the right one the babyface.

4 – 20-MAN BATTLE ROYAL TO DETERMINE ALBERTO DEL RIO’S OPPONENT AT EXTREME RULES

JTG was eliminated at 16 seconds, by Big Show. Trent Barreta tried to toss Show, but he ended up getting thrown out at :37. Wade Barrett was working over Yoshi Tatsu. Isn’t Tatsu on Raw? Heath Slater almost out, but he held onto the apron. Show punched him out at 1:13, then charged at Zeke Jackson. Both he and Big Show went out at 1:23 on a clothesline by Show. Chavo Guerrero darted around the apron, avoiding contact, as they went to break at about 2:30.

They returned to action at six minutes exactly. Doesn’t look like anyone else has been eliminated. Rhodes and Mysterio were going at it in the corner, and Chris Masters almost pushed him out as Rhodes perched himself on the top rope. Kane and Kingston teamed up to try to get Barrett out. Tyler Reks bodyslammed Justin Gabriel in the middle of the ring. Cole was cheering for Swagger. Springboard dropkick sent Rhodes out via Mysterio at 7:38. Curt Hawkins went out at 7:49 when Mysterio headscissored him out. Brodus Clay ran over Drew McIntyre, who was on the apron, at 8:14. Chavo jumped on Clay’s back and Clay dumped him at 8:29. Kane and Clay faced off and Kane gave him an uppercut. He went for a chokeslam, which drew a pop from the fans, but Kane couldn’t hit it. Clay couldn’t slam Kane, and Kane tossed him at 9:24, much to the chagrin of Alberto Del Rio. They went to break again at 9:40 of the match.

Kingston skinned the cat just as they returned from break, and grabbed Barrett between his legs. Barrett kicked Kingston in the chest to eliminate him at 13:40. Masters and Reks rekindled their Superstars feud. They haven’t yet focused on Christian, and I was beginning to wonder if he was even in the match. Christian dumped Reks to the apron and brought him down throat-first on the top rope to send him home at 14:46. Christian tossed out Tatsu at 15:05. Kane started hitting anything that moved, and he grabbed Gabriel and Barrett by the throat. They broke free and double clotheslined Kane out at 15:44. Masters was booted out by Barrett at 16:24, then Gabriel came from behind and tossed Barrett at 16:26. Down to four with Swagger, Mysterio, Gabriel and Christian. Rey paired off with Gabriel and Christian with Swagger. Standing heel kick by Gabriel on Rey, but Rey threw Gabriel into 619 position. Gabriel fought his way out but Rey hurricanrana’d Gabriel out at 17:57. I think he’s contractually obligated to do that once per battle royal. Swagger tried to throw Rey out, but Rey held on. To the top rope he went, and he positioned Swagger for the 619. Cole ran up and protected Swagger from the 619. Swagger then eliminated Rey at 19:04. Down to Swagger and Christian. Swagger tried a Swagger bomb, but Christian grabbed him and tried to toss him. He couldn’t and Swagger ended up on the advantage. Christian and Swagger fought on the apron just after the 20:00 mark. Swagger locked on the ankle-lock there and both men came back into the ring. Christian flipped out of it, but Swagger put Christian on his shoulders. Christian failed to throw Swagger out and Christian held onto the top rope on Swagger’s toss. Christian fought with him and Del Rio came from the announce table and tried to pull Christian’s foot off the apron. Swagger charged and Christian low-bridged him, giving him the win.

WINNER: Christian, at 22:18. Pretty solid for a battle royal.

Edge came out to congratulate Christian, hugging him in the middle of the ring. Del Rio stood on the announce table, pointing at the title as Christian and Edge looked on from the ring. Edge raised Christian’s arm as the show ended.

[Arcademan]

TNA Lockdown PPV Results: 4-17-11 (next three posts!)

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

1 -- ULTIMATE XSCAPE MATCH -- #1 contender match

To recap, it's an eight-man bout with Max Buck vs. Jeremy Buck vs. Chris Sabin vs. Suicide vs. Robbie E. vs. Jay Lethal vs. Amazing Red vs. Brian Kendrick. Robbie eliminated Suicide with a random move at 2:46. The crowd lightly booed this development. Tenay noted Alex Shelley was scheduled for this match, but he couldn't get doctor's clearance for his shoulder issues. Red then eliminated Lethal at 4:55 with his Code Red finisher. Sabin followed a massive clothesline on Red for the next elimination at 5:50. Next, Max Buck eliminated Sabin with a top-rope maneuver at 7:20. The crowd was completely indifferent.

Brian Kendrick entered after sitting in the corner rocking back and forth for the first seven minutes. The Buck brothers then battled a bit. Younger brother Jeremy showed some fire before Max rolled him with a small package for the next fall at 9:42. Kendrick fought against the remaining heels, Max and Robbie. Kendrick then dropped Robbie with a kick to pin him at 11:29.

So, now it's escape the cage between Kendrick and Max. Kendrick kept yanking Max down as Max tried to escape, then the two ended up battling on the top turnbuckle. Kendrick knocked Max off the top, then began to climb out, but Max shoved the ref into the cage and Kendrick kind of fell to the mat. Max took advantage by quickly climbing over the top of the cage and dropping to the floor to win. It's Kazarian vs. Max in the next X Title match.

WINNER: Max Buck at 13:33. The falls were just so ridiculous like a multiple-falls Cruiserweight-style match from the mid-2000s Smackdown era. The crowd had no idea who these interchangeable men were, so they sat on their hands for the most part. There was some interest in Kendrick as the underdog babyface, but that was about it. (*)

2 -- SCOTT STEINER & CRIMSON vs. BRITISH INVASION (DOUG WILLIAMS & MAGNUS) vs. INK, INC. (JESSE NEAL & SHANNON MOORE) vs. ERIC YOUNG & ORLANDO JORDAN

The bell sounded and EY teased climbing the cage before settling for just bouncing up and down on the top rope. Suddenly, Young and Neal had a wrestling exchange. Neal came up laughing and smiling since winning and losing isn't that important. Shannon took exception to Neal's laughter and tagged himself in to serious-it-up. The commentary made sure the match didn't stay serious with some puns related to BI and OJ. The crowd briefly chanted for Steiner as BI worked over Neal. Steiner eventually tagged in to work on Williams and Magnus. Signature moves by Steiner before Steiner and Magnus did a bit of a square dance trying to set up a corner move.

Bodies started flying before Shannon tagged himself in and mocked Steiner's signature bits. Steiner completely ignored him and kept working on Williams. Shannon repeated the bit went to work on Williams. Young then dropped his shorts to reveal "team unity" leopard-print trunks. Flashbacks to Flyin' Brian in Cincinnati and Taz dropped a Bengals reference. More helter-skelter action before Young easily climbed up, then over the cage. Meanwhile, Moore hit the Mooregasm on a member of the British Invasion for the pin.

WINNERS: Ink, Inc. at 8:51. So much unintentional comedy and little substance here. It was just all over the place. Two poorly-booked matches to start the PPV. (1/2*)

3 -- Knockouts champion MADISON RAYNE vs. MICKIE JAMES -- Knockouts Title match -- Mickie's hair on the line

Madison brought a hair kit to the ring for the potential haircut to follow the match. After Madison delayed the start for a long time, Mickie took it right to Madison and dropped her with a swinging DDT for a quick pin in 40 seconds.

WINNER: Mickie at 0:36 to capture the Knockouts Title.

4 -- SAMOA JOE vs. "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO

Pope tried to dance around the cage to avoid locking up with Joe to start the match. It worked for the first minute before Joe landed strikes, jabs, and kicks. Pope then begged off in the corner before suckering Joe in to take control. Pope tried climbing out of the cage, but Joe rammed him head-first into the side of the cage. Pope did a comedy self-crotch across the top rope to sell the force behind Joe's offense. Joe tried to follow with a running boot in the corner, but the ref was randomly standing in front of Pope, causing Joe to put on the brakes. Pope then kicked Joe in the gut to re-take control.

Joe came back with a snap suplex, then the two men came to their feet and traded bombs. Joe landed signature offense for a two count before attempting and connecting with the Muscle Buster out of the corner. Joe made a cover, but Pope got his foot on the bottom rope to break up the pin. Pope tried to climb out, but Joe grabbed Pope's trunks for a full-moon shot that got a cheap reaction. Taz didn't know what to say, so Tenay said it for him that it's not Orlando Jordan up there. Pope scored with offense, then went for the DDE in the corner, but Joe rammed Pope back-first into the side of the cage. Joe went back to the Muscle Buster and connected center ring. Joe then applied the rear naked choke and that was it.

WINNER: Joe via submission at 10:25. Decent-to-good match trying to get this PPV on-track after an awful first hour. Hopefully this means the end of the Joe-Pope feud once and for all. (**)

5 -- MATT MORGAN vs. HERNANDEZ (w/Mexican America)

The two big men didn't waste any time trading right hand bombs to start the match. Morgan followed with trademark elbow smashes out of the corner before landing a sidewalk slam for a two count. Morgan went for a corner attack, but Anarquia grabbed Morgan's foot from the outside through the camera hole. Hernandez took advantage with a corner splash to begin working on Morgan. There was a "Morgan, Morgan" chant leading to a teased comeback before Hernandez landed a big shoulder tackle that sent Morgan flying across the ring. Hernandez choked Morgan with a towel before shoving a boot to Morgan's throat.

Hernandez played to the crowd for a while as Morgan sold face-down on the mat. Hernandez acted cocky one second too long and walked into a big desperation clothesline from Morgan. Morgan then started feeling the power and came to his feet to deliver right hand blows. Morgan got the crowd into his comeback pointing to the cage and sending Hernandez face-first into the wall two times. Hernandez then responded with a big shoulder tackle for a nearfall. Morgan made another comeback and MA teased climbing into the cage, but Morgan shoved Anarquia off the cage wall. Hernandez then tried to come off the top, but Morgan blasted Hernandez with a mid-air Carbon Footprint. The announcers were wowed, then Morgan made a cover on Hernandez for the win. Post-match: Morgan celebrated on top of the cage before doing the belt-around-the-waist motion to indicate he wants the gold.

WINNER: Morgan at 8:13. Good singles match giving Morgan the presumed final victory over Hernandez in their series and setting up Morgan's re-inclusion in the title picture. (**)

[Arcademan]

6 -- KURT ANGLE vs. JEFF JARRETT -- Ultra Male Rules two-out-of-three falls match

Before the match started, Karen was given the boot by ref Brian Hebner. Karen refused to leave as Jeff protested. Karen finally walked out as Jeff tried to re-focus before entering the cage. The bell sounded and Tenay noted the first fall will be decided by submission, the second by pinfall, and the potential third by escaping the cage. Angle applied a figure-four and lay on his back, and for some reason, the referee counted nearfalls. The announcers were dumbfounded trying to explain this one since the first fall is submission only. Moments later, Tenay covered for Hebner's error. Angle and Jarrett traded submission holds, then Angle slapped on the anklelock for a tap out at 4:54. Another way-too-early fall, but it could be explained by Jarrett trying to save himself for the final two falls by tapping out early.

***Angle 1, Jarrett 0***

Now for the pinfall-only second fall. Jarrett scored a very close nearfall early in the fall, then went to work on Angle before they had a double knock-down. "Angle, Angle" chant before Angle scored with a belly-to-belly suplex. Angle made a cover and Jarrett did his energy-conserving roll-the-shoulder to escape a three count. Jarrett then scored with a desperation mule kick out of the ref's line of vision, giving Jeff an opening. Jeff tried the Stroke, but Angle countered with a super-spinning Angle Slam for a close two count.

Angle then stumbled trying to climb up top for a super belly-to-belly suplex before executing the move and crunching Jarrett's face on the way down. Angle made a cover for a nearfall, then scored with a Diamond Cutter for a nearfall. Somewhere, DDP is firing up Twitter to note Angle stole his move. Greg Parks checked in that it looked like an RKO, which would be a "receipt" on WrestleMania. Moments later, Jarrett rolled up Angle with a small package and hooked the tights for the second fall at 11:27.

***Jarrett 1, Angle 1***

For the final fall, it's escape the cage. Jarrett tried to unlock the cage while fighting off Angle before successfully unlocking the door. Angle then snuck up behind Jarrett to deliver multiple German Suplexes. Jarrett was down and out, then Angle went to leave the cage. Angle was on the steps ready to leave, but decided to re-enter the cage for more punishment on Jarrett. Angle locked the cage door before putting the key down his trunks. The crowd chanted for blood and, on cue, Jarrett came up bleeding from the forehead.

Angle asked Jarrett if he wanted some more, then Jarrett tried to climb out before Angle landed right hand blows to the forehead. Both men stood on the top turnbuckle before both men crashed to the mat simultaneously. The announcers "went there" with Angle's history of neck issues. They went to a replay to show Angle nearly breaking his neck attempting a huracanrana. Angle suddenly came to life and dropped Jarrett off the top with a big Angle Slam to get the fist truly big reaction of the night. Angle decided he had enough and went to leave the cage door, but it was locked.

Angle then tried to climb over the top of the cage as Gunner came running down to ringside to swing a chair toward Angle. Angle then regrouped and perched himself on the top of the cage. The camera completely missed it as Angle went for a moonsault from the top of the cage and crashed onto Jarrett. The ref immediately checked on Angle, who sold on the mat. Steiner then came running down to yank the chair away from Gunner, who ran off. Angle went to leave through the cage door, but Karen came running down to ringside to spray something in Kurt's eyes. Ref Hebner didn't see it, but then saw Karen ringside. He was apparently now okay with Karen ringside. Kurt, blinded, then popped the ref in the face.

Jeff tried to leave through the door, but Kurt dragged him back to center ring. Karen slipped Jeff a guitar to bash over Kurt's head, though. Jeff then tried to leave, but Kurt grabbed him around the ankle again. Karen grabbed a hold of Jeff, then she slammed the cage door across Kurt's face, sending Kurt reeling across the ring. Jeff then fell out of the cage and the ref awarded Jeff the win. Post-match: Karen helped Jeff crawl across the entrance ramp as Kurt held his head selling the agony of defeat.

WINNER: Jarrett 2-1 at 22:37. The first match to get a really strong emotional investment from the crowd during that final fall, so credit Jeff and Kurt in that area. It was over-booked in classic Jeff Jarrett big match fashion and the referee incompetence was on display, as expected. This was also a scary match with Angle doing the top-of-the-cage moonsault spot. Oh, and the top-rope huracanrana botch. The risks far outweighed the benefits. At some point, TNA has to consider pulling Angle out of the ring before he kills himself. (***)

7 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. ROB VAN DAM vs. MR. ANDERSON -- Three-way TNA World Title match

The bell sounded and Anderson got in Sting's face to tell him the title belt is coming home. RVD then popped Anderson, who popcorned back and forth between right hand blows from RVD and Sting. Sting then smashed Anderson with a Stinger Splash and slapped on the Scorpion Deathlock. RVD broke it up with a spin kick to cut off Sting's early offense. Moments later, Sting caught both men flat on their backs center-ring and applied a double Scorpion. It got an initial reaction, then Sting maintained the hold for a while and then it just looked weird. After that sequence, Anderson came to life and landed a double Mic Check. Sting, then RVD kicked out in time. After another sequence, all three men found themselves on the mat.

Suddenly, Hulk Hogan's music hit at 6:15. Hogan slowly marched to the ring with some sort of object over his shoulder. They cut to a shot of Hogan's family ringside. Hogan banged on the cage door, then tried to hand a pipe to RVD, who grabbed it after some reluctance. "Knock him out, brother!" Hogan said. RVD then threw the pipe into the cage door, so Anderson grabbed it and smashed it over RVD's back. Anderson flipped off Hogan and said that was for himself. Anderson forgot about Sting, who grappled Anderson to deliver the Scorpion Deathdrop. It was good for the win.

WINNER: Sting at 7:55. Weak for a top title match, but at least they slotted it in the semi-main event rather than having back-to-back weak PPV main event title matches. (*1/2)

[Arcademan]

8 -- IMMORTAL (RIC FLAIR & ABYSS & MATT HARDY & BULLY RAY) vs. FORTUNE (DANIELS & X Division champion KAZARIAN & TNA tag champions BEER MONEY) -- Lethal Lockdown match

Three-minute session to start between Abyss and Kazarian. Abyss tried to rearrange Kaz's face as Immortal shouted encouragement from the outside. Kaz took control just before 3:00 expired, which should have led to Immortal re-taking control with Hardy's entry. Well, in theory, as Kaz easily thwarted Hardy's entry and landed high-impact offense as Abyss recovered in the corner. Abyss eventually came to life and helped Hardy take the numbers advantage. Hardy slapped on the Ice Pick and Kaz faded out. Hardy eventually just released the hold since there aren't any falls in this portion of the match.

At 5:00, Daniels entered the cage to even up the match. Fortune wore down Abyss and Hardy with double-team offense before the next two minutes expired to bring in Ric Flair to a babyface reaction since the crowd just wanted to see Flair. Flair, in a black wifebeater tanktop and black dress pants, went to work on the faces with chops and low blows. Flair then thrust in Storm's face as Storm just stood there on the outside of the cage.

After another two minutes expired, Storm took a swig of beer and entered the cage. Flair begged off as Storm continued to finish his beer. Storm then bashed the gimmicked bottle over Flair's forehead. The camera followed Flair to the mat as Flair pulled out a blade and gigged himself. They cut away just before Flair swiped his forehead. Flair came up bleeding moments later and Fortune lit up Flair, whose shirt was ripped off, pants were torn, and rear end was exposed. The heels, with Bully Ray in the match, worked over Fortune before the final two minutes expired to bring in Robert Roode.

With all four men in the cage at 13:00, the roof was supposed to come down. No sign of the roof yet. The two factions traded control, specifically Roode and Flair having a chopfest exchange. Beer Money then did their Beer...Money dance as the lights flashed and the weapons-filled roof finally came down to officially start Lethal Lockdown. Fortune grabbed the weapons to start bashing Immortal. Suddenly, Abyss went flying through the cage door to the floor. Daniels followed to the outside, then Hardy went to the outside. Hardy climbed the side of the cage to the roof and Daniels followed him. Hardy, trapped, walked into a right hand from Daniels. Daniels teased Angel's Wings, but Hardy back-dropped him and Daniels nearly fell off the roof, but thankfully grabbed the side of the cage before he fell clear down to the ground below.

In the cage, Flair had been screaming for minutes as the camera focused on Daniels and Hardy. They showed why, as Flair was just drenched in blood and taking weapon shots to the head. The camera re-focused on Daniels on top of the cage, where he came flying down onto Hardy and Abyss on the floor. The crowd popped and TNA replayed the spot a few times. In the ring, Roode applied the figure-four on a bloody mess called Ric Flair. Ray broke it up, though, with a trash can shot. Ray smashed everyone with trashcan lids and kendo sticks as he took control of the match. Flair demanded more punishment. Daniels came up bleeding from the forehead and Ray taunted him. Ray told Daniels this is for his good friend, A.J.

Speaking of which...A.J. Styles's music suddenly hit and Styles came flying down the ramp into the cage. Styles smashed Ray with blows before ripping off t-shirt. Flair tried to get his hands on Styles, but Roode cut him off. Flair ate a kendo stick shot and a superkick, then Roode applied an armbar on Flair. Fortune held off Immortal and Flair tapped out, giving Fortune the win.

Post-match: Fortune celebrated in the cage as the camera captured the damage done to Immortal. In the background, Styles smashed Ray over the head with a trash can before standing tall over a fallen bully. They went to a replay video package and went back to Fortune standing tall in the cage. Tenay and Taz signed off with a question of how Immortal will react going forward after a bad night for Immortal. They signed off nine minutes before the top of the hour.

WINNERS: Team Fortune at 22:52. A lot of gimmicks that looked like a copy of a copy from the Attitude Era. Styles's return was a nice surprise for PPV customers leading to the satisfying finish with Fortune standing tall. Flair bleeding everywhere and weapon shots all over the place made for an uncomfortable main event at the end of the day. (*1/2)

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 4-18-11

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

1 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. R-TRUTH -- Match for Truth's WWE Title match slot at Extreme Rules

As the announcers discussed Truth falling for the oldest trick in the book, Morrison cleared Truth to the floor. Truth then walked around to the timekeeper to get a bottle of water. He doused himself in water, then shouted "What's up?" as they cut to break.

Back from break, Cole recapped what's on the line before Ross cut off the overly-wordy Cole. Truth's chain rattled on his jeans as he bounced off the ropes before trading nearfalls with Morrison. Truth wore down Morrison as Cole heeled on the babyface announcers. Truth then wanted the Lie Detector, but Morrison avoided it. Morrison then smashed Truth with Starship Pain and it was good for a three count. Morrison gets Truth's spot at Extreme Rules.

WINNER: Morrison at 7:03. Okay match that was a complete afterthought behind the commentary. (*1/4)

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Bourne went for a turnaround splash from the second rope early in the match, but Ziggler blocked with a mid-air dropkick for a nearfall. Ziggler then choked Bourne before applying a bow & arrow submission. Bourne escaped, then fired back with kick strikes for a two count. Vickie paced nervously before Bourne went up top. He wanted Air Boruen, but Ziggler moved and followed right up with Zig-Zag. Ziggler with the pin and the win.

WINNER: Ziggler at 2:12. Nice finishing sequence. The match was designed to re-focus on Ziggler, but I'm selling Ziggler's new look. Way too generic for someone who really stood out with his Curt Hennig/Billy Gunn look.

3 -- WWE champion THE MIZ & ALEX RILEY vs. JOHN CENA & SIN CARA

Cena easily cleared Riley from the ring, then the heels regrouped on the floor as the crowd chanted, "Sin Cara." WWE cut to break 45 seconds in. They returned from break one minute before the top of the hour as Ross set the stage for Cena and Sin Cara teaming together for the first time (on TV). Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Miz countered with a side slam. Cole plugged The Draft next week and wondered aloud if Cena and Miz will still be on Raw this Monday. Cole reminded Ross of his history being drafted to Smackdown. The heels isolated Cena as Cole noted he doesn't have to worry about The Draft because he's on both shows anyways. The crowd engaged in dueling chants of "Let's go Cena" and "Cena sucks" as the heels continued to work over Cena in their corner. Miz taunted Sin Cara before connecting with a running clothesline on Cena. Cena then fired back with an overhead slam and dragged himself across the ring to tag in Sin Cara.

Sin Cara landed right hand palm thrusts on Miz before scoring with a handspring elbow smash. Cara followed with more strikes on Miz before executing a double head scissors that took a lot of time to set up. Sin Cara tried a springboard smash, but Riley yanked SC down across the ring apron. The heels regained control of the match and cut off Sin Cara's initial comeback as another dueling Cena chant started up. Miz measured Sin Cara for a corner attack, but Sin Cara moved and made his way to tag in Cena. Riley also tagged in as Cena came in hot with offense for Riley. Cena brushed the dirt off his shoulder and delivered the Five Knuckle Shuffle to Riley. In the background, Miz retrieved his WWE Title belt and walked off. Meanwhile, Cena dropped Riley with the Attitude Adjustment. Cena then tagged in Sin Cara, who executed a springboard moonsault for the pin and the win. Cena and Sin Cara celebrated the victory, then posed in the ring.

WINNERS: Cena & Sin Cara at 10:27. Fine match setting up Cena vs. Miz (oh, and Morrison) at Extreme Rules, although it came across like the main event of a house show. There still doesn't seem to be a sense of urgency for Cena to get the title back, which isn't going to help sell the PPV. It doesn't help that Cena has 12 months to get the belt back before WrestleMania 28 against The Rock. Sin Cara needs time to get over his early WWE jitters and get his feet under him, as his offense isn't quite fluid working with new opponents in a completely new setting. (*1/2)

4 -- EVE vs. NIKKI BELLA (w/Divas champion Brie Bella)

Nikki took control early, then Eve came back with offense leading to a small package for the quick win. The Bellas recovered on the outside as Eve posed in the ring.

WINNER: Eve at 1:45. Basic match building Eve's quest to get the Divas Title back.

5 -- U.S. champion SHEAMUS vs. SANTINO -- non-title match

Cole relayed Sheamus's mindset of wanting to defeat and punish the men who he lost to over the past six months during his losing streak. Sheamus blasted Santino repeatedly before applying a submission hold center ring. Santino fought back to his feet before Sheamus threw him down to the mat. More offense from Sheamus. Cole wondered about Ross's health condition before mocking Ross. Mathews joined in mocking Ross for some reason. Santino finally showed some life at 3:00 and teased The Cobra, but he was too wobbly from Sheamus's offense and stumbled across the ring. Sheamus then smashed Santino with the Brogue Kick for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 3:36. Fine squash for Sheamus to keep him on track. The announcers teased he could be on his way to Smackdown, which would be a good move to give Smackdown a relevant player and give Sheamus some new opponents to work with.

6 -- RANDY ORTON vs. C.M. PUNK -- WrestleMania 27 re-match

The bell sounded ten minutes before the top of the hour as the announcers noted how similar the two wrestlers are as cold, calculating, emotionless combatants. There was a loud dueling chant of "Ran-dy Or-ton" vs. C-M-Punk" as Orton stomped on Punk in the corner. Punk responded with kicks, stomps, and knees that put Orton on his back. Cue up another dueling chant before Orton fired up with clotheslines and a snap powerslam. Orton did his deal before dropping to the mat to tease the RKO, but Punk blocked by throwing Orton across the ring. They cut to break with Orton selling a head injury and Punk taking a deep breath to sell he almost lost it right there.

Back from break, Punk slammed Orton and continued to work on Orton's head. Punk continued to work over Orton as the crowd started a new dueling chant of "RKO" vs. "G2S." Punk scored a nearfall eight minutes in, then went back to work wearing down Orton. Orton eventually slipped to the outside to get a breather, but Punk cut him off with a flying clothesline on the floor. Punk sarcastically asked if he could pin Orton on the floor here. Falls Count Anywhere tease for the ER PPV? Punk rolled Orton back into the ring and measured Orton for a suplex, only to have Orton counter with a quick roll-up for a two count. Punk then came right to his feet and clotheslined Orton to resume control of the match. Punk applied a submission hold using his legs to wrap around Orton's head. Orton sold fading out, but Orton bit his way out of the hold and pounded on Punk with right hands. Punk shook it off and landed a running knee in the corner, but Orton countered a bulldog with a high-angle side suplex for a two count. Angle wanted the Angle Slam, but Punk blocked and delivered a bulldog.

Punk sold a bit of frustration and shook his hand to sell Orton's bite work earlier. Punk followed with right kicks, then Orton ducked a clothesline and delivered a trademark backbreaker into the Angle Slam for a two count. Punk rolled to the apron to recover, which drew in Orton to eat the apron with a slingshot smash. Punk then went for a springboard clothesline and connected (no mid-air RKO counter) for a two count. Punk sold more frustration, unable to put away Orton. Punk went to the second turnbuckle for a move, but Orton cut him off and set up for a big superplex. Cole noted this is how much the rivalry means to Orton. Orton with a cover, but Punk with a kickout.

Just before 15:00, Punk rolled to the apron on the opposite side of the ring. Orton saw Punk in a vulnerable position and grappled him for the big spike DDT, but Punk countered with a G2S tease. Orton slipped out, but Punk blasted him in the face with a kick strike. It was only good for a two count, which drew even more frustration form Punk. The crowd was alive now and started up another dueling chant. Punk wanted the G2S again, but Orton slipped out, then rolled up Punk and trapped Punk's neck to the mat to secure a three count for the win.

WINNER: Orton at 15:39. Nice singles match just a notch below their WrestleMania encounter. The story was nicely told, playing up Punk's frustration with his inability to get one over Orton, who continued to sell resiliency. (**1/2)

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 4-19-11

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

1 -- JACOB NOVAK (w/JTG) vs. CONOR O'BRIAN (w/Kozlov)

Basic exchange as Regal noted neither Rookie has performed well thus far, so they both need the win here. Novak then landed some offense and tried to taunt Regal, who brushed him off and checked his nails. Moments later, O'Brian rolled up Novak and appeared to score a three count on a small package, but the ref stopped his count. Everyone kind of stopped. They reset the match and went back to the exact same spot leading to the exact same small package finish exactly one minute later to give O'Brian the win.

Afterward, JTG tried to talk up Novak to keep his head in the game. Mathews quizzed Regal on why they have so much tension, then Novak slipped out of the ring and taunted Regal. Novak eventually shoved Regal, who then threw down his headset. Novak ran off and JTG stepped in-between them before Regal could get his hands on Novak. Regal did the throat-slash gesture as JTG helped Novak away.

WINNER: O'Brian at 3:01. They're trying to get over Novak as an annoying heel, which is fine, and building toward Regal getting his hands on Novak after an extended build-up. At least it's something and it could keep Novak from being the first Rookie cut.

2 -- HORNSWOGGLE (w/Titus O'Neil) vs. DARREN YOUNG (w/Chavo Guerrero)

As Young stumbled around the ring, Hornswoggle kicked Young in the shins repeatedly. This is what Young's career has been reduced to. Young then took a peek as Chavo distracted the ref, giving him an opening to boot Horny in the face. Young tried a top-rope move, but Horny headbutted Young to the mat. Young shifted his body into position and Hornswoggle came off the top with a tadpole splash for the pin and the win. After a replay of the finish, Young complained to Chavo about his dumb luck.

WINNER: Hornswoggle at 1:36. Is Hornswoggle the only protected babyface they have on the roster? Just a bit for the kids trying to get that "ha-ha comedy heat" on Young that will never allow him to get over.

3 -- TYSON KIDD & LUCKY CANNON vs. YOSHI TATSU & BYRON SAXTON

Cannon and Saxton started things off, but Cannon refused to luck, demanding to get a piece of Yoshi. Saxton finally obliged tobring in Yoshi, which drew an interested look from Maryse setting a battle for her honor. Yoshi landed an early kick to the thigh, then Lucky scampered to the ring apron and tagged out to Kidd. "Shut up!" Cannon shouted at the fans who questioned his toughness. Lucky's showing something new each week. Yoshi then dominated Kidd, drawing Lucky's ire. Regal was so great with his rambling (not a negative) dry commentary about nothing that just trailed on and on. It didn't matter what he was saying; Regal's delivery was just so great.

Yoshi and Saxton tagged in and out working over Kidd as Regal noted this show is so tough for the Rookies because they have a very short window to make a connection with the crowd. Kidd then took control on Saxton as Lucky clapped it up for his Pro. Saxton then cut off Kidd and clotheslined him over the top rope, drawing a shift in emotion from Cannon. They cut to break with Cannon telling no one in particular to shut up.

Back from break, Lucky was working over Saxton while complementing his own work and making sure Maryse was paying attention. Lucky continued to work over Saxton as Regal continued with his dry commentary about nothing. The heels began trading tags working over Saxton while Lucky kept telling the crowd to shut up. As Tyson worked over Saxton, Lucky noted to Maryse that he's "Winning." He added, "Come over to the 'Winning' side." His heel delivery was terrific.

The heels resumed their in-and-out tags working over Saxton as Regal sold he was blushing after Maryse shot him a look. "This...is...all...about...me!" Lucky told Saxton in-between punches. Regal noted Kidd will take Lucky to the back afterward and go over what went right & wrong in the match like a good Pro. "Unlike JTG," Regal said, before adding he thinks JTG is untalented.

Yoshi finally took a hot tag at 10:00 and cleaned house on Kidd while Lucky stood on the apron. Yoshi scored with a roundhouse kick, but Kidd kicked out in time. Lucky then distracted Yoshi, who nearly walked into a pin from Kidd before recovering and nailing a knee to the face for a close two count. Lucky then walked over to Maryse and tried to showboat for her, which distracted Yoshi. Yoshi tried to wave off Lucky, which resulted in Yoshi turning around to take Kidd's cradle spinning neckbreaker for the pin and the win.

Afterward, Lucky talked trash in Yoshi's face before Kidd and Lucky walked away with the win. Byron checked on Yoshi as Maryse walked over to ringside selling mild concern with Yoshi. They signed off with the heels standing tall.

WINNERS: Kidd & Lucky at 11:33. Well-done for a long-form tag match. Cannon was absolutely terrific playing his heel role, Regal added a tremendous amount to commentary, and they continued to play up the love triangle that has dominated NXT this season. Nice build toward Yoshi eventually stepping up to fight for Maryse's honor. The show has deviated from the original idea to focus on the Rookies to focus more on the Pros, with the Rookies getting some shine in the process, so this was fine. (*1/2)

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 4-21-11

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

1 -- TYLER REKS vs. JTG

The bell sounded and Reks remained crouched in the corner pulling his hair acting nuts. JTG squatted down to meet him eye-to-eye, which drew Reks's ire. JTG scored with an early dropkick, using the Timbalands to his advantage. Reks took a breather on the floor as the announcers discussed the Draft. Striker suggested Korpela could be drafted to Tampa (FCW). Korpela self-deprecated he hopes he's not drafted to the unemployment line. Back in the ring, Reks smashed JTG out of the corner to take control of the match. JTG momentarily regained control by dumping Reks to the floor, but Reks responded by yanking JTG across the ring apron. They cut to break.

Back from break, Reks was working over JTG in the ring. Striker continued to use his red pen to correct Korpela's commentary as Reks slowed down the pace working over JTG. JTG teased a comeback, but Reks cut him off in the corner and followed up with the Burning Hammer. That was good for a three count and the win.

WINNER: Reks at 9:18. More offense for JTG than usual working with Reks, who continues to pick up wins even if he's not being featured on Smackdown.

2 -- MARYSE vs. NATALYA

The bell sounded to start off this week's Divas action. Natalya quickly dominated the action with a surfboard stretch as Raw announcers Jack Korpela and Josh Mathews discussed Maryse's love triangle issues on NXT. Maryse then cut off Natalya to take control of the action. Maryse screamed at everyone to distract from her poor offense as Natalya guided the match. Natalya scored successive nearfalls in her comeback, then missed with a corner attack. Maryse followed with a DDT and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Maryse at 4:10. Plenty of offense for Natalya to offset the loss to a lesser opponent in terms of skill level in the ring.

3 -- TED DIBIASE vs. MARK HENRY

The bell sounded and DiBiase quickly rolled to the outside to avoid Henry, which drew boos from the London crowd. Mathews plugged this could be the final ever Henry vs. DiBiase match since the Draft could separate them. Yes, it's time to break up their epic feud. Mathews then turned his focus to no-selling Stanford's attempts at humor as DiBiase continued to avoid Henry. Henry had enough and blasted DiBiase with right hand strikes and clotheslines. Henry then took forever to set up a standing butt squash, allowing DiBiase to avoid the move. DiBiase tried to follow up, but he couldn't get Henry off his feet. Henry then flipped DiBiase over the top rope to the floor. Or "out the door," as Stanford described it. Time for a break.

Back from break, DiBiase tried to wear down Henry by going after the legs, but he couldn't score more than a one count on the big man. The crowd tried to rally behind Henry (babyface), but Stanford (babyface announcer) rallied behind DiBiase (heel), feeling bad for the guy with all of his issues with Maryse the last week. Henry then made a comeback with a vicious clothesline and measured DiBiase for a big splash, but he couldn't make it to the corner due to DiBiase's knee work. DiBiase then tried a splash from the second rope, but Henry caught DiBiase in mid-air. Henry winced to sell the leg work, then delivered the World's Strongest Slam for the pin and the win. Cue up Henry's post-match celebration will still selling the leg work from DiBiase. And that'll do it for Superstars.

WINNER: Henry at 8:02. Fine match closing the show on a positive note for WWE's audience with Henry overcoming DiBiase's offense to pick up a win. DiBiase could use a hard reset after the Draft.

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact! Results: 4-21-11

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

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

The match was joined in progress with the challengers working over Roode. Storm eventually took a hot tag and Terry tagged in to deliver some of the worst punches ever. The action broke down before Beer Money did their Beer...Money dance leading to the DWI on Terry for the clean pin and the win.

WINNERS: Beer Money at 4:04 (of what aired). Another decisive victory for Fortune over the Immortal scrubs. Fine start to the show.

2 -- Knockouts tag champions SARITA & ROSITA (w/Hernandez and Anarquia) vs. MADISON RAYNE & TARA -- Knockouts Tag Title match

The match was again joined in progress with Madison shouting instructions to Tara to continue playing up dissension. Madison distracted herself getting into it with Tara again, then the outside players distracted the ref, allowing Sarita to pin Madison. Tara stood dumbfounded on the ring apron, then more tension was teased between Tara and Madison.

WINNERS: Sarita & Rosita at 1:49 (of what aired) to retain the KO Tag Titles. Effective continuing to build layers of tension between Tara and Madison eventually leading to Tara going off on Madison.

3 -- ABYSS (w/Hulk Hogan) vs. ROB VAN DAM

The announcers quickly tried to recap how "personal" this feud was at the end of 2010. Right, when Abyss tried to kill RVD. Now, it's just a basic feud. RVD landed an early kick, which busted open Abyss's mouth. Lots of blood from Abyss following the tooth loss. Hogan tried to interfere against RVD, which brought RVD to the outside. The fans on the front row proceeded to cheer on Hogan (the heel) to blast RVD (the face). During the confusion, Abyss retrieved a pipe to blast RVD when RVD returned to the ring. Abyss then hit the Black Hole Slam for the win. Post-match: Abyss checked his mouth and stood over RVD trying to intimidate him some more. Abyss wanted to inflict more punishment on RVD, but some hard rock music put a stop to that. Crimson then came running to the ring to clear the heels and check on RVD.

WINNER: Abyss at 3:22. Basic match trying to re-establish Abyss as a monster, keep the RVD-Hogan issue going, and interject Crimson back into a direct feud with Immortal. Other than that, you have to wonder about TNA booking their new #1 contender, RVD, to lose here. And not only lose, but be taken advantage of by the physically-impaired Hulk Hogan, making RVD look like a dolt. Not the best way to build interest in a Sting-RVD title match on PPV.

4 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. MATT HARDY -- TNA World Title match

The ref called for the bell when Hardy rolled Sting into the ring and Hardy quickly went to work on Sting's lower body. Hardy scored a few nearfalls, then went for a moonsault, but landed gut-first on the mat when Sting moved. Sting went for a comeback, but Hardy cut him off. They cut to break.

Back from break, Sting was trying to fight back against Hardy as they were both stumbling around the ring trading blows. Sting absorbed Hardy's big flurry of offense, then dropped Hardy face-first into the corner turnbuckle. Sting followed right up with the Scorpion Death drop and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Sting at 9:37 to retain the TNA Title. Okay match featuring two guys who shouldn't be wrestling unless it's booked to mean something based on how much mileage is on their bodies. Sting is over-exposed wrestling way too much when his in-ring appearances should be protected and treated like a big deal.

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 4-22-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). As always, condensed to in-ring results only because nobody care what happens between matches a whole lot and if you do, that's why you click the link. Duh!

1 – CODY RHODES vs. REY MYSTERO

Mysterio went after Cody to start, then low-bridged him out of the ring. He dropped the dime on Rhodes at ringside as they went to break a meager 30 seconds into the match.

Rhodes was on the advantage out of break, but the crowd was still with Rey. Rey sat down on a powerbomb attempt, getting him a near-fall just shy of the 5:20 mark. Back-breaker by Rhodes for two. More work on the back, but Rey set up the 619 at 6:30 of the match. Cody dodged it and the two fought on the apron. Rhdoes kicked Mysterio into the ringpost, with Mysterio’s back bouncing off and him landing at ringside. Another break was taken, just shy of seven minutes in.

Rhodes had Mysterio in a submission move as they returned to action just under 11:00 in. Scoop slam for two by Rhodes. It’s weird hearing the announcers talk about Rey trying to “intentionally hurt” Cody…aren’t we supposed to believe that these guys are really punching and kicking each other? Wouldn’t that qualify as “intentionally hurting” someone? Harping on that point just drives it honme to viewers that everything else is fake. Hard whip into the buckle by Cody on Mysterio. Rey went to the top and dropped the dime again. Cross-body got him a two-count. Sunset flip by Rey, but Mysterio countered. Rhodes rolled him up for two, but then Rey kicked him in the head for a near-fall. Rey came off the top again, but Cody dropkicked him out of mid-air. Rey kind of lurched forward and fell after the kick, which made it look less-than-smooth. Rhodes set up for Cross-Rhodes, but Rey turned it into a hurricanrana and held on to Cody’s legs for the pinfall.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 14:42. A little different than their Wrestlemania match, thanks to the fact that they got more time, and got to open up the playbook a little more, so to speak.

2 – JACK SWAGGER vs. TRENT BARRETA

Somehow, Barreta was already in the ring. Nice of him to get the spotlight to Cole prior to his match. Swagger had the advantage for the first 45 seconds, but he missed a charge and Barreta came back with a running elbow in the corner. Springboard by Barreta, but Swagger caught him and powerbombed him in one motion. Ankle-lock applied, tap-out followed.

WINNER: Swagger, at 1:14. Another fine squash for Swagger.

3 – KANE & THE BIG SHOW vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER – WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSIHP MATCH

Interesting that they have a tag title match positioned at the top of the second hour. The announcers had been pushing hard that this was Championship Night with two titles on the line. Suspiciously similar to Night of Champions. Kane went for a quick cover, then Big Show tagged in and they treated Slater rather poorly. Back to Kane, and as soon as he got an opening, he tagged out. Gabriel caught a right hand in the chops, then got squashed in the corner. Kane went to the top, possibly for his clothesline, but Zeke pushed him off the top rope. Slater provided the distraction for the ref, then capitalized by keeping Kane on the ground. Front chancery applied by Gabriel. Gabriel countered a side slam and got a near-fall. Slater tagged in and found no success. Kane made the hot tag at 3:20 and Show cleaned house on Slater. He signaled for a chokeslam. He stopped Gabriel in his tracks and tossed him into Zeke. Kane took Jackson out when he protested, then Show chokeslammed Slater and picked up the win.

WINNERS: Show & Kane, at 4:02. This could be used as more ammunition for a Corre break-up, but it could’ve been done to get Kane and Show, two top-tier utility players, on Raw as well. But with the Draft coming up, who knows.

4 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Cole speculated that either of these guys could get drafted to Raw on Monday. McIntyre, from the apron, sent Masters head-first into the buckle, but Masters came back by nailing McIntyre. Mac hot-shotted Masters over the top rope, then got a cover back in the ring. Only two, though. Hard uppercut by McIntyre for a near-fall. He set Masters up for the DDT, but Masters surprised him with an inside cradle for two. Sky High by Masters for another near-fall at 2:20. Masters went to the middle rope and downed McIntyre with a jumping shoulderblock. Crowd was not into him at all. Masterlock attempted, but McIntyre used the corner to flip out. He grabbed Masters and executed a beautiful Future Shock DDT for the win.

WINNER: McIntyre, at 3:36. Most of this match was used as fodder for the announcers to talk about the Draft.

5 – KOFI KINGSTON vs. WADE BARRETT – WWE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

No home cooking for Barrett here, unless WWE production is covering it up. Kingston missed a charge in the corner as Barrett elbowed him down. Barrett was on the outside, and Kingston flipped over and kicked Barrett through the ropes. Barrett took a cross-body off the top like a MAN on the outside, falling back first on the mat. They cut to break about 1:25 in. I thought I was going to have to juggle covering this match and watching Anibal Sanchez’s ninth inning for the Marlins online, since he had a no-hitter going, but he gave it up on the first pitch. So this match has my full attention!

Back with Barrett in control, and they showed how he did it during the break. Low-bridge sent Barrett over the top rope. Kofi went out to get him but Zeke Jackson, who came to ringside with Barrett, charged at Kofi. Kofi moved, and Jackson hit Barrett. How did the ref not see that? Back in the ring, Barrett and Jackson argued (but not about an auto auction), and Jackson walked to the back. Small package by Kingston back in the ring, for a two-count. Kingston went into his finishing sequence and set up for Trouble in Paradise. He missed, and Barrett got Kingston on his shoulders. He set Kofi on the top rope. Kofi came down in a roll-up, but Barrett sat down and grabbed the middle rope for leverage, picking up the win.

WINNER: Barrett, at 8:30.

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 4-25-11

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

1 -- RAW vs. SMACKDOWN BATTLE ROYAL

As red and blue-shirted bodies battled in the ring, Mathews noted the winning brand member will obtain two Draft picks for his brand. The announcers played up the fake brand alliance bit that WWE only plays up during the Draft and Bragging Rights PPV. Smackdown lost Kane over the top rope, then Khali and Big Show battled. Team Smackdown proceeded to gang up on Khali to drop him over the top rope. Then, they ran into the predicament where Bourne saved Sheamus from elimination despite Sheamus beating up Bourne recently. Quite the mess.

Henry and Brodus eliminated each other simultaneously. Big Show was the last giant left in the battle royal as he worked on Sheamus, who looked like Ronald McDonald with the bright red t-shirt on. Mason Ryan then tried to get a piece of Big Show, who headbutted him away. The announcers reminisced about past Draft moments while the wrestlers teased some eliminations. They cut to break only seven minutes into the match with the battle royal down to seven or eight men.

Back from break, Lawler was mid-sentence as the same number of men were still in the ring. Four from Raw and four from Smackdown. McIntyre was out next from Smackdown. Show then comically stopped The Cobra to eliminate him. Some rapid-fire eliminations ensued to arrive at a Final Four of Show and Kofi from Smackdown vs. Mason and Bourne from Raw. Bourne and Kofi paired off while Show and Ryan paired off. Bourne and Kofi delivered strong athleticism teasing eliminations before they were both saved. Show then caught Bourne in mid-air and dropped him over the top rope.

Ryan was the last man for Raw. He stumbled around the ring, not looking very good in the process. Show then hand-planted Ryan over the top rope, giving Show and Kofi the win. The crowd, which doesn't care about the artificial Raw vs. Smackdown split, cheered for Show and Kofi. Show and Kofi celebrated leading to the Draft Picks.

WINNER: Show & Kingston (Smackdown) at 13:05. Above-average battle royal for TV with the crowd hot for the action. (*1/2)

Cue up the random generator to deliver the first pick...

Draft Pick #1: John Cena going to Smackdown.

2 -- EVE vs. LAYLA

The winning brand gets one Draft pick. Cole sarcastically noted he's so thankful Eve is representing Raw. After Layla came to the ring, Michelle McCool stomped out selling disdain for Layla. They cued up a clip from Smackdown showing McCool attacking Layla from behind during couple's therapy. McCool distracted Layla as Cole got on the mic and heeled on the match. Eve then rolled up Layla for a quick pin as Cole continued to cut a promo. He noted he's going to make an example of Jim Ross tonight. Cole said, "Mr. WrestleMania has left ringside." Lawler said Raw just won a Draft pick and all they're hearing is Cole run his mouth. Ringside, Layla attacked McCool and ran her into the barricade. Layla then threw over the announce table and both of them cried over the end of their relationship.

WINNER: Eve at 0:35.

Draft Pick #2: Rey Mysterio is coming back to Raw.

3 -- U.S. champion SHEAMUS vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- non-title match

Sheamus went after Kingston early on with aggressive offense. They're already bringing the two brands together next week, as the announcers noted everyone (Raw, Smackdown, fans) are invited to The Rock's birthday celebration next week on Raw. Kingston scored a close nearfall with a top rope cross-body block, but Sheamus came back with a hard lariat. Sheamus then teased the High Cross, then the Brogue Kick, but Kingston avoided both. Kingston followed with Trouble in Paradise and it was good for the win. Backstage, the Smackdown brand did Kofi's boom-boom hand clap to celebrate.

WINNER: Kingston at 2:23. There goes Sheamus's momentum with a quick loss. Good action for a short match. (*1/4)

Draft Pick #3: Randy Orton to Smackdown.

4 -- "SIR" MICHAEL COLE (w/Jack Swagger) vs. JIM ROSS (w/Jerry Lawler)

It was like NXT with Swagger on the apron and Lawler on the opposite apron. Cole mockingly said he wanted a sumo match, playing up his fat joke routine. Cole then smacked his belly like he was playing the drums and went back to pacing the ring. Cole talked strategy with Swagger before playing with Ross's mid-section. Ross swung at Cole and missed. Cole then slipped out of the ring and asked for Ross's cowboy hat. Cole put the hat on and paraded around the ring happy with himself. Ross shook his head before Cole re-entered the ring and stomped on Ross's hat. Ross no-sold and paced around the ring some more. Swagger then toweled off Cole before Cole did a push-up.

The two men finally locked up and Ross shoved Cole to the mat. Cole demanded a time-out as Swagger pulled out a stool for Cole to sit down and take a breather. Swagger was done toweling off Cole and stepped out of the ring to loud boos. Cole and Ross locked up again and Cole went for a scoop slam, but Ross fell on top of Cole and landed big right hand blows. Huge pop for Ross landing right hand blows. Cole then escaped and slipped to the outside to check his mouth. He didn't get too far away, as Lawler rolled Cole back into the ring. Ross landed some more right hand blows as Swagger rammed Lawler into the ringpost on the floor. Swagger then scampered into the ring and attacked Ross to draw a DQ.

WINNER: Ross via DQ at 4:33. WWE gave away a lot of physicality and part of the pay-off seeing Cole get whipped before the PPV, but they also showed Ross is physically capable of holding up his end of the bargain in the ring. The crowd being hot for the segment helped out. (n/a)

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

Mathews noted this match is worth two draft picks. Lawler noted Ross busted open his knuckles, then tried selling the tag match at the PPV. The match quickly moved to the outside where Ziggler landed a dropkick sending Orton over the barricade to the front row. They teased a count-out as Orton slid back into the ring just before ten. Orton came in hot on Ziggler with right hand blows, then hit the Angle Slam for a two count. Orton proceeded to enter RKO mindset as the crowd exploded wanting the RKO. Ziggler escaped via a distraction from Vickie, then walked right into the RKO. Orton with the pin for the win. Smackdown gets two more picks.

WINNER: Orton at 3:24. Decisive win for Orton that easily could have been obtained without throwing Ziggler out there to take the loss. With Smackdown getting another set of picks, it makes you wonder if they're going to flip the revised rosters. (*)

Draft Pick #4: Mark Henry to Smackdown.

Draft Pick #5: Sin Cara to Smackdown.

6 -- Intercontinental champion WADE BARRETT vs. REY MYSTERIO -- non-title match

The announcers stressed the pressure on Rey to pick up the win for Raw. Why should he feel any loyalty to the Raw brand? It's the oddest thing trying to artificially create "brand loyalty." Barrett worked over Rey early in the match, driving a knee to his back. It's also backwards how the announcers are saying the Raw wrestlers are unhappy with their roster being decimated. Shouldn't they be excited because there are fewer competitors for spots and they could rise up the ladder? Barrett walked into the 619, then Rey hit a springboard splash to score a three count on the IC champ.

WINNER: Mysterio at 2:31. Another mid-card champion pinned clean in less than three minutes. (*)

Draft Pick #6: Big Show back to Raw.

Draft Pick #7: Alberto Del Rio to Raw.

7 -- WWE champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) & C.M. PUNK & ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. JOHN CENA & CHRISTIAN & MARK HENRY

Christian and Miz started things off as the four-man announce team talked over each other. Cole vowed to "get Extreme" on Ross on Sunday, then Cena tagged in and Miz high-tailed it out of the ring, not wanting anything to do with Cena. Cena smirked down at Miz, who recovered on the floor as they cut to break.

Back from break, Miz or Cena could be heard calling a spot as the announcers were delayed re-setting the show. Cena made a comeback on Punk, then brought Punk into the babyface Smackdown corner to punish him. Christian teased the Killswitch on Punk, but Del Rio caused a distraction, giving Punk an opening to smash Christian with a boot to the face. Del Rio took advantage of his weakened foe to tag in and wear down Christian. The heels began tagging in and out working over Christian. Orton and Ed Harris then ominously flashed on the screen as part of a graphic plugging the latest WWE Studios movie out Friday. The announcers hyped The Rock's birthday party next week on Raw as the heels continued to work over Christian. Del Rio then lost control on Christian, who nailed a textbook Tornado DDT. All four men on the apron went nuts looking for a tag. After a dramatic build, Miz and Cena took the tags. Cena set up Miz for his signature offense, but Mark Henry suddenly blasted his teammate, Cena, with a clothesline. Henry then press-slammed Christian onto the ring steps and stared at his work. Back in the ring, Miz stalked Cena from behind and dropped him with the Skullcrushing Finale. Miz with the cover and it was good for the win. Raw gets the final pick tonight.

WINNERS: Team Miz at 11:20.

Draft Pick #8: John Cena back to Raw.

Supplemental Draft tomorrow at noon EST on WWE's website.

[Arcademan]

Supplement draft took place at WWE.com. earlier today and here are the results:

Raw gets:

Rey Mysterio
Big Show
Alberto Del Rio
Jack Swagger
Kelly Kelly
JTG
Drew McIntyre
Curt Hawkins
Chris Masters
Kofi Kingston
Tyler Reks
Beth Phoenix

SmackDown gets:

Randy Orton
Mark Henry
Sin Cara
Daniel Bryan
The Great Khali
Jimmy Uso
Alicia Fox
William Regal
Yoshi Tatsu
Natalya
Jey Uso
Ted DiBiase
Tyson Kidd
Tamina
Alex Riley
Sheamus

The order of the draft was:

From WWE RAW last night:
1) John Cena to SmackDown
2) Rey Mysterio to Raw
3) Randy Orton to SmackDown
4) Mark Henry to SmackDown
5) Sin Cara to SmackDown
6) Big Show to Raw
7) Alberto Del Rio to Raw
John Cena to Raw

From the Supplement Draft:
9) Daniel Bryan to SmackDown
10) Jack Swagger to Raw
11) The Great Khali to SmackDown
12) Jimmy Uso to SmackDown
13) Kelly Kelly to Raw
14) JTG to Raw
15) Alicia Fox to SmackDown
16) William Regal to SmackDown
17) Yoshi Tatsu to SmackDown
18) Drew McIntyre to Raw
19) Natalya to SmackDown
20) Curt Hawkins to Raw
21) Chris Masters to Raw
22) Jey Uso to SmackDown
23) Kofi Kingston to Raw
24) Ted DiBiase to SmackDown
25) Tyson Kidd to SmackDown
26) Tamina to SmackDown
27) Tyler Reks to Raw
28) Alex Riley to SmackDown
29) Beth Phoenix to Raw
30) Sheamus to SmackDown

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 4-26-11

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

1 -- TITUS O'NEIL (w/Hornswoggle) vs. DARREN YOUNG (w/Chavo Guerrero)

The announcers noted Titus is undefeated thus far on NXT. Titus quickly dominated, using his power to overpower Young. Young then trapped Titus inside the ring apron a la Finlay to take control of the match. Back in the ring, the crowd got behind Titus a bit and Titus made a comeback with a sidewalk slam. Titus dragged himself on top of Young for a cover, resulting in a nearfall. Young then came back and slapped on a figure-four. In Flair Country! The audacity. The crowd woke up a bit with some Whoos, then Chavo tried shouting instructions to Young, who became agitated with Chavo. Young then walked across the ring right into Titus's lift-up bomb finisher for the pin and the win. Titus really sold the effects post-match.

WINNER: Titus at 4:05. More tension between Chavo and Young, and another W for Titus, who should find himself in the finals of this show...whenever that is.

Up next: Kozlov & O'Brian vs. Novak & JTG.

2 -- JTG & JACOB NOVAK vs. KOZLOV & CONOR O'BRIAN

O'Brian and Kozlov ran over Novak with an early shoulder block that sent Novak to the floor. Grisham asked Regal to discuss JTG, prompting Regal to call him "quite possibly the worst person in WWE. A waste of space." Grisham acted stunned by the comment as they went to break.

After the word from Kong, they returned with JTG being worked over by Conor. Regal said it's not like JTG doesn't have talent, but he doesn't apply any of his talent. He said the prevalent thought used to be that his "former tag partner" was holding him back, but that's not the case. JTG made a come back on Conor and tagged out to Novak, who wore down Conor. Meanwhile, Regal vowed to turn Novak into a vegetable next week. Conor eventually broke free to tag in Kozlov, who cleaned house on Novak.

Kozlov landed multiple head butts followed by a powerslam. JTG broke up a pin, then Kozlov head butted him out of the ring to a pop. For some reason, Kozlov tagged out to O'Brian, who walked right into a big Timbaland boot to the face from Noval. It was good for the win. Afterward, Regal said that was impressive. Novak then taunted Regal ahead of their match next week.

WINNERS: JTG & Novak at 6:42. More focus on Team Novak this week, although the match didn't offer much substance. Fine set up for Regal vs. Novak next week, though. Conor looks like the first one to go this season barring something drastic changing.

3 -- BYRON SAXTON (w/Yoshi Tatsu) vs. LUCKY CANNON (w/Tyson Kidd)

Lucky reluctantly slipped into the ring, unhappy that Maryse didn't believe him. Lucky then screamed at Yoshi, who shouted back from the ring apron. Saxton took it to the easily-distracted Cannon before Cannon came back with a boot to the head. Grisham brought up the Royal Wedding and Regal noted he had his invitation sent back. Cannon continued to wear down Saxton as Grisham noted Kidd and Yoshi were both drafted to Smackdown today.

Saxton made a comeback at 4:00 and landed a boot to the face for a nearfall. Saxton then tried a roll-up and scored another two count. Saxton followed with an arm-wringer into a slam and Kidd put Cannon's foot on the bottom rope to break up a count. Yoshi then came around to ringside to attack Kidd for getting involved. Yoshi suddenly found himself in the ring with Cannon and he jumped him, causing a DQ.

Post-match: Yoshi blasted away on Cannon before Saxton grappled him and landed a finisher on his own Pro. Next, Cannon grappled Saxton from behind and delivered his finisher. Cannon was the last man standing with Kidd. Cannon shot Maryse a look as Maryse tried to digest everything that happened. Cannon and Kidd stood tall in the ring, which Regal said that's what matters. Grisham plugged Regal vs. Novak next week as Cannon continued to flaunt for Maryse. End show.

WINNER: Cannon via DQ at 5:37. Good, intense end to the show playing up the now-weekly storylines on NXT. The bit with Maryse's purse was juvenile and quite silly, but it was fine for advancing the juvenile love triangle with Maryse, Cannon, and Yoshi.

[Arcademan]

Ross updates status for Extreme Rules

WWE announcer Jim Ross says the X-ray results on his injured hand were "not overly encouraging" following his match with Michael Cole on Monday's Raw.

"My right hand is somewhat banged up and the X-rays were not overly encouraging Tuesday but it won't keep me from doing what I need to do on Sunday at Extreme Rules," Ross said in his latest blog on jrsbarbq.com, confirming he will still be part of the tag match with Jerry Lawler against Cole and Jack Swagger at the PPV.

Ross said his other concern is a potential infection after Cole's tooth went to the bone of the knuckle of his right hand.

"(It) caused bleeding from my hand and his lip for those that have asked. Apparently the risk of infection from a human tooth IE a bite or something like what occurred Monday night is potentially harmful so we've been very careful with the infection aspect of the 'wound' in addition to caring for a sore hand," Ross said.

C.M. Punk could be gone from WWE in a few months, reportedly not interested in re-signing

WWE wrestler C.M. Punk could be gone from WWE by summertime, potentially creating another hole on WWE's dwindling roster of full-time stars.

Punk is considering not renewing his contract when it comes due in a few months, reports PWInsider.

Punk has reportedly turned down a long-term offer because of burn-out from the schedule and not being featured prominently in WWE storylines.

Chris Jericho teases potential appearance at Extreme Rules PPV Sunday night in Tampa

Chris Jericho teased a potential appearance at WWE's Extreme Rules PPV this Sunday in Tampa, Fla. since he no longer has to rehearse for "Dancing with the Stars" following his elimination on Tuesday.

"For the first time in 8 weeks I dont have dance rehearsals. What am I going to do with myself now? Anythin goin on in Tampa this weekend...?" Jericho posted on Twitter Wednesday.

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 4-28-11

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

1 -- TYSON KIDD vs. TRENT BARRETA

Barreta scored an early nearfall before settling into a headlock. Korpela opined that he believes Sin Cara is Smackdown's biggest acquisition. He then plugged The Rock's birthday next Monday on Raw and posed the question of whether Cena will be involved. Kidd and Trent continued to wear each other down as Striker continued to amplify Korpela's commentary, instructing him in the WWE ways on the fly. Barreta then missed with a splash near the ropes and Kidd dropkicked him to the floor. Barreta sold injured ribs as they cut to break.

Back from break, Kidd was wearing down Barreta in the ring. Kidd then focused his attack on Barreta's mid-section as the announcers talked up the Del Rio vs. Christian title match at the PPV on Sunday. Barreta teased a comeback seven minutes in, then went for a springboard dropkick and connected. Barreta crawled over to Kidd for a cover, but he kicked out in time. Both men struggled to their feet and Barreta went for his Dudebuster DDT finish, but Kidd threw Barreta away and landed a kick to the gut. Barreta then followed up with a clothesline sending Kidd over the top rope to the floor. Next was a big dive clear over the top rope to the floor that floored both men.

Back in the ring, Barreta tried to score a pin, but Kidd kicked out in time. Barreta slowly tried to pick up Kidd, who kicked him in the face and scored successive nearfalls. Kidd sold frustration unable to put away Barrett, then took him up top for a huracanrana, but Barrett countered in mid-air with a huracanrana for a nearfall. Kidd tried to follow right up with the Sharpshooter and he was able to turn Barreta over to force a tap out due to Kidd's work earlier in the match. Kidd picks up a win in a solid TV match.

WINNER: Kidd at 10:58. Really nice match. Nice back-and-forth at the end of the match after they laid the foundation in the first-half. (**)

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

Stanford talked up Ryder and Mathews told Stanford he only likes him because Ryder puts him on his YouTube show. Ryder and Smith grappled on the mat, trading headlocks and holds as Stanford talked up the Draft. Mathews read some canned lines about the Draft being a place for new beginnings and new opportunities for each and every WWE Superstar and Diva. Ryder informed the audience he had Smith right where he wanted him, then Smith countered a headlock into an armdrag takedown.

Ryder escaped, then tried to beg off in the corner, but Smith hip-tossed him across the ring. Smith followed with a big belly-to-belly suplex for a nearfall. Next was Smith's trademark delayed vertical suplex for a two count. Smith then clotheslined Ryder over the top rope and shouted to the crowd that he was owning this match. Smith rolled Ryder back into the ring, but Ryder caught him with a shoulder tackle into the ringpost. Ryder followed with a dropkick knocking Smith to the floor as they cut to break.

Back from break, Ryder landed a "Broski Boot" to the face in the corner for a nearfall. Ryder followed with a snap neckbreaker for another two count. Ryder showed his frustration, then settled into a crossface looking to wear down Smith. Ryder became agitated with the ref and told him it's one...two...three. Ryder followed with a "Call Me" shout-out followed by a dropkick for another two count. Ryder threw up the LI and wanted a finisher, but Smith countered with a backslide for a nearfall. Ryder then cut him off and resumed his mat-based attack. Stanford continued to drop random references, drawing chuckles from Mathews.

Ryder decided to take it up, but Smith crotched him. Smith wanted a superplex and he connected from way up top. Both men sold the effects as the match reached the nine-minute mark. Smith then ran over Ryder with clotheslines followed by a big boot. Smith suddenly busted out a dance move, shaking his hips for the crowd, and delivered a running leg drop for a two count. Ryder then came back with a small package and Smith came back with a small package. Smith with a powerslam for a nearfall, then he dragged Ryder across the ring looking for the Sharpshooter, but Ryder kicked him in the gut. Ryder measured Smith and nailed the Rough Ryder center-ring. Ryder with the cover and the win.

WINNER: Ryder at 10:39. Nice, nice match. I'm not sure about Smith's Cowboy hat and Elvis-like moves, but he showed some new-found intensity in the ring to match Ryder, who has found that "it" factor and looks like money in the ring. Some real quality singles action on Superstars this week. (**1/4)

3 -- NATALYA & GAIL KIM vs. MELINA & ALICIA FOX

The heels isolated Natalya early in the match, including some unique submission holds working over Natalya's mid-section. Gail tagged in, prompting Stanford's customary "House of Fire" call anytime a hot tag is made to a babyface. The action broke down, then Gail delivered Eat Defeat on Fox for the pin and the win. Stanford signed off with a plug for Smackdown, Extreme Rules, and Rock's birthday party as the babyfaces celebrated in the ring to close the show.

WINNER: Gail & Natalya at 4:16. Fine main event tag match giving the babyfaces a win to close out this week's show.

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact! Results: 4-28-11

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

1--- ANGELINA LOVE vs. VELVET SKY

Taz said that the match was supposed to be later in the night as a referee ran down to the ring and they went to break.

After a five-minute commercial break, Angelina was dispassionately beating Velvet Sky in the corner. Angelina no-sold a comeback attempt by Velvet as Winter cheered her on from ringside. Velvet was down and struggling as Angelina first tried to pull her hair out before gouging her eyes.

Velvet got back to her feet and attempted a comeback but Angelina continued to dispassionately no-sell the offensive moves before planting Velvet with a running clothesline. Angelina crawled over to Velvet and choked her until the referee broke up the choke after a five count. No pin attempts here, just some chokes and a couple of big mounted punches. The crowd tried to will Velvet back into the match but Angelina kept dominating.

Velvet took advantage of the referee distracting Angelina by hitting a facebuster and a bulldog, the first time that Angelina sold any offense. As Angelina was down, Velvet leaned through the ropes to yell at Winter, who raked her eyes and hit a neckbreaker on the second rope. This allowed Angelina to hit the Botox Injection on Velvet.

Angelina did the slow crawl over to Velvet before looking to Winter for guidance. Winter did the Undertaker throat-slash and Love locked in the same modified choke hold that Winter used previously. Velvet faded and passed out and the referee stopped the match as Taz yelled for the bell to be rung as Velvet was clearly unconscious.

WINNER: Angelina Love in 9:00 (4:30 Televised)

Angelina refused to let go of the move afterwards until Winter came into the ring. Winter then guided her out of the ring and up the ramp with a wave of her finger.

2 – ANARQUIA (w/Mexican America) vs. CHRIS SABIN

Sabin was introduced as half of the Motor City Machineguns. That’s nice to see since TNA had mentioned they were going to compete as singles wrestlers. Anarquia jumped Sabin as he was keeping an eye on Hernandez and hit a big palm slap in the corner before stomping Sabin’s face.

The announcers put over the speed vs. power aspect of the match as Sabin hit a few high-impact move before Sabin hit an athletic springboard onto Anarquia. Uh oh, Sabin twisted his knee as he landed. They ran a replay and it looked bad from the angle shown. Anarquia rolled up Sabin quickly for the win.

WINNER: Anarquia in 2:00.

After the match, they picked up Sabin gingerly and made him stare at the giant Mexican flag. Motor City’s music played and out charged Alex Shelley, making his return after months of inaction. He cleared the ring and went to hit Anarquia with his belt but Rosita jumped in the way. Anarquia escaped by tossing tiny Rosita at Shelley and Mexican America retreated up the ramp.

3 --- TV champion GUNNER vs. DANIELS -- TV Title match

Gunner was put over by the announcers as Hulk & Bischoff’s “Ace in the Hole,” having apparently never let them down. Gunner dominated early as the crowd got behind Daniels, who managed to fight back as Taz informed the audience that Gunner has an extensive military background. A running knee to Daniels’ midsection allowed Gunner to take control.

However, Daniels surprised him with a crucifix pin that was good for a two count. However, it didn’t last long as Gunner hit two more knees to the gut and locked in a sitting bear hug. Daniels fought his way out but Gunner hit a front face suplex onto Daniels for his first two count of the match.

At the 3:00 mark, Gunner hit some big punches in the corner as he was put over as Immortal’s Blue Chipper. He charged the corner but Daniels slithered out of the way and hit a lifted foot to the chest before hitting a clothesline/legsweep combo. Daniels hit a huge overhand powerslam off of the top rope for a two count near fall.

Daniels set up for the Angel’s Wings but Gunner fought out of it as Tenay claimed it was good scouting on Gunner’s part. Gunner hit a few big shoulder thrusts in the corner before trying to put Daniels on his shoulders for some sort of big move. However, Daniels fought out and hit a chokeslam that set him up for the B.M.E.

But Gunner moved and Daniels landed on his feet. As he charged Gunner in the corner, Daniels was thrown over the top turnbuckle and hit his head on the ring post. This made the third time onto Gunner’s shoulders the charm as he tossed Daniels to his side and hit a powerful DDT for the pinfall victory.

WINNER: Gunner in 5:00 to retain the TV Championship.

4 --- SAMOA JOE vs. CRIMSON

Taz’s incredible powers of foresight came through at the bell as Crimson charged across the ring and landed some early punches before the two men traded back and forth in the middle of the ring before Crimson hit a boot to Joe’s face. After an attempted submission from Crimson, Joe hit a high running boot before throwing Crimson into the corner and hitting his combo enziguiri move for a two count.

Crimson fought back with an exploder suplex before leveling Joe with a spinning neckbreaker for a two count. Crimson tried to pick Joe up for a body slam but he couldn’t. Joe tried for a high kick but Crimson moved and hit a suplex followed by a knee drop for a two count.

Joe and Crimson then traded blows before Crimson charged Joe in the corner, promptly receiving a big uranage that forced Crimson to climb out of the ring to regroup. Joe tried for a running move but Crimson hit an elbow that stopped his momentum. However, Abyss charged down to the ring and jumped Crimson as the ref rang the ball.

RESULT: Match Thrown Out in 4:00.

Joe and Abyss stared each other down for a moment before Joe shrugged his shoulders and walked off. Abyss slammed Crimson into the ring steps before throwing him into the ring and hitting him with the Black Hole Slam. Tenay & Taz were way too excited about Abyss dominating a guy with a ‘winning streak.’

5--- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. MR. ANDERSON vs. BULLY RAY -- TNA World Title match

Bully Ray dominated in the early going, keeping both Sting and Mr. Anderson down before hitting a big side slam on Sting for a two count. However, Anderson came in and kicked Ray in the head before hitting his own side slam on Sting for another two count. As Sting was down in the ring, Ray and Anderson glared at each other before exchanging punches.

But they forgot about Sting, who clotheslined them both before tossing Anderson out of the ring. Sting went to bounce of the ropes and attack Ray but Anderson jumped up and hit him in the back, leading to a big boot to the face from Bully Ray. Anderson then foolishly tried to climb to the top turnbuckle but Ray threw him down and got a two count before the match went to break at 3:00.

After a four-minute commercial, the match returned with a nearfall two count for Bully Ray on Anderson. Sting was out at ringside and Taz informed the audience that Ray dominated throughout the break. The announcers compared Gunner’s effectiveness with Ray’s value to Immortal as Anderson had to grab the bottom rope to avoid a three count.

Ray continued to dominate as he and Anderson were the focus of most of the action as Sting was down in a corner receiving periodic kicks to keep him down. Anderson finally recovered to hit a pair of clotheslines followed by his swinging neckbreaker move for a two count.

At this point, Sting finally got back to his feet and lit up Anderson before hitting him with the Stinger Splash. Ray went to hit them both but Sting moved and Anderson took the brunt of a second running move in the corner. Sting tried to catch Ray napping but Ray moved and the ref took the brunt of the Stinger Splash instead. Taking advantage of Sting’s concern for the ref, Ray leveled him with a clothesline.

Realizing that the ref was down, Ray grabbed the pipe and decked Sting in the gut, telling the audience that the blow was for Hogan. Suddenly, A.J. Styles came into the picture and hit his Pele Kick on Ray. This allowed Sting to pick up the lead pipe and clock Ray in the head with it. A backup ref eventually came to the ring to count the pinfall.

WINNER: Sting in 10:00 (6:00 televised).

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 4-29-11

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

1 – JACK SWAGGER vs. SIN CARA

They showed Cara attacking Swagger on Smackdown three weeks ago. They had some weird lighting during the match, orange and blue, with the house lights dimmed. Swagger put the hurt on Cara to start, and when he had him face-down on the mat, he did push-ups on his back. Cara took a chest-first bump into the turnbuckle on an Irish whip. He got bodyslammed, but Cara got his knees up on a Vader Bomb attempt. Cara did his handspring back-elbow, and a headscissors take-over. At 2:40, Cara kicked Swagger in the head from the apron. Springboard, but Cara landed on his feet. He kicked Cara in the head, and you can tell Cara sells differently than the other WWE guys. Swagger was handed an international object by Cole, but Cara got on Swagger’s shoulders and connected with a victory roll for the win.

WINNER: Cara, at 3:20. Looked like there were some communication issues here, but they finished on a nice note.

Cole yelled at Swagger, who charged at Cara. Cara low-bridged Swagger to the outside, then landed a springboard cross-body with nice hang time.

2 – JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER vs. KANE & THE BIG SHOW – WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Slater barely avoided Show’s big offense early, and Gabriel nailed Show with a dropkick off the top rope. He went for a cover :35 in, but Show kicked out and sent Gabriel outside the ring. They went to break :50 in.

Back at the 5:31 mark as Show powered out of another cover. Gabriel turned a chokeslam into a DDT for a two-count as Cole sold the fact that Corre had a good chance here. Kane finally tagged in around 7:00 in, and gave a big boot (that showed a lot of light) to Slater for two. Side slam for two. Kane positioned Slater for a chokeslam, then Gabirel too. the match broke down and Show grabbed Gabriel for near stereo chokeslams. Kane got Slater up and down for the chokeslam, and made the pin.

WINNERS: Show and Kane, at 8:18. It went eight minutes, but we saw only a bit more than three minutes.

3 – REY MYSTERIO vs. MARK HENRY

Henry came out smiling, as if he never attacked John Cena this past Monday. Henry got the mic and said it’s unfortunate that Rey’s farewell will be his debut. Mysterio kicked at Henry’s legs, but Henry grabbed him and choked him in the ropes. Rey had to go to ringside to recover. He took his time to get back into the ring and kicked Henry in the face on the way back in. Rey slid under Henry’s legs, but Henry flattened Rey with his upper torso. He dragged Rey to the ropes and stepped on his chest. Rey tried to kick his way back into the match, but Henry slugged him in the back of the head. Rey was thrown under the bottom rope and outside the ring. When Henry went outside, Rey kicked at his knee. Henry charged at Rey but missed, and toppled over the ring steps. They took a break 2:30 into the contest.

Back to the show at about the six minute mark. Rey went to the top, but Henry crotched him. Henry toyed with Rey a bit and he slammed Rey into the buckle at 7:35. Rey came back and did a seated splash on Henry, getting a two-count at 8:25. Rey set Henry up for the 619, and it connected. Henry was on rubber leg street, but Cody Rhodes came out as Rey set up for his springboard. Rhodes went on the attack, drawing the DQ.

WINNER: Mysterio, via DQ, at 8:48. Henry looked dominant and got the win, but Rey didn’t lose much since it was by DQ.

Rhodes continued dishing out a beating, going into the crowd to do so. Eventually, Rey found his way back into the ring, and was given the World’s Strongest Slam. Rhodes again put a paper bag mask over Rey’s face.

4 – MICHELLE MCCOOL vs. LAYLA

It’s a Divas match, but given the amount of TV time these two have gotten in the past two years or so, I’m surprised this match didn’t get more hype. The ladies took the lock-up all the way outside the ring. McCool whipped Layla into the barricade and the two continued brawling there. Kick to the face by McCool, but at nine, she didn’t try to get back into the ring. Instead, she went back for more.

WINNER: Double count-out, at :53. Well, that’s why they didn’t advertise it I guess.

Referees broke up the brawl after the match. Layla got a mic and asked for a no-DQ match at the PPV. McCool accepted the match, noting Layla would be nothing without her. McCool wanted one more condition – loser leaves WWE. Wow, the pickup on that was really obvious. Layla accepted. That's one "loser leaves town" stipulation I hope doesn't stick.

5 – ALBERTO DEL RIO & BRODUS CLAY vs. CHRISTIAN & RANDY ORTON

The babyfaces made their entrances out of break. Del Rio appeared to start things off, but deferred to Clay. Clay and Christian locked up and Clay took Christian down, then pie-faced him. Springboard sunset flip attempt, but Clay blocked it. Christian ran into a headbutt to the chest. Del Rio came in and worked the arm of Christian. Orton tagged in just shy of 3:00 into things, and he connected on his jumping knee-drop. Snap mare and another knee-drop. The audio sweetener liked those moves. They went to break at 3:33 of the match.

Back about 7:00 in. Clay had Orton down, then tagged out to Del Rio. Orton and Del Rio both made tags at 8:33. Christian rocked Clay, but couldn’t get him off his feet. Finally, he landed a missile dropkick off the middle rope. That did the job. Behind the ref’s back, Del Rio kicked Christian in the head to soften him up. Booker said he knows about teamwork, since he was part of one of the greatest teams of all-time. “Yeah, you and Goldust were pretty good,” said Cole. Del Rio came in and was knocked out of the ring as Christian desperately tried to make the tag at 11:00. Del Rio made it back in and tagged Clay, who stopped Christian short, headbutting him in the back of the head. Backbreaker by Clay. Del Rio got a near-fall on Christian almost 13:00 in. Running kick to the arm by ADR. Christian fought back and again both men were down and needed to make tags. This time, WWE didn’t need to pipe in the crowd noise. Orton finally made the hot tag and he clobbered Del Rio. Rope-assisted DDT. He set up for the RKO, but Del Rio countered. Clay tagged in after tripping Orton up, but the big man ran right into an RKO. Pinfall, over.

WINNERS: Christian and Orton, at 15:09.

After replays, Christian took off his Smackdown shirt, pointed to it, and then pointed to the title up above as the show signed off.

[Arcademan]

WWE Extreme Rules PPV Results: 5-1-11 (next 3 posts)

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

1 -- RANDY ORTON vs. C.M. PUNK -- Last Man Standing match -- Nexus banned from ringside

After a brief brawl on the outside at the start, they teased an exposed steel spot, but no contact was made. Back on the floor, Punk pulled out a kendo stick and popped Orton across the shoulder. Back in the ring, Punk cracked a stick across the ribs. Punk demanded a ten count on Orton as Punk did a ninja pose with the stick in-hand. Orton made it back to his feet and made a comeback with European uppercuts. They were only 4:00 in, but it seemed like they were at 14:00 building to a finish.

Punk cut off Orton's comeback with more kendo stick shots, then landed a back suplex. Punk demanded a ten count before going for a springboard elbow smash, but Orton cut him off with a mid-air kendo stick shot. More kendo stick shots, then Orton fired up a comeback leading to a fallaway backbreaker. Orton wanted the spike DDT, but Punk caught Orton and catapulted him into the exposed steel. The crowd sounded like the home team's reaction to a swing & miss strike three with the bases loaded.

Punk paused before landing a running knee in the corner. Punk teased the G2S, Orton teased the RKO, Punk teased the G2S, and then Orton threw Punk through a chair wedged in-between the middle turnbuckles. Punk flew to the floor, where ref Charles Robinson applied a ten count, but Punk got up in time. Orton executed a snap powerslam, Punk got up at eight, and Orton started clearing the announce table. Punk answered with a martial arts kick to the head and Punk collected himself on the Cole Mine. Orton used the down time to recover leading to him executing a back drop across the guardrail. Unique.

Back in the ring, Orton dropped down on the mat and teased the RKO, but Punk countered with a strike to the head. Punk then set up Orton for the G2S and connected, but not in flush. It wasn't good enough for the win, as Orton reached his feet in nine. Punk went looking for a chair as his next weapon in the match. He then executed a Russian Legsweep onto the chair, which kept Orton down for an eight count only. Punk smirked as he set up Orton for another Russian onto the chair, but Orton blasted Punk out of nowhere with an RKO center ring. Orton reached his feet as Punk continued to sell. Punk then reached his feet at nine, then almost comically collapsed through the ropes to the outside.

On the floor, Orton clotheslined Punk over the guardrail into the front row. Orton wasn't satisfied and tried his trademark spike DDT off the guardrail, but Punk slid out and rammed Orton back-first into the ringpost. Booker commended Punk on his effort thus far as Orton reached his feet at eight. Punk then placed Orton's head inside a chair and rammed him head/throat-first into the ringpost. Lawler said he knows this is Extreme Rules, but that was too extreme. The announcers did the big set up for a medic needed out here, but Orton made it to his feet at eight for a "super-human comeback."

Next, Punk tried to finish Orton with a G2S through the announce table, but Orton countered with an RKO onto the announce table. Punk remained stomach-first across the table, then made it to his feet at eight. Punk was wobbly and collapsed to the ground again. Suddenly, Orton got that look in his eyes. Orton backed away, then wanted the Punt, but Punk intercepted Orton with a lift-up drop across the ring steps. As the two men were on the floor, Booker said, "These are two guys out in the middle of the ring doing what should be done."

At 18:30, Punk rolled Orton into the ring and wanted a top rope move, but Orton cracked Punk across the shoulder with a kendo stick. Punk was hung upside down, giving Orton an opening to crack the stick over Punk's back over and over. Orton then slowly lifted up Punk, gave him a European, and climbed up top looking for some sort of unique high-risk move. Orton surveyed the crowd and proceeded to deliver a Super RKO from the top turnbuckle. Punk landed awkwardly, so there wasn't a big pop for the move, then the ref began his count. Orton reached his feet at nine and Punk remained down for the count, giving Orton the win.

WINNER: Orton at 20:06. Interesting match. It captured the issues with the Falls Count Anywhere match type where the pay-off isn't strong, especially if the ten counts are overdone, which was the case in this match. Orton moving to Smackdown means the issue was resolved, but it didn't seem like the issue was resolved, as Punk could conceivably show up on TV tomorrow night unaffected by the outcome. (**3/4)

2 -- U.S. champion SHEAMUS vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- U.S. Title match -- Tables match

Before the bell sounded, Booker said Kingston needs to stop smiling like Mark Henry and develop more of a mean streak. Kingston quickly went to the floor looking for a table, but Sheamus jumped him from behind and slid the table underneath the ring. Sheamus then tried to retrieve his own table, but Kingston jumped him from behind. Booker said he wants to see Kingston do work for one time in his life. Are they building to Booker vs. Kingston down the line?

On the other side of the ring, Sheamus teased a powerbomb through another table, but Kingston slipped out. Sheamus then rolled Kingston back into the ring and they teased a spot through the table on the floor, but Sheamus landed a big springboard shoulder tackle to quiet Kingston. Sheamus set up a table in the corner, then tried a running powerslam, but Kingston slipped out to save the match. Kingston and Sheamus teased some table nearfalls before Sheamus knocked Kingston off the ring apron to the floor.

Back in the ring, Sheamus set up for a backpack-maneuver from the top rope through a table, but Kingston slapped Sheamus away. Sheamus went back on the offensive looking for a suplex through a table over the top rope, but Kingston avoided once again. Sheamus tried recovering on the table, but that put him in the wrong spot at the wrong time, as Kingston splashed Sheamus through the table for the win.

WINNER: Kingston at 9:09 to capture the U.S. Title. Predictable outcome, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. The match was fine for its slot on the card, but not particularly memorable. Kingston with the U.S. Title now gives that glut of mid-card heels someone to challenge for a title on the Raw brand going forward. (*1/2)

3 -- JIM ROSS & JERRY LAWLER vs. MICHAEL COLE & JACK SWAGGER -- Country Whipping match

Lawler and Swagger were the first men in. Swagger turned his back on Ross, who whipped him from the ring apron. Swagger turned his back on Lawler, who whipped him. Lawler landed multiple whips before tagging out to Cole. Cole mocked Ross and Lawler trying to whip him as the bubble wrap protected him. Lawler then popped Cole with a right hand and unwrapped a few pieces of the bubble wrap before Cole scampered over to Swagger to make a tag. Swagger cornered Lawler and wore him down before Cole tagged in. Cole gleefully smacked Lawler with his whip, taunted Ross, and tagged out to Swagger.

Lawler fought back with right hands, then Cole snuck in the ring and tried to whip Lawler, who slowly turned around. He nearly got his hands on Cole, but Swagger chopblocked him. Swagger slapped on the anklelock, then re-positioned the hold so Ross could swat Swagger to give him a reason to release the hold. Superhuman Lawler then popped up from the anklelock and landed a DDT. Ross then tagged in and whipped Swagger before applying an anklelock. Swagger was then launched across the ring to Cole, creating a tag. Cole reluctantly entered the ring and took a few belt whips. Cole looked so awful trying to sell.

Ross then low-blowed Swagger, who tried to enter the ring to attack Ross. From behind, Cole grappled a distracted Ross and small packaged him for a pin and the win. The crowd groaned as Cole quickly left the ring to celebrate with Swagger. Ross hung his head dejectedly. Mathews, like an idiot, said Cole is undefeated in action, forgetting Cole's reverse decision that lead to the match being created in the first place.

WINNERS: Cole & Swagger at 7:04. Well, it was kept shorter than Cole-Lawler at WrestleMania. But, there was more of a pay-off on free TV Monday night than on the $44.95/$54.95 show tonight. Classic WWE. At the end of the day, Cole Heel will continue on commentary. (n/a)

[Arcademan]

4 -- CODY RHODES vs. REY MYSTERIO -- Falls Count Anywhere match

The match quickly moved to the floor, then into the stands. Rhodes proceeded to wrap Rey's upper body through a handrail and applied a Boston Crab with Rey sticking through the opening. Rhodes dropped the hold and they took the fight up the arena steps to the concourse. Some fans were held back as Rey rammed Rhodes into a trash container. Booker said it's not about winning a match, but trying to hurt each other. On cue, Rey went for a cover on the floor for a two count. They approached a section of the concourse that randomly had a mirror and Cody executed a step-up enziguiri. Fans off-camera chanted "Holy S---" uncensored before Rey executed a springboard splash off the beer concession stand.

Rey took Cody back into the arena and they battled down the arena steps to the floor. Rey tried to charge Cody, who responded with a hip toss over the barricade to the floor. Cody followed with a clothesline onto the ring steps for a two count. Back in the ring, Rey responded with a turnaround splash off the second rope for a nearfall. Rey then climbed up top and landed a spear-like flying headbutt to the mid-section for a two count. Cody came back with the Alabama Slam for a two count.

After a pause as they tried setting up a top rope move, Rey suddenly busted out green mist and spewed it in Cody's face. Cody spun backward selling the mist in his eyes and Rey smashed him with the 619 into a springboard splash for the pin and the win. After the decision, Rey crouched down low and shot a sinister look toward the crowd. During a replay, Booker noted the mist was a la Great Muta. Back live, Rey continued to *** his head with a devilish look before he walked out of the ring.

WINNER: Mysterio at 11:43. Rhodes could have used that win to give him some momentum as a top heel on Smackdown. The booking made sense for Rey to win in the blow-off match, though. The green mist was a bit of a stretch leading to the finish. (**)

5 -- LAYLA vs. MICHELLE MCCOOL -- Loser Leaves WWE match

McCool jumped Layla from behind to quickly take advantage of the match. The story early on was reluctance from each wrestler to end the other's career, with careful hesitations sprinkled in before big move attempts. Layla hit the Face Lift for a close nearfall, then both women collapsed on the mat following McCool's Styles Clash. McCool slowly made a cover, but Layla countered into a crucifix pin for a quick win. Layla sold jubilation with the win, then despair over McCool's loss.

WINNER: Layla at 5:24, McCool leaves WWE. Good send-off match for McCool, as the two women wrestled with passion, like there was actually something on the line. (*1/2)

Post-match: McCool was in the ring crying, then Kharma's music hit to bring out the former Awesome Kong in her WWE TV debut. Kong slowly made her way to the ring as McCool acted scared. Kharma eventually grasped McCool and delivered her implant buster butterfly suplex finisher. Backstage, the Divas sold concern over Kharma's debut. Kharma did a bit of that Hugh Morrus routine switching between maniacal laughter and seriousness.

6 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. CHRISTIAN -- ladder match for the vacant World Hvt. Title

Christian took control early on, then went to the floor looking for one of a thousand ladders ringside. Del Rio cut him off, though, and stomped Christian to the floor. Christian rebounded moments later reversing a whip into the guardrail. He introduced a ladder into the ring, but Del Rio cut him off. Del Rio then caught Christian with an enziguiri kick before putting a boot to Christian's throat. On the floor, Del Rio propped up a ladder that extended across the ring apron and announce table. Both men teased some spots into the ladder, then Christian splashed Del Rio off a separate ladder.

Back in the ring, Christian teased grabbed the title belt, but Del Rio recovered and yanked him down to the mat. Del Rio teased the cross arm-breaker, but Christian blocked and threw Del Rio onto a ladder propped up in the corner. Both men sold on the mat before Christian knocked Del Rio to the floor. Christian teased climbing the ladder, but Del Rio threw a Hornswoggle-sized ladder at Christian. Del Rio proceeded to set up the step-ladder and take Christian off the regular-sized ladder with a single arm DDT straight to the mat. Very unique. The announcers started bickering, then Booker shot on Cole, drawing some silence.

Meanwhile, Christian and Del Rio teased climbing the ladder before teasing a spot onto the ladder propped up on the outside across the apron and announce table. Ultimately, Christian back-dropped Del Rio back-first onto a ladder inside the ring. Christian tried a ladder spot from the corner, but Del Rio landed an enziguiri that decked Christian. Del Rio then began climbing a ladder looking to fulfill his destiny, but Christian knocked him off the ladder, only to take a knee strike. Del Rio dropkicked Christian to the floor, then received a chair from Ricardo. Del Rio tried to smash Christian with the chair, but Christian countered with a whip into the ringpost.

Back in the ring, the crowd came alive as Christian teased Edge's spear. Christian measured Del Rio and delivered the move center-ring. The crowd popped, then Christian set up a ladder and began climbing. Del Rio stirred as Christian tried to touch the belt, but Del Rio yanked him through a rung of the ladder. Christian was trapped inside the ladder, but Christian slipped out as the last moment to knock Del Rio off the ladder before Del Rio could grab the title belt. Del Rio proceeded to knock Christian onto the apron-to-table ladder, then went for a big splash, but Christian moved and Del Rio ate the ladder before crashing to the floor.

Back in the ring, Christian set up a ladder as the crowd roared. Del Rio was still motionless on the floor. Christian climbed rung by rung. Suddenly, Brodus Clay entered the ring and removed the ladder as Christian hung on the World Title belt. Christian dropped into Clay's arms, but Christian threw him across the ring. Christian then smashed Clay to the floor, but Del Rio caught Christian with a ladder shot to the face. Del Rio applied the cross arm-breaker to give the appearance of cutting off Christian's title aspirations. Del Rio slowly made his way toward a ladder and was atop the ladder, but he was distracted by a horn honking. Edge was in a car smiling at Del Rio, who took his eye off the ball. Christian then knocked Del Rio off the ladder onto Ricardo and a bloody Clay ringside. The crowd saw The Moment coming as Christian scaled a ladder and retrieved the World Title with Edge celebrating ringside.

Post-match: Christian clutched the World Title belt as Edge teared up ringside. Booker put over the moment as Cole said this is something he thought he would never see. Christian held up the World Title belt for everyone to see as he stood atop the ladder. The crowd continued to cheer before Christian dropped down the ladder to embrace Edge. Cole continued to heel on Christian as Booker talked up the moment. Christian continued to soak up the moment before leaving the ring the new World champion.

WINNER: Christian at 21:05 to become new World Hvt. champion. Very strong story with Christian's quest to become World champion realized. Edge's "interference" was tit-for-tat with Clay's interference, so it didn't take away from Christian's win, although Cole tried to play it up as such. Del Rio goes to Raw with two major World Title losses, though, so he'll need some rehab to begin his official run on Raw. (****)

[Arcademan]

7 -- WWE tag champions KANE & BIG SHOW vs. IC champion WADE BARRETT & EZEKIEL JACKSON -- Tag Title match -- lumberjack match

The match quickly broke down with one of the Usos finding himself in the ring. Things settled down, then Jackson executed a big slam on Big Show. Jackson pumped himself up, then Barrett tagged himself in. Barrett wanted Wasteland, big Big Show easily countered into a chokeslam for the win. Afterward, Jackson sold frustration with the loss when he had control of the match. Afterward, the lumberjacks began to fight. It looked like Lance Cade was ringside, but it was D.H. Smith. In the ring, Show and Kane executed double chokeslams on Slater and Gabriel to conclude the match segment.

WINNERS: Show & Kane at 4:15 to retain the Tag Titles. How far Barrett has declined after being a PPV main-eventer and threat to the WWE Title just six months ago. Basically a buffer match in-between the top title matches and a chance to give a lot of guys paydays as lumberjacks.

8 -- WWE champion THE MIZ vs. JOHN CENA vs. JOHN MORRISON -- three-way WWE Title match -- steel cage match

Miz quickly took control of the match, flooring both babyface challengers. A bit of a slow start and both men were selling on the mat at 3:30. Apparently they realized it was only 3:30 into the match and decided to up the tempo starting with Cena's usual Shuffle routine on Morrison. Miz then grappled Cena from behind with Skullcrushing Finale. Morrison quickly recovered from Cena's Shuffle sequence and tried to escape the cage, but Miz pulled him back inside the cage. Miz and Morrison battled atop the cage as Cole noted their history. Cena was out cold throughout this, apparently, and decided to get involved rather than walk through the cage door to win.

Cena and Morrison then executed a double suplex off the cage and Miz landed very scarily on his neck. It looked like a brainbuster with Miz dropping straight down to the mat. For two hours and 34 minutes, you're holding your breath during this PPV hoping someone doesn't get seriously hurt. Miz nearly was right there. One inch the wrong way and he could have seriously injured his neck. All three men sold for a while as the ref checked on Miz. The babyfaces went through a few spots before Miz recovered. Miz and Cena then teased a spot trying to escape the cage door, but neither man could exit.

Morrison suddenly went Spiderman trying to spring out of the cage, but Cena cut him off. Morrison then dangled off the edge of the cage and slammed the door onto Miz's head as Miz was trying to escape through the door. Suddenly, Morrison crotched himself on the cage door. All he had to do was fall down and he would have "escaped" the cage, but he didn't, so Miz dragged Morrison back inside the cage through the cage door. Miz then began working on Cena and Morrison. It's worth noting for posterity sake that the news came down at this moment that Osama Bin Laden is dead.

Miz focused too much on Cena and Morrison tried climbing out again, so Miz ran across the cage to haul Morrison back inside. Suddenly, their roles were reversed and Morrison had to drag Miz back inside the cage. Cena was MIA again, apparently selling elsewhere. Cena could have left through the door again, but opted to go after Morrison. Morrison then flung Cena down. Cena and Miz stood next to each other and awkwardly positioned themselves for Morrison to come off the side of the cage with Starship Pain that floored all three men.

Morrison recovered and began crawling out of the cage, but R-Truth showed up and slammed the cage door on Morrison. Morrison nearly fell out of the cage to win, so Truth lunged forward to catch Morrison. Truth then took Morrison inside the cage and blasted away at him before dropping Cena with an axe kick. Next, Truth dropped Morrison with a single arm DDT. Truth proceeded to climb up the cage and climb over the cage to symbolically "win" the match. Truth had a crazy look in his eyes as he left ringside.

Back in the cage, everyone was down and out. The ref had his hands on his knees surveying the car wreck in the ring waiting for someone to stir. Miz stirred first and slowly pulled himself to his feet. Miz tried climbing out, but Cena trapped Miz and pulled him atop the cage. Cena and Miz traded bombs as they sat atop the cage. Miz then fell back inside the cage and the crowd screamed as Cena teased escaping the cage. It was only a tease, as Miz pulled Cena back inside the cage. Miz teased the Skullcrushing Finale, but Cena countered with an Attitude Adjustment from the top rope. Cena made the cover (oh yeah, pinfalls are legal in the match) and it was good for a pin and the win. Cena is the new WWE champion.

Post-match: Cena celebrated and pumped his fist before taking the WWE Title belt. Cena posed inside the cage for a while before signing off, "The champ is here!" The PPV ended eight minutes before the top of the hour at 10:52 p.m. EST.

WINNER: Cena at 19:50 to capture the WWE Title. Just as Miz was settling in as a legit WWE champion, they switched the title. That seemed like an abrupt end to what could have been a lengthy reign for Miz. Now, it sets up Cena fighting off a host of heel challengers (starting with Miz's re-match and eventually Del Rio) trying to make it to WrestleMania 28 vs. The Rock, who will be on Raw Monday night, as WWE champion. WWE also has a strong second or third-tier feud between Truth and Morrison going forward. Over-riding all of that was the near-miss with Miz being dropped on his neck with the double suplex. That was scary, especially on the heels of Kurt Angle's dangerous spots at Lockdown two weeks ago. The match itself had the usual logic holes of a WWE cage match and the additional outside interference, which served a purpose, took away from the PPV main event. (***1/4)