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

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 6-30-11

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

1 -- BETH PHOENIX vs. GAIL KIM

Phoenix over-powered Gail early on as Mathews reported he still can't get to the bottom of the feud between Gail and former best friend Melina. Gail then locked in a submission wrapped around Phoenix's upper body before Phoenix threw her to the mat to escape. Beth made her comeback with power offense, but couldn't put away Gail. The two Divas traded nearfalls before Beth caught Gail in position for the Glam Slam. Gail fought it momentarily, but Beth finished her for the win. Afterward, mutual respect was shown between the two babyface wrestlers.

WINNER: Phoenix at 4:02. Solid back-and-forth action that was a taste of what WWE could offer from their women's division(s) if the talented wrestlers were given a spotlight.

2 -- JTG vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Mathews's voice seems to get more gravelly with each passing week trying to describe Masters's physique and strength. Masters ripped off a few early chops to the chest before JTG took control of the match, drawing the ire of the audience. Mathews then interjected the unfortunately infrequently-promoted concept that winning matches = money and a rise up the rankings to earn future title shots. WWE is so inconsistent with this element that it means nothing simply being part of Superstars dialogue. Four minutes into the match, Masters caught JTG in Masterlock position. JTG fought it momentarily, but became another victim to Masters's finisher.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 4:05. Masters has been "rising up the rankings" with Superstars victories for months, but it hasn't paid off with an appearance on Raw.

3 -- KAITLYN (w/Natalya) vs. ALICIA FOX (w/Rosa Mendes)

Apparently the Lay-Cool "Mean Girls" replacements - Alicia, Rosa, and Tamina - are labeled the "It Girls. Korpela tried to call out the heels for heelish behavior in the storylines. In reply, Striker reflected McMahon's off-center view on life that you're weak if you try to act honorably, strong if you bully people around, and succesful if you run over people on the way to the top. After some back-and-forth, Kaitlyn missed with a corner attack, then walked into an axe kick from Alicia. Alicia with the pin for the win. Korpela tried to offer Kaitlyn some advice on getting back up after getting knocked down.

WINNER: Alicia at 3:05. Basic-level action keeping the heel vs. face Divas feud on Smackdown in the Superstars spotlight.

4 -- TYSON KIDD & JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER vs. TRENT BARRETA & THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY)

As expected, Slater took the brunt of the face trio's offense early on. Korpela plugged the upcoming South African tour featuring native Gabriel, who will be shark-diving on the tour, according to Korpela. Barreta lost control of the match for the face trio and they cut to break.

Back from break, Barreta broke free and tagged in Jey Uso, who cleaned house on the heels before dropping a running butt bomb in the corner. Uso then went up top, but Kidd distracted him, giving Slater an opening to toss Jey off the top turnbuckle for a two count. And the heels resumed control of the match. It's worth noting WWE has seemingly dropped Kidd's managerial search, as well as Striker playing Kidd's so-called agent, as Striker made zero reference to it during the match broadcast.

Jey eventually escaped the heel corner and tagged in Jimmy, who came in hot on Kidd. Jimmy followed with a toss-up Samoan Drop for a close nearfall. Barreta was in next for a top-rope splash that also resulted in a nearfall only. The action broke down at this point as ref Nunzio tried to restore order. Suddenly, Barreta suplexed Kidd off the top rope with a splash onto everyone on the floor. "Are youkiding me?" Korpela shouted. They went to a replay as all six men sold on the floor.

As Nunzio applied a ten count, Barreta rolled Kidd back into the ring to score another close two count when Gabriel broke up the pin. The Usos then smashed Gabriel on the floor, Barreta hit the Dudebuster DDT on Kidd, and Uso tagged in to deliver a top-rope splash on Kidd for the pin and the win. After the match, Striker entered "match evaluation mode" discussing the performances in the ring rather than the Usos and Barreta earning a bigger payday and advancing up the ladder via victory. It's so inconsistent and indicative of WWE's current booking flaws. After a replay of the finish, the show ended with the faces celebrating in the ring.

WINNERS: Team Usos at 12:40. Solid six-man tag. Slow early on, then a nice finish, and the Usos continue to look impressive since being re-emphasized. WWE needs to find something else for Gabriel to do, as his talent is being under-utilized in this current role. He can be a breakout star for WWE if given a fresh program away from being on the tail-end of the tail-end of Nexus's run last year. (**)

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 6-30-11

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

1- SAMOA JOE vs. DEVON - Bound For Glory Series Match

The crowd started cheering for Devon at the bell, but Joe quickly put him into a rear naked choke. Devon squirmed his way to the rope to break the hold as the announcers put over Joe's submission skills.

Joe drove Devon into the corner and hit a big kick on him to fell him. Joe dragged him to the middle and slapped his back before nailing a big knee to Devon's kidneys. This led to Devon crawling into the other corner and Joe gave him a three facewashes with his boot.

But as Joe went for the running boot, Devon exploded out of the corner for a spear to change momentum. Devon then hit a running elbow and a standing headbutt that led to a clothesline and a two count at the 3:00 mark.

Joe climbed to his feet in the corner and got a boot up on a charging Devon. Samoa Joe then climbed to the second rope and hit a huge leg Lariat. He went for a two count but then switched to a lower body submission that Devon squirmed out of.

Joe quickly turned around and hit an atomic drop and put Devon into a Keylock submission. Devon continued to squirm out and got a rope break.

Samoa Joe continued to dominate and hit a snap slam. This led to a cross arm breaker submission that Devon escaped from at the 5:00 mark. Joe then drove Devon into the corner and went for the Muscle Buster, but he was pushed off.

Devon went for a big elbow off of the top rope but Joe hit him in the face with a big kick. Joe then went for the rear naked choke again but Devon continued to show his ability to escape and fought out with a shoulder toss.

This led to Devon hitting what looked like a running choke slam on Joe for a three count that saw Joe kick out almost immediately after the ref's hand hit the mat.

WINNER: DEVON in 6:00 to win 7 Bound For Glory Series Points

After the match, the announcers discussed how Joe had to have been feeling the pressure with zero points in the standings, hence his submission attempts. Joe sold frustration at ringside afterwards.

2 - LOW KI vs. MATT BENTLEY vs. JIMMY "The King" YANG - X Division Contract Series

A very fast paced start where Low Ki hit an incredible high kick off of the top rope into Yang, which drew a big "Low-Ki" chant from the crowd. Low Kit then hit a handspring cross body splash onto Bentley that knocked Bentley out of the ring.

But Wang came right in and kicked Low Ki hard. He threw him into the corner and hit a really innovative high kick where he twisted over the top rope while making contact with Low Ki's chin. This led directly to Wang hitting a cross body splash off of the top rope for a two count.

Bentley came back into the ring at this point and threw Wang over the top rope. Wang tried to skin the cat but Bentley whipped Low Ki into him as Wang was halfway back up, creating an upside down spear effect that had the crowd oohing and aahing.

Bentley went with a bunch of submissions on Low Ki, who eventually fought out of a chinlock but was subsequently clotheslined out of the ring. Bentley followed Low Ki out but was hit with a really stiff kick.

But then out of nowhere, Wang hit a huge flying splash onto Low Ki at ringside at 2:45. Just enormous elevation by Wang. He threw Low Ki back into the ring and they went back and forth before Low Ki started hitting some vicious stiff kicks on Yang before hitting a double foot stomp on Yang.

Low Ki then hit another big springboard move on Bentley, this time a flying kick. But this was only good for a two count and Yang manged to hit some kicks to break Low Ki's momentum.

Bentley then came out of the corner and got the better of Wang and lined up for a DDT on Wang. Low Ki charged him but Bentley grabbed him and hit a simultaneous cutter and DDT to fell both men. Bentley then hit a superkick on Low Ki for a near fall.

Bentley then went high risk on Wang but got caught with a knee to the gut. Wang dragged him over to the corner and went for a corkscrew moonsault and missed.

This opened up the opportunity for Low Ki, who climbed up onto the far turnbuckle and hit a double foot stomp --- The Warrior's Way --- on Yang. Low Ki covered him and Bentley couldn't make it back in time to break up the pin.

WINNER: LOW KI in 6:45 to earn a spot at Destination X

Now there are Austin Aries, Zima Ion, and Low Ki in the four-way match at Destination X.

3 - WINTER & ANGELINA LOVE & MADISON RAYNE vs. Knockouts champion MICKIE JAMES & TARA & MISS TESSMACHER--- Elimination Match

Mickie James and Winter started things off and Mickie took control early with a Thesz press and mount. Micke pulled Winter's belt off and tried to hit her with it but the ref took it away.

But this gave Angelina the chance to run in and hit a jawbreaker on Mickie and toss her out of the ring. Tessmacher charged in and then Tenay casually mentioned that this was going to be an elimination match. That would have been nice to know before the match, wouldn't it.

Anyways, back in the ring, Tessmacher was giving Winter the Stink Face. Much nicer than when Rikishi did it back in the day. Not very effective as Winter quickly hit a Northern Lights Suplex and pinned Tessmacher.

MISS TESSMACHER ELIMINATED at 2:00

Tara ran into the ring but was quickly knocked out by Madison Rayne. Winter then put Tara on her shoulders before Angelina hit the Botox Injection and Winter went for the pin. However, Madison stole the pin by throwing Winter out of the ring.

TARA ELIMINATED at 3:30

This obviously wasn't popular with Winter and Angelina, who angrily stared Madison down. Madison turned around and took a Superkick from Mickie James and Winter told Mickie to cover her. Mickie didn't take her eyes off of Winter & Love as she eliminated Rayne.

MADISON RAYNE ELIMINATED at 3:50

Mickie then speared Winter but the numbers advantage quickly took over. With Mickie down and beaten, Winter put her on her shoulders and Angelina went for another Botox Injection. But Mickie squirmed out right into a pin and it was a near two count that Angelina broke up.

Angelina then hit a backstabber on Mickie and James was down. As Angelina wanted the pin, Winter told her no because it was her turn. They debated it for too long, as Mickie made a comeback and hit a hurrancanranna on Winter before hitting a cutter on Angelina for the three count.

ANGELINA LOVE ELIMINATED at 6:15

Winter then tried to attack Mickie but James turned the tables and hit the Tornado DDT for the pinfall on Winter.

WINNER: MICKIE JAMES in 6:30

4 - A.J. STYLES vs. GUNNER --- Bound For Glory Series Match

Styles went after Gunner at ringside, who climbed back into the ring to meet a vicious kick from Styles. The red mat is like watching a Boise State college football game --- the surface just doesn't look right.

Styles was in big control early, hitting a big flying fist in the corner and hitting numerous stiff kicks. Styles followed that up with a backdrop suplex on the significantly bigger Gunner.

But, Gunner fought back with a high running knee and took control. Gunner went for a powerbomb but A.J. fought out and hit the Pele Kick. Gunner tried to climb to his feet on the ring apron but Styles hit him with a drop kick to knock him to the ground.

Styles followed that up with a spectacular flip dive over the top rope at the 3:00 mark. But when Styles pushed him back into the ring, Gunner countered and went for the F5 finisher. Styles turned it into a big kick and then hit a powerslam.

Styles climbed outside to go for a springboard move, but Gunner pulled referee Earl Hebner into the way, which was enough to allow him to kick the middle rope and crotch Styles. This led to a F5 and Hebner counted the three count very slowly. A.J. didn't kick out.

WINNER: GUNNER in 4:50 to win 7 Bound For Glory Series Points

Gunner now leads the BFG Series with 21 points.

5 - STING vs. SCOTT STEINER

Steiner was in early control, beating Sting into a corner and hitting a side suplex on the Stinger. After a Steinerliner, the trademark elbow drop and pushups from Steiner ensued. Good commentary from Taz and Tenay here breaking down Steiner's offense as they said his plan appeared to be to prevent Sting from hitting the Stinger Splash.

Two minutes into the match, Sting finally got some offense in with a boot to Steiner's face. The two men traded blows in the middle of the ring before Sting dropped him with a couple of clotheslines and a bulldog for a two count.

Sting went for the Stinger Splash but Steiner caught him and hit him with a DDT. Steiner went for the Steiner Recliner but Sting countered into the Scorpion Death Lock. Steiner managed to get to the ropes and gouged Sting's eyes when he got up.

This led to a T-Bone Suplex from Steiner and both men were down in the ring. After both men got to their feet, Steiner tried to whip Sting into the corner but Sting moved out of the way and caught Steiner with the Scorpion Death Drop for the pinfall victory.

WINNER: STING in 4:30

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 7-1-11

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

1 – RANDY ORTON vs. MARK HENRY

The announcers were shown at ringside during Orton’s entrance, with Cole ranting against Long as usual. As the bell sounded, Henry picked Orton up and took him to the corner. Orton escaped at pounded on Henry with rights. Back to Henry, who Irish whipped Orton to opposite turnbuckles, then landed a belly-to-belly slam for a two-count. Henry put Orton on his shoulder, but Orton got out and ran right into a big boot from the Texan. Henry stepped on Orton’s chest and Booker T. proclaimed that a Henry win should make him #1 Contender for the World Title. Cole said he broke into WWE the same year Henry did, but I feel like Henry was there a year or two earlier. Orton turned the tide and went for a pin, but Henry went to the outside. Henry slammed Orton back-first into the edge of the apron. At 3:46 of the match, Big Show’s music played. Henry shook his head yes and was ready for the show-down. Glad he didn’t back down like so many do. Anyway, Show never came out, and Henry turned around into an RKO from Orton. Orton slid into the ring at nine and won by count-out.

WINNER: Orton, via count-out, at 4:22. I think it says something that they didn’t put Orton over Henry cleanly. Not much of a match.

2 – DANIEL BRYAN vs. TED DIBIASE

No music for Bryan or DiBiase as Mathews said the audio technician is still unconscious and will be taken to a local medical facility. They showed Bryan getting bagged last week. They had an inset interview with DiBiase, who said he hoped Cody Rhodes was watching because he’s going to beat Bryan badly tonight. Arm-drag by Bryan and Bryan caught DiBiase on a leap-frog attempt and took him down by the leg. Surfboard by Bryan into a pin for attempt. Dropkick and a beauty by DiBiase. Bryan went to the outside, and they went to break about 1:45 in. Good thing they didn’t take a break when Henry went outside during the first match!

Back at 6:17 of the match, with Bryan working out of a headlock. Slingshot clothesline by DiBiase for two. Cole said it was 110 in Phoenix today, and Booker said it felt like 120. Really? Can Booker really tell the difference between 110 and 120 degrees? Back to a rear chinlock by DiBiase. I wonder if Mathews wonders each week how he’ll work “power” into the broadcast to plug KMart. Running clothesline by Bryan, then a running dropkick in the corner for two. Bryan started getting pumped up, kicking DiBiase in the chest. DiBiase countered into a roll-up, by Bryan grabbed the arm and tried the LeBell Lock. DiBiase got to the ropes at 9:00 to break. Bryan back-dropped DiBiase to ringside. Bryan went to the apron and dove onto DiBiase, but DiBiase caught him, rammed him back-first into the ring post, then into the barricade. Bryan held his shoulder and screamed in pain. Back in the ring, a pin attempt got two at 10:17. Some trash talk by DiBiase in the corner, then a slap to the face. The referee admonished DiBiase for keeping Bryan in the corner. He set Bryan up on the top rope, but Bryan blocked a suplex. He headbutted DiBiase down and landed a missile dropkick off the top. Both men were down at 11:50. Back to a vertical base, Bryan slapped at DiBiase and took his head off with a kick for a very near-fall. Bryan continued to sell the right shoulder. Bryan got booted in the face in the corner, but countered Dream Street. He also countered another slingshot clothesline and grabbed a front facelock, wrapping his legs around DiBiase’s torso. DiBiase tapped.

WINNER: Bryan, at 13:08. Really nice match between these two. DiBiase’s stock should be rising with his latest string of performances.

3 – CHRISTIAN vs. SIN CARA

Kane, Sin Cara, Dainel Bryan, Wade Barrett, Cody Rhodes, Justin Gabriel, Heath Slater, and Sheamus were shown as being in the Smackdown portion of MITB. Really? Gabriel and Slater? That’s weak, especially since they barely beat the Usos (after losing to them the week before). Also, does it spoil things not having Henry in there, that he will end up in the title match? Or is he not included as punishment for attacking a crew member, which is the direction they should go with it, to show there are consequences for actions?

Cara got Christian off-balance to start things as Christian took his time on the outside. “Are you trying to embarrass me? I can’t see with these lights!” Christian yelled from ringside, bringing up a solid point as they went to break.

Back at 3:53 of the match, with Christian in control. Cara came back and did a slingshot spinning cross-body onto Christian at ringside. Christian took back control in the ring. The briefcase ominously hung over-head during the match. Cara did his flip wrist-lock take-over. Pin got two. Christian dumped Cara over the top rope and to the outside. Cole went Larry Zbyszko, saying that’s what happens to the high-fliers, “they run out of gas and go ‘splat.’” Christian put the boots to Cara, then applied a rear chinlock. Crowd got behind Cara, but Christian slammed him. He stepped on Cara’s back with Cara’s throat across the middle rope. To the top went Christian, but he missed a diving headbutt. Springboard back-elbow by Cara. Cara got on Christian’s shoulders and it appeared neither man knew what the other was doing, so they circled around a bit and Cara rolled Christian up for two. Kick to the back of the head by Cara with Christian perched on the middle rope. Christian knocked him off, but Cara rolled and flipped to where it didn’t hurt him. Christian went to ringside, having seen enough of the unorthodox Cara. Back in the ring, Cara got a near-fall, but Christian landed an inverted DDT for two. Springboard back elbow attempt, but Christian caught him and tried a Killswitch. Cara has his leg pulled out from underneath him as he tried to go to the top, and Christian ran at him with a spear. Three-count ensued, and the first loss for Cara.

WINNER: Christian, at 11:44. Cara had to lose sometime, and doing it to the guy who will be challenging for the World Title at a PPV doesn’t hurt him, but it helps Christian. Match was disjoined in spots, but still enjoyable.

4 – CODY RHODES vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON

Once again, Booker got a bag from Cody’s bag men. Mathews talked about following Zeke’s Twitter. I’m sure it’s full of deep thoughts. Clean break by Jackson in the corner, but Jackson soon after grabbed Rhodes by the throat and took him down with a shoulder tackle. Beal out of the corner put Rhodes on his back. DiBiase was at ringside with Rhodes. Hard shot to the back by Jackson, then an elbowdrop for two. Jackson lifted Rhodes over his head for a slam, but Rhodes fought out, escaped out of the ring, then under it. DiBiase distracted Jackson, allowing Rhodes to come out and bop Jackson, then throw him into the ring post. Mathews explained the origin of the phrase “shoots the half” to Cole, who admitted to not understanding what it meant. And how many times has Cole used that phrase? Rhodes had Jackson down on the mat and tried to keep him there. Jackson lifted Rhodes up for a suplex and just tossed him front-first into the mat. Big running clothesline on Cody in the corner, then a slam. DiBiase got on the apron and Jackson ran him into the ring-post. That allowed Cody to land a springboard enziguiri, then hit Cross-Rhodes for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 4:07. Hey look, another champion losing a non-title match. What a shocker.

5 – KANE vs. WADE BARRETT

Barrett still has the Corre theme music. Both of these men are in the MITB Ladder Match. The announcers talked about Kane winning last year and cashing it in the same night. Shoulder knock-down by Kane for two. Barrett worked the arm of Kane and a clothesline surprisingly floored the Big Red Monster. Barrett put his head down and Kane kicked him in the top of his skull. Barrett rolled to ringside and Kane went after him. Lots of action outside the ring this week. Barrett, in the ring, kicked Kane off the apron and to ringside. They went to break at 2:15 of the match.

Back at 5:31 of the contest. Kane back suplexed out of a precarious situation. He ran into a back elbow from Barrett, who kicked Kane in the gut then in the head. Only a one-count off of that. Running boot to the seated Kane by Barrett. Cole speculated that Sheamus, due to the punt by Orton a few weeks ago, may not be ready in time for MITB. Knee strikes from Barrett with Kane wrapped-up in the ropes. Again, Barrett could only keep Kane down for a one-count. DDT by Barrett, which the audio sweetener loved, for a near-fall. Elbowdrop off the second rope missed the mark at 8:40. Kane fired back with rights then a cross-body. Impressive! Low dropkick from the big man for two. Big boot caught Barrett coming off the ropes. Sidewalk slam from Kane for two. Clothesline off the top by Kane, but Barrett avoided a chokeslam and a Tombstone to hit a swinging side slam for two. Kane got out of Wasteland and dodged a Barrett boot. Chokeslam finished it.

WINNER: Kane, at 11:24. Serviceable big man vs. big man match, but I don’t think it did anything to convince doubting fans that either of these two have a chance at MITB, especially with the way they’ve been portrayed lately.

- The signing of the title bout between Orton and Christian at MitB never took place as they were both ambushed and taken out by Sheamus to end the show.

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 7-4-11

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

1 -- THE BELLAS (BRIE & NIKKI BELLA) vs. Divas champion KELLY KELLY & EVE

The heels isolated Eve before Kelly hot-tagged into the match and taunted Bella #1 setting up her offensive attack. The action broke down, Eve cleared out Bella #2, and Kelly dropped Bella #1 with the Rocker Dropper for the win.

WINNERS: Kelly & Eve at 3:08

2 -- WWE tag champions MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DAVID OTUNGA vs. SANTINO & KOZLOV -- non-title match

As the match began, Cole recapped Nexus's issues of late - Otunga and Mike taking superkicks from Shawn Michaels and Mason Ryan being injured at recent "live events." Cole recapped Otunga's background and noted he worked in the legal field in Chicago before becoming a "sports entertainer." Cole continued to rattle off canned plugs before Nexus isolated Kozlov in their corner. Kozlov then executed a double-suplex and tagged in Santino, who landed offense on Mike and David before warming up the Cobra. He looked for a victim and struck Otunga, who fell out of the ring. However, Mike was legal and he dropped Santino with a neckbreaker for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Suddenly, Zack Ryder's music hit and he stepped out on-stage to offer his signature catchphrase. Cole had a good laugh as Ryder's music played again. Ryder stared down the tag champs, who sold they were perplexed by this development.

WINNERS: Nexus at 4:15.

3 -- SGT. SLAUGHTER vs. JACK SWAGGER

As he should, Swagger quickly dominated as Lawler warned Cole about his comments on Slaughter. Slaughter caught Swagger with a back-elbow smash, then went for the Cobra Clutch, but Swagger rammed Slaughter into the corner to escape. Swagger followed with a leaping Vader Bomb and it was good for the win.

Post-match: Slaughter sold injured ribs and the victory wasn't good enough for Swagger, who followed with an anklelock. As Slaughter tapped, Evan Bourne stormed the ring to fend off Swagger. Bourne knocked Swagger to the floor, then gave a mic to Slaughter, who was still selling injured ribs. After catching his breath, Slaughter led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.

WINNER: Swagger at 1:09.

4 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. R-TRUTH -- three-way #1 contender's match to the WWE Title

Mysterio knocked Del Rio to the outside early on, then wanted a dive on the floor, but Truth cut him off with a spinning fist smash for a two count. Truth went to work on Rey in the ring as the show reached the top of the hour.

The action moved to the floor, where Truth blasted Rey into one guardrail, then flung Del Rio into another guardrail. Back in the ring, Truth covered Rey for a two count. Meanwhile, Cole talked up Truth's "conspiracy theory" program and said it's no secret the "WWE machine" has been behind Cena. Well, yes, in the storyline context, if he wins the most matches and wins championships, why wouldn't WWE "get behind him?" It's WWE tripping all over themselves trying to discuss the "brand" and "the machine" determine success or failure, which is out-of-place on a show that presents worked matches as legitimate contests determining a winner and a loser. The show cut to break with Rey splashing the heels off the top rope and in control of the match.

Back from break, Del Rio was in control of the action grinding Rey's face into the ropes. Rey cam back with a kick strike, but ran into a backbreaker from Del Rio, who scored a two count. Truth became re-involved in the match and the heels began fighting over who should pin Rey. Del Rio then flew to the outside after missing a corner attack, Rey hit the 619 on Truth, and then hit a top-rope splash. Rey had the pin on Truth, but Del Rio jumped back into the ring and slapped on the cross arm-breaker. Rey quickly tapped out, giving Del Rio the win. Del Rio is the new #1 contender. Cole unconvincingly said Del Rio heads to MITB to face Cena and now they have to find out who replaces Del Rio in the MITB ladder match.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission on Rey at 13:09. Standard three-way match spots and a standard house show finish with the heel sneaking in the back door to opportunistically score the win. Good effort from all three wrestlers three hours into last week's TV taping. (**)

5 -- THE MIZ vs. ALEX RILEY

Back to real-time, the bell sounded and the match began with aggressive lock-ups center-ring. Cole heeled on Riley, saying he has had everything handed to him in life and he's a spoiled rich kid who blew an opportunity with Miz. Lawler said Cole has everything backward because the only person abused was Riley under Miz's watch. Miz took control early on as Cole announced McMahon is "on his way to Raw." Miz continued to maintain control, with the match looking like Capitol Punishment with Miz taunting Riley and telling him he made him. Miz scored a nearfall and they cut to break.

Back from break, Riley tried fighting back against Miz, then they collided mid-ring. Miz was first to his feet, but Riley tackled him hard to the mat and followed with an emphatic spinebuster for a two count. Miz quickly regained control and slowly went for the Reality Check, but Riley countered part two with a backslide. Riley secured Miz's shoulders to the mat and scored a surprise three count for the win.

WINNER: Riley at 9:12.

- John Cena confronted Vince McMahon and after a lively chat, McMahon reinstated CM Punk with the stipulation that if Cena loses the title belt to Punk, he's fired.

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 7-5-11

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

1 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. TYSON KIDD

Aggressive start to the match, then Kidd rammed Yoshi into the ringpost and they cut to break three minutes in.

Back from break, Grisham brought up Punk's mission against WWE and attempting to take the WWE Title out of WWE. Regal said they're similar in that they're villains, but Punk could pull it off because...pause for Grisham to add a plug...Punk doesn't have the vices and demons that held him back during his career. The answer in a creatively-sound company would have been "because Punk is capable of winning a big match on a big stage that I couldn't accomplish." Following up, Grisham referenced WWE's version of Montreal Screwjob that Bret Hart wanted to take the WWE Title out of WWE, but "that didn't work out." Meanwhile, Yoshi made a spirited comeback eight minutes in, but Kidd came back with a snap neckbreaker/suplex. It was good for the win, making Kidd and Yoshi even at one a piece in their two-week series. Regal said this action is what they need more of in WWE.

WINNER: Kidd at 9:09. Fine follow-up to last week's contest.

2 -- DANIEL BRYAN & DERRICK BATEMAN vs. TITUS O'NEIL & DARREN YOUNG

Early in the match, Regal described Bryan's pedigree starting with Shawn Michaels and including himself helping guide Bryan's career. Titus and Bateman locked up before Titus landed a knock-down clothesline after a taunt of "Welcome back, Bateman." Grisham swung the talk back to winning & losing matches, noting Bateman can silence questions about whether he belongs on this season by winning matches. Titus continued to show a bit of a heel personality taunting Bateman with elbow strikes and slapping Bateman around with clubbing offense.

Young then lost control of the match and Bateman hot-tagged Bryan, who back-flipped over Young and landed a running clothesline to fire up the crowd. Bryan then climbed up top and landed a flying dive for a two count. Regal offered a solid defense of Bryan's skill level carrying him even if he's undersized. Bateman then blind-tagged himself into the match, Bryan cleared Titus off the ring apron, and Bateman dropped Young with sort of a sweeping bulldog for the pin and the win. Afterward, Titus was indignant after his team took a loss.

WINNERS: Bryan & Bateman at 6:20. They picked up the NXT4 storyline of Bateman trying to do things on his own rather than follow the lead of his Pro, Bryan, but it worked out this week. Also, a nice look at Titus as a potential heel. His in-ring work has improved and he carried himself well in a heel-for-a-week role teaming with Young.

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 7-7-11

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

1 -- ZACK RYDER vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Mathews said their personalities are completely different - Ryder likes to have a good time and Mac is all-business. Mac was the early aggressor, pounding and kicking and slapping Ryder. Stanford said some wrestlers have resentment toward Ryder because of the success of his Internet show. Mathews said Ryder has to prove himself in the ring, though. Mac became frustrated when he couldn't put away Ryder one minute in, so he rolled to the floor for a break. Ryder then surprised him with a plancha.

Back in the ring, McIntyre bailed from the ring again. Ryder took the bait and ate the ring apron as Mathews noted Mac's frustration often-times gets the best of him in terms of wins and losses. Back in the ring again, Mac began to work over Ryder while fighting his own frustration. Ryder made a comeback at 4:00 and knocked down Mac in the corner for a running Broski Boot. It was good for a two count only and Ryder began showing frustration. Ryder tried to follow with Rough Ryder, but Mac countered with a sit-out powerbomb for a close two count.

Mac sold frustration, then got a crazy look in his eyes. Mac tried to finish off Ryder with the Future Shock DDT, but Ryder countered with a quick jackknife pin for the win. Mathews noted Ryder was the more poised of the two wrestlers, which he surmised allowed Ryder to secure the win. After a replay of the finish, Ryder was shown celebrating on the stage as McIntyre warned Ryder he'll get him next time.

WINNER: Ryder at 5:25. Fine singles match. Ryder was positioned as the face, but WWE hasn't made that permanent, rendering it just a "Superstars thing." Meanwhile, McIntyre continues to be stuck in a post-Draft "frustration" program where he beats himself because he can't keep his head straight.

2 -- NATALYA vs. ALICIA FOX

Striker offered an...interesting analogy that Natalya is like Legos because she's built in sturdy pieces that makes her hard to break. Natalya took control and used Alicia's hair as a weapon against her. With the ring heavily mic'ed on Superstars, the Divas were heard trash-talking each other about their hair. They cut to break with Natalya in control.

Back from break, still more talk about the hair with Alicia in control. "Watch the hair!" ref Nunzio instructed the Divas. Jack Korpela filled time discussing Divas champ Kelly Kelly vs. Brie Bella at the PPV as Alicia continued to risk a DQ by using the ropes to wear down Natalya and breaking just before a five count. Korpela also noted Natalya deserves another Divas Title shot. At 7:30, Striker said he's excited for a lengthy Divas match because they don't get to see much action from "this genre" on a regular basis.

"Watch the hair!" Nunzio reprimanded Alicia again. The hair distraction finally gave Natalya an opening to make her comeback. Natalya scored multiple nearfalls as the announcers talked up Alicia's resiliency. Alicia then escaped the Sharpshooter and scored a quick pin on Natalya to score a surprise win. Striker talked up the match before they went to a hair-themed replay of the match action.

WINNER: Alicia at 9:25. Based on the main focus of this match, it has to lead to a hair vs. hair match. Striker gets the special referee gig. Solid action in a near-ten-minute match.

3 -- WADE BARRETT vs. DON GONZALES

Barrett taunted ol' Don to begin the match, prompting a slap to the face from Don. Barrett, irate, pounded Don to the ground and landed multiple punches to the face while risking a DQ by barely breaking before a five count. Barrett then nailed a big boot to the face as the announcers continued to focus on Barrett for ditching The Corre. Striker said Corre is yesterday's news and Barrett is no longer "being held back." Barrett cut off a brief comeback attempt from Don before nailing Wasteland for the win. Striker hyped Barrett's inclusion in the MITB ladder match and said he's on his way to a potential title shot opportunity.

WINNER: Barrett at 2:18. Good use of a squash match to re-focus on Barrett as a singles wrestler. Too bad no one will see this, as it would have been more effective on Smackdown to rebuild Barrett post-Corre and abysmal IC Title run.

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 7-7-11

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

1 - CRIMSON vs. BOBBY ROODE - Bound For Glory Series Match

Right off the bat, Crimson hit a shoulder block that led Roode to favor his arm. Not long thereafter, Crimson hit some shoulder blocks to hurt Roode further.

Roode managed to fight back briefly but Crimson caught him attempting a floatover and guillotined him onto the top rope. As Roode was staggered, Crimson nailed another shoulder block to knock Roode to the apron.

As Roode got to his feet, Crimson suplexed him over the top rope into a sit down powerbomb for a near fall. Crimson earned another near fall moments later with some big knees out of a cravat before getting a third 2 count off of a T-Bone Suplex.

Crimson threw Roode into the corner but Bobby regained momentum at 3:00 with a nice reverse into a throw. Still favoring his shoulder, Roode fought back with some big right hands into a Double R Spinebuster for a two count.

Crimson tried to roll him up not long after, but Roode countered into a Fujiwara armbar that caused Crimson to scramble to the bottom rope. When he got back up, Crimson attempted his Red Sky powerbomb finishing move but Roode floated over.

But Crimson wasn't fooled and he whipped Roode hard into the corner, shoulder first. When he staggered back out, Crimson hit the Red Sky Bomb for the pinfall victory.

WINNER: CRIMSON in 4:40 to earn 7 Bound For Glory Series Points

2 - JACK EVANS vs. JESSE SORENSEN vs. ANTHONY NESE - X Division Contract Series Match

The crowd started a "Jack" chant before it broke out into some high-paced action. Jack Evans eventually broke up a pinfall with a springboard splash and then hit a front flip drop kick onto Sorensen.

Nese hit a clothesline on Evans before Sorensen kicked him out to ringside. Nese hit a big flying flip onto Sorensen. While both men were recovering, Evans hit a 450 splash over the top rope onto both men.

Nese is the powerhouse of the trio while Evans is the pure high flyer. Sorensen is more of a hybird between the two. Nese suplexed Sorensen into a pin but Evans hit a standing backflip to break up the pin.

A moment later, Sorensen set Evans on the top turnbuckle and appeared to attempt a Frankensteiner. However, Evans threw him off. Nese then climbed up but Evans threw him down too.

With Nese down in the ring, Evans hit what looked like an unbelievable double flip senton that Tenay called a Corkscrew 630 and that earned him the pinfall victory.

WINNER: JACK EVANS at 5:45 to earn a shot at a TNA contract at Destination X

3- ODB & JACKIE vs. VELVET SKY - Handicap Match

If Velvet wins, ODB and Jackie are never allowed back in the Impact Zone. At the start, Velvet was in complete control. After a Velvet Bulldog on ODB, Jackie finally returned to the ring and elbowed Velvet in the head from behind.

ODB and Jackie double teamed Velvet for a while before Velvet fought back and dumped ODB to ringside. Velvet hit a powerslam on Jackie for a near fall that ODB got back to make the save on just in time.

After that, Jackie and ODB got back in control and ODB eventually climbed onto the ring apron to establish the tag team aspect of the Handicap Match. Jackie and ODB traded tags before Velvet managed to counter when both women went for a tag team back drop off of an Irish whip by kicking ODB in the face.

Not long afterwards, ODB went to hit Velvet Sky with a Steel Chair. However, Velvet ducked and ODB hit Jackie in the face by accident. This allowed Velvet to kick ODB in the knee through the chair and that knocked her out to ringside.

Alone with Jackie, Velvet hit a DDT on Jackie for the pinfall victory.

WINNER: VELVET SKY in 5:15 to banish ODB & Jackie from the Impact Zone

4- A.J. STYLES vs. CHRISTOPHER DANIELS vs. JERRY LYNN vs. ROB VAN DAM - Four Corners Match

Jerry Lynn made an early blind tag into the match on RVD. Daniels and Lynn squared off and Daniels had the early edge with a nice drop kick. But Lynn countered with a whirling head scissors that tossed Daniels into the corner.

A.J. tagged himself in and Styles and Lynn went toe to toe. Nice catch style wrestling that culminated in a Lynn roll through for a two count. Lynn still looks pretty good despite his age.

The crowd chanted for RVD and Styles went over to tag him in at Lynn's behest. Van Dam posed while Taz complained about Styles willingly leaving the match.

Once Van Dam and Lynn got going, they had another great set of back and forth counters that resulted in another draw. After they both nodded, Daniels tagged himself in at Lynn's expense and clotheslined RVD down.

Daniels had the early control but RVD took the edge at 3:30 with a standing moonsault that he quickly turned into Rolling Thunder. It wasn't long thereafter that Daniels tried to springboard over onto RVD but got a big kick to the chest for his efforts.

Both A.J. and Jerry Lynn tagged in and Lynn eventually hit a top rope head scissors on Styles. The momentum threw Styles across the ring, which allowed Daniels to tag in. He hit a big boot on Lynn for a near fall that RVD had to break up.

However, A.J. surprised him with a big springboard flying elbow. Styles then went for his backflip DDT, but Jerry Lynn countered and suplexed Styles stomach-first into the top rope and hurled him onto the floor.

Daniels and Lynn continued to fight in the ring and Daniels had the edge. With Lynn down, he went for the B-M-E, but Lynn managed to move. Daniels landed on his feet and drove Lynn into the corner, where RVD managed to tag himself in and Lynn out.

This proved to be very important, as Daniels went for the Angel's Wings, only to see Lynn counter it into a slam. With Lynn unaware that RVD had tagged in, he laid exhausted a few feet from Daniels. While Lynn was oblivious, Van Dam hit the Five Star Frog Splash onto Daniels and pulled out the three count before Lynn could break it up.

WINNER: ROB VAN DAM in 7:10

5- MATT MORGAN & JAMES STORM vs. DEVON & THE POPE - Bound For Glory Series Match

Reminder: The points only go to the winner of the fall, not the winning team. Storm and Devon started off first in the ring and Storm was in control for most of the first minute, getting a near fall.

While in his corner, Morgan blind tagged himself in on Storm. Morgan nailed a big bodyslam on Devon for a two count before throwing Devon back into their corner to go for his rapid-fire elbows. However, Storm tagged himself in as a comeback to Morgan's earlier blind tag.

This allowed Devon to make a comeback and he eventually tagged in Pope, who had some momentum on Storm. However, when Storm got back up, Pope quickly tagged in Devon and slid out of the ring.

Storm hit a few clotheslines on Devon before reluctantly tagging in Morgan. Morgan his his rapid fire elbows on Devon in a neutral corner before a side slam earned him a two count.

Storm was tagged back in and hit a flying forearm. But Devon countered at 3:45 and managed to make a hot tag to Pope. Pope hit a flying forearm and an inverted Atomic Drop on Storm before knocking Morgan to ringside with a drop kick.

Storm fought back after some mounted punches in the corner by hitting a Backstabber for what would have been a pinfall. However, Morgan broke up the pin, not wanting to lose BFG Series points to his tag partner. Devon attacked both of them while they were arguing and knocked Morgan to ringside.

Morgan laid clutching his knee on the floor and the ref bailed to check on him. While this was going on, Pope took Storm's title belt and bashed him in the head with the gold. As Pope posed over an unconscious Storm, Devon exhaustedly struggled to the apron.

But instead of taking the pinfall for himself after cheating, Pope tagged in Devon and gave him the pin over the downed Storm. Devon wasn't aware that Pope had cheated.

WINNER: DEVON in 5:50 to earn 7 Bound For Glory Series Points

6- KURT ANGLE vs. BULLY RAY, ABYSS, SCOTT STEINER & GUNNER - Handicap Match

Scott Steiner attacked him right away and the bell rang. Steiner threw Kurt into the corner, but found himself suplexed out of his boots. Steiner managed to tag in Ray after recovering with a clothesline.

Ray came in talking trash. "Jarrett says hello from Mexico" was one of his lines. Ray slapped Angle on the chest and went for the Bubba Bomb, but Angle countered it into another suplex.

Ray rolled over to tag Gunner in, who fared as poorly as his teammates. Angle hit a big suplex and a snap suplex and then tossed Gunner back into his corner. "He just punked Gunner!" said Taz.

Abyss was in next and he went for the chokeslam, but Kurt floated over and rolled into an Ankle Lock. At that point, Immortal charged the ring and broke up the hold and Immortal finally took control after Angle held his own for so long.

Rapid tags ensued with Steiner, Gunner and Abyss all getting in some offense and making pinfall attempts. After slamming Angle's face into Ray's waiting boot, Abyss was in next.

Abyss hit a big powerslam onto Angle and Ray came in with his steel chain. As Ray stood with the chain in his hand, out came Mr. Anderson. Bully Ray stared him down and Angle snuck in to hit the Angle Slam on Ray.

Anderson climbed up on the apron to join Angle's corner and got the hot tag. He came out like a house of fire on Immortal and took every man down before coming up to Ray and setting him up for the Mic Check.

But then he pushed him off and picked up Kurt Angle and hit the Mic Check on him instead. As Immortal stared on in disbelief, Anderson dragged Angle into the corner and tagged him back in.

Bully Ray immediately dove onto Angle for the pinfall victory.

WINNERS: IMMORTAL in 5:50

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 7-8-11

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

1 – CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE vs. DANIEL BRYAN & EZEKIEL JACKSON

The announcers were shown on camera during Cody’s entrance, and Booker was once again given a bag by his bag men. During the opening minute they gave the WWE’s Twitter handle and implored fans to use #Smackdown. Bryan tagged out to Jackson quickly, and he manhandled DiBiase. Teddy was thrown out of the ring and Zeke knocked Rhodes off the apron. Bryan dove through the ropes and took out both Rhodes and DiBiase. They went to break at 1:36 of the match.

Back at 5:31 of the contest. Bryan was belting Rhodes with kicks in the corner, much to the delight of the Tucson crowd. Rhodes caught Bryan in the corner, however, and delivered an Alabama Slam for two. Booker still doesn’t know what a sidewalk slam is. DiBiase tagged in and worked Bryan over for a bit. For the record, Cole picked Barrett to win the MITB and Booker and Mathews chose Sin Cara. Eventually, Jackson got tired of seeing Bryan take the brunt of the punishment and interfered illegally. At 9:23, Jackson tagged in and cleaned house on DiBiase. The audio sweetener liked him a lot more than the live crowd did. Bodyslams for DiBiase and Rhodes. As the ref tried to get Bryan out of the ring, Rhodes gave Jackson a springboard kick and DiBiase followed up with Dream Street for the pinfall.

WINNERS: Rhodes and DiBiase, at 10:11. Good enough tag match. Surprised Jackson took the fall, but Bryan is in the MITB match and Zeke isn’t (even though he’s IC Champion).

2 – JINDER MAHAL vs. TRENT BARRETA

Believe it or not, Great Khali joined the commentators. When he spoke, Cole said his commentary sounds like Book’s. Early take-down for Barreta and a one-count. Barreta was catapulted into the corner by Mahal, who then landed a clothesline. Khali seemed to struggle with the headset. Jumping knee to the face by Mahal. Full-nelson slam finished it.

WINNER: Mahal, at 1:08. Not sure what the point of Khali on commentary was – he shouldn’t be played for comedy at this point with Mahal.

3 – TAMINA vs. AJ

AJ, accompanied by Natalya, came out to Natalya’s music. I wonder if that means they’re already ditching AJ’s theme, or if they thought Nattie’s theme would get her a better reaction. Tamina picked up AJ and put her in the corner. Alicia Fox seconded Tamina, by the way. Back elbow by Tamina put AJ down. Hard whip into the buckle by Tamina, then a running butt splash. Tamina worked the neck of AJ as Nattie got the crowd to start chanting “AJ” to get her back into it. Tamina missed a splash and AJ used the ropes to aid her in getting to her feet. Running knee to the face by AJ for two. Missed splash in the corner by Tamina, and AJ rolled her up for the win.

WINNER: AJ, at 2:28. This is such a bare-bones feud with both teams (Nattie/Kaitlyn/AJ and Tamina/Fox) trading wins back and forth. It seems to be treading water, though it’s also clear this feud is not a priority.

4 – KANE vs. MARK HENRY

Cole said the ringside WWE employees considered walking off the job tonight in fear of Mark Henry after what happened last week. That’s a nice little touch of realism that adds to Henry’s aura and takes little time and effort to get across to the fans. Henry knocked Kane down with a clothesline, but Kane went after Henry’s knee with a low dropkick. To the top went Kane, but he came down and landed in Henry’s arms. Slam by Henry for two. The two ended up trading blows in the middle of the ring two minutes into the match. Kane crushed Henry in the corner, then landed a big boot for two. Clothesline off the top by Kane, and he signaled it was time for the chokeslam. He applied the choke, but Henry broke free and headbutted Kane. World’s Strongest Slam countered and Kane chokeslammed Henry. He made the cover at 3:45, but Henry put his big leg on the bottom rope to break it up. That upset Kane, and he decided to rearrange some furniture at ringside. He set Henry up to chokeslam him through the table, but Henry broke free and drove Kane back-first into the ring post. Back in the ring, he splashed Kane for a two-count. Henry started to get angry and I’m sure Kane wouldn’t like Henry when he’s angry. Henry lifted Kane for the World’s Strongest Slam and planted him. Ref Charles Robinson registered the three-count.

WINNER: Henry, at 5:54. It was a Henry vs. Kane match, that’s for sure, but they had a good story with Henry’s rage that made up for the in-ring action.

5 – TYSON KIDD vs. SIN CARA

No manager with Kidd on this evening. Kidd took Cara down with a hammerlock early on, but Cara fought out of it. Tilt-a-whirl arm-drag by Cara, but Kidd brought Cara down head-first onto the apron to shake him up a bit. Cara got on the apron and nailed Kidd with a kick anyway, then flipped into a splash on Kidd back in the ring. Running dropkick to the head by Kidd for two. Springboard elbow-drop, but Cara got his knees up. Cara just tackled Kidd at one point and laid in the punches. That was different. Cara began his finishing sequence at about 3:10. Cara jumped off Kidd’s shoulders and rolled Kidd up for two. Cara tripped up Kidd as Tyson wanted to go to the top. Cara then went to the top and did the Spanish Fly for the win.

WINNER: Cara, at 4:15. Yes, you read that right: Henry vs. Kane went nearly two minutes longer than Kidd vs. Cara. There’s no justice.

6 – HEATH SLATER & JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. THE USOS

The Usos did their new tribal dance (and yelling from Jey) before the match. Quick suplex with a bridge by Jey. Slater made a blind tag and that allowed the former Corre members to take over. Gabriel came in and worked a cravat. Jimmy made a hot tag at about 2:00, and went to work on Slater. Booker said because they’re Samoans, Jimmy and Jey will end up putting on another 50 or 100 pounds. I can’t make this stuff up. Neck-breaker by Slater and Gabriel tagged in. Gabriel wanted Slater to put Jimmy in position for the 450, but Jimmy kicked Slater into the ropes, crotching Gabriel. Jey tagged in and did a splash off the top on Gabriel after Jimmy suplexed him off the top. Another win for the Usos.

WINNERS: The Usos, at 3:32. Predictably building to tension between Slater and Gabriel before MITB.

7 – RANDY ORTON vs. SHEAMUS

Before the match could begin, Christian made his way to the ring. He joined the commentary team once the match began. Orton got the crowd behind him by dropkicking Sheamus in the corner. Sheamus went to ringside before Orton could take advantage. Back in the ring, Orton pounded him with rights and gave Sheamus a Thesz Press. They brawled to ringside and Sheamus tossed Orton into the barricade. Then, on the apron, Sheamus pushed Orton shoulder-first into the ring post. Orton crumpled to ringside and Christian went to check on him. Sheamus came down and got in the middle of them to stop Christian. Sheamus picked Orton up and sent him into the post again. They went to break about 3:10 into the main event.

Sheamus got a near-fall back from break at 5:59. Christian was back at the announce table, but without a headset on. Mathews brought up a good point: Who decides what constitutes “bad officiating” as far as Christian’s contract for his title match with Orton? Sheamus tried to land a single-arm DDT, but Orton grabbed the rope to block it. Sheamus brought the arm over the top rope and dove over the top, missing a shoulder tackle. Orton took Sheamus down and got a two-count at 8:09. Sheamus recovered and went to the top rope. He landed a shoulder tackle for two. Irish Curse back-breaker for two by Sheamus. The Irishman dropped knees down across the throat of Orton. Both the Brogue Kick and RKO missed, but Orton landed a back-breaker. He set up for the RKO, but Christian ran in and booted Orton in the head for the DQ.

WINNER: Orton, via disqualification, at 10:42.

Christian pounded away on Orton, but was then greeted by Sheamus with a Brogue Kick. Orton struck with an RKO on Sheamus. They played his music as he surveyed the landscape. They replayed the finish, then Orton posed with the belt to end things.

[Arcademan]

TNA Destination X PPV Results: 7-10-11 (next three posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report).
1 -- KAZARIAN vs. SAMOA JOE

Quick start to the match and they quickly found themselves on the floor, where Joe landed a knockdown clothesline before high-fiving fans ringside. Joe, fired up, stalked Kazarian, who came back with forearm smashes. Joe then nonchalantly stepped aside as Kaz tried a turnaround splash from the ring apron, causing Kaz to eat the floor.

Back in the ring, Joe ripped into Kaz with strikes before leaning on Kaz with his boot to wash his face. Joe continued to destroy Kaz with signature offense before Kaz hip-tossed Joe to escape a rear naked choke. Joe came back with a hard knockdown clothesline, though, and resumed control of the action. Joe attempted a Musclebuster, but Kaz fought him off and landed a springboard dropkick that put both men on the mat.

At 5:00, they came to their feet trading bombs. Joe mainly no-sold before landing multiple forearm strikes. Kaz caught him off the ropes, though, and scoopslammed Joe before executing a springboard Tornado DDT for a two count. Tenay noted Joe is currently in the BFG Series, but Kaz is not in the Series, so the match doesn't count for standings. The crowd tried to rally behind Joe, who found himself up top. Kaz teased the Flux Capacitor, but Joe blocked and punted Kaz to the floor. Joe then flew through the ropes with a suicide dive/elbow smash that knocked both men to the floor.

Back in the ring, Joe and Kaz teased finishing moves before Joe nailed a powerbomb into STF center ring. Kaz fought the hold and eventually bit his way out of the hold. Kaz followed with a dropkick sending Joe to the corner, but Joe countered a corner splash with an E. Honda-style frontslam. "Joe, Joe, Joe" chant as he stalked Kazarian for the rear naked choke. Kaz slumped down to the mat, then Joe leaned back to trap Kaz center-ring. Kaz faded a bit, but managed to grab the bottom rope for a break. Joe started arguing with ref Earl Hebner, who tried stealing the spotlight arguing with Joe. The argument gave Kaz an opening to quickly roll up Joe for a three count out of nowhere. Post-match: The camera zoomed in on Joe frothing at the mouth and selling shock over the loss. Kaz was shown ringside satisfied with a win by the skin of his teeth. They went to a replay of the high points in the match

WINNER: Kaz at 11:19. Standard Even-Steven booking where Joe completely dominated the match before Kaz snuck out a sudden victory. Good action throughout and the display of signature moves from Joe was suitable for a "High School Reunion" type PPV event. (**3/4)

2 -- DOUG WILLIAMS (w/British Invasion) vs. MARK HASKINS
The announcers stressed Williams bringing a "ground and pound" style to the X Division last year that allowed him to keep the title throughout the year. After a series of nearfalls for each man, Haskins scored a too-close-for-comfort-nearfall and Williams bailed to the floor for a breather. Back in the ring, Haskins continued to frustrate Williams, who found himself on the floor again. Williams used Haskins's over-aggression against him to whip Haskins back-first across the ring apron to resume control of the action.
 
Back in the ring, Williams stretched Haskins with a bow & arrow submission followed by a modified Gory Stretch. The action moved up top, where Haskins knocked Williams to the mat before executing a dropkick. The two men then came to their feet for a standing exchange. Haskins won the exchange before executing high-flying offense as part of his comeback. The crowd popped when Williams teased the Chaos Theory, but Haskins escaped and executed a Diamond Cutter/RKO for a nearfall. Haskins tried to follow with a top-rope move, but slipped. The crowd booed, then he went up top again and missed with a Shooting Star Press. Williams followed right up with a roll-up for the win. Post-match: Williams started to leave the ring, but returned to the ring to shake Haskins's hand.
 
WINNER: Williams at 7:42. The crowd had no emotional investment in Haskins, so they ended up cheering for the heel "teacher" over the unknown "student." Haskins showed flashes of promise in the ring, but there wasn't enough to gauge his potential for TNA. (*1/2)

3 -- TV champion ERIC YOUNG & SHARK BOY vs. GENERATION ME (JEREMY & MAX BUCK)
Tenay and Borash recapped the Prince Brotherhood Justice era for Young Boy and recent issues between GenMe, which should make for an interesting match-up. Young and Shark spent the first minute trying to figure out who should start the match. Shark finally started things off and quickly took advantage on LittleMe Jeremy. Young tagged in and lost control, allowing BigMe Max to tag into the match. Young and Max exchanged offense, countered each other, and did other assorted fast-paced things before Young landed an enziguiri. Shark then re-entered and lost control, allowing GenMe to isolate Shark.
 
Suddenly, Young was in a different outfit, which inspired Shark to break free and hot-tag Young. The action broke down and Jeremy hit a combination of moves on Shark to clear him to the outside. Max scored a close nearfall on Young back in the ring, then the action broke down inside the ring again. Young then hit a wheelbarrow jawbreaker of sorts on Max and it was good for the win.
 
WINNERS: Young and Shark Boy at 7:22. The scheduled outcome doesn't say much about the X Division that GenMe - who were representing the "division" with Kendrick on TV the past three months - lost to a comedy team the announcers said were teaming together for the first time. Aside from that, a "feel good" match for the live crowd. (*)
 
4 -- ROBBIE E. (w/Cookie) vs. ALEX SHELLEY vs. SHANNON MOORE vs. AMAZING RED -- Ultimate X match -- #1 contender match to the X Division Title
Lots of flips and flops early on. Robbie teased an early climb to the red "X" hanging atop the structure before Red yanked him down to the mat. Shelley was the next wrestler to tease a climb, but Robbie yanked him down. Cookie a/k/a Vickie Guerrero screamed and shouted at Robbie to start climbing, but Red distracted him. Robbie then distracted himself posing for the hard camera, allowing Shannon to trap Robbie on the floor. Red, Moore, and Shelley then did some overly-choreographed moves in the ring before Robbie re-entered and took advantage of his size advantage to take control again. Red suddenly clocked Robbie with multiple spin kicks before splashing Shannon and Shelley on the floor. Robbie tried to climb the structure again, but Red dropkicked him in mid-air to knock both men down to the mat.
 
For their next trick, Moore re-entered the ring and climbed all the way to the top of the structure. Moore's Mohawk was nearly touching the ceiling. Meanwhile, Cookie was trying to hold Shelley in the corner to prevent him from climbing. Shelley had to sell forever as Moore and Red started racing toward the middle of the structure. Moore got to the middle and stepped down to the center of the criss-crossed cables to stomp Red down to the mat. Shelley finally escaped Cookie and reached the middle to kick Moore down to the mat. Shelley sat on the X and unhooked it, which gave him the win.
 
WINNER: Shelley at 10:37 to become #1 contender to the X Division Title. The first-half featured typical overly-choreographed spots and some awkwardness before the match improved in the second-half building to a climax.

[Arcademan]

5  -- ROB VAN DAM vs. JERRY LYNN
Borash took control of the commentary to recap Lynn's career and discuss Lynn having some resentment toward RVD going back to their '90s feud and using the matches to advance their respective careers. There was discussion about the performance aspect of their matches, and nothing about who won or lost more matches. The wrestlers squared off with each other and avoided locking up as Tenay recapped this match being scheduled to happen at Hardcore Justice last year. Borash talked about his Forever Hardcore documentary and continued to talk up the RVD-Lynn series from ECW.
 
At 5:00, Lynn and RVD had that same exchange from Impact countering and avoiding each other's signature moves before Lynn sold frustration as they came to a standstill. RVD flashed that cocky smile toward Lynn and followed with a spin kick that knocked Lynn to the floor. RVD teased a flying move, but Lynn backed away to avoid. RVD then cockily invited Lynn back into the ring for a handshake. Lynn accepted, then threw RVD over the top rope into the guardrail. Lynn mocked RVD's signature gestures before inviting RVD back into the ring.
 
Back in the ring, Lynn won an exchange with a German Suplex with a bridge for a two count. Lynn then settled into a chinlock as RVD reached out looking for air. RVD fired back with a big spin kick that sent Lynn flying to the floor. RVD followed on the outside with signature offense to start wearing down Lynn. Back in the ring, RVD landed a slingshot legdrop before measuring Lynn for a Five-Star. Lynn hopped to his feet, though, and shoved RVD off the top rope into the guardrail on the floor.
 
Lynn rolled RVD back into the ring, then picked up a steel chair on the floor. Hebner reprimanded Lynn, who teased using it before they did a spot where Lynn countered RVD's counter to leg drop RVD into the chair. Lynn scored a two count and RVD came up bleeding from the forehead. Lynn then grabbed another chair as the camera zoomed in on RVD having a cut on his eyebrow. They set up another chair spot where Lynn executed a sunset flip bomb that sent RVD into the chair for a two count. That was Lynn's last gasp as RVD came back with a roundhouse kick sending the chair into Lynn's face. RVD followed right up with the Five-Star Frogsplash for the pin and the win.
 
WINNER: RVD at 16:52. Right at or slightly above expectations for RVD vs. Lynn in 2011. Good sequences and a decent story to the match (compared to the rest of the PPV), plus RVD looked more inspired than he has in past TNA matches where he's obviously been going through the motions. (***1/4)

6 -- AUSTIN ARIES vs. ZEMA ION vs. LOW-KI vs. JACK EVANS -- four-way TNA contract match
 
Low-Ki asserted himself early in the match before Evans unleashed high-flying offense as Borash noted Evans was trending on Twitter during Impact on Thursday. Aries then did sort of a fingernail scrape of doom splash attack on all three men before all three men kicked him in the head to clear Aries to the floor. Aries re-entered moments later leading to various sequences involving all four.
 
Aries and Ki then came face-to-face to jaw with each other before applying submission holds on the other two opponents in each other's faces. Good sequence before it came down to Aries and Ki again. Aries put a finger in Ki's face and Ki responded with a hard chop to the chest. Aries responded, prompting a standing exchange. Ki had a bridge pin, but Evans came out of nowhere with a sick splash on Ki to break up the pin. More four-way sequences before Ki took a dive to the outside. Evans tried a splash on Ki, but Ion yanked down the ropes to send Evans flying to the outside. Ion tried to fly on Ki, but Aries cut him off with a mid-ring clothesline for a two count. More four-way sequences ensued with an added level of intensity and all four men found themselves on the mat. The crowd chanted, "Sign them all," as Aries tried a pin attempt on all three opponents, to no success.
 
At 11:00, Aries and Ion had a standing exchange before Aries delivered a neckbreaker across the middle rope. Aries tried a top-rope move, but Ki executed a running cartwheel into an enzuigiri knocking Aries off the top to the mat for a nearfall. Ki then went up top, but Evans cut him off with a super top-rope huracanrana for a two count. Evans called for the 630 splash, but Ion knocked him off the top. Ion then nailed a 450 Splash on Ki, but Aries broke up a pin. Evans then tried the 630 Splash on Ki, but Ki got his knees up. Aries followed with lightning kicks on everyone before dropping Ki with a brainbuster suplex. Aries made the cover and it was good for the win. Aries gets the contract. Post-match: The crowd chanted, "Sign them all," as Aries's music played and they went to a replay of various high points in the match.
 
WINNER: Aries at 13:32. Amazing display of athleticism. Aries was the star, Evans is so charismatic and would be a valuable asset for any national promotion, Ion was impressive, and Low-Ki showed what WWE missed out on. Multiple-man matches are over-played, but this worked well as opposed to the Ultimate X match. (***3/4)

7 -- X Division champion ABYSS vs. BRIAN KENDRICK -- X Division Title match
 
They went for comedy early on with Kendrick attempting a flying cross-body, only to have Abyss just stand there like a brick wall, causing Kendrick to fall to the mat. Abyss continued to toy with Kendrick as TNA continued to send a message through the commentary that X Division wrestlers are novelty acts who can't hang in the "main event" scene and can't match up with a heavyweight like Abyss. Abyss took his time working over Kendrick while posing for the camera. Abyss then picked up his book and started thumbing through the pages for additional instructions. Kendrick tried body shots once Abyss turned around, but Abyss no-sold and beat him to a pulp in the corner. Abyss looked for more wisdom from the book while Kendrick tried to find his feet.
 
Kendrick suddenly landed a desperation shot to the face that opened up Abyss, who slowly turned around once he saw blood coming down from his forehead. Kendrick then used Abyss's anger against him to clear Abyss to the floor. Kendrick followed with a suicide dive on the floor, then continued to hold the advantage back in the ring. Kendrick wanted Sliced Bread #2, but Abyss caught Kendrick on the top turnbuckle and countered with the Shock Treatment. Kendrick kicked out of a pin attempt, though. Kendrick tried to fight back with gut shots before Hebner was bumped in the corner. Kendrick then hit Sliced Bread, but the ref was down and Kendrick scored a visual three count.
 
On cue, Eric Bischoff strutted down to the ring to boos. Bischoff shouted at Kendrick that he should fire him. Kendrick acted tormented, then landed a right hand that floored Bischoff. Suddenly, Immortal stormed the ring. Some X Division scrubs then hit the ring and Bully Ray started throwing haymakers. Immortal easily cleared the ring before Kendrick found himself alone in the ring. The next wave of X Division scrubs then hit the ring, ending the temporary feuds that were made up for the show. Eventually, Abyss and Kendrick were left alone in the ring. Kendrick scored a quick roll-up and Hebner counted a three from outside the ring to give Kendrick the win.
 
Post-match: Kendrick celebrated with the X Division wrestlers as Immortal stood dumbfounded on the stage. Abyss sat dejected on the ring apron as Borash offered some words about the X Title going back to a "true X Division wrestler," whatever that means. Some confetti fell to the ring as Kendrick's victory was celebrated. Abyss eventually made his way to the stage and Ray asked him what happened out there. Abyss shoved down Ray, whose eyes bugged out as Abyss walked to the back, with Ray dumbfounded.

WINNER: Kendrick at 10:16 to capture the X Division Title. It wouldn't be a TNA PPV without an overbooked, overcomplicated, ref-bump title match. The match story continued the inept TV build-up of the three X Division wrestlers equaling one "normal" wrestler and the "X Division brand" being comprised of brain-sharing individuals who don't have individual identities. (*)

[Arcademan]

8 -- A.J. STYLES vs. DANIELS
 
A handshake started the match as Borash described each man's TNA history and their friendship/mutual respect. Styles and Daniels came to an early standstill before slapping hands to show respect. Lots of counters and counters to the counters early on before Daniels mounted some sustained offense following a leaping dive over the top rope onto Styles on the floor. The match seesawed back to Styles before Daniels yanked Styles across the ring apron to regain control. The crowd seemed to be a bit worn out by this point. At 17:30, Daniels landed a Death Valley Driver for a close two count. Styles then mounted a big comeback before slipping on the top rope attempting a springboard dive. Daniels tried to take advantage with a pin, but Styles kicked out.
 
At 20:00, both men found themselves on the mat following a float-over dropkick that seemed to affect both men. Daniels was up a split-second before Styles, who caught Daniels in the corner for a spinning sit-out driver out of the torture rack position for a nearfall. Daniels came back with an STO into the Koji Clutch. Styles managed to reach his feet to break the hold, then both men tumbled through the ropes to the ring apron. Back in the ring, Daniels back-flipped over Styles, who back-flipped over Daniels into his signature springboard reverse DDT for a nearfall.
 
At 25:00, Daniels knocked down Styles, who appeared to be woozy from a blow to the back of the head or being blown up. Daniels then tried the BME, but Styles got his knees up. Styles followed with the Clash center-ring, but Daniels kicked out in time. Tenay said they have seen everything but a three count from Styles and Daniels. Styles regrouped, went to the ring apron for a springboard move, and missed when Daniels got his knees up. Daniels followed with Angel's Wings, but Styles kicked out in time. Daniels sold shock before evaluating what he has to do next.
 
At 27:30, Daniels went up top, but Styles crotched him. Styles then attempted a superplex, but Daniels blocked and set up for a Super Angel's Wings. Styles back-dropped Daniels to the mat, though, and positioned himself for the Spiral Tap, which the crowd chanted for. Styles connected center-ring and made the cover to pick up the win over Daniels. Borash said it was the very move Styles used to become the first-ever X Division champion over nine years ago.
 
Post-match: After a highlight package on the match aired, they cut back to the ring to show Daniels fighting a lot of different emotions. Styles offered a handshake, but Daniels turned away to sell inner turmoil. Daniels then returned to center-ring for a handshake as Tenay said Styles proved tonight he's the best-ever in the X Division. They signed off ten minutes before the top of the hour with Styles standing tall in the ring.
 
WINNER: Styles at 28:28. Strong conclusion after a methodical start and some off-moments around the 20:00ish mark. The match was lengthy trying to be epic, but the problem is there was never really a sense of the "match could end at any point" until the final few minutes, which caused the audience to sit on their hands for a while. (***)

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 7-11-11

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

Note: The majority of the program was lots of talk with C.M. Punk taking the center stage with approximately 36 minutes of conversation. The MitB promo during the middle of the show, which lead to the third match of the night was also time-consuming so there wasn't a whole lot of in-ring action going on.

1 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. WWE tag champions NEW NEXUS (MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DAVID OTUNGA) -- non-title handicap match

The commentary was interesting to hear what lines McMahon was feeding Cole. Cena easily cleared Mike to the outside and Nexus regrouped. They cut to break 1:40 in. Cole's commentary essentially amounted to (1) McMahon is a benevolent negotiator and (2) he wants to negotiate a deal with Punk so the title will stay in WWE no matter who wins at MITB. Of course, if it doesn't matter who wins and if Cena will just get himself re-hired if he gets fired, why should anyone buy a PPV to see the match? They have to resolve that issue on this show.

Back live, Mike was working on Cena. The other part of commentary was Lawler questioning why McMahon wouldn't put his full faith in Cena, who has represented the company well. Cole said it's McMahon trying to insure the health of the company and WWE Title, with its 50-year-lineage. Cole said it would be like taking away the U.S. flag from the U.S. Lawler said out of the 40 wrestlers who have held the WWE Title, Cena has represented the company better than everyone else. Cole said the point is McMahon wouldn't leave the fate of the company in the hands of Bruno, Triple H, Austin, or Rock. Cole said he believes McMahon will give Punk anything he wants to keep him in WWE, just to keep the title in WWE.

Cena made his standard comeback at 7:45 and set up Mike for the Attitude Adjustment, but Otunga interrupted the move. Mike then scored a nearfall, drawing frustration from Otunga. Meanwhile, Cole equated the "crisis" of Punk potentially taking the title out of WWE to WCW threatening WWE in the '90s. Cena then came off the top with a guillotine leg drop on Mike before putting him in the STF. Otunga broke it up just before Mike tapped, giving Nexus fresh life. Cena quickly ended that by dropping Mike with the AA, tossing Otunga over the top rope, and pinning Mike for the win.

WINNER: Cena at 9:58.

2 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY vs. MELINA -- non-title match

Back from break, Melina was already in the ring for the next match and the Bella Twins were on commentary to discuss Kelly vs. Brie for the Divas Title at the PPV. Kelly dominated this nearly start to finish before finishing off Melina less than two minutes in. Afterward, the Bellas entered the ring to run down Kelly. Kelly had enough and jumped the Bellas, who got the upper hand before Eve ran down. The Bellas KO'ed Eve, then left the ring standing tall.

WINNER: Kelly at 1:42. Basic booking to set up Kelly getting revenge on the Bellas at the PPV.

3 -- THE MIZ & JACK SWAGGER & R-TRUTH vs. ALEX RILEY & EVAN BOURNE & KOFI KINGSTON -- six-man tag match

Back live, the match was already in progress. It was such an important match that WWE and USA ran a video package on Burn Notice instead of the opening moments of the match. Cole offered this week's "pop culture reference of the week" that Miz is so popular that S.F. Giants closer Brian Wilson wears a Miz t-shirt underneath his jersey. Cole couldn't let the phobia stuff go and mixed up the fear of heights and spiders again. After some back-and-forth, the heels took control and they cut to another break five minutes in.

Back live, Miz and Kofi were battling in the ring. More like the heels had Kofi isolated and were trading tags working him over as the faces begged for a tag from the ring apron. Kofi eventually broke free with a double DDT on Truth and Swagger before hot-tagging Riley. Riley speared Swagger, then fired himself up, but the crowd wasn't buying it. Riley was then blind-sided by Truth, but Riley fought off the heels and eventually dropped Swagger with a spear for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Miz dropped Riley with Skullcrushing Finale, setting off a series of sneak attacks by everyone. Bourne wanted Air Bourne on Truth, but Del Rio came out of nowhere to smash Bourne. Del Rio then used a ladder to clear the ring of everyone in the MITB ladder match. Del Rio's music played and he stood tall in the ring as his music played.

WINNERS: Riley & Bourne & Kofi at 10:45. As Miz has cooled off, so has Riley's face reaction. WWE is still pushing him hard and trying to protect him, but it will take time for the audience to truly take hold of Riley. The end result was positioning Del Rio as the favorite to win MITB and, to the larger goal, trying to make him look like a legit heel threat looking ahead to next week post-MITB.

4 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) & DREW MCINTYRE vs. BIG SHOW -- handicap match

Back live, Ziggler's music was still playing. Big Show then came out to a standard reaction to face the mid-card heels. They went to a replay from two weeks ago when Henry crushed Show with a cage door to send Show flying to the floor. Lawler then plugged Show vs. Henry at the PPV while incorporating some more phobia talk. The bell sounded and Show started knocking around the opposition. Ziggler decided to bail to ringside before Show chucked McIntyre over the top rope. On the floor, Show smashed McIntyre into a guardrail.

Suddenly, the bell sounded as Show beat McIntyre up the entrance ramp to the stage. The announcers completely no-sold the bell and the match result as Show chucked Mac into the WWE logo on the stage. Show followed with a chokeslam attempt as Mark Henry came running toward Show, causing all three men to go flying off the stage through a prop table below. That didn't appear to go as planned. Or, it was supposed to look awkward. After a replay of the spot, they showed Show and Henry flat on their backs next to each other selling the effects. Referees came over to check on Henry and Show as no one seemed to be concerned about the condition of poor McIntyre. They cut to break with Lawler blandly saying both men are hurt.

WINNER: No Contest at 1:54. The bigger question was whether this was a write-off for McIntyre, who was completely taken apart here. Show and Henry KO'ing each other probably wasn't the right tone for their match on the PPV lead-in show. Someone needed to be standing tall leading to the PPV.

BONUS!!!

After Raw went off the air, John Cena made a few references to the Red Sox/Bruins-Yankees promo and challenged C.M. Punk to the advertised Punk vs. Cena Street Fight. Punk came back out from the entrance and Cena met him on the outside.

Bonus Dark Match: WWE champion John Cena beat C.M. Punk in a Street Fight. They fought on the outside for a while before Punk took a mic and congratulated Derek Jeter for 3,000 hits, then himself, while hitting Cena with the mic.

Punk had the advantage and began ripping monitors out of the announce table before Cena hit Punk back with a mic. Back in the ring, Punk hit Cena in the back with a chair. Punk did a lot of taunting to Cena's dad and wife, who were sitting ringside for the night. Eventually, Cena's dad hit Cena in the face, sending him into the ring. Cena then covered him for the three count and the win.

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 7-12-11

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

1 -- DERRICK BATEMAN (w/Daniel Bryan) vs. TITUS YOUNG vs. DARREN YOUNG -- triple threat elimination match

Grisham brought up Bateman's claim he would "save the show" as Bateman and Young double-teamed O'Neil. They randomly cut to a shot of Bryan standing ringside as Bateman's Pro. Regal thanked Bryan for dressing up before discussing his personal training with Bryan, which, in effect, has trickled down to Bateman. The crowd showed how invested they are in the match by chanting, "Daniel Bryan," as the heels continued to wear down Titus. They couldn't put Titus away, though, and continued to slow things down. Titus made a comeback at 5:00, but couldn't score a fall on one of the heels.

Bateman and Young eventually turned on each other and Bateman found himself on the outside. Young was alone in the ring and took Titus's sky-high bomb. Titus had a pin, but Bateman scampered back into the ring to knock Titus away. Bateman then pinned Young to eliminate him from the match. So, it's Bateman vs. O'Neil. Bateman then knocked Titus out of the ring and they cut to break.

Back on NXT, Titus was shown throwing Bateman halfway across the ring. Then again. Regal was dumbfounded trying to describe Titus's strength. Bateman then attacked Titus's left knee and began wearing down the big man. Bateman ripped off a series of chops, which fired up Titus, who responded with bigger chops to the chest for a nearfall. O'Neil followed with knockdown clotheslines and a big sidewalk slam before stalking Bateman to finish him off. O'Neil scored with a Scott Hall-style overhead slam, but Bateman kicked out of a pin attempt.

Titus went up top for an uncharacteristic high-risk move and slipped off the top rope. Bateman took advantage with a uranage-ish move, which was good for the win. Regal noted that's the mark of a good wrestler taking advantage of an opponent's slip-up. Grisham wondered why Titus went up top to begin with. After a replay of Bateman's victory, they showed Bateman and Bryan celebrating in the ring.

WINNER: Bateman at 13:28. This dragged at times, but commentary helped accentuate the story trying to be told. Bateman's pseudo heel persona isn't clicking, though.

2 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. TYSON KIDD

"Yoshi, Yoshi" chant early in the match as Kidd and Yoshi exchanged offense to start the match. Kidd got the upperhand and Yoshi rolled to the floor for a breather as they cut to a break 3:30 in.

Kidd remained in-control of the match back from break as Regal noted he'd like to see a submission match between these two at some point. Yoshi then came back with a roundhouse kick that put both men on the mat. Grisham and Regal discussed both men appearing to be a step slower this week after absorbing tons of blows from each other the previous two weeks. The pace picked up with Yoshi scoring a combination of offense before Kidd came back with sustained offense.

At 10:00, Yoshi clotheslined Kidd over the top rope to the floor. Yoshi tried to follow with a suicide dive, but Kidd smashed him in the face with a leg strike. Kidd then went to the ring apron for a springboard elbow drop, but Yoshi got his knees up to block. The match then moved up top and Kidd dropped Yoshi across the top rope. Kidd then set up for a top-rope move and went for a double springboard moonsault, but Yoshi avoided and Kidd hit the mat with a thud. The one mistake cost Kidd, as Yoshi bridge-pinned Kidd moments later for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Yoshi retrieved the action figure necklace and celebrated, but Kidd blindsided Yoshi and stole the action figure leg again. Kidd bailed from the ring as Regal said he doesn't see this as the end of the feud. Yoshi demanded the leg back as the show abruptly faded to black.

WINNER: Yoshi at 11:15. Another solid effort from Kidd and Yoshi. It wasn't quite as good as match #1, but certainly better than last week's match and really built on the stories from the previous two weeks. A well-done match, despite the inherent problem of two Pros having center stage on the Rookie show. (**1/2)

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 7-14-11

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

1 -- SANTINO vs. ZACK RYDER

Ryder was sporting his new qr code trunks from this week's YouTube episode. Early on, Stanford noted Ryder is the self-proclaimed Internet champion. The two wrestlers went back and forth early on as some vocal teens were heard chanting, "Let's go Ryder." Santino then avoided the Broski Boot in the corner before delivering a sailor's salute fist drop for a two count. Santino tried to follow with a corner move, but couldn't find his balance. Santino then comically went for another's sailor's salute, which gave Ryder an opening to avoid. Ryder followed with the Rough Ryder for the win. Post-match: Stanford noted Ryder is on a bit of a roll on Superstars while Mathews focused on Santino's uncertainty costing him the match. Stanford said Ryder is climbing that ladder. On the way out, Ryder shouted his slogans to no one in particular.

WINNER: Ryder at 3:01. Fine match with Ryder picking up a little more confidence with each passing week as his popularity continues to grow on social media.

2 -- WADE BARRETT vs. TRENT BARRETA

Barreta was the aggressor early on, trying to bring it to Barrett, who cut him off with a front slam and hard chop to the back. Striker offered a talking point that this match is a good test for Barrett having to battle similarly-sized high-flyers in the MITB ladder match at Sunday's PPV. Barrett landed a clubbing blow that knocked Barreta clear to the floor. Then, back in the ring, Barrett lost control and accepted a flying elbow smash in the corner. Barreta followed with a twisting splash of sorts for a close two count. Barreta then knocked Barrett to the floor to continue knocking Barrett off his feet. Barreta went to the well once too often and Barrett countered a springboard maneuver into Wasteland. It was good for the win.

WINNER: Barrett at 3:18. I believe the idea was to actually enhance Barrett, not make him look weak and awkward being taken off his feet multiple times prior to pulling out a sudden victory via Wasteland.

3 -- WWE tag champions NEW NEXUS (MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DAVID OTUNGA) vs. THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO) -- non-title match

The tag champs quickly took control and cleared the ring of Usos before they cut to break 1:30 into the match.

Back from break, Striker actually made it official that the bonds of Nexus and Corre have disintegrated over the past few months, but Mike and David have kept their bond as tag champs. Meanwhile, Striker and Korpela put over the WWE Title strongly. Actually, more of Korpela stressing Superstars have sacrificed their lives and families and bodies 300 days per year for pursuit of the title that Punk could be taking away from WWE on Sunday. It might have been the strongest emphasis on the value of the title in a long time.

The heels continued to work over Jimmy Uso before Jey finally took a hot tag. The action broke down before the Usos isolated Mike in the ring. Jimmy re-tagged into the match and came off the top rope with a Superfly Splash on Mike for the pin and the win. Korpela noted the Usos are right back in title contention after this non-title victory. After a replay of the Usos taking out Mike for the win, they cut back to the Usos celebrating on the way out of the ring.

WINNERS: Usos at 6:33. Basic tag match stressing the fast-rising Usos questing for the Tag Titles. It would be worth a title change to see if the Usos can succeed as the central focus of another tag division chapter.

4 -- MARYSE vs. BETH PHOENIX

Maryse was already in the ring back from the break. They switched it back to the Raw announcers to call the default main event from Monday's Raw TV taping. Maryse tried to antagonize Beth after the opening bell, so Beth quickly overpowered her. Maryse then cheated to take control before stealing Beth's headband and mocking her pose. Maryse continued to wear down Phoenix as Stanford noted both Divas want a shot at Kelly Kelly's Divas Title. After absorbing Maryse's attack, Beth came back with her Glam Slam finisher for a pin and the win.

WINNER: Phoenix at 4:11. Another step closer to a Kelly vs. Beth feud on Raw.

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 7-14-11

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

1 -- ROBERT ROODE vs. SAMOA JOE vs. "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO -- Bound for Glory Series Match

This included the three remaining wrestlers with zero points. Tenay said the loser of this might be eliminated from the BFG series because they're so far behind. Joe went after Roode at the start as Pope watched. Pope eventually knocked Joe out of the ring and got a near fall on Roode. He postured and played to the crowd and then hit a fistdrop off the second rope. Joe reentered and set up a Muscle Buster on Pope. Rodde broke it up and hit the fisherman's suplex into a bridge for a count. Pope broke it up. The crowd applauded the action rather than a wrestler. Roode and Pope hit each other at the same time. Joe applied a rear naked choke. Roode flipped over and positioned Joe's shoulders on the mat while he was still in the choke. The ref counted Joe's shoulders down. That was a pretty cool finish, actually. Joe, of course, got up thinking he won via tapout, but the ref informed him what happened. Joe threw a fit and yelled at the ref in protest. Several other referees ran out and jumped into the ring to try to calm him down and protect original ref, Earl Hebner. Tenay called it Joe's temper, moving away from the previously used term "Samoan temper" (which, of course, implies those darn Samoans have a short-trigger and big temper).

WINNER: Roode in 6:00. (*3/4)

2 -- AUSTIN ARIES vs. SHANNON MOORE

Aries came out wearing his hot-punk faux-fur vest as the crowd chanted "Austin Aries." Tenay said the morale in the X Division locker room is at an all-time high because of "the elimination of the Xtreme Champion, as he called it, Abyss." Taz touted the "quick, crisp" action of the X Division. They need to do more with Aries, if he's going to be a new centerpiece of the X Division, than have him come out and work against a "is he a heel or is he a face" Shannon Moore in an even-steven match, minus any character-development. He's just the guy with the pink vest at this point. I assume they have something in mind, though. He definitely has an "It Factor" that is worth investing in, but his character needs a hook. Aries KO'd Moore with a chain as the ref was distracted, thus establishing firmly that he is a heel.

WINNER: Aries in 3:00.

3 -- MADISON RAYNE vs. TARA

Tara dominated early and grabbed Rayne's hair and bashed her head into the mat. Rayne came back and drove Tara's chin into her knee. Tara clotheslined Rayne seconds later, then gave her a spinning side slam. Rayne backdropped out of Tara's next move, then went on offense with a lot of screeching and yelling mixed in. Rayne then peeked inside her gift box and pulled out a tarantula in a glass case. She screamed and carefully set it down. Tara then walked up behind her and gave her the Widow's Peak finisher for the win. Tara took the tarantula out of the cage and gingerly walked to the back with the spider crawling on her hand. Tarantula's are delicate creatures and dropping it could kill it. That's what Tara told me when I met her at an all-women's indy wrestling shows two years ago this month.

WINNER: Tara in 4:00.

4 -- BRUTUS MAGNUS & DOUGLAS WILLIAMS vs. MEXICAN AMERICA (Hernandez & Anarquia w/Rosita) - No. 1 Contender Status at Stake

The Brits kick-started the match, but at 1:00 Hernandez took over on Williams. Taz and Tenay wondered if Sting was done with the clown attacks yet. Magnus hot-tagged in at 3:00. The crowd chanted "Let's Go Magnus!" He knocked Hernandez out of the ring and then worked over Anarquia. Williams and Magnus double-teamed Anarquia for a near fall broken up by Hernandez. The Brits set up a double team move. Williams hit a flying elbow to Anarquia as Magnus held him in the air. However, with the ref distracted by Rosita, Hernandez interfered and rolled Anarquia on top of Magnus for the win.

WINNERS: Mexican America in 4:00. Good, short tag match.

5 -- MR. ANDERSON vs. STING -- TNA Impact Wrestling Heavyweight Title Match

Sting's full ring entrance took place as Tenay talked about Sting's plan to even the playing field working perfectly. Borash handled the formal ring intros, Tenay said Anderson has had a chance to study all of Sting's history and that seemingly would give him an advantage, but this is a different Sting who is totally unpredictable. Sting blocked an early sunset flip attempt by Anderson. Taz said Sting is whack and nuts, but maybe also crazy like a fox. Sting went for two Stinger splashes in the corner, but Anderson kicked his legs on a second attempt. Anderson began to work over Sting's leg. Taz said that can weaken Sting's Scorpion Deathlock. After working over his legs on the mat for a couple minutes, Sting kicked himself free, then got up favoring his injured leg. Sting gained his footing as he threw some chops and a clothesline. He awkwardly lifted Anderson into the ropes, but then hit the Mic Check. Anderson kicked out of his own finisher.

The ref got knocked to the floor. Sting then applied the Scorpion Deathlock. Anderson tapped out at 7:00, but the ref was out at ringside. Ray entered and attacked Sting from behind. Tenay said Ray was the one member of Immortal that Sting's clowns didn't eliminate. Ray then held a heavy chain and threatened to hit Sting. Ray told Anderson to hold up Sting. Anderson did so. Ray wrapped the chain around his fist. The lights went out. When they came back on, there was another clown in the ring. The clown attacked Ray with the bat, then went after Anderson. The lights went out again. When they came back on, Anderson stood alone in the ring. The clown stood on the stage looking on. Sting then gave Anderson a Scorpion Deathdrop from behind. The ref returned to the ring and counted to three.

WINNER: Sting in 9:00 to capture the World Championship of Impact Wrestling. Not a good match leading up to the finishing sequence, which was very storyline oriented. (*1/2)

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 7-15-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Tiat's complete report...and boy, do I mean COMPLETE!) As always, condensed to in-ring results since the full report would take awhile to read.

1 -- Intercontinental Champion EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. TED DIBIASE -- Intercontinental Championship match

Nunzio was refereeing. Jackson pushed Dibiase into the corner and smiled. DiBiase slapped him hard in the face and Jackson snapped, beating him down and tossing him into the middle of the ring where he met him with a shoulderblock for two.

Jackson clotheslined DiBiase out of the ring and followed him out, ramming his head into the apron. Booker talked about Jackson being in his Fave Five as DiBiase rammed Zeke into the ring post and dropkicked him. Cody Rhodes was shown watching from the back as DiBiase rolled Jackson back in the ring and scored two.

DiBiase beat down on Zeke in the corner. Zeke broke free and ran at DiBiase in the corner but missed and hit the turnbuckle. DiBiase hit a cool looking Cobra Clutch Russian leg sweep move that was good for two. Cole called Rhodes the Kenny Powers of the WWE for getting DiBiase back on track. Jackson hit a few running clothesline on DiBiase before clotheslining him in the corner and bodyslamming him.

Jackson went for a bodyslam that DiBiase tried to counter into Dream Street but was thrown off. Jackson bodyslammed DiBiase twice more and went for the torture rack but DiBiase struggled free. The Fortunate Son went for Dream Street again but Jackson pushed him off. Jackson locked the Torture Rack in and DiBiase tapped quickly.

WINNER: Ezekiel Jackson via submission in 3:00.

2 -- DANIEL BRYAN vs. CODY RHODES

Bryan chopped Rhodes's chest in the corner. Bryan ran at Rhodes, who lifted him onto his shoulders and looked to hit an Alabama Slam. Bryan rolled him up though and went for an early LeBell lock. Rhodes scarpered out to the apron and Bryan tied him up in the ropes, kicking him in the chest. Bryan hit a running dropkick to send Rhodes to the floor as Cole put a paper bag on and began spouting Booker catchphrases.

Bryan hit a suicide dive on Rhodes as a one man 'Daniel Bryan' chant started before the break.

Rhodes hit an inverted suplex on Bryan as Smackdown returned. Rhodes put Bryan in a single-leg Boston crab. Bryan kicked him off and hit some European uppercuts. Bryan rolled up Bryan for two. Bryan ran at Rhodes in the corner but got elbowed. Rhodes taunted Bryan and got booed. Rhodes hit several knees to Bryan's chest and hit a Russian leg sweep for two.

Rhodes locked Bryan in the single-leg Boston crab again. Bryan got his arm over the ropes and the ref forced him to break it. Bryan and Rhodes traded punches in the ring with Bryan getting the upper hand and hitting a running clothesline to get the crowd behind him. Bryan hit a jawbreaker on Rhodes followed by a running knee that got two.

Bryan beat on Rhodes in the ring and was pulled off by the ref. Rhodes hit a drop toehold to send Bryan into the ropes and Cody hit his Hardcore Holly throwback kick to the wheelbarrow kick to the midsection. Rhodes followed it up with an Alabama Slam that got two. Cody ducked a clothesline and locked Bryan in ready for Cross Rhodes but Bryan managed to walk up the turnbuckle, while still in position for the finishing move, and backflip over Cody's head. Awesome.

Cody ran Bryan into the ropes and ran in after him but Bryan countered into a LeBell lock, stretching Rhodes over the top rope. The ref called for Bryan to release him but Rhodes pushed him off and onto the floor. Bryan went to the top and hit a dropkick on Rhodes for a nearfall. Bryan fired up in the corner and hit a botched running dropkick on Rhodes, Bryan completely missed with his feet.

Bryan put Rhodes on the top turnbuckle and followed him up but got crotched on the top rope. Rhodes hit a Beautiful Disaster while he was up there and got a three-count from it.

WINNER: Cody Rhodes via pinfall in 10:00.

3 -- SHEAMUS vs. SIN CARA

Sheamus powered Cara into the corner to start and beat him down. Sin Cara hit a springboard hurracanrana on Sheamus followed by a few kicks to the thighs and a dropkick. Cara kicked Sheamus on his knees but Sheamus fought back. Barrett called The Corre the biggest mistake of his career.

Sheamus put Cara on the top turnbuckle but Cara kicked him off and hit a flipping armdrag takeover off the top. Sheamus hit a double axe handle on Cara to ground him again. Sheamus hit an Irish Curse backbreaker in the middle of the ring as Barrett said he should be at the top of Booker's fave five instead of Sheamus.

Cara hit a hurracanrana on Sheamus but ran into a high knee. Sheamus stretched Cara between the ropes and beat his chest viciously. Sheamus taunted the crowd, who responded in kind. Sheamus hit a running knee from the apron and roared, to great disapproval from the crowd. Sheamus wore Cara down in a headlock and hit a shoulderblock.

Cara punched his way out of another headlock. Sheamus went for a big boot but Cara dodged and Sheamus leg went over the top rope and sent him toppling to the outside. Sheamus held his knee in pain and Cara dropkicked him on the way back into the ring for two. Cara hit his Pele kick between the ropes and went for a springboard cross body but was caught in mid air. Sheamus rammed Cara into the turnbuckle and hit a fallaway slam.

Sheamus taunted the crowd some more and set up for the Celtic Cross. Cara turned it into a hurracanrana into a cover and got the surprise three count.

WINNER: Sin Cara via pinfall in 6:00.

- After the match, Sheamus looked furious as Booker said Cara may have just topped the fave five. Barrett hit the ring and hit Sheamus from behind with a big boot. Cole incorrectly called it a Brogue kick. Barrett hit Wasteland on Sheamus and taunted him, pointing up at the MITB briefcase.

4 -- ROSA MENDES (w/Alicia Fox) vs. KELLY KELLY

Kelly went for an early pin cover and got one. Rosa went for her own and got the same result. Booker talked about having a Diva's fave five as Mendes went to work on Kelly. Mathews noted Rosa's Puerto Rican background. Kelly fought out and tripped Rosa, slamming her head repeatedly into the mat.

Kelly licked her hand and slapped Rosa on the butt. Rosa ran at Kelly, who countered into a neckbreaker. Kelly ran Rosa into the turnbuckle and gave her a Rikishi-style stinkface.

Kelly went for a bulldog but Rosa pushed her off. Rosa went for a swinging neckbreaker but Kelly hit the K2 facebuster that was good for the three. Kelly celebrated in the ring after the match as Alicia looked annoyed but still applauded.

WINNER: Kelly Kelly via pinfall in 2:00.

5 -- JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. HEATH SLATER

Some nice back and forth between the two trading wristlocks. No reaction from the crowd though. Gabriel hit a running shoulderblock on Slater. Slater went for a hip toss but Gabriel countered into a leg sweep for two.

Slater hit Gabriel with a hard punch and pointed up to the briefcase like it hasn't been a cliche all night. Slater went to work on Gabriel with a headlock. Gabriel fought out and hit a spinning kick to the head of Slater. Slater ran at Gabriel in the corner but missed and ate turnbuckle. Gabriel went for the 450 splash but was intercepted by Slater, who back body dropped him off the turnbuckle and missed possibly the worst moonsault ever attempted.

Gabriel hit the 450 splash immediately after and got the pin and the win. Gabriel pointed up to the briefcase after the match as replays were shown.

WINNER: Justin Gabriel via pinfall in 3:00.

6 -- KANE vs. World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON -- non-title match

Orton beat on Kane in the corner to a big pop. Kane fought back with a throat-thrust and a big boot. Kane hit two huge running clotheslines on Orton in the corner followed by a sidewalk slam for two.

Christian slithered out to the stage to watch the match as Kane hit a diving clothesline on Orton. Kane signaled for the chokeslam and locked on a goozle but Orton escaped it and fought back with a boot in the corner followed by a running clothesline. Orton took Kane off his feet with a powerslam and fired up. Kane rolled onto the apron and Orton hit his signature spike DDT on the ropes.

Orton set up for an RKO but was pushed off by Kane. Orton stopped as he saw Christian walking closer to the ring and was clotheslined over the top by Kane, who fell out to the floor with him. Orton chased Christian around the ring as the ref continued his count. Christian splashed Orton with water from behind and Orton missed the ten count.

WINNER: Kane via count-out in 2:00.

- Orton chased Christian around the ring area. Christian ran back into the ring and Orton followed, being met with a throat thrust from Kane. Kane and Christian stomped on Orton in the corner. Kane stopped and scared Christian off. Orton gave Kane an RKO from behind but was speared instantly by Christian, who rained down punches to Orton's face. The crowd booed loudly as Christian stood over both men.

Christian got a steel chair and the World Heavyweight Championship from ringside. Christian went to clock Orton with the chair but Orton countered and kicked the chair out of Christian's hands. Orton picked up the chair to hit Christian but Captain Charisma rolled out of the ring and away from danger. Orton took the chair to Kane's back instead and blasted him with it, looking furious at Christian, who stood on the stage smirking amidst a 'Randy' chant to close out the show.

[Arcademan]

WWE MitB PPV Results: 7-17-11 (next three posts...)

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

1 -- SIN CARA vs. WADE BARRETT vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. SHEAMUS vs. CODY RHODES vs. HEATH SLATER vs. DANIEL BRYAN vs. KANE -- Smackdown MITB ladder match

After a battle royal-style beginning with men trying to club each other to clear out space, they started setting up some one-on-one and three-way spots in the ring. One ladder found itself in the middle of the ring to be used as a prop early on. At 4:00, Bryan and Gabriel pulled off back-to-back flying moves on the outside. Slater then executed a twisting corkscrew plancha before Sin Cara tried to top them all with a leaping splash on Sheamus ringside. Early on, they seemed to be going for that "ooooh" reaction from the crowd rather than trying to win the match.

Sin Cara executed his top-rope finisher on Bryan to a reaction, then pointed to the briefcase, but didn't have a ladder. Sin Cara went to the outside looking for a ladder, but Barrett kicked him in the face. Barrett then took himself out when Cara ducked a clothesline and Barrett ate the ringpost. Sheamus followed with a Brogue Kick on Sin Cara before powerbombing him off the ring apron through a ladder propped up ringside. Sin Cara sold with trembling fingers as the crowd popped. Refs and medics checked on Cara to sell the move as Booker noted he tried to avoid these matches at all costs.

At 9:00, the match reset with Kane and Sheamus battling in the ring. Meanwhile, Sin Cara was stretchered away from the ringside area. So, they're down to seven. Kane teased a climb for the briefcase, but a Corre reunion dragged down Kane. Suddenly, Rhodes scaled the ladder behind everyone's backs, but Corre cut him off. Corre then cut off Bryan. All three then surveyed the scene and Barrett tried to take the lead, but Slater and Gabriel decided to yank him down and deliver a beating. Gabriel and Slater then raced up the ladder looking for the case, but Rhodes shoved both of them off the ladder.

Rhodes set up for a climb to the case, but Barrett yanked him down. More up and downs before Rhodes dropped Barrett with Cross Rhodes. Rhodes went back up the case, but Sheamus cut him off and delivered the Irish Curse backbreaker. Bryan and Sheamus then battled on the ladder, giving the pro-Bryan crowd a little tease. Kane proceeded to clean house and build some momentum before the crowd chanted, "Daniel Bryan," when Bryan re-entered the action. Slater began climbing in the background, though, and then cut off Bryan with a neckbreaker off the ladder.

At 18:00, they hit a bit of a lull with some weak false finishes and teased ladder spots that didn't materialize. Sheamus then cleaned house to breathe life back into the match. Sheamus pointed to the case and started climbing, but Kane met him up top when Sheamus had one hand on the case. Kane then goozled Sheamus and chokeslammed off the ladder onto another ladder below. Big splat and Sheamus fell to the floor. For the next chapter, the rest of the Smackdown competitors entered the ring for a mid-ring battle. Gabriel suddenly stood atop a ladder on the top turnbuckle, balanced himself, and landed a 450 splash on Kane. Big-move spots ensued in the ring before Barrett was the last man standing. Barrett went climbing, but Rhodes yanked him down and clotheslined him over the top rope.

In the background at 23:00, Bryan tried sneaking up the ladder, but Rhodes cut him off. Bryan and Rhodes founds themselves at the top of the ladder, then Barrett climbed up behind them. Barrett fought off Rhodes, then knocked Barrett down the ladder. Barrett came back, though, with a Wasteland attempt, only to have Bryan land multiple elbow strikes to the neck. Bryan then kicked Barrett off the top and Bryan was alone on the ladder. The crowd came to their feet as Bryan reached up, grabbed the case, struggled to unhook it, and finally unhooked it to win the match.

Post-match: Bryan dropped down to the mat and clutched the briefcase as the announcers noted this could be a career-changing moment for Bryan. The vocal males chanted, "Daniel Bryan," as Bryan continued to sell shock and Cole ate crow on commentary after knocking Bryan throughout the match. After a replay of high points in the match, they showed Bryan celebrating with the case again.

WINNER: Bryan at 24:27. Quite the surprise to start the PPV. Of course, will Bryan now be the first MITB winner not to win a World Title? The match itself was up and down with some high points, but also some low points. It evened out to a strong start for a WWE PPV. (***1/2)

2 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY (w/Eve) vs. BRIE BELLA (w/Nikki Bella) -- Divas Title match

Out first were the Bella Twins for the "come down match" after the 25-minute opening match. Kelly Kelly was out next, flanked by Eve. Torch specialist Alex Roberts live in the arena: "Mass exodus to merch/food." WWE has positioned the Divas division as filler and that's how the audience responds to it. Kelly scored with early offense before Brie cut her off and went to work. Brie scored some close nearfalls before Kelly eventually hit her finisher for the win. Naturally, the Bellas vowed to get revenge on the way out of the ring as Kelly and Eve celebrated in the ring.

WINNER: Kelly at 4:54. Standard title retention for Kelly, who should move on to Beth Phoenix at some point.

3 -- MARK HENRY vs. BIG SHOW

The bell sounded and the two men quickly charged each other center-ring. Cole talked about the Tale of the Tape as Show quickly took Henry off his feet with a shoulder tackle that also knocked down Show. Why have the big men taken off their feet 25 seconds in? The match then moved to the floor and Show teased a chokeslam, but Henry elbowed out as the ref tried to implore them to get the fight back in the ring. Eventually, they re-entered and Henry chopped down Show at the left knee to begin working on Show's leg. Show then found himself on the second rope for a shoulder tackle and sold the left knee after delivering the move.

Show was the first man up and called for the chokeslam, which Henry avoided with a kick to the gut. Henry went back to the knee before delivering World's Strongest Slam middle ring. Henry made a cover, but Show kicked out in time. The announcers stressed their belief no one has ever kicked out of WSS. Henry then shouted toward the ceiling before delivering another WSS. Henry followed with a big splash, then another big splash. Henry made the cover and it was good for the win.

Post-match: The ref checked on Show before Henry went to the floor looking to inflict more damage. Henry retrieved a chair as Lawler tried to calm him down, noting he already won the match. Henry placed Show's knee inside the chair, then climbed up the turnbuckles. Henry went for a Vader Bomb and connected on the ankle. Show sold a la Del Rio running him over with the vehicle. Where was Kane to hold his hand? A medic hit the ring to check on Show as Henry watched from ringside. Show sold a broken ankle before medics and another stretcher hit the ring. A cart came to ringside as Show was helped out of the ring and the crowd chanted, "C-M-Punk." Show was placed on the stretcher and wheeled away as the announcers noted it's been a rough night following Sin Cara in the opening match. They went to a replay of Henry falling on the chair with all of his weight crashing down on the area. Cole said what's disturbing is the attack took place after the match. Cole said Smackdown GM Teddy Long can't put up with this much longer.

WINNER: Henry at 6:00. Curious match booking with the two big men coming off their feet early on, which took the audience out of the action, before the big post-match angle enhanced Henry's victory. The end result is continuing to give Smackdown something to work with as two forces - Henry and Long's authority - come closer to a collision. (*1/4)

[Arcademan]

4 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. JACK SWAGGER vs. KOFI KINGSTON vs. R-TRUTH vs. REY MYSTERIO vs. THE MIZ vs. ALEX RILEY vs. EVAN BOURNE -- Raw Money in the Bank ladder match
 
The bell sounded and seven wrestlers ganged up on Del Rio with their ladders. Meanwhile, Booker picked Bourne to win as Cole expectedly picked his buddy, Miz. The action cleared out a little bit leading to Miz and Truth having a ladder battle. Swagger's "ladder was a little bigger," as Lawler put it, and Swagger knocked down both men. Miz and Riley then found themselves fighting on a ladder not tall enough to reach the case. Moments later, they found themselves on the floor. Suddenly, R-Truth came flying over the top rope with a splash onto three wrestlers. Next, Rey and Kofi came off the top on opposite top turnbuckles to splash men ringside. Bourne had the next trick: a Shooting Star Press off the top of a ladder onto everyone ringside. Terrific form on that move.
 
Bourne was the first one up from the pile and tried to grab the case in the ring, but Miz cut him off. Bourne and Miz battled on top of the ladder before Del Rio knocked them off the ladder. Miz screamed after he hit the mat, selling a right knee injury. Miz removed his kneepad as refs and ref Nunzio called for a medic. A doc tried putting the knee back into the place as Miz tried waving everyone off trying to help him. Miz was eventually helped to the back as the crowd seemed to be quiet wondering if Miz was selling or really hurt.
 
Back in the ring, Rey and Bourne executed double huracanranas on Truth and Del Rio to clear them from the ring. Riley then tried to sneak in behind Swagger, but Swagger cut him off. Truth then launched both men off the ladder and limped around the ring looking for another ladder. Cole interjected some social media talk and said Rey is the pick to win according to WWE fans on Facebook. There were a lot of bodies in the ring at this point 11:30 in. In fact, all seven remaining men. They all climbed the multiple ladders in unison and started grabbing for the case as the crowd waited for something to happen. Bodies then started flying out of the ring one by one before it was down to Rey and Kofi. Kofi then kicked Rey off the ladder, leaving Kofi by himself. Kofi grabbed the case, but Swagger quickly scaled another ladder and cut off Kofi. Both men then fell off a ladder and crashed to the ground.
 
Suddenly, as expected, Miz hobbled down to ringside and tried to climb a ladder, but Rey cut him off. The crowd booed a bit, apparently buying into Miz tonight. Rey then powerbombed Miz off the ladder and started climbing the ladder. It was WrestleMania 22 all over again with Rey being booed. Suddenly, Del Rio yanked at Rey, who kicked Del Rio away. Rey then reached up to grab the case, but Del Rio climbed up again. Rey used the case to bash Del Rio in the face, but Del Rio shoved him away and took Rey's mask. (They didn't go to a close-up shot of Rey to avoid showing him mask-less.) Suddenly, both men fell off the ladder and crashed and burned. It didn't look planned, but fit the chaotic nature of the match in a kayfabe sense. Del Rio then had a moment chucking Rey's mask away before setting up a ladder. Del Rio tried climbing amidst the chaos and reached up to grab the case. The crowd was hot as Del Rio unhooked the case to win the match. (Roberts noted live in the arena the crowd was mixed with cheers and boos for Del Rio.) WWE stayed with the post-match celebration for a while as Del Rio celebrated while sitting on the ladder.
 
WINNER: Del Rio at 15:54. Step One of the WWE Title match end result? A strong conclusion (despite the chaotic finish) and interesting crowd response after a pretty good 15-minute ladder match. Bourne certainly had his moment with the Air Bourne ringside to get his shine in a match he wasn't going to win. (***1/4)

5 -- World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON vs. CHRISTIAN -- World Title match -- Christian wins the title by standard pinfall & submission, plus DQ or "bad refereeing"
 
The bell sounded and Christian went to the floor to grab a chair. Back in the ring, he tossed the chair toward Orton to give him an opportunity to DQ himself. Orton balked and chucked the chair to the floor. Christian then shoved Orton, who responded with a right hand to the forehead. Orton then teed off on Christian with hard offense. They went back-and-forth before eventually spilling out of the ring to the floor at 6:00. A count-out was still in-play for the match, but both men beat a ten count back into the ring.
 
Back in the ring, Orton scored a close two count with a jackknife pin before scoring another close two count. Christian tried to come back with top-rope offense, but Orton cut him off, only to have Christian knock him down to the mat for a flying headbutt that only scored a two count. Orton then tried to come back with an RKO, but Christian nailed the Unprettier. Christian had the pin and Cole did the ol' "it's over!" call, which meant Orton was kicking out. After the kick out, Christian sold frustration being unable to put Orton away. Christian then went into Edge mode for a spear, but Orton avoided. Orton then hit a gutwrench into a reverse RKO of sorts. Orton with the cover, but Christian kicked out. This time, Orton sold disbelief.
 
The crowd was hot as Orton came to his feet, stalking Christian. Orton "went there" and wanted The Punt, but Christian avoided before taking a powerslam. Orton then went for his elevated DDT from the second rope and connected. Orton dropped down to his stomach to set up for the RKO, but Christian bailed to the corner. Orton stalked him, then Christian spit in his face. Orton snapped and pounded away on Christian, nearly DQ'ing himself. Orton broke free at four, but then punted Christian in the groin. It was good for a DQ, and the crowd popped, realizing a title switch was going down. The ref made it official and Christian was declared the new World champ.
 
Post-match: Orton snapped and dragged Christian to the floor. Orton smashed Christian with a ringside monitor. This one brought out Teddy Long as opposed to the Mark Henry angle earlier. Long tried to talk Orton down from the ledge, as Cole put it. Orton was having none of it and dropped Christian with an RKO onto the announce table, which didn't break. Lawler said Orton has lost it. They went to a replay of Christian's championship-winning loogie. Cole said it's great strategy from Christian. They cut back to Orton ranting and raving ringside as Long tried to calm him down. Lawler said Orton got screwed as Cole defended Christian.
 
Suddenly, Orton returned to ringside to a big reaction. Orton wanted another piece of Christian and he got that crazy look in his eyes. The crowd popped for crazed Orton, who lifted up Christian and dropped him with another RKO on the table, which didn't break. Christian was out cold as Orton stood over him. The crowd popped for Orton, but was also seemingly pleading with Daniel Bryan to come cash in the briefcase. Orton stood on the entrance ramp and fought the IED before turning back around to look toward the ring. Orton left and the cameras re-focused on Christian trying to gather himself. After another replay of the loogie spot, Christian was shown being dragged away by medics and refs. Christian was booed on the way out as he clutched the World Title belt.
 
WINNER: Christian via DQ at 12:20 to capture the World Title. This was a perfect set-up for Christian to have that story of losing the title right after winning to have a five-minute reign to go with his five-day reign. Since that didn't happen, it looks like Christian vs. Orton re-match at Summerslam, likely with Edge as special ref. WWE teased a double-turn with Orton snapping on Christian post-match, but this crowd seemed to be hot for crazed Orton. Overall, a good night for Smackdown breathing some life into the brand. (***1/2)

[Arcademan]

6 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. C.M. PUNK -- WWE Title match

The bell sounded at 9:12 p.m. CST, allowing for plenty of time. Cole said Cena debuted in this building back on "Friday" Night Smackdown. It was Thursdays back then. Punk and Cena started with some headlocks and mat holds as the crowd chanted, "You can't wrestle." Punk comically made sure the crowd was aiming that toward Cena, not him. Cena then applied a hammerlock as Booker suggested Cena was trying to take the crowd out of the match. Meanwhile, the announcers questioned whether Punk has brainwashed his city and his followers because if he leaves with the title, he screws the audience. After Cena's early offense, Punk came back with a dropkick to a big reaction. Punk then grabbed a headlock as Cole brought up the Montreal Screwjob to show what lengths McMahon will go to keep the title in WWE. Hmm. Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment moments later, Punk teased the G2S, and they came to a standstill.

After the standstill, Punk scored with offense before Cena scored with a bulldog for a two count. Cena followed with a big knock-down clothesline that might have knocked a tooth loose. Cena scored a two count, then grabbed another chinlock. Punk escaped with a back drop for a two count. The pro-Cena high-pitched fans were heard for the first time engaging in a "Let's Go Cena" vs. "Cena Sucks" chant. Cena then scored with a fisherman suplex for a two count, but Punk came back with a DDT for a two count. Punk followed with a leg vice trying to squeeze the life out of Cena. There was a mild "Colt Cabana" chant before Punk dumped Cena out of the ring. Cole questioned if that was a wise move as Punk followed to the outside. Punk then placed Cena across the ring apron and nailed a flying knee to the back of the neck.

Back in the ring at 10:30, Punk made a cover, but Cena kicked out. Punk then went for a corner attack, but Cena moved and Punk ate the ringpost. Cena tried to follow up, but Punk kicked him away. Punk then grabbed a chinlock as the announcers continued to stress the value and importance of the WWE Title. Cole referenced Triple H, saying he once said if you're not in the business to become champ, then go home. The pro-Cena fans tried to rally behind Cena as Cena kicked out of a pin following a top rope move. Cena sold a right knee injury - the theme of the night - and rolled to the ring apron for a breather. The crowd was momentarily hushed. Punk then tried a suplex back into the ring, but Cena suplexed Punk over the top rope to the floor. Punk made a big, wet splat on the floor as the ref applied a ten count on both men.

Back in the ring at 14:20, Cena made a cover, but Punk kicked out. Cena then scored with a suplex before delivering an elbow drop for a two count. Cena tried to follow with a powerslam of sorts, Punk slipped out, but then Cena delivered a shoulderbreaker-grip into a bodyslam for a two count. Unique. Cena came to his feet and started jabbing Punk, who suddenly came back with rights of his own. Boos/Yeahs before Cena slapped on an abdominal stretch, which drew cheers from the pro-Cena crowd. Punk escaped, then they had a double knockdown center-ring.

At 17:30, they came to their feet together and Cena started his comeback routine. Punk slipped out of the backdrop, though, and nearly scored a three count. Punk missed with a patented corner knee, then Cena delivered a sit-out slam. Cena warmed up the Five Knuckle Shuffle to big boos, but Punk kicked Cena in the face when he tried the hand wave. Punk then kneed Cena to the floor before flying through the ropes with a suicide dive. Both men crashed into the guardrail upon impact. After a pause, Punk threw Cena back into the ring and climbed onto the ring apron. Punk went for a springboard dive, but Cena moved and Punk ate the mat.

Cena then did the full Knuckle Shuffle routine, including fist drop. Cena wanted the AA, but Punk landed on his feet to avoid. Punk followed with big kick strikes and made a cover, but Cena kicked out. Suddenly, Punk teased the G2S, but Cena countered with a gutwrench suplex for a close nearfall. Cena was the first man up and adjusted his belt before stalking Punk for the AA. Punk escaped, though, and nailed multiple knee strikes to the jaw followed by a flying bulldog. Punk then went to the ring apron for a springboard clothesline and connected. Punk covered, but Cena kicked out in time. They went to a slow-motion replay of Cena taking a big knee to the jaw that absolutely rocked Cena.

At 22:30, Punk landed kick strikes to the upper body. More strikes. Cena started absorbing, though, before ducking a kick and flowing into the STF center ring. Punk's eyes bugged out as Cole implored Punk to tap out. Punk fought the hold as he stared at the bottom rope. Punk tried to crawl toward the bottom rope and made a last-second desperation reach for the bottom rope to break the hold. Cena tried to follow up, but Punk kicked him in the body for a two count. Punk then went up top and did a Savage salute before executing a splash, but Cena rolled through into the AA. Punk countered into the G2S, but Cena intercepted mid-air for the STF. Punk teased a break, but Cena pulled him back to center-ring. The crowd was red-hot imploring Punk to grab the rope. Suddenly, Punk countered into a neck vice submission. The crowd called for Cena to tap as Cena tried to fight the hold mid-ring. Cena found his way to his feet, then suddenly transitioned into the AA out of nowhere. Cena made the cover, but Punk kicked out. Huge pop.

The men reset as Cole said this has been extraordinary. Booker said he can't call it. Cena went up top, selling exhaustion as he set up for a guillotine leg drop that Punk countered into a seated slam for a two count. The crowd chanted "C-M-Punk" as Punk did the go-to-sleep hand motion. Punk sold a back injury as he went for the G2S, but Cena grabbed the top rope to escape. Cena yanked Punk throat-first across the top rope, then he went up top. Cena wanted the leg drop and he connected this time. Cena with the cover, but Punk kicked out again. "I'm exhausted," Booker said. At 29:00, Cena stood up and measured Punk for what was next. Cena wanted the AA again. This time, he connected center ring. Punk made the cover, but Punk kicked out again. Cena just stood up and smiled before checking the ref on his count. At exactly 30:00, Cole said they are 30 minutes into this match.

Cena went back to stalking Punk. Cena dragged Punk to the corner and put him up top. Super AA? Cena slowly climbed up top looking for a top-rope AA, but Punk elbowed Cena in the back of the head. Punk then measured Cena and delivered a top-rope huracanrana. Cena rolled across the ring to avoid a pin, though. Punk followed with a knee strike in the corner before delivering the G2S, but Cena rolled through the ring to the floor. Punk pounded the mat in frustration, unable to pin Cena on the floor. Punk retrieved Cena, then rolled him back into the ring.

Suddenly, McMahon and Laurinaitis came walking down to ringside. They stopped mid-way as Punk stared back at them. McMahon returned the stare as Punk slowly re-entered the ring. The distraction allowed Cena to slap on the STF. McMahon wanted the bell to be rung and Laurinaitis went running, but Cena absolutely creamed Ace, who took the greatest bump of all-time. Cena shouted at McMahon that this isn't going down this way. Cena then returned to the ring, where he ate a G2S from Punk center ring. Punk made the cover and it was good for the win. The crowd exploded as McMahon stared ahead in disbelief.

WINNER: Punk at 33:44 to capture the WWE Title. That was simply an amazing match. There hasn't been a match with that kind of feel in WWE in a very long time. Even the "run-in" at the end was part of the story and enhanced the finish rather than taking away from it. The match had all of the intangibles that make up an epic wrestling match, complete with the ultimate story: two men tearing each other apart for the top prize in WWE: the WWE Title. (*****)

Post-match: Cole noted Punk will no longer be an employee of WWE in less than two hours. Punk flashed the title belt toward McMahon, who continued to stare straight ahead. McMahon then ran down to the announcers and ripped off Lawler's headset. He screamed at someone to call for Del Rio to cash in right now. Del Rio came springing down to the ring with the case in-hand, but Punk blasted him with a kick to the head. Punk smirked at McMahon, then he went through the crowd after blowing McMahon a kiss. Punk reached the top of the arena and stood tall among the people with possession of the WWE Title. McMahon's eyes welled up as the MITB credits flashed. Punk disappeared to the back and they showed a shot of Punk walking through the concourse before going to a final shot of McMahon selling disbelief in the ring. The show ended at that point.

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 7-18-11 (next three posts...)

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

1 -- THE MIZ vs. ALEX RILEY -- First Round WWE Title tournament match

Riley slowly tried to get to Miz's knee as Miz tried to avoid him. Riley eventually got to the knee and began working it over. Riley then applied a half-Boston crab, but Miz flung him to the floor. Miz took control of the match and nearly got himself DQ'ed landing too many punches without breaking. Meanwhile, Cole announced every match will end via pinfall or submission only. Riley made his comeback at 3:30 and both men teased finishers before Riley caught Miz in a Texas Cloverleaf. Riley couldn't maintain the hold, though, and Miz reached the ropes for a break. They had a clunky spot involving the referee getting in the way, then Miz surprised Riley with the Skullcrushing Finale. It was good for the win.

WINNER: Miz at 5:00 to advance to the semi-finals. Okay match. They were a bit off at times, especially during the finish, and the crowd wasn't all the way invested. Concerning Riley, WWE needs to be patient building him up and allowing him to naturally connect with the broad audience. (*1/4)

2 -- R-TRUTH vs. JACK SWAGGER -- First Round WWE Title tournament match

Cole reset the show on the purpose of the tournament, Cena's status, and noted Mark Henry taking out Big Show, who Cole said could be out up to two months. Cole plugged an update this Friday on Smackdown. Now, was that so hard promoting Smackdown events in a short, simple update? As Swagger and Truth went back and forth, Cole noted holding the WWE Title is about power before discussing Cena's situation tonight. Lawler said he doesn't think McMahon will do anything to jeopardize his business by simply firing Cena. Cole interjected the deal about Cena Fans lobbying for WWE to keep Cena's job intact. Lawler then treaded carefully discussing the title match, saying he thinks McMahon contributed to Punk taking the title and Cena losing.

Cole actually acknowledged they were ignoring the match in the ring discussing Cena-McMahon issues, before they resumed talking about what happened last night, including the atmosphere. Lawler said he couldn't even describe it in words other than it was like the Chicago Bears were in the Super Bowl and the Super Bowl was in Chicago. Lawler claimed there was a "huge amount of respect" for Cena in the crowd, but they were ultimately pro-Punk. (The whole design of that match, from a Cena perspective, was to try to get some respect back for Cena.) Suddenly, Truth countered an anklelock from Swagger into a jackknife pin and it was good for a quick win. Truth advances to the semi-finals. He gets the Rey-Ziggler winner.

WINNER: R-Truth at 4:19 to advance to the semi-finals. There was a match? The commentary took over the match, which wasn't very inspiring, especially featuring two heels against each other. Swagger just seems to be going through the motion right now, and who can blame him when WWE has lost sight of how to promote him. Meanwhile, a theme is developing where the wrestler who gets the pre-match focus is winning. (3/4*)

3 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- First Round WWE Title tournament match

The bell sounded and Cole offered another Smackdown plug for Daniel Bryan's MITB victory at the PPV. Cole called it a fluke and noted they will discuss it in more detail on Smackdown this Friday. Cole brought up Cena's Twitter posts before Raw again and noted Rock just replied, saying he pleaded with McMahon not to fire Cena and called his apology "phony." Del Rio and Kingston went back-and-forth as Cole continued to hype tonight's Raw as being "historic." Cole went back to discussing Cena-Rock and Lawler said he believes Cena is hopeful he will not be fired despite what he posted.

Meanwhile, Kingston built some momentum after Del Rio missed with a corner attack. Del Rio then teased the cross arm-breaker, but Kingston countered with a sudden roll-up. Del Rio tried to escape, but Kingston held down Del Rio for the win. Cole said he thought Del Rio's shoulder was up during the count and they went to a replay showing Del Rio's shoulder pinned to the mat. Cole said perhaps the other angle showed a shoulder up.

WINNER: Kingston at 5:08 to advance to the semi-finals. And they broke the pattern of pre-match focus = victory. It made sense with Del Rio having the MITB briefcase, which will now linger over the tournament/title situation. (*1/2)

4 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. REY MYSTERIO -- First Round WWE Title tournament match

Ziggler quickly took control of the match after splattering Rey on the floor. Back in the ring, they traded close nearfalls while seated on the mat. Lawler interjected an item about McMahon officially stripping "the champion" (Punk) of the WWE Title, which was alluded to but not officially acknowledged at the start of the show. Rey made his comeback at 3:00, but Ziggler cut him off and scored a two count. Rey then countered a powerbomb into a huracanrana, but missed with a follow-up 619 when Ziggler ducked at the last second. Ziggler followed right up with a powerslam, but only scored a two count. "619, 619" chant as Ziggler stomped and Vickie screamed. Rey then hit the 619 on his second try before going up top for a flying splash. Rey connected and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Rey Mysterio at 4:56. Best of the four first round matches after an inspired effort by both men. Outside of the tournament, WWE had a chance to elevate Ziggler tonight being the only male singles champion left on the Raw brand, but that wasn't the case here. (*3/4)

5 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY & EVE & GAIL KIM & BETH PHOENIX & A.J. & KAITLYN & NATALYA vs. BRIE BELLA & NIKKI BELLA & MARYSE & ALICIA FOX & ROSA MENDES & TAMINA & MELINA

The action broke down 30 seconds in. In the ring, Phoenix hit the Glam Slam on Rosa for a quick pin and the win. Afterward, the babyface Divas stood tall in the ring.

WINNERS: Team Kelly at 1:02. Not much here other than a brief look at a possible Kelly vs. Beth title situation following the Kelly-Bellas feud.

6 -- THE MIZ vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- Semi-final WWE Title tournament match

Kingston scored an early one count trying to small-package a gimpy Miz. Kingston followed with an elevated dropkick for a two count. Miz then took control and tried to slow things down to work through his injury. Kingston went back to the knee, though, and followed with a slingshot splash for a two count. Miz continued to show resiliency as Lawler did the ol' routine of Miz having a built-in excuse when he loses, which meant Miz was winning.

Kingston took out Miz's again and teased the Trouble in Paradise, but Miz bailed to the ring apron. Kofi scored a close two count moments later, but Miz came right back with the Skullcrushing Finale. It was good for the win after Miz slowly rolled Kingston over for a pin. "One more to get!" Cole shouted over and over. Post-match: Miz, with a bloody lip, smiled for the hard camera and hobbled across the ring. After a replay, Miz gingerly made his way out of the ring as they reviewed the finals. Rey-Truth winner advances to face Miz in the finals.

WINNER: Miz at 3:52 to advance to the finals. Good nearfalls throughout. The whole thing seems off, though, with the heel "overcoming the odds" against babyfaces incapable of putting away a one-legged man. WWE's defense would be they're trying to elevate Miz as a "tough guy" who is also a capable competitor in the ring and not just all-talk. They didn't put in the groundwork ahead of time, though, to pull it off credibly without the faces looking weak. (*1/2)

7 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. R-TRUTH -- Semi-final WWE Title tournament match

As the bell sounded, Cole plugged the tournament finals still to come and McMahon's decision on John Cena. R-Truth quickly grounded Rey, trying to prevent Rey from delivering his high-flying offense. Truth momentarily lost control and Rey sent Truth flying to the floor. Rey followed with a big suicide dive. Instead of staying with the action, which WWE has done the entire tournament, they cut to break.

Back live, Truth had Rey on the mat with a headlock. During the break, Rey scored a close nearfall, per an inset replay. Cole reset the show and noted the reason for the tournament as Truth became frustrated with his inability to put away Rey. Truth scored with the Lie Detector, but Rey kicked out in time. Cole suggested Truth was a bit hungrier than Rey tonight, but Lawler countered that Rey has more heart kicking out. Cole said Rey has heart, but sometimes the heart gives out. That was quite the inadvertently loaded comment considering early wrestler deaths in the industry. Meanwhile, Truth continued to be frustrated. He scored with a flapjack suplex, but Rey kicked out in time. Cole said that every time Rey kicks out, it drives Truth even more nuts.

Truth missed with a corner attack, then Rey came back with a turnaround splash off the ropes for a two count. Rey, selling exhaustion, then walked into a flip-over jawbreaker. Truth made a cover, but Rey grabbed the bottom rope to escape just in time. Truth started looking around the arena, hearing voices in the arena. Rey took advantage with a head scissors into the 619. Rey followed up with a top-rope splash and it was good for the win. After a replay, Cole said Rey won't be leaving the ring, as he faces Miz in the finals next.

WINNER: Rey at 12:49 to advance to the finals. Decent action throughout and an acceptable finish that drew in the crowd. The drawback was the technical aspect of Truth having to co-operate too much on the final few moves to set up the finish. (**)