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

[Arcademan]

3 -- World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. BIG SHOW vs. GREAT KHALI vs. IC champion CODY RHODES vs. WADE BARRETT vs. SANTINO -- World Hvt. Title match -- Smackdown brand Elimination Chamber match

As the bell sounded, Cole called this a weird match-up based on the participants (unlikely champion, "Cinderella story" Santino, and two giants). Show quickly smacked around Barrett to begin the match. Barrett briefly took control and the crowd became restless with this match-opening exchange. Show regained control and slammed Barrett onto the platform before walking over his chest.

At 5:05, IC champion Cody Rhodes was revealed as the third entrant. Rhodes stood in his pod, not wanting anything to do with Show. Rhodes eventually entered the ring and took a beating from Show. Show then sent Barrett into the Chamber wall before lawn-darting Rhodes into the wall. Barrett tried to run away, but he walked into a chokeslam, which Barrett blocked before landing a chopblock to Show's left knee. Barrett and Rhodes then went high-low on Show with a classic double-team move to continue working on Show. The heels turned on each other and Barrett smashed Cody into the Chamber wall. "Put it on that boy, Wade!" Booker shouted. Barrett continued to work over Rhodes as the crowd waited for something to get excited about.

At 10:15, the fourth entrant was revealed as Santino. Santino raised the roof, entered the ring, and delivered left hand jabs to Barrett. Santino followed with the Sailor's Salute before channeling Ultimate Warrior. Suddenly, Santino came face-to-face with Big Show. Santino tried a right hand, but Show tossed him around the ring. Cody then cut off Show from behind and scored a two count. Lawler offered an unintentionally comedic visual - Show needs eyes in the back of his legs in this match - before the heels double-teamed Show for a big chokeslam on the Chamber platform. Bryan, in his pod, shouted instructions to Barrett and Cody to dismantle Show, but they decided to attack each other again. Rhodes delivered a majestic top-rope moonsault, but Barrett kicked out in time. Rhodes then blasted away at Santino, who tried to re-enter the match.

At 15:35, the fifth entrant was revealed as Great Khali, so Bryan gets the final slot. Khali delivered some trademark offense, clearing the ring of all competitors except for Show. Khali then came face-to-face with Show and ate a spear. Show made a cover and Khali was gone.

*** Khali eliminated by Big Show at 16:31 ***

After Khali's elimination, Show simply stood in the ring staring down Bryan, who rocked back and forth inside his pod. Bryan smiled and mouthed, "Bring it," as Show stared through the glass toward Bryan. Show then got an idea to try to reach over the glass to grab Bryan, who egged him on. "Come on, big boy," Bryan said. Show then slowly ripped off the top of the Chamber pod as Bryan became frightened. Show then kicked through the top of the pod and landed inside the pod. Show popped the crowd by blasting away at Bryan, who had nowhere to go.

The countdown clock eventually expired at 19:40, officially entering Bryan in the match. The door was unlocked, Bryan thumbed Show in the eye, and tried to run away, but Show launched Bryan right through his Chamber pod to make a big, loud visual. Show then stalked Bryan and delivered a chokeslam. Barrett cut off Show before Show could pin Bryan, though, and Barrett blasted away at Show. Suddenly, Santino snuck up behind Barrett and scored a quick two count. On the platform, Cody smashed Show with a Disaster Kick and Show fell over the top rope back inside the ring. Rhodes hit a DDT, then Barrett came off the second rope with an elbow drop to Show. Rhodes made the cover and Show is gone.

*** Show eliminated by Rhodes at 22:37 ***

After the fall, Rhodes started a huge celebration as Show slowly rolled out of the Chamber. Santino then rolled up Rhodes from behind and Rhodes is gone.

*** Rhodes by Santino at 23:05 ***

Rhodes, shocked, stood up and delivered Cross Rhodes to Santino out of frustration. Barrett tried to capitalize a few moments later, but Santino kicked out of a pin attempt. Barrett then dumped Santino to the Chamber platform as the crowd tried to rally behind Santino. Barrett turned his attention toward Bryan, who countered with a submission into a crucifix pin for a nearfall. Bryan followed right up with a LeBell Lock attempt, but Barrett escaped. Bryan came back with rapid-fire kicks, but found himself crotched on the top rope before taking a left-arm lariat from Barrett in a spot that will bring back some ROH memoires.

At 27:00, Barrett took Bryan to a Chamber pod and tried to squeeze his head inside the pod door before slamming the door on Bryan's head. Santino tried to re-enter the action, but Barrett booted him off the top rope to the platform. Barrett continued the assault on Santino before Barrett turned around to take a flying knee to the head from Bryan. Bryan, now recovered and full of energy, continued to assault Barrett before the action moved up-top. Barrett took control and wanted top-rope Wasteland, but Santino broke it up. Santino then wanted a superplex, but Barrett blocked and shoved Santino to the mat. Barrett missed with a top-rope splash, though, and Bryan came off the top with a diving headbutt on Barrett. Santino made the cover on Barrett, and Barrett is gone.

***Barrett by Santino at 30:39 ***

With it down to Bryan and Santino, the crowd rallied behind Santino as Bryan laughed and smiled, thinking he has it easy now. Santino found a burst of energy, but Bryan quickly cut him off with a corner dropkick. Bryan followed with methodical kicks to the back, but Santino continued to stand up to Bryan, including kicking out of a kick to the head. Bryan then airballed a corner splash and Santino rolled up Bryan, but Bryan kicked out in time. Bryan went up top for a dive and missed.

The crowd popped as Santino yanked out the Cobra for a potential final strike. Santino measured Bryan for the Cobra strike and connected. Santino covered, but Bryan kicked out in time. Santino let up and seconds later, Bryan slapped on the LeBell Lock center-ring. Santino fought the hold as the crowd went nuts trying to encourage Santino to escape. Santino gave a final sign of hope, but Bryan re-applied the hold and Santino was forced to tap out, giving Bryan the win.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 34:05 to retain the World Title. This started off very slowly, but turned into a great piece of WWE storytelling using the Bryan-Show feud, Santino underdog status, and the idea that Bryan had no chance to win the match to involve the crowd and finish very strongly. That is, if viewers could get past the idea of Santino competing for the World Title and The Cobra gimmick being involved in the finish of a World Title match. (***3/4)

4 -- U.S. champion JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL (w/Hornswoggle) -- U.S. Title match

The "comedown match" started with Swagger dominating Gabriel. He took a page from Ziggler by "showing off" with push-ups using Gabriel's back as a base. Gabriel had a few flashes of offense, but Swagger easily cut him off, applied the Anklelock, and Gabriel tapped out. Swagger gets a decisive win.

WINNER: Swagger via submission at 3:07.

[Arcademan]

5 -- JOHN CENA vs. KANE -- Ambulance Match

The crowd started the dueling chants of "Let's Go Cena / Cena Sucks" before Cena took Kane to the outside. They fought up the entrance ramp to the staging area before Cena called for the ambulance. Kane quickly cut off Cena, though, and yanked a stretcher out of the ambulance. Cena cut off Kane, though, and pulled a backboard out of the ambulance to smash Kane with. This was all in the first two minutes of the match. Cena paused to listen to the dueling chants before the "match" returned to the ringside area.

Back in the ring, Kane blasted Cena with right hands to begin wearing down Cena. The crowd resumed another dueling chant as the two men traded bombs in the ring. Cena won the exchange before setting up for and delivering the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Kane blocked and applied his face-squeeze/mandible claw-like maneuver. Cena sold unconsciousness after Kane eventually released the hold. Kane then tossed Cena to the floor.

On the floor, Kane pulled out a wheelchair and placed Cena inside the wheelchair to push him toward the ambulance. Cena tried to fight back half-way down the entrance ramp, then he used his strength (as documented in the earlier video package) to power out of the wheelchair and fight off Kane. They fought toward the ambulance, which Cena used as a weapon to slow down Kane. Cena then grabbed the wheelchair and smashed it into Kane's body as Kane leaned against the ambulance. Cena then placed Kane in the wheelchair and wheeled him clear across the staging area toward a bunch of production tables. Kane easily recovered and started throwing computers toward Cena. There's a mystery Raw GM joke somewhere.

The fight went through the crowd toward the technical area. Kane opted not to use more computers as weapons, instead using his fists to smack around Cena. The crowd cheered on the fight before Cena reversed a whip to send Kane flying over the guardrail to the ringside area. Cena then grabbed a mic and popped Kane in the face before asking Booker if he makes his Fave Five now. Cena then cleared the Spanish announce table, picked up a TV monitor, and popped Kane in the face with the monitor.

Ringside, Cena started re-arranging furniture before popping Kane in the face with ring steps. Cena turned toward a camera and asked no one in particular if it's time to have some fun. Cena then re-arranged more furniture before mocking Kane by asking if he still wants to hate. Another steps-to-the-face blow followed. Cena was done re-arranging furniture, then he stalked Kane for his next move. Cena hoisted up Kane, walked up his re-arranged steps, reached the top step, and wanted an AA through the table, but Kane blocked, grabbed Cena around the throat, and chokeslammed him through the announce table.

The chokeslam spot brought the crowd down before Kane reset by dragging a stretcher down to the ringside area. Kane scooped up Cena and placed him face-down on the stretcher before dragging Cena up the entrance ramp toward the ambulance. At the ambulance, Kane threw Cena inside the ambulance, then he tried to close the doors, but Cena kicked the right door in Kane's face. Cena fought out and made a Super Cena comeback, including smashing Kane into the side of the vehicle. Cena smashed Kane into the driver's side door before climbing to the roof of the vehicle. Cena egged on Kane, who followed him to the roof. They traded right hand bombs before Kane teased a chokeslam off the ambulance. Cena countered, though, and delivered an AA off the roof of the ambulance down to a separate area below. "Somebody better call 911!" Cole shouted. After a pause for Cena to climb down from the ambulance, Cena scooped up Kane, shoved him inside the ambulance, and shut the door. Cena wins.

WINNER: Cena at 21:22. A predictable spectacle match/angle that surely satisfied Cena fans and accomplished the goal of setting the stage for Cena-Rock at WM28. Was it PPV main event-worthy? That's debatable.

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 2-20-12

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

Eve admits to using Zack Ryder and will do the same with John Cena...whoops! Cena was standing behind her and heard everything. Both go to the ring. Cena rips Eve...Eve cries...hilarity ensues.

1 -- SHEAMUS vs. MARK HENRY

After a brief feeling-out process, Sheamus came off the top with a shoulder tackle for a two count. As WWE flashed a graphic announcing "#hoeski" is trending on Twitter, Lawler said he doesn't think he's ever seen anything like what opened in the opening segment. Cole noted Zack Ryder is watching Raw from home while recovering from last week's attack by Kane. In the ring, Sheamus blasted away at Henry with clubbing forearms, then kicks and stomps in the corner. Sheamus followed with a Brogue Kick attempt, but Henry blocked and delivered a clothesline. Henry then lifted up Sheamus for the World's Strongest Slam, but Sheamus slipped out and nailed the Brogue Kick. Sheamus with the pin for the win.

Post-match: Cole said he hopes D-Bryan was paying attention, as one Brogue Kick will end his title run at WrestleMania. After Henry rolled out of the ring and they replayed the finish, Sheamus was shown standing tall in the ring with the WM28 banner hanging over his shoulder.

WINNER: Sheamus at 3:13. Rule #1 for Smackdown heels: call in sick Monday nights. Obviously, the goal is to strongly build up Sheamus ahead of Mania, but using Henry to accomplish that after all of his hard work re-building his character and weeks of TV build-up is highly questionable.

2 -- WWE tag champions PRIMO & EPICO (w/Rosa Mendes) vs. R-TRUTH & KOFI KINGSTON -- non-title match

Lawler noted Primo & Epico should have the advantage since they were not in the Chamber match last night. Cole added that Truth and Kofi will be in the #1 contender battle royal featuring the 10 losers in the Raw and Smackdown Chamber matches. After the tag champs took the early advantage, Kofi hot-tagged into the match and delivered signature offense. Rosa then provided a distraction before the action broke down. It was no matter, as Kingston hit Trouble in Paradise on Primo for the pin and the win. Lawler suggested Kofi and Truth should be in-line for a Tag Title shot now.

WINNERS: Kingston & Truth at 2:23. Another finish that made sense, but hurt the loser(s). Kofi & Truth needed to look strong (a) if they're going after the Tag Titles and (b) because they're in a #1 contender match to the WWE Title later in the show, but what does it say about the tag champs that they lost in three minutes to two guys who were selling injuries after the Chamber PPV last night?

Ron Simmons will be inducted into the WWE HOF. Very deserving honor for him. Congrats!

3 -- EZEKIEL JACKSON (w/Teddy Long) vs. DAVID OTUNGA (w/John Laurinaitis)

Zeke shoved down Otunga and went on the attack, but Otunga cut him off as Cole and Lawler argued about Laurinaitis. The crowd was quiet as Jackson made his comeback before he missed with a corner splash. Otunga then lifted up Zeke with one hand for a power finisher. It was good for the win. Post-match, Laurinaitis bragged in Long's face as Long tried to check on Jackson. Cole stood up to congratulate Laurinaitis before Lawler told him to sit down.

WINNER: Otunga at 1:38.

Taker comes out and calls out Triple H. Trips initially says no but when Taker calls him a coward, all bets are off. Both will be in a 'Hell In A Cell' match at WM XXXIII.

4 -- World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. SANTINO -- non-title match

The crowd quickly picked up a "Santino, Santino" chant, like last night. Santino quickly yanked out The Cobra, but Bryan blindsided Santino to knock the Cobra away. Santino then tried a roll-up, but Bryan easily escaped and slapped on the LeBell Lock. "Tap, Tap!" Bryan screamed. Santino tried grabbing the Cobra, but he was forced to tap out.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 0:56.

5 -- KELLY KELLY & AKSANA vs. BELLA TWINS

Back live, the Divas were already in the ring for a Divas tag match. As Kelly started things off for the faces, Cole noted he is still trying to figure out the relationship between Aksana and Smackdown GM Teddy Long. Another blink-and-you-missed-it match, as the Bellas pulled Twin Magic on Aksana for a quick win.

WINNERS: Bella Twins at 1:17.

John Cena comes out again, talking smack about The Rock...I mean Dwayne Johnson and how he's not around in the WWE but stays in Hollywood. This rant isn't really different than ones we've heard in the past.

6 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. THE MIZ vs. IC champion CODY RHODES vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. WADE BARRETT vs. BIG SHOW vs. KOFI KINGSTON vs. R-TRUTH vs. GREAT KHALI vs. SANTINO -- #1 contender's Battle Royal -- winner faces WWE champion C.M. Punk at WrestleMania

Punk targeted Jericho on commentary as Cole tried to badger Punk with exaggerated claims. The entire crew ganged up on Show, but then turned toward Khali and eliminated him at 0:55. On the floor, Khali simply sat on his rump staring into the ring in disbelief before they cut to break.

Back live at 4:00, Punk introduced the show and reset the broadcast, interrupting Cole. The camera focused on Kofi and Miz battling to avoid elimination while Vickie screeched ringside. Barrett and Rhodes tried to eliminate Show, but Show fought them off.

Cole reset the show at the top of the hour. Kofi and Truth then double-dropkicked Miz, eliminating him from the match and ending his WrestleMania headline attempt. Show then double-chokeslammed Kofi and Truth, but Jericho dropped Show with a Codebreaker. Zig-Zag from Ziggler. Cross Rhodes to Ziggler. Winds of Change from Barrett to Rhodes. Barrett then tried to cut Santino, but Santino made a mid-air counter to eliminate Barrett. Truth was then eliminated by Santino. And, Ziggler ended it with a high-impact dropkick to Santino.

Show then press-slammed Ziggler over the top rope onto Barrett and Truth for a big visual. Barrett screamed and cussed like a sailor, selling that he injured his arm, which was taped to sell Chamber injuries. Cole said Ziggler may have been injured, which seemed like the storyline injury, and Lawler said Barrett may have injured his arm. Meanwhile, ref Scott Armstrong ran from ringside to the middle of the hard camera shot to give the "X" signal in the background. Back in the ring, Jericho eliminated Kingston as more refs came to ringside to check on the wrestlers ringside.

Now, a Final Four of Rhodes, Show, Jericho, and Santino. All four wrestlers paused in the ring as more medical personnel came to ringside to check on Barrett and Ziggler. They eventually started up the action with Rhodes, Jericho, and Santino trying to wear down Show. Santino then busted out The Cobra for Jericho and he connected. But, Rhodes clotheslined Santino over the top rope. Rhodes screamed that Santino's 15 minutes are over.

So, it was Rhodes and JeriShow. Punk noted Rhodes is against a former tag champion team. Show then double-suplexed Jericho and Rhodes before Show clotheslined Rhodes over the top rope. So, it was down to JeriShow. Show grabbed Jericho for a clothesline, but Rhodes grabbed Show's leg from the outside. The distraction gave Jericho an opening to try to pull Show over the top rope. Rhodes then snuck back to ringside and helped Jericho pull Rhodes over the top rope, giving Jericho the win. Cole noted Rhodes cost Show a match with major title implications two nights in a row.

WINNER: Jericho at 12:17 to become #1 contender to the WWE Title. Not exactly an emphatic victory for Jericho to set up Punk-Jericho for the WWE Title at Mania.

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 2-21-12

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

1 – THE MIZ vs. SHEAMUS

Match was joined in progress out of break, as the announcers filled in the blanks of Long making this match after the last segment. Sheamus had Miz in a rest-hold, then rag-tagged him (thanks Booker!) in the chest with forearm blows. Cole talked of how Miz’s lack of a Wrestlemania match this year has started to get to him. Diving shoulder tackle by Sheamus for a two-count. Sheamus rammed the ring-post shoulder first, then Miz continued to work him over outside the ring. Single-arm DDT for a one-count back in the ring. Corner clothesline by Miz found the mark. He went to the high-risk district and came down with a double axe-handle. Top wrist-lock held by Miz, but Sheamus fought out. Irish Curse back-breaker for a near-fall by Sheamus. Miz came back with a back-breaker/neck-breaker combo for two. Brogue Kick missed and Miz rolled him up for a near-fall. Sheamus gave Miz Finlay’s Celtic Cross for the win..

WINNER: Sheamus, 5:52 shown. Sheamus is just building up quality wins to lead into Wrestlemania, which is a smart move on WWE’s part.

2 – KOFI KINGSTON & R-TRUTH vs. JACK SWAGGER & DOLPH ZIGGLER

Vickie Guerrero walked on stage to introduce Swagger and Ziggler. Ziggler once again had his t-shirt sticking out the back of his tights. Apparently Kingston has taken to Twitter to complain about Cole mis-identifying him in the Battle Royal last night, because Cole complained about it here. The heels got the early advantage and Ziggler wore Truth down with a rest-hold. Ziggler missed a splash in the corner, allowing Truth to tag Kingston. Kofi got great height on a springboard clothesline, then knocked Swagger off the apron for good measure. High cross-body off the top for a near-fall, with the pin broken up by Swagger. Truth got involved but Swagger low-bridged him. Vickie screamed at Truth outside the ring. Kingston clotheslined Swagger out and Vickie slipped and fell on her bottom as well. Inside the ring, a thumb to the eye by Ziggler (with the ref apparently looking toward Vickie to see if she was okay) led to the Zig Zag for the pinfall.

WINNERS: Swagger and Ziggler, at 2:44. You could tell in the first minute that this was going to be real short.

3 – THE GREAT KHALI vs. DREW MCINTYRE

McIntyre got the “already in the ring” treatment, but when being announced, was actually at ringside yelling at the commentators about having to face Khali. McIntyre shoved Khali, then tried to escape. Khali didn’t fool around, giving McIntyre the brain chop and the Khali Bomb in seconds.

WINNER: Khali, at :33. Long was on the verge of firing McIntyre weeks ago. What’s the storyline reason for him holding onto McIntyre now?

4 – MARK HENRY vs. THE BIG SHOW

Mathews talked about Long reinstating Henry and Cole said that it’s just Long caving to political pressure. Body shots to the torso of Henry from Show. He set up for the punch early on, but couldn’t connect. Henry clotheslined Show, knocking him to the mat. Headbutt by Henry to the back of Show’s head. Henry went for a cover and methodically worked over Show. Henry stood on top of Show and did some trash talking. “I’m the shot caller tonight!” he shouted. Show was whipped into the corner, but got his foot up on a charge. Show came back with clotheslines, then a spear. Show signaled for the chokeslam, but as he did so, Cody Rhodes walked out as his theme played. Rhodes said if Show is going to chokeslam someone, it must not be Wrestlemania. Rhodes brought up Show’s loss to Akebono at Wrestlemania 21, saying he made an *** of himself. On the TitanTron, Rhodes cued up a video package of Show’s “embarrassing Wrestlemania moment,” that being his sumo match with Akebono, complete with close-ups of Show’s bottom. After the video, Show walked into a World’s Strongest Slam and a splash. That only got two. Wow. Show then got to his feet and knocked out Henry. But instead of going for the pin, he went after Rhodes. Rhodes ran to the back as Show headed that way as well. They replayed the punch before the match even ended. Then they went to the announcers.

WINNER: Henry, presumably via count-out, at around 5:35 (no bell). Absolutely ridiculous to not acknowledge a finish. They probably wanted to protect both guys by not revealing a winner, but that does so much more damage by ignoring the fact that there was a match and an obvious count-out. It’s especially harmful because this was a match they had hyped since the show began.

5 – EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. DAVID OTUNGA

Teddy Long accompanied Jackson to the ring, while Laurinaitis brought out Otunga. Laurinaitis even danced like Long. Garcia flubbed the introduction of Laurinaitis, and Cole called her out on it. With both men in the ring, an inset interview aired with Jackson, saying he let down Teddy Long, but Otunga is going down tonight. Otunga went after Jackson, but Jackson showed a lot of fire in his comeback. He clotheslined Otunga in the corner, then splashed him. Sidewalk slam followed that, then the Torture Rack. Otunga got to the ropes however, and Otunga brought Jackson down throat-first over the top rope. Back in the ring, spinebuster by Otunga for the win.

WINNER: Otunga, at 1:20. Long really needs to hitch his wagon to someone else’s star.

6 – DANIEL BRYAN vs. CM PUNK

During Punk’s entrance, they showed the front page of TMZ.com on Cole’s laptop, which has the story of the Punk-Chris Brown feud, and Brown’s recent Twitter post in response to Punk’s video. Chain wrestling to start, with neither man getting the advantage. They went to break with both men getting back to their feet on opposite side of the ring, 1:26 in.

[Commercial Break]

Back at 4:47, with Bryan having Punk locked in a side headlock. Running knee-lift by Punk after breaking free. More back-and-forth, but Bryan cut off Punk’s momentum by dodging a top rope cross-body by Punk. Punk sold an injury to his left arm. Bryan dragged Punk to the middle of the ring and worked over the arm. Bryan kicked Punk in the chest, but Punk got to his feet and peppered Punk with forearms. Overhead suplex by Bryan, then he stomped Punk’s elbow. Counter by Punk and both men were down at 8:43. Punk started his comeback by using his feet, but Bryan got out of a Go To Sleep. LeBell Lock countered, and Bryan held the ropes on a kick attempt from Punk. Bryan asked for his title, but Sheamus ran out, grabbed Bryan, and tossed him back into the ring. Punk kicked Bryan in the head to pin him.

WINNER: Punk, at 9:52.

As Punk celebrated, John Laurinaits came out and said that due to outside interference, this match will continue. If he’s acknowledging the interference, shouldn’t it be a disqualification? The ref rang the bell to re-start the match, Laurinaitis got a chair to sit ringside, and they went to break a little more than 10:00 in.

Back at 13:10 of the restarted match. Bryan kicked Punk in the head as Punk was lying on the mat. They showed Punk mocking Bryan during the break by shouting “yes! yes!” after ramming him into the barricade. Bryan rolled Punk up and held the ropes to pick up the win.

WINNER: Bryan, at 13:49.

Teddy Long came out and said he saw what just happened. Long said he wasn’t going to allow it, as Laurinaitis protested. so they restarted the match again. The men traded standing switches, then Bryan was sent over the top and to ringside. Punk hit Bryan with a suicide dive, hitting his head on the barricade in the process. After recent injuries outside the ring in both TNA and WWE, I’m sure management is holding their breath on every move similar to that. Off the top came Punk for a two-count on Bryan. Bryan went back to working on the arm of Punk. Long and Laurinaitis were seated next to each other at ringside, Laurinaitis in a nice leather chair and Long in a steel chair. Dropkick in the corner for a two-count for Bryan. Bryan set Punk on the top rope. Hurricanrana, but Punk held on and rolled Bryan up for two. Bryan missed a kick and Punk rolled him up for two.

Bryan tried a LeBell Lock, to no avail. Monkey flip by Punk sent Bryan into the corner, then he connected with a kick to the head. Cover got two as Bryan put his foot on the bottom rope. Crowd chanted for Punk. Punk went to the top for an elbowdrop, but Bryan crotched him. Bryan grabbed Punk for a superplex, but Punk pushed him off. Bryan was able to go back to the top because Punk was in such pain, he couldn’t capitalize. Superplex, but as Bryan went for the pin, Punk grabbed a leg too. Both men’s shoulders were down and the ref counted three. He didn’t make an announcement though. Of course, both GM’s thought “their guy” won. Crowd was clear in their decision. Laurinaitis and Long argued, but Laurinaitis went into the ring and raised the arm of Daniel Bryan. Long did the same, raising Punk’s arm. Shouldn’t the ref have a say in this? The GM’s got animated in their discussion, with Laurinaitis throwing down his suit jacket and Long throwing his in Laurinaitis’ face. Long walked off as Bryan restrained an angry Laurinaitis as the show closed.

WINNER: None announced, 19:01.

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 2-22-12

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

1 - TYSON KIDD vs. TYLER REKS

Quick schoolboy gets one for Kidd and Regal strongly talks up Kidd from the booth. Kidd controls Reks, but Reks punches out. Reks with strong power offense and then mat control. Interesting to see Reks dominating Kidd with holds. Kidd with a springboard arm drag to escape the wristlock. Reks rolls outside and Hawkins menaces Kidd, so the ref ejects Hawkins. Hawkins objects, so Kidd takes them both down with a dive.

False commercial break and Kidd is getting dumped over Reks's head into a turnbuckle. Reks with knee lifts and he dumps Kidd onto the ropes. Reks with a reverse chicken wing and more knee lifts. Reks looks cocky tonight, but a knee drop is only good for two. Kidd finally uses speed and smarts to gain control, and manages to back body drop Reks from the apron to ringside, then lands a knee from the apron to take Reks down. Reks back in the ring and a springboard missile dropkick from Kidd gets a nearfall.

Reks makes a comeback and lands a fallaway slam for a nearfall of his own. Reks goes to the second rope, but Kidd dropkicks his jaw. Kidd meets him up top looking for a superplex. Reks punches him, so Kidd drops to the apron and lands a big leaping enziguri. Kidd comes up the rope but Reks grabs him in a fireman carry, leaps off the turnbuckle and drops Kidd on the turnbuckle in one fluid motion. Reks rolls Kidd into the ring and covers for two.

Reks gets frustrated and lands a series of leg drops, but on the last one, Kidd grabs the leg and transitions into the Sharpshooter. Reks struggles for a bit and eventually taps like mad. The audience cheers big for Kidd and Regal favorably compares Kidd to Bret Hart.

WINNER: Tyson Kidd via submission in 10:00. Good match! Tyler Reks did a great job keeping up with the technical work of Kidd, and Kidd is sliding into the face role quite nicely. Good match all around with a number of well-done sequences. I would not mind seeing more of this.

2 - ALEX RILEY vs. TITUS O'NEIL

O'Neil immediately knocks Riley down and mock cheers for him. More power and mocking from O'Neil, but Riley sends O'Neil to the outside. Regal says that O'Neil's charity work is annoying, and that Riley is taking his mother to the Hall of Fame. Riley with a big clothesline, but O'Neil sends Riley to the outside. Young looks like he wants to get involved, but Percy Watson comes down to cheer on Riley from the outside.

Out of the break, Riley is stuck on the ground. O'Neil continues to dominate Riley, and gets frustrated with the ref for two counts. Riley with a STO to get some space. Regal tells Watson to get more aggressive. Riley with a huge spinebuster for a nearfall. Riley mounts O'Neil in the corner for ten punches, but O'Neil powerbombs on number nine, and covers with feet on the ropes for the pin. Watson complains to the ref, but it's too late.

WINNER: Titus O'Neil in 7:00. This match felt longer than it was. I know that both O'Neil and Riley can deliver in the ring, so I am really not sure why it lacked excitement.

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 2-23-12

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

1 - ALEX RILEY vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

Lock-ups without much advantage for either man at the beginning. Riley gets the crowd involved and takes McGillicutty down. A few vocal males are chanting "Mr. Perfect." Riley with ten punches in the corner and a faceplant for a close two count. Riley with a small suplex for two. McGillicutty drags Riley out of the ring by his feet.

McGillicutty is selling like nuts as he has Riley in a headlock on the mat. Riley forces his way out and tricks McGillicutty into whiffing on a dropkick. Riley jackknifes for two, but McGillicutty is back on the attack. McGillicutty with a blockbuster for two. McGillicutty continues to dominate. Riley with an STO to go on attack, and lands a spinebuster and a float-over DDT for a close nearfall. McGillicutty with a Saito suplex for a nearfall of his own. McGillicutty to the top rope, but Riley shakes the rope to crotch him. Riley meets him up ton for an inside-out superplex for another nearfall. McGillcutty stumbles into the Final Score, but slips out at the last moment. McGillicutty with the Turning Heads neckbreaker (about time it got a name!) for the win.

WINNER: Michael McGillicutty in 10:00. This may well be the best match I've seen McGillicutty in. In the last few weeks, he's turned up the pacing to a level appropriate for his position on the weight chart and it's working wonders for his matches. Using more moves like the Saito suplex to distinguish himself from the rest of the roster is important. He and Riley work well together, too.

2 - MASON RYAN vs. TYLER REKS

Wow, the lower card is doing a lot of double duty this week (Reks and Riley both wrestled on NXT, too).

Reks outwits Ryan, but Ryan uses power to get out of a waistlock. Ryan shoves Reks out of the ring. Reks and Ryan trade offensive barrages, but Ryan maintains momentum. Ryan with a very shaky delayed vertical suplex, which only gets one. Reks uses a chopblock to dominate for a stretch. Ryan with a flapjack and forearms, then a shoulder to the gut and a big boot. Ryan with a powerslam for two. Reks with a reverse STO to put Ryan into the turnbuckle face-first. Reks distracts the ref and Hawkins whacks Ryan from the ringside. Reks with the Burning Hammer for the win.

WINNER: Tyler Reks in 5:00. Reks carried Ryan to a decent-enough match. Reks has a fair amount of upside; he just needs to flesh out his character beyond where it is now (generic, arrogant heel) into something that the audience can sink their teeth into.

3 - JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. JINDER MAHAL

Gabriel with an early takedown and then another. Mahal can't shake off the tenacious Gabriel. Mahal with a shoulder block into a headlock of his own. Mahal blocks an armdrag, but Gabriel ducks his followup punch and takes Mahal down again and rolls back into the headlock. Mahal twists out, then moves to his knee-based offense. Gabriel jumps off the second rope and lands a huracanrana, but Mahal pops right back. Gabriel kicks Mahal to the ringside and looks for a springboard dive, but Mahal moves, so Gabriel backflips into the ring off the ropes. Very smart looking move. Mahal dodges a baseball slide and is in control headed to break.

Mahal cuts off Gabriel's offense out of the break with a kneelift. The crowd rallies Gabriel, who hits a monkey flip and a backslide for two. Mahal with a neckbreaker for two. The ignorant crowd chants "USA" despite the fact that Gabriel is from South Africa. Mahal with strong offense using his knees and the ropes for leverage. Mahal sends Gabriel into the corner hard. Back elbow from Mahal gets another two count. Gabriel dodges a running knee and hits a jawbreaker to get control.

Gabriel with a big roundhouse kick, then a huge springboard shoulder block for two. Gabriel fires up and wails away on Mahal. Gabriel even manages a front suplex, but he can't get Mahal's shoulders to the mat. Mahal gets knees up on a springboard moonsault and lands a running high knee to Gabriel's upper back. Mahal settles into the Camel Clutch for a speedy tap-out.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal in 8:00. Very, very serviceable match. Gabriel always impresses with unique high-flying moves and Mahal kept pace while delivering his own brand of offense.

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 2-23-12

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

1 - TNA World Tag Team champions MAGNUS & SAMOA JOE vs. MATT MORGAN & CRIMSON - TNA World Tag Team Championship match

Morgan and Crimson were quick to attack as the bell rang. They disposed Magnus to the outside and double-teamed Joe. Joe regained his bearings and tagged Magnus in to do battle with Crimson. The “undefeated” Crimson hit a wind-up slam on Magnus for a two count. Crimson went for a spear on Magnus in the corner, but Joe made the save leaving Crimson to crash shoulder-first into the ringpost.

The show came back with Crimson fighting Joe and Magnus out of the corner. Crimson hit Joe with a Spinebuster, then both wrestlers tagged in their respective partners. Morgan dominated Joe and Magnus and got a close two count on Magnus that was broken up by Joe. Morgan and Crimson seemed to be in control of the offense until Crimson accidentally hit Morgan with a clothesline. Joe threw Crimson out of the ring, which left Morgan open to receive a double team sequence from Joe and Magnus. This led to Magnus getting the pin after an elbow from the second rope.

WINNERS: Joe & Magnus via pinfall at 9:00 to retain the TNA Tag Team Titles.

2 - X Division champion ALEX SHELLEY vs. ZEMA ION

Ion went after Shelley before the bell with baseball slide. After putting Shelley down, Ion sprayed the hairspray as Austin Aries made his way out to the ring with popcorn and a glass of wine in hand. Shelley blindsided Ion and hit a springboard splash from the outside apron into the ring on Ion for a two count. Ion got the best of Shelley on a few exchanges before locking him in an armbar. Shelley made his way to the ropes and hit a Dragon Screw on Ion.

After an enziguiri, Shelley clotheslined Ion to the outside, and followed it up with suicide elbow through the ropes to the outside. Shelley went to the top rope for the double foot stomp, but missed. Ion pushed Shelley towards the ref, but Shelley put the brakes on it. In a moment of a disarray, Ion caught Shelley in the eyes with the hairspray. With Shelley on his knees, Ion hit him with a pair of running knees for the pin.

WINNER: Ion via pinfall at 4:03.

3--TNA Knockouts champion and Knockout Tag Team champion GAIL KIM vs. ODB (w/Eric Young)

As the match started, the crowd started chanting “ODB,” which Kim took exception to. She began to highlight her assets while putting down ODB’s. ODB knocked Kim down with her chest. ODB got Kim in the corner and hit her with a Bronco Buster for a failed pin attempt. Kim tried to mount some offense, but was caught off by ODB who hit a fallaway slam. Another “ODB” chant broke out as Kim began to take over on offense. Kim hit a flying clothesline for a two count.

Kim threw ODB face-first into the mat from the ropes akin to Randy Orton’s signature DDT. The Knockouts champion got ODB in her “octopus style submission,” which she reversed by slamming Kim into the floor. Kim maintained offense in the corner, putting her boot the neck of ODB. Rayne made her way out, distracting Kim long enough for Young to pour some of the liquid from a flask into ODB’s mouth, giving her Popeye-like strength. ODB hit a Thesz Press from the corner for a two count. Kim went for a kick that was reversed into a "Bam" attempt, only to have that countered into Kim’s Eat Defeat.

WINNER: Kim via pinfall in 6:10.

4 - TNA Television champion ROBBIE E. (w/Robbie T.) vs. A.J. STYLES - TNA Television championship match

Styles was quick to put the offense to Robbie E. as the crowd quickly broke into an “AJ” chant. AJ put Robbie into the Cattle Mutilation submission hold until Robbie E. broke free. Robbie tried to hide to behind Terry, which distracted Styles long enough for Robbie to enough offense in to get a two count. Robbie threw Styles into corner allowing Terry to take a free shot at Styles behind the referee’s back. Robbie hit a knee drop of the middle rope on Styles for a close two count. Styles fought back and hit a sick-looking dropkick on Robbie and then picked him up for a sloppy pumphandle backbreaker. As Styles took to the outside ring apron, Kazarian and Daniels made their way to the ring. Kazarian pulled Styles down and threw him into the ringpost. The referee called for the disqualification.

WINNER: A.J. Styles via DQ at 4:49; Robbie retained the TV Title.

5 - BULLY RAY & KURT ANGLE vs. JAMES STORM & JEFF HARDY (w/Brandon Jacobs)

Storm and Angle started things out for their teams and exchanged blows until Storm hit Angle with a running knee to the face. After another knee to Angle, Ray distracted Storm long enough for Angle to take advantage and put the boots on Storm in the corner. Storm tagged Hardy in as the show went to commercial break.

As the show came back, Hardy hit the Whisper in the Wind on Ray for a close two count. Jeff took off running to the ropes, but was stopped by a clothesline from Ray. Ray kept hold of the referee’s attention long enough for Angle to take Hardy down and pull him, groin-first, into the ringpost. Tenay said that he had just gotten word that Styles was livid backstage and was demanding a gauntlet match against Kazarian and Styles for next week’s Impact.

Ray tagged in Angle, who kept Hardy at bay with an over head belly-to-belly suplex. Angle tagged Ray back into the match and attempted to capitalize on Hardy’s weak state, only to be countered with a boot to the face. Hardy tagged Storm in, which led to a series of all the wrestlers subsequently taking each other out. Ray and Angle went for a table under the ring and as they were pulling it out they received a double baseball slide kick from Hardy and Storm. As Ray and Angle set up the table, Storm nailed Angle with Last Call superkick. Bully Ray took Storm down, which led to Jacobs entering the ring.

Ray and Jacobs had a stand-off, which saw both of them getting into a three point stance. Storm punched Ray in the face and Jacobs put Ray through the table, allowing Storm to score the pin.

WINNERS: Storm and Hardy via pinfall at 14:11.

[Arcademan]

Ring of Honor TV Results: 2-25-12

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

1 - - CAPRICE COLEMAN & CEDRICK ALEXANDER vs. THE YOUNG BUCKS (Matt & Nick Jackson)

Matt hit a punch on Alexander and blew a kiss to the crowd, which allowed Alexander to get the upper hand. Coleman and Alexander tagged in and out to work over Matt. Nick tried to attack Coleman and Alexander from behind, but they took him out. The Young Bucks fired back with tandem kicks in the corner on Alexander. Nick then wiped out Coleman with a dive through the ropes. The Young Bucks hit another flashy tandem move on Alexander, which drew some cheers from the crowd. Kelly previewed the Richards-Lethal main event and said history would be made. McGuinness said that facing ROH World Champion Bryan Danielson when he was the Pure Champion changed his career.

The Young Bucks continued to work over Alexander as McGuinness said the talent was going to pull out all of the stops at “The 10th Anniversary Show.” Alexander made the hot tag and Coleman ran wild on the Young Bucks. Coleman hit an awesome leg lariat on Nick in the corner and he flew right over Nick and landed on Matt. That was sweet. The crowd really got behind Alexander and Coleman as they hit a string of high-flying maneuvers. Coleman got a nearfall on mat with a splash off the top. Alexander hit a superkick on Matt and Coleman speared him right into a DDT, but Nick broke up the pin. The Young Bucks went for the finish, but Coleman cut them off. The Young Bucks quickly took control and hit more bang for your buck on Coleman for the win.

Winners: Matt & Nick Jackson – Very impressive back and forth match. Coleman & Alexander are really beginning to impress me on ROH TV and DVDs. They’re showing more personality and also have the potential to climb the ladder in the tag division given their recent performances.

2 - - ROH World Champion DAVEY RICHARDS vs. ROH TV Champion JAY LETHAL – ROH World Title match

McGuinness said Lethal was going to have to find Richards’s weakness in order to be successful. The announcers hinted that Richards’s relationship with his former partner might be his weakness. The crowd chanted for both men after they came to a stalemate. Lethal countered Richards on the mat and tied him up in a submission. Richards escaped and both men circled each other before engaging in battle again. Lethal escaped a backslide, but Richards managed to back off a kick attempt from Lethal. The crowd chanted for both men as they circled each other again. Lethal hit an arm drag followed by a dropkick out of a cartwheel for a 2 count.

Richards fired back with a dropkick of his own as Kelly discussed the upcoming glut of iPPVs. Richards grabbed a leg submission. Lethal struggled, but managed to get the ropes. Richards continued to target Lethal’s legs. Lethal fired back with a backbreaker and a Russian leg sweep. Lethal then locked in a modified arm bar. Richards slipped out and locked in a stretch muffler. Lethal struggled, but managed to get the ropes. Lethal fired back and nailed Richards with a boot out of the corner. Lethal then hit a leg lariat off the second rope, but was slow to cover and only got a 2 count. Tomasso Ciampa came down to ringside with a chair to take in the action. Lethal hit a suplex and covered Richards for a 2 count.

Lethal was still in control when they show resumed from commercial break. Richards held the ropes down and Lethal flew to the outside. Richards then nailed Lethal with a running kick from the apron to Lethal on the floor. The crowd applauded as Richards got a running start and nailed Lethal with a dive through the ropes. Richards pointed at Ciampa at ringside and he got out of his seat. O’Reilly came out from the back and held Richards back. Lethal fired up with a chance to recover and took down Richards. Lethal hit the back handspring elbow for a 2 count. They showed Lethal missing the lethal injection during the commercial break.

Richards fired back, but Lethal cut him off with the lethal combination for a nearfall. The crowd applauded the nearfall. Strong, Elgin, and Martini made their way to ringside. Lethal and Richards battled on the top turnbuckle. Richards hit a superplex and rolled throw into a falcon arrow into an arm bar as the crowd applauded. Lethal struggled to escape the hold, but eventually got the ropes. The announcers pointed out that House of Truth were on the outside encouraging Lethal to get the ropes. Cole and Edwards came down to ringside. The crowd roared as Richards set up Lethal for some big kicks. Lethal made his way to his feet as Richards continued to kick him. Lethal fired back with an onslaught of blows on Richards. Richards went for the alarm clock. Lethal countered it, but Richards slipped through and locked in an arm bar. Lethal leveraged Richards over and locked in a submission. He then turned it into a pinning combination for a nearfall. Both men exchanged kicks in the center of the ring. Richards then hit a huge clothesline and both men were down. (Radican note: My gosh was that a great sequence)

The crowd went nuts as Richards went up top. Richards yelled at Edwards. Martini got on the apron and O’Reilly dragged him to the floor. The House of Truth jumped O’Reilly. The distraction allowed Lethal to take down Richards. Lethal went up top and hit an elbow drop, but Richards kicked out with the entire building on their feet. Everyone brawled on the outside with Lethal and Richards inside the ring. Lethal set up for the lethal injection, but Elgin shoved Cole into the ropes as Lethal went into his handspring. Richards then hit a roundhouse kick to Lethal’s head for the win.

Radican’s thoughts: (***3/4) – Excellent match with a lot of drama down the stretch. The action on the outside and some missed camera shots made it hard to keep track of everything going on outside the ring. Kelly put over that Lethal was about to win the match if not for Elgin shoving Cole into the ropes. Kelly pointed out that Ciampa had never gotten out of his chair during the brawl on the outside. This was fantastic and I’d love to see a match with less interference between these two.

Richards and Lethal shook hands after the match ended. Ciampa jawed with Lethal from the outside. Kelly said Edwards vs. Strong would take place next week to determine the #1 Contender to the ROH World Title.

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 2-27-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed to in-ring results with my usual snide comments in italics...

- Opening 20 minutes was Jericho and Punk jawing with each other and honestly enjoyed the comments made more than I should have...

1 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/A.J., John Laurinaitis, and David Otunga) -- non-title Champion vs. Champion match

The match was joined in progress with Bryan and Punk exchanging blows and strikes in the ring. Cole reset the events going on. They cut away from the ring for a shot of the announce position, where Santino and Teddy Long were also ringside. Laurinaitis and Long began bickering as Bryan worked over Punk in the ring. Punk then made a comeback as the director continued to cut to ringside. Punk then dumped Bryan over the top rope to the floor and Bryan sold a right knee injury. Bryan then called over A.J. as Punk was about to land a suicide dive. Punk slowed down to avoid hitting A.J. with the dive, then Bryan "recovered" and smashed Punk into the ring steps. They cut to another break after 3:15 of action.

Back from break at 6:50, Bryan had Punk in an abdominal stretch mid-ring. They showed clips from during the lengthy break of a near-double pin finish, similar to Smackdown. Again, WWE missed action in the ring with a ringside shot of the announce position. Back in the ring, Punk delivered forearm strikes before attempting a high knee, but he sold pain causing him not to be able to land it flush. Punk shook it off, then went up top for a flying elbow drop to the heart. Punk sold intense pain before looking around the arena for something.

Punk acknowledged a "GTS" chant, then Otunga hopped on the ring apron to distract Punk. Punk fought him off, then Punk and Bryan had a exchange that ended with a mid-ring collision. Suddenly, Santino got on the apron to smash Otunga with the Cobra. Laurinaitis then yanked Santino off the apron, prompting a discussion between Long and Laurinaitis. In the background, Bryan just accepted his title belt from A.J. and started to leave. But, Sheamus ran down to ringside and threw Bryan back into the ring. In the ring, Punk nailed the GTS and made a cover, but Laurinaitis entered the ring and demanded the ref call for the bell.

Post-match: Long stepped into the ring and shoved down Laurinaitis. Otunga and Santino held back the GMs as Punk smirked and slipped out of the ring. They cut to a shot of Punk on the stage telling no one in particular to wait for it. He then held up his title belt to declare he's the best in the world. Suddenly, Jericho jumped Punk from behind on the stage. Jericho lifted up Punk and scoop slammed him on the entrance ramp. Punk sold back pain as Jericho looked down at Punk. So, what's happening in the ring? Jericho then slapped on the Walls of Jericho with a knee on Punk's neck for added pressure. Refs spilled out to demand Jericho release the hold. Jericho eventually released the hold as the crowd chanted in the background. Jericho then grabbed the title belt and hoisted it in the air with a big smirk. Jericho then threw the title belt down on to Punk and told him to enjoy it for now.

WINNER: No Decision announced at 10:15. Way too much happening during and after the match, and yet another match with no decision announced. Sloppy presentation uncharacteristic of WWE.

2 -- KELLY KELLY vs. NIKKI BELLA (w/Brie Bella)

Back from break, the Divas were in the ring. Cole noted Kelly waited all week to tweet about her supposed best friend, Eve, turning her back on Zack Ryder last week. The match then began with Bella in control. After the Bellas attempted Twin Magic, Kelly countered a pin attempt with a rolling pin for the win.

WINNER: Kelly at 1:30.

3 -- JOHN CENA vs. THE MIZ

Cena started hot with trademark offense on Miz as Cole reminded viewers that Rock is live in the building tonight. Cena went for the Attitude Adjustment a minute into the match, but Miz countered with the Reality Check for a two count. Miz stomped away, but Cena seemingly no-sold before taking a knee lift to the face. The commentary was good here talking about Miz needing to prove himself Mania worthy with a win and Cena wanting to impress Rock, who is in the building. Cena made a comeback with clotheslines before measuring Miz for a suplex that Miz countered with a snap DDT. Miz with a nearfall.

Miz slowed down the match and measured Cena for a corner attack that he connected with. Miz held his pose for a few seconds before climbing up top. He missed with a weak-looking double axehandle, then Cena made his trademark comeback. Cena set up for and delivered the Five Knuckle Shuffle before measuring Miz for the AA. Cena hoisted up Miz and delivered it center-ring. Cena opted for the STF center-ring instead of a pin and Miz tapped out within seconds. Cole declared that Cena is ready for Rock in five weeks.

Post-match: Cena stood on the turnbuckles and looked toward the Titantron, where Rock was shown in his locker room bouncing up and down preparing for his return. Rock then shot a look toward the camera and did Cena's You Can't See Me handwave. Rock lifted his hand and they cut back to Cena, who was shown smiling in the ring. Cena left the ring and looked into the crowd before looking toward the WM28 logo. Cena flashed a salute before they cut to break.

WINNER: Cena via submission at 4:03. After a comedown period following the Jericho-Punk-Bryan segments, this was strong with focus on Cena-Rock and Rock's first on-camera appearance of the night. The story of Miz trying to get back to Mania is intriguing, too, for the next few weeks.

4 -- WWE tag champions PRIMO & EPICO (w/Rosa Mendes) vs. U.S. champion JACK SWAGGER & DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. R-TRUTH & KOFI KINGSTON -- three-way WWE Tag Title match

After the bell sounded, Cole actually explained that a wrestler can only tag in his tag partner. Ziggler opted to duck out of the ring, leaving Kofi and Primo to start things off. The match broke down with rapid-fire exchanges before the ring was left empty after everyone was cleared to the outside. Cole sent the show to break.

Back from break, Swagger and Primo were working on Truth in the ring. Ziggler then tagged in and began arguing with Primo over who should pin Truth. Cole added an injury update on Punk - nice follow-up - that Punk's fictional X-rays have come back negative following Jericho's attack earlier in the show. In the ring, the heels made tags, but started fighting, allowing Truth to tag in Kingston. Kingston executed double-team, crowd-pleasing offense before delivering a double Boom Drop to Swagger and Epico. Suddenly, Ziggler dropped Kofi from behind with the Zig-Zag. The action broke down and bodies started flying in and out of the ring. Kofi then popped Swagger with Trouble in Paradise, but Primo dropped Swagger with a backstabber. Epico then threw Kofi out of the ring and covered Swagger to retain the Tag Titles.

Post-match: Suddenly, Kane's pyro shot off and Kane stormed to the ring to find bodies to devour. Primo ate a big boot ringside. In the ring, Ziggler and Epico ate double chokeslams. Truth tried to get some of Kane, but Truth took a chokeslam. Kane, who took one week off after the ambulance match at Elimination Chamber, stood over the fallen bodies before shooting off his pyro in the ring. Kane left the ring as the announcers talked about Kane being scary.

WINNERS: Primo & Epico at 8:36 to retain the Tag Titles. Well, just like WWE management, Kane apparently doesn't like tag wrestling. It will be interesting to see where WWE slots Kane on Mania.

- Eve came out to the ring. One advantage of the DVR...fast-fowarding!!!

5 -- IC champion CODY RHODES & MARK HENRY vs. SHEAMUS & BIG SHOW

The bell sounded and Rhodes quickly tagged Henry before leaving the ring. Show then speared Henry and chased Rhodes out of the ring. Rhodes backed away up the entrance ramp to avoid Show, then Sheamus tagged himself into the match. He smashed Henry with a Brogue Kick and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus & Show at 0:58. Oh, Henry.

- Finally...The Rock is back on TV...and talks for over 20 minutes. Cena talks back...yadda yadda yadda...if you've seen it before, you'll see it again many times before April 1!

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 2-29-12

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

1 - ALEX RILEY & PERCY WATSON vs. TITUS O'NEIL & DARREN YOUNG - Tag Team Match

Quick, hard, back-and-forth between Riley and O'Neil, so O'Neil tags in Young, who walks into an armdrag. Young beats on Riley in the corner a bit, but Riley slips out of the corner and lands a hard clothesline for two. Riley clears O'Neil from the apron and heads to the top, but Young kicks him in the head. Neckbreaker from Young and O'Neil comes in. Riley looks for a tag, but he's isolated in the heel corner. Young gets a two count by dropping Riley onto the ropes. Regal talks up the difficulty of adjusting to tag team wrestling to explain while Riley's on the short end of the stick; excellent way to build up the heels.

Riley comes close to tagging out, but O'Neil takes him back to the corner. Riley manages a sunset flip from O'Neil's shoulders in the heel corner, but Young blind tags in. That was a great move from two big men. Young slows it down with a body scissors and Regal says that O'Neil and Young got tips from Arn Anderson earlier today. He is so good at making the talent look good and adding back story to things.

Riley finally gets some space and Watson tags in just as Young sends Riley out of the ring. Watson to the top rope for an axehandle and rights, dropkick, and a flying shoulder tackle to get momentum. Watson is fired up and lands the Highsman for a nearfall. O'Neil jaws from the apron, so Watson knocks him down, but spends too much time gloating. Young sneaks up behind him and, after a little bit of work, hits his finisher for a clean, middle of the ring win.

WINNERS: O'Neil & Young in 5:30. Nice match that could have (and should have) gone longer. I question the booking of the finish, but that is pure personal opinion based on being in favor of Percy Watson. Watson was the standout here, as usual, but Riley's sunset flip was a real treat to see. I'd like to see Watson face or team up with Kofi Kingston or Evan Bourne.

2 - TYSON KIDD vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

Kidd shucks and jives, but they trade waistlocks and then trade takedowns. Kidd acts very cocky and confident for the smaller man, and applies a wristlock. McGillcutty turns it into a wristlock of his own, but Kidd gets to the ropes and wraps McGillicutty's arm up in the ropes. Kidd plays to the crowd, but McGillcutty turns to power to get control, then moves to another wristlock. Kidd with a springboard to escape, and rolls through a wheelbarrow into a cover for two. McGillicutty tosses Kidd onto the ropes crotch-first and the crowd chants, "No more children."

The action moves to the outside and McGillicutty rolls Tyson into the ring for two. McGillcutty turns up the aggression and starts shouting at Kidd. Regal in a very insightful half-shoot comment says that a lot of folks get upset when they "have to come to NXT" and says that this is the wrong attitude to have because NXT is a great showcase for everyone. And, you know what? He could not be more right.

McGillicutty with a big chinlock and looks like he's trying to really torque it. Kidd can't get any traction until he gets boots up in a corner. Double clothesline resets the action. Kidd's speed gives him the control. Dropkick for two. Kidd with a crazy move, he jumps over McGillicutty, rolls across the back, grabs on like a crucifix, but rolls forwards and into a cover for two. Kidd to the top, but McGillicutty punches him and looks for a superplex, but Kidd blocks and knocks him off. Moonsault from Kidd for a nearfall. Kidd wants the Sharpshooter, but McGillicutty grabs the apron to block, and kicks Kidd's knees out. McGillicutty with the Turning Heads neckbreaker for the win.

WINNER: McGillicutty in 6:30. Remember last week when I said that McG had his best match? He just topped it. Give these two another five-to-ten minutes and I'll be thrilled. Kidd could have a good match with my filing cabinet, but McGillicutty really stepped up to the plate to knock it out of the park. The best thing McGillicutty's done is lose that baseball cap; it makes him so much more serious.

During this segment of the show, Matt Striker (who pointed out to everyone he's the only person who's been with NXT from the start) announces the William Regal is the NXT General Manager. This might get me to watch the show more now...

3 - KAITLYN vs. MAXINE

Maxine with a quick tackle. Curtis denies being "creepy." Kaitlyn in the corner, but she dodges a charge and goes to work. Bodyslam and leg drop, and Kaitlyn moves to a body scissors. Bateman says Maxine doesn't abuse him; that it's just how she expresses her love. Maxine powers out and gets a trio of two counts. Kaitlyn with a backbreaker and moves to punch Maxine in the head on the mat. Maxine gets boots up in the corner and hits a running sledgehammer for two two counts.

Curtis shushes Mathews as Maxine works an armbar. Curtis with more double entendres. Kaitlyn turns the armbar into a full nelson and hits a sit down slam from the full nelson. Maxine gets flipped over and Kaitlyn uses her feet to pin Maxine for the win. Maxine looks incredulous.

WINNER: Kaitlyn in 4:00. Interesting match with some unusual moves.

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 3-1-12

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

1 - SANTINO MARELLA vs. CURT HAWKINS (w/Tyler Reks)

To begin the match, Hawkins runs out of the ring to avoid a threat from the Cobra, but Marella then throws the sock and his shirt into the ring. I'm sure he has another sock in his singlet. Hawkins runs away from the Marella Martial Arts routine. The crowd calls for the Cobra, so Marella looks to land it, but Hawkins bails to ringside again. Marella with the helicopter takedown and the trumpet. Hawkins tries to surprise him, but Marella counters with an armdrag and mat technique. Quick bridge for two. Hawkins elbows out and draw's the crowd's ire by beating on Marella. A pair of big armdrags puts Hawkins down, but Hawkins comes right back with knees. Marella gets a monkey flip and wants ten punches in the corner, but Hawkins tosses him ringside.

Hawkins into a two-count cover from the break, then a side chinlock. Marella with a takedown to escape, but Hawkins trips him up. Hawkins mocks Marella a bit, then hits a suplex for two. Marella with a hip toss for separation, but Hawkins with the swinging bodyslam for another two count. Hawkins cuts off Marella, but Marella dodges a follow-up charge in the corner. Reks encourages Hawkins, but Marella goes through his usual comeback routine. Reks with a distraction, but Hawkins only can squeeze two from it. Marella counters a suplex setup with a jacknife cover from nowhere for the win.

WINNER: Santino in 8:00. Standard fare of a match. It's interesting how WWE has used the last few months to build Santino up as a humorous "real" wrestler instead of a pure comedy act.

2 - Divas champion BETH PHOENIX vs. ALICIA FOX -- non-title match

Phoenix comes out of the gate on fire, and Fox can't keep her head above water. Delayed bodyslam and Phoenix goes to the crowd. Fox hits the ropes, so Phoenix takes her down with a clothesline and beats her silly on the ropes. Ref only gives her two, so Phoenix gets mad. She picks Fox up by the hair twice and slams her to the mat, but she can't get the pin. Rear chinlock and Fox is struggling hard. Fox can't get momentum, but she tries a sunset flip in the corner, to no avail. Fox pulls a Melina under a clothesline and hits a dropkick, then goes to the corner with Phoenix. Phoenix reverses a whip, but takes a butt butt. Phoenix dodges the Ace Kick and nails the Glam Slam for an easy win.

WINNER: Beth Phoenix in 2:30. Phoenix is so insanely dominant in the ring, the only Divas on the roster who would seem to stand a chance are Natalya and Kharma. Maxine, A.J., or Kaitlyn would make an interesting match based on their use of submissions to potentially offset Phoenix's power.

3 - THE GREAT KHALI vs. JINDER MAHAL

Mahal with early offense, but Khali shoves him into the ropes. Mahal surprises Khali on the ropes and follows up with a DDT for two. Mahal with boots and knees using the ropes, which gets two. Mahal puts boots to Khali in the corner as the crowd rallies Khali. Khali with elbows and a big boot to regain control. Mahal runs into Khali a few times and eats the overhead chop for the loss.

WINNER: Great Khali in 3:00. The less said, the less I'll have to regret my words if I ever meet Khali in person.

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 3-1-12

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

1 -- DANIELS vs. A.J. STYLES -- gauntlet match

As the bell rang, Daniels and A.J. started the match exchanging chops with A.J. getting the best of the exchange. A.J. hist a backdrop followed by a backbreakers and a knee to the gut of Daniels. The Phenomenal One followed up with a delayed suplex for a two count. Kazarian tried to create a distraction for Daniels as the show went to break.

The show came back with A.J. hitting a dropkick on Daniels. A.J. and Kazarian exchanged some words at ringside which left A.J. open to an attack from Daniels from behind. Back in the ring, Daniels got some offense in on A.J. including a high back drop. A.J. tried to regain the offensive edge as the crowd chanted, “Let's go A.J.” Daniels stopped him mid-comeback with an elbow and got a two count. He had A.J. set for an inverted DDT, but Styled countered with the Pele Kick. After a flurry of offensive on Daniels, Styles hit a springboard forearm from the ring apron. A.J. went for the Styles Clash, but Daniels countered with a back sweep. Kazarian snuck in and hit The Fade to Black resulting in the disqualification of Daniels.

WINNER: A.J. Styles via disqualification at 10:00.

1b -- KAZARIAN vs. A.J. STYLES -- gauntlet match

Kazarian immediately covered A.J. for the win.

WINNER: Kazarian via pinfall at 0:05.

2 -- TNA Knockouts Tag Team champion MADISON RAYNE (w/TNA Knockouts champion/Knockouts Tag Team champion Gail Kim) vs. ODB (w/Eric Young)

The match started with a small “ODB" chant from the crowd. Rayne tried to mount some offense, but quickly realized it wasn’t phasing ODB. ODB took Rayne to the corner and drove her face first into all three turn buckles. She tried to go for the Bronco Buster on Rayne in the corner, but Rayne was able to get her foot up for an awkward looking counter. Rayne’s attempt at gaining the offensive edge was quickly put to an end as she received a hard clothesline from ODB. Young took his shirt off and started running on the apron of the ring distracting the referee. Rayne was expecting Kim to interfere on her behalf, but Kim intentionally stalled, which gave ODB enough time to recover and hit a move for the pin.

WINNER: ODB via pinfall at 3:05.

3 -- ZEMA ION vs. SHANNON MOORE

As the two wrestlers went at it in the ring, Taz and Tenay vilified Ion for his remarks about Sorensen. Moore got Ion to the outside and hit a baseball slide. Moore went for a cross body over the rope to the outside, but Ion moved out of the way. Ion threw Moore back into the ring hit him with a missile dropkick, and then posed to play with his hair.

Moore tried to regain the offense, but Ion stopped him with a neckbreaker. He eventually got enough of an offensive edge to go to the top rope for a moonsault that Ion dodged. Ion hit Moore with a knee to the face from a Death Valley Driver position for the pin.

WINNER: Zema Ion via pinfall in 3:36.

4 -- ANGELINA LOVE & SARITA vs. MICKIE JAMES & VELVET SKY -- tag team match

Sky rushed to the ring to get her hands on Love as James and Sarita battled each other. James threw Sarita to the outside and took her spot in the corner to allow Sky and Love to fight in the ring. Sky tagged in James who hit a huracanrana for a two count. Love was able to make the tag to Sarita, but James remained on the offensive. Sarita was able to get James in the corner to allow Love to attempt to get a cheap shot in, but to no avail as James quickly put a beating on both women on the opposing team. Eventually, with the help of Love, Sarita got James to the outside, which was followed by a diving elbow from Sarita to Mickie, which led to two close two counts.

Sarita tagged Love in to continue the attack on James in the corner. Sarita got back in on the action and put James in peculiar-looking submission hold that she got out of with a boot to the stomach of Sarita. Sarita fumbled long enough for Mickie to get a close two count with a roll up. Both Knockouts got the hot tag to their partners which Sky got the better of on Love. Sarita threw James to the outside and tried to double team Sky with Love with no success. Sky hit Love with a Pedigree for the win.

WINNER: Velvet Sky and Mickie James via pinfall at 5:48.

5 -- TNA World Hvt champion BOBBY ROODE & TNA X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES & BULLY RAY vs. TNA World Hvt. Tag champions MAGNUS & SAMOA JOE & JAMES STORM -- six-man tag team match

Magnus and Aries started off the match for their respective teams. Taz said he dug that fresh faces were in the main event. Magnus and Aries went through some chain wrestling with Aries coming out on top. Aries called for a test of strength and then blew it off with a kick to the side of Magnus. Aries show boated with a cart wheel which prompted Magnus to him with a hard clothesline. Aries tagged Roode in which prompted Storm to ask for the tag to face his former partner. Magnus complied, but once Storm made his way in the ring Roode exited to the outside.

Back from the break, Ray was shown putting the boots to Storm along with some blows to the head. Storm came back with a clothesline and proceeded to wrench the arm of Ray before tagging Joe in. The crowd popped huge for Joe, and then Joe and Ray exchanged strikes. Joe hit Ray with a leg lariat for a one count. Ray quickly tagged in Aries who came running into an overhead belly-to-belly suplex from Joe. Joe tagged Magnus and they hit some double team offense on Aries that prompted him to tag Roode in. Instantly Magnus tagged Storm in to face Roode which caused the heavyweight champion to cower back to tag Aries back in. The rapid fire tags continued as Magnus tagged Joe back in to face Aries. Joe went for the Muscle Buster that was broken up by Roode.

With the referee distracted, Aries hit Joe with a crucifix take down, and then tagged Ray back in. Ray slowed down the pace beating on the back of Ray before tagging Roode back in to take advantage of the weakened Samoan Submission Machine. Roode gloated in Storm’s face which prompted the Cowboy to come into the ring which scared Roode off back into his corner to tag Ray in. After a few hits Ray tagged Aries back in who got Joe into his team’s corner for them to beat on Joe. Eventually Roode and Joe were left in the ring where Roode tried to hit Joe in the corner, but was met with an uranage that allowed Joe to finally tag out to Storm.

Storm finally got his hands on Roode and hit him with some running forearms followed by a back-body-drop. Ray came in for the save, but that was short lived as Aries accidentally nailed him with a dropkick. Storm hit the Closing Time on Roode and then with a superkick for the pin.

WINNERS: Storm & Samoa Joe & Magnus via pinfall at 17:05.

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 3-2-12

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

1 – SHEAMUS vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

Match was joined in progress, but it didn’t look as if it had been going for long. Ziggler caught Sheamus by surprise with a dropkick, but missed another not long after. Sheamus took advantage and beat on Ziggler in the corner, then clobbered Ziggler with forearms to the chest. Sheamus suplexed Ziggler from the apron into the ring to give him a near-fall at 1:55. Sheamus chased after Ziggler outside the ring, but Ziggler caught him coming in and took over. Neckbreaker by Ziggler, then he followed up with elbowdrops. Sheamus worked out of a chin-lock and back to his feet. Powerslam by Sheamus for two. Ziggler jumped up on Sheamus’s back to stop the onslaught. Sheamus went down to both knees in the middle of the ring. However, he reached his feet and slammed Ziggler back-first into the buckle, then dumped Ziggler to ringside. Ziggler went to the top, but Sheamus caught him for the Irish Curse back-breaker. Vickie hopped into the ring to put Ziggler’s foot on the rope, but they were further away from the rope than planned (I’d guess) and Vickie had to go all the way into the ring, making it unlikely the ref didn’t actually see it (though from the camera angle, they wisely didn’t show the ref and when he looked). Sheamus registered a few near falls. Vickie signaled for Jack Swagger when Sheamus began to signal for the finish. Sheamus Brogue Kicked Swagger off the apron, but Ziggler hit the Fameasser for a near-fall. Ziggler tried to go for the sleeper hold again, but Sheamus turned it into what he now calls the White Noise (Emerald Frosien) for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus, 8:22 shown. Another nice victory for Sheamus heading into ‘Mania, where he had to overcome Vickie and Swagger in addition to Ziggler.

2 – HEATH SLATER vs. SANTINO MARELLA

Slater tried to attack Marella as Santino’s back was turned, but he couldn’t connect. Santino hip-tossed Slater, but Slater got his knees up on a splash attempt. Booker and Cole talked about the GM battle with Booker saying Long is trying to keep the ratings up and keep Smackdown the #1 show on cable. Sidekick by Slater for only two. Thought for sure Booker would point out how that was one of his signature moves, but he was too busy prattling on about Long and Laurinaitis. Slater got crotched on the top rope and Marella hit the Cobra. Slater fell down and was pinned.

WINNER: Marella, at 1:55. There are worse guys to give a mini-push to than Santino. At least he entertains the crowd.

3 – NATALYA vs. EVE TORRES

“Hoski” chant right off the bat for Eve. Some brief chain wrestling led to a roll-up from Natalya for two. Single-leg take-down by Eve, but they both kipped up at the same time. Eve rejected a handshake and slapped Nattie. Nattie brawled with Eve as Booker said irritable bowel syndrome runs in the family. “We want Ryder” chant. Eve reversed a roll-up and got the pinfall.

WINNER: Eve, at 1:42. Nice match, and they kept it on the ground, which was fine. Different from most other women’s matches.

4 - THE BIG SHOW vs. MARK HENRY

Henry clotheslined Show over the top rope and to ringside just :20 into the contest. Headbutt by Henry outside the ring, then he whipped Show into the barricade, and Show took a bump over it and into the area where the timekeeper sits. The count was on as henry was in the ring. Show made it back to the apron at eight. Henry had exposed the turnbuckle and Show was shoved into it by Henry. Show was back on the outside when they went to break at 1:43.

Back at 5:15 with Henry still in control and Cody Rhodes on commentary. Henry rammed Show back-first into the ringpost. Henry grabbed the steel steps and tossed them at Show, but Show was able to move. Big splash in the corner on Show. Henry went for a Vader Bomb and covered for two. Show got his boot up on Henry and speared him. Both men were down at 7:35. He signaled for the chokeslam, but Henry broke out. World’s Strongest Slam but Show kicked out. After arguing with the ref, Henry charged at Show and ran right into the WMD. Show held his ribs, injured from the shot to the turnbuckle before the break, and slowly made the pin. He got the three-count.

WINNER: Show, at 8:49. Not only does Henry job, but Show kicks out of Henry’s finisher. Not a good sign for those who hope for a return to Henry’s dominating ways from a few months ago.

5 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL

McIntyre was already in the ring. Gabriel is somewhat of anti-climactic opponent for McIntyre. Big boot by McIntyre for a two-count. McIntyre was close to getting disqualified in the corner, but Gabriel hit a tornado DDT. Gabriel went to the top rope and hit the 450 splash, with the camera catching it from a cool angle. That finished it.

WINNER: Gabirel, at 1:43. I’m guessing McIntyre gets fired, only to be rehired by Laurinaitis next week.

6 – RANDY ORTON vs. DANIEL BRYAN

AJ accompanied Bryan to the ring. Orton was all over Bryan and even took the fight to the outside, where he stomped Bryan’s head atop the steel steps. Orton took Bryan to the top rope and tried to suplex him off, but Bryan headbutted Orton to the mat. He held the back of his head as he tried to get to his feet. Bryan crouched in the corner, smile on his face. Running dropkick in the corner found the mark. Single-arm DDT for a two-count at 2:50. They went to break 3:00 in.

Back at 5:58 of the match. Bryan was stomping Orton in the corner, continuing to work over the left arm of the Viper. Orton showed signs of life, but Bryan cut him off by bringing him down throat-first over the top rope. He then went to the top rope, only to be met with a dropkick on the way down. Orton hit his patented DDT, but his arm was still held tight to his side. He signaled for the RKO, but Bryan treid to counter into the LeBell Lock. Bryan couldn’t hook it in, then hit ringside and apparently tried to leave. Orton got him before he could go far and continued his assault. Orton was about to DDT Bryan with Bryan’s feet on the ropes. Suddenly, Kane’s pyro hit and he came out. The bell rang after Bryan scampered back into the ring.

WINNER: Bryan, via count-out, at 9:21.

Kane attacked Orton and the two brawled at ringside. Kane got into the ring and eyed AJ, but Orton went back after him. They continued to fight at ringside and at the announce table. Kane ran Orton into the ring post, shoulder first. Hey, if there’s anyone who embraces the hate, it’s Orton, so what’s Kane’s beef? Chokeslam by Kane laid Orton out. Kane grabbed a mic and welcomed Orton back. That’s all.

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 3-5-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results with my personal comments on the non-ring stuff thrown in as an added bonus.

- Show starts out with HBK. Huge pop. Calls out Triple H. Another pop. HBK asks why Trips changed his mind. Basically Trips wants to do what his buddy couldn't. That was about it...oh yeah, HBK will be the referee for the match at WM. Ouch!

1 -- U.S. champion JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero & Dolph Ziggler) vs. SANTINO -- U.S. Title match

Swagger was sporting a new haircut, like an 1800s western movie villain. After the bell sounded, John Laurinaitis and David Otunga came to ringside despite Laurinaitis not running Raw tonight. The heels ran interference and Swagger dropped Santino with the Swagger Bomb, but Santino kicked out. After the kick-out, Teddy Long's music played to bring out Long, Kofi Kingston, and Aksana. The two GMs argued ringside before Raw went to break.

Back live, Swagger was working over Santino while Cole reset the cast of characters ringside. Santino made a comeback, then Laurinaitis hopped on the ring apron to argue with the ref. Long yanked down Laurinaitis, then Laurinaitis and Long got into it. Santino tried a finisher, but Ziggler smacked him from the ring apron. Santino then dropped Ziggler with The Cobra to clear him from the ring apron. Aksana then got into it with Vickie ringside. In the chaos ringside, Long shoved down Laurinaitis. In the ring, Santino countered an anklelock with a quick roll-up and scored a three count for the win. Santino wins the U.S. Title.

Post-match: Laurinaitis grabbed a mic and tried to take over his show, but Long ripped the mic away from Laurinaitis and called for security to take Laurinaitis away. Cue up the local independent guys to come ringside as security to escort Laurinaitis and Otunga out of the building. "I'll get you, Teddy!" Laurinaitis screamed. Long then told Justin Roberts to re-announce Santino as new U.S. champion. Santino choked up and let the tears flow to sell the moment. Santino then led a trumpet celebration to cap off the victory.

WINNER: Santino at 6:40 to capture the U.S. Title. Another chaotic situation building to whatever GM vs. GM match they come up with for WrestleMania.

- The Rock's History Lesson #1 comparing Boston and John Cena. First in a series; collect them all!

2 -- ALICIA FOX vs. EVE

Back in the arena, Alicia Fox was in the ring as Kelly Kelly was ringside to discuss her feud with Eve and her Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards nomination. Eve then came out to boos to face A. Fox. Eve made short work of Fox with a roll-up after 35 seconds.

Post-match: Eve glared toward Kelly before Zack Ryder's music played. Ryder hobbled out on-stage with a cane to support him after being off TV for a few weeks selling injuries from Kane. Ryder told Eve he's glad they never hooked up, saying it's broskis before hoeskis. Ryder did his catchphrase, leaving Eve to try to block out the "hoeski" chants. Cole mocked Ryder, claiming Ryder had a weak comeback after weeks of sitting at home.

WINNER: Eve at 0:38.

- Cena talks alone about his match in WM XXVIII. Nobody remembers second place. Take that New England Patriots!!!

3 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK & SHEAMUS vs. World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/A.J.) & CHRIS JERICHO

Sheamus landed ten forearm strikes to Bryan's chest early in the match. Punk then tagged in to work on Bryan, but Jericho kicked Punk from behind on the ring apron to target Punk's injured back. Jericho then tagged in and played to the crowd before Raw went to break.

Back from break, Jericho was working over Punk in the ring. Cole read off some tweets on who's the Best in the World before Punk broke free from Jericho and hot-tagged Sheamus, who ran over Jericho with power offense. Sheamus landed a bodyslam, ran over Bryan, and dropped Jericho with the Irish Curse backbreaker for a two count. Sheamus then went up top, but Bryan distracted him, allowing Jericho to dropkick Sheamus to the floor. On the floor, Bryan smashed Sheamus with a running dropkick.

Back in the ring, Jericho went to work on Sheamus. Cole plugged another history video from Rock after this match. Also of note, WWE flashed a series of promotional items on a lower-third graphic and got the name of Edge's WWE Studios movie wrong, calling it "Breaking the Rules" instead of "Bending the Rules." In the ring, Punk took a hot tag and went after Bryan, who also tagged into the match. Punk sold the back injury, but went up top for a Macho Man elbow drop and connected for a nearfall.

The action broke down moments later with all four men in the ring. Sheamus tried the Celtic Cross on Bryan, but Jericho interfered. Bryan and Sheamus then collided ringside. Back in the ring, Jericho teased the Walls of Jericho on Punk, but Punk countered with a roll-up. Apparently in-between two and three, Jericho managed to switch the momentum and score a three count. Jericho immediately ran out of the ring to grab the WWE Title belt and point to the belt, telling Punk it will be his fate at WrestleMania. Jericho then slid the title belt to Punk, who sold frustration.

WINNERS: Jericho & Bryan at 11:54.

- History Lesson #2 with the Rock talking about Paul Revere. Second in a series; collect them all?

4 -- BIG SHOW vs. THE MIZ

The bell sounded, Miz bailed from the ring, and IC champion Cody Rhodes came out on-stage to embarrass Big Show some more. Rhodes said he doesn't have another clip of Show losing at Mania, but, instead he has Show in his natural habitat at WrestleMania 18 - eating at the WWE Restaurant in New York. Cut up Another Embarrassing Big Show WrestleMania Moment. Back in 2002, Show was positioned at WWE's failed restaurant. Back live, Miz tried to sneak attack Show, but Show cut him off and landed a big spear. Lawler suggested Miz will be waiting tables during WrestleMania this year. Show then KO Punched Miz for a decisive win.

WINNER: Big Show at 2:02.

- History Lesson #3. Let's join The Rock Revolution. Third in a series; collect...nah...let's forget about history already.

5 -- KANE vs. R-TRUTH

Kane landed body shots early on, but Truth tried to fight back before taking a boot to the face. Kane landed more offense, but Truth ducked a clothesline and landed a boot to the gut. Truth went for his scissors kick finisher, but Kane avoided and nailed a chokeslam for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Kane at 1:26. So odd seeing Kane back on Raw after Cena dismantled him at Elimination Chamber, with no mention of those events.

Post-match: Randy Orton's music hit and Orton hit the ring to deliver an RKO to Kane, who was momentarily preoccupied with Truth. Orton then called for a mic and repeated Kane's words to him from Smackdown that it's good to be back. Cue up Orton's music. Cole noted Orton is "back to normal" being cold-blooded and seeking revenge.

- Cena and The Rock face-to-face in the squared circle for the second week in a row. Dwayne...really...don't quit your day job, especially when you're getting well paid for it and most likely getting well paid for your match with Cena. More talk between the both of them. You've heard it before and you'll keep hearing it. Different words, same results.

[Arcademan]

Kharma aka Awesome/Amazing Kong aka Kia Stevens' baby did not survive birth.

WWE Diva Kharma has revealed to TMZ that her baby, who we previously reported as being born on December 31st, didn’t survive the birth.
 
The former TNA Knockouts Champion previously told TMZ that she had given birth to a baby boy named Jamie. TMZ now reports that Kharma, real name Kia Stevens, “initially lied to friends about the child being “healthy” because she was incredibly emotional and was afraid to tell the public the truth after announcing her pregnancy on live TV.”
 
Stevens has now revealed that the child didn’t survive birth and she is hoping to start a foundation for people in a similar situation.
 
“I am planning to start a foundation for women that have experienced the same thing. It’s a bigger club than people think.”
 
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Kharma.

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 3-7-12

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

1 - TAMINA SNUKA vs. MAXINE

Maxine pushes Snuka to challenge her, but Snuka pushes her down. Maxine runs in and twists around for a crucifix, but when Snuka doesn't go down, Maxine slides down and tries a schoolgirl, which gets one. Very fluid on Maxine's end of things. Maxine sends Snuka to the mat with a hair pull. Maxine eats a big chop after mocking Snuka, but slips out of the ring and jumps Snuka on the way back in. Mazine goes to work on Snuka in the corner, then locks in a tight chinlock. Maxine is looking really strong. Snuka tries to stand up, but Maxine puts her back down. Maxine to the top rope, but Snuka dodges a splash. Snuka with a Samoan Drop and up to the top rope for the Superfly Splash for the win.

WINNER: Tamina Snuka in 3:00. I am getting really tired of seeing booking just like this, where someone is doing great in a match, and one simple move knocks out that person long enough for the person losing the match to hit a finisher. This was a repeat from last week in a Justin Gabriel match, and I believe it hurts the loser. Maxine was looking like a #1 contender for two minutes and 50 seconds, and lost literally in ten seconds. That's silly and gets no one over.

2 - YOSHI TATSU vs. JOHNNY CURTIS

Curtis starts off this strong offense, but Tatsu comes out of the corner strong. Curtis to the outside and eats a slingshot splash.

Tatsu in control out of the break. A pair of Japanese armdrags and a dropkick from Tatsu gets two. Curtis yanks Tatsu onto the ropes, then tosses him into the ringpost. Curtis works the left wrist and settles into a nasty keylock. Regal praises Tatsu's skills. Tatsu tries to chop out, but Curtis chops back and nails a big suplex for two. Curtis with more vicious work on the arm. Regal promises not to abuse his power like he has in the past, and Matthews sounds doubtful. Tatsu finally gets a bit of separation.

Tatsu goes on the offensive, but is selling pain. Tatsu just lets loose and hits a high knee in the corner and follows up with a Shining Wizard for two. Tatsu calls for the end and whiffs the roundhouse, and Curtis shoves Tatsu in the corner. Curtis is selling heavy pain and hits a pair of headbutts, and puts Tatsu on the turnbuckle. Big slap and Curtis wants a superplex. Tatsu shoves him down, but Curtis dodges a spinning heel kick and follows him with his brutal dangerous buster for the win.

WINNER: Johnny Curtis in 6:30 Very good match; I really enjoyed it. Curtis has come so far with his ring work.

3 - JEY USO (w/Jimmy Uso) vs. DARREN YOUNG

Lock-up puts Jey in the corner after a struggle, but he uses speed to get out. Jey with some dance-like strikes, including a spinning heel kick for two. Big bodyslam from Jey for two. Young runs over Jey and lands a powerslam. Backbreaker from Young barely gets a count. Side suplex and Young gets a two count. Mathews asks Jimmy about training with Booker T before coming to WWE, which was a good way to give them talking points. Young mouths off to Jimmy, and Regal promises that Jimmy will get a chance for payback. Jimmy actually references redemption points.

Young with a catapult into the ropes and that's good for two. Young slows it down with body scissors, but Jey turns it around for a moment. Regal offers to hook The Usos up with his twin daughters. He references again that his daughters are conjoined. Jey hits a big uppercut from the corner to get back in control. Jey whiffs a stinkface, and Young capitalizes with a schoolboy for the win.

WINNER: Darren Young in 6:00. Basic match, but it didn't look bad. It gave Darren Young and The Usos something to do.

4 -PERCY WATSON vs. TITUS O'NEIL

O'Neil with Kicks and punches to start, but Watson fires right back with a corkscrew elbow. O'Neil kicks Watson in the gut on a corner leap, then methodically wears Watson down. Watson comes out of the corner, but O'Neil cuts him off. Mathews questions Regal's decisions around Reks and Hawkins. Backbreaker from O'Neil for two. Regal praises O'Neil for becoming more "deliberate" in his style. O'Neil fights hard for an abdominal stretch, which is the first time I've seen one that looks painful in a while. O'Neil says, "Come over here and count old man!" to ref Scott Armstrong, but he still can't get more than a two count despite multiple attempts. He asks the ref if he's incompetent.

Watson with a jawbreaker to reset the action, and he lands punches and a dropkick, followed by a big shoulder tackle. Watson with the Highsman to get two. O'Neil dodges a corner splash and tries the Clash of the Titus, but Watson double foot stomps out at the peak of elevation to escape. (He looked like M. Bison there.) Watson immediately responds with the Percycution for the win.

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 3-8-12

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

1 - JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. HEATH SLATER

Slater lounges in the corner to demand some space, then celebrates after escaping a headlock. Slater's getting some great crowd involvement here. Gabriel with an armbar, but Slater uses a fireman's carry to escape. Gabriel uses a test of strength to draw Slater in for a wristlock. Gabriel turns up the speed a bit, and a powerslam gets two. Gabriel with more wrist and arm control. Slater gets some space, but Gabriel blocks an armdrag and transitions into a monkey flip. Armdrag into an armbar and Gabriel retails control. Slater on top for a moment, but Gabriel chops out of the corner and moves back to the attack. Crucifix-like roll-up for two, then a jackknife for two and more armbars. They trade suplex attempts and Slater eventually tosses Gabriel onto the ropes crotch-first.

Slater controls with a side chinlock out of the break, and Gabriel can't get traction. Gabriel with a series of kicks to get a two count. Slater spins Gabriel from a fireman's carry and drops him face-first for a close nearfall. Gabriel counters a sideslam attempt with a tornado neckbreaker of sorts and follows with a springboard moonsault for a nearfall of his own. Striker is digging the action and so am I.

After a rest, Gabriel is on the attack in the corner. Slater dodges a corner elbow and plants Gabriel on the turnbuckle, then rips him off into a viscous neckbreaker. Another very close nearfall. Slater is incredulous. Slater picks Gabriel up for a powerbomb, but Gabriel punches him in the head, rolls down and through, and sends Slater face-first into the turnbuckle. Gabriel with a side kick out of the corner, then he goes up top for the 450 splash, which is good for the win.

WINNER: Gabriel in 10:30. This was, by far, the best match I've ever seen from Heath Slater, and one of Justin Gabriel's best, too. Very good match. There was back-and-forth, unique spots, some high-flying and hard-hitting. Slater's put on a touch of weight, which makes it easier to take him seriously. I know I've ridden Slater hard in the past for his in-ring work, but he really brought it here and proved that he's got what it takes.

2 - TED DiBIASE vs. JINDER MAHAL

According to Matt Striker, Mahal's turban case is "sanitary." DiBiase starts a "USA!" chant. Wonderful.

Mahal with a shoulder tackle, but DiBiase responds with a dropkick and ten punches in the corner and a suplex. Striker mis-quotes "Happy Gilmore," which is surprising. Mahal kicks DiBiase's legs out and with some quick offense for two. Mahal with hard offense, including trademark knee drops, leveraging the ropes. Mahal keeps working on Ted's injured wrist. Mahal holds DiBiase's head and knees it repeatedly. Mahal to the second rope for an axe handle, but DiBiase counters with a dropkick. DiBiase makes a strong comeback. Big spinebuster for two. DiBiase looks for Dream Street, but Mahal reverses. DiBiase with the turnaround clothesline. DiBiase off the second rope, but Mahal counters with a jumping knee lift. Mahal slaps on the Camel Clutch and DiBiase taps after a struggle.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal in 7:00. Enjoyable match. If this is when DiBiase hurt his ankle, you wouldn't know it. I just don't get the booking of Mahal here. Some weeks he gets squashed, some weeks he gets a clean win mid-ring.

3 - KOFI KINGSTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

This match has gotten a ton of buzz for a match that didn't make it to Raw. The video has a solid 15 minutes left, so it should be a good match. Pre-match, Ziggler gives announcer Scott Stanford his bright pink shirt off his rear, and Stanford is ecstatic. Vickie makes cougar motions to Stanford too.

Ziggler outwits Kingston a few times, giving him a chance to show off. Kofi shows some sweet mat-based technique early on. Kingston slips out of an early sleeper attempt. Ziggler in control with mat skills of his own. They go back and forth with increasing intensity until Ziggler slows it down and shows off some more. They trade rights but Kingston puts Ziggler in the corner, and connects with a monkey flip sending Ziggler into a full 450 spin. That's good for a two count. That was a beautiful move. Kingston gets crotched in the middle of a springboard move, sending the show to break.

They interrupted a hot match for a "Bending the Rules" ad? The crowd is hotter than I've ever seen for a Superstars match. Ziggler and Kingston trade high-impact moves and two counts. Ziggler with some berserk elbows on the mat and a nasty armbar. Kingston with a pair of rollups for two counts. They trade boots-to-faces and Ziggler gets two for the work. There is a strong "Let's Go Ziggler!" chant. Kingston punches Ziggler when he does his sit-up routine. This angers Ziggler, who goes back to the attack. Kingston dodges the corner elbow (does Ziggler ever actually hit that?) and they are both down on the mat.

Kingston gets up first and takes Ziggler down, but Ziggler dodges the Superman Punch and gets out of the SOS. Brief flurry of offense and Kingston gets a very close nearfall with the SOS. Kingston preps the Boom Drop and sticks Ziggler. Kingston calls for the Trouble in Paradise, but Ziggler grabs him in mid-air and counters with the inside-out powerslam for a nearfall. Vickie is losing her mind with worry.

The ref starts a double count, but Ziggler walks into a pendulum kick. Kingston to the top, but Ziggler punches him and then meets him up top. Ziggler preps a superplex, but Kingston blocks and punches out. Kingston whiffs a huge top rope cross-body and Ziggler follows up with the "Namedropper" leg drop, another tight nearfall. The crowd is going nuts. Ziggler tries a sleeper, but Kingston slips out and immediately gets the Trouble in Paradise for the win.

Winner: Kofi Kingston in 15:00. If you are a wrestling fan, you need to watch this match. It is likely to be considered a Top 10 WWE match for 2012... and it was buried on Superstars so The Rock could give history lessons. Scott Stanford felt so organic in the booth and Josh Mathews held back his usual snarkiness and cynicism to let Stanford do his job. This was a PPV-quality match for sure, and it reminds me of when gems find their way onto Superstars.

You can find the video to this match on YouTube or go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #12,716 (direct link to post) to view it.

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 3-8-12

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

1 -- TNA Knockout Tag Team champions GAIL KIM & MADISON RAYNE vs. ODB & ERIC YOUNG -- Knockouts Tag Team Title match

Young and Kim started the match for their teams, but before anything could happen, ODB tagged herself in. ODB instantly got the Bronco Buster on Kim and then followed it up with a fallaway slam. Kim put the breaks on ODB’s offense and tagged Rayne in. Rayne choked ODB out in the corner as the crowd chanted her name. ODB made a comeback and slammed Rayne’s head into her crotch and followed up with a Thesz Press. Kim interfered on her team’s behalf, which cost ODB the offensive edge. The champions hit some double team offense on ODB for a two count. ODB hit a desperation move on Rayne, which was followed up with a hot tag to both team’s partners. Young got in and put Knockouts on the opposing team on his shoulders and spun around until he was dizzy for a one count on Kim. The champions tried to double team Young, but ODB quickly put a stop to it. Rayne was able to throw ODB into the ringside steps and followed up by hitting Young with a title belt from behind which planted him on top of Kim for the win.

WINNERS: Eric Young and ODB via pinfall to capture the KO Tag Titles at 5:46.

2 -- X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES vs. ZEMA ION -- X Division Title match

Ion went for a boot that was telegraphed by Aries, who took Ion down with a headlock. Aries showboated around the ring, bowing to the audience. Aries once again got the better of Ion with a senton over the ropes followed by an elbow for a two count. The wrestlers went to the outside, where Ion teased the same move that injured Jesse Sorenson, but Aries stopped him and tried a high-risk maneuver of his own that he missed. Ion tried to capitalize on the mistake with a pin attempt for a two count, and then went to the top rope for a missed 450 splash. Aries stopped Ion’s attempt at using his hair spray bottle on him and then proceeded to use it on him. The referee saw this and called for the disqualification. Afterward, Ion gloated about his victory, but Aries got in his face and raised the belt.

WINNER: Zema Ion via disqualification at 3:48.

3 -- TNA World Hvt champion BOBBY ROODE vs. BULLY RAY -- non-title match

The wrestlers stalled a bit until Roode got Ray into a headlock until Ray took Roode down with a few shoulder tackles. Roode slapped Ray across the face and quickly feigned regret as he kicked him in the gut and laid into him with chops, punches, and boots in the corner. Roode hit a flying neckbreaker off the second turnbuckle for a two count. Ray started “Hulking up” and laid some nasty sounding chops onto the chest of Roode. He started making an offensive comeback and got a close two count on Roode. Ray went for a big boot, but Roode dodged it and hit him with spear for another close two count. Roode grabbed Ray’s chain from ringside and charged at him with, but was met with a boot from Ray. Before Ray could capitalize on Roode, Storm chased him out of the ring and nailed a superkick on Roode as the crowed chanted “Cowboy.”

WINNER: The match ended in an apparent No Contest at 6:45.

4 -- TNA Television champion ROBBIE E. & ROBBIE T. vs. CRIMSON & MATT MORGAN -- #1 contenders match for the TNA Tag Team Titles

Robbie E. mouthed off to Crimson in the ring, which backfired, as Crimson hit him with t-bone suplex. Robbie E. tagged in Robbie T., who scoop slammed Crimson and nailed him with a shot to the back before Crimson fought back until Robbie E. hit him with a clip board from behind. Robbie T. tagged in Robbie E. and he hit Crimson with a knee off the second turnbuckle for a two count. As Crimson started to mount some offense, Robbie E. tagged Robbie T., and quickly put a halt to Crimson’s comeback. Crimson got a desperation maneuver in and a hot tag was made by both teams. Morgan came in and cleaned house. Morgan hit the Carbon Footprint on Robbie, and before he could go for the pin attempt, Crimson tagged himself to score the pin for his team.

WINNERS: Crimson & Morgan via pinfall at 4:03 to become number one contenders to the TNA Tag Team Titles.

5 -- GUNNER & KURT ANGLE vs. GARETT BISCHOFF & JEFF HARDY

The match began as Gunner and Angle double-teamed Hardy while the ref held Bischoff back in the corner. Angle and Hardy were left in the ring to fight for their respective teams. Angle and Gunner took some liberties choking Hardy before he made a comeback clotheslining Angle. As he went for the tag Gunner ran in and knocked Garett off the ropes and was tagged in by Angle to continue to put the boots to Hardy. Hardy’s offensive comeback was once against brought to a halt by Gunner.

Angle had Hardy in a sleeper hold as the crowd chanted “Angle sucks,” and “Hardy.” Hardy broke out of the hold and ran towards Angle only to be caught with an overhead belly-to-belly suplex. Angle tagged in Gunner, who got a close two count on Hardy after a clothesline. Angle was tagged back into the match and proceeded to throw Hardy to the outside where Gunner continued to do damage to Hardy by throwing him into the guard rail before throwing him back into the ring. Hardy tried to crawl through Angle’s legs to tag Garett, but Angle caught him in the anklelock. Angle eventually broke the hold, but the offensive dominance by Angle and Gunner on Hardy continued.

Hardy was able to get a small package on Angle, but the referee was distracted by Garett trying to get into the match. Hardy was finally able to make a substantial offensive comeback as he hit Gunner with the Whisper in the Wind, but Garett was to busy to receive a tag as he was busy with the referee. Hardy eventually was able to get the tag to Garett, who cleaned house and got a close two count on Angle that was broken up by Gunner. Garett his a double clothesline on Angle and Gunner which set up Hardy for a Swanton Bomb on Angle for the pin.

WINNERS: Garett Bischoff & Jeff Hardy via pinfall at 14:20.

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 3-9-12

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

1 – SANTINO MARELLA vs. JACK SWAGGER – STEEL CAGE MATCH FOR THE UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP

During Santino’s entrance, they showed him winning the title on Monday night. During Swagger’s entrance, they showed the announcers at ringside, and Michael Cole had a picture of Laurinaitis’ face on a stick that he was waving around in front of his. It’s funny that Cole got on Booker for mispronouncing Laurinaitis as “Lare-an-itis” instead of “Lore-en-ite-is,” when Cole does that all the time. Swagger held the early advantage, and kept on trucking with a short-arm clothesline. Santino dodged a few clotheslines and tried to climb the cage. Top-rope cross-body, but Swagger caught him. He sent Santino face-first into the side of the cage. Santino was able to recover and set up for the Cobra. Dolph Ziggler tried to climb the cage, providing a distraction. Swagger tried a suplex, but Santino Cobra’d him on the way down. Ziggler tried to recover from Santino hitting his hand with the Cobra, and while doing so, was sent to the back by the ref. That left only Vickie Guerrero in Swagger’s corner as they cut to break at 3:58.

Back at 6:48 with Swagger once again in control. Swagger tossed Santino’s Cobra out of the ring. Santino tried a few desperation roll-ups, to no avail. Drop toe-hold by Swagger sent Santino into the corner. Swagger bomb found the mark for a two-count at 7:50. Swagger argued with the ref, then tried to climb the cage. Santino crotched Swagger and got a two-count. Santino then began to climb, getting to the top of the cage. Swagger grabbed his leg and tried to pull him back in. Swagger slapped Marella a few times as Santino sat on the top rope. He fired back with a Tornado DDT. He crawled to make the cover, but instead crawled over Swagger and to the door. Swagger pulled him back in but Santino kicked him off. Santino had most of his body out, but Swagger grabbed the ankle and applied the ankle-lock. Vickie tried to shut the door and argued with the ref. By the time she pried the door out of his hands, Santino had countered the ankle-lock and kicked Swagger into the doorway. Vickie didn’t see it and slammed the door on Swagger’s face. Santino then crawled out for the win.

WINNER: Santino, at 10:20. The cage match and extended time the match got makes the US Title seem a little more relevant.

2 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. HORNSWOGGLE

Bodyslam by McIntyre, but he pulled Horny’s head up at two. Another bodyslam, and again McIntyre pulled horny up at two. Back-breaker for Hornswoggle. The ref checked on Horny, then threw the match out.

WINNER: McIntyre, via ref stoppage, at 1:23. McIntyre didn’t exactly look smart pulling off the pin a few times – after all, he was fighting for his job. But it makes sense for Laurinaitis to basically give McIntyre his job back. Now how will he keep it once Long takes over again next week?

3 – EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. MARK HENRY

The announcers talked about Henry being inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame this past week. They showed clips of him during his weightlifting days, then Henry accepting the award, all smiles. That really goes against how he’s been booked for the last several months. Takes you out of the moment of him being a killer heel. Jackson cornered Henry and pounded on him, but couldn’t get Henry up for the Rack. Henry, in a blue singlet, slammed Jackson after some trash talk. Jackson moved out of the way of an elbowdrop, then clotheslined Henry in the corner and delivered some body shots. Jackson charged the corner, but Henry charged at him, knocking Zeke down. World’s Strongest Slam for the pinfall.

WINNER: Henry, at 1:41. Beautiful. This is what they need to do if they want to rebuild him – start with some dominant wins over lower competition.

4 – JOHN LAURINAITIS vs. TEDDY LONG – IF LONG WINS, KANE FACES AKSANA TONIGHT

No music for Laurinaitis as he and Otunga walked to the ring. Laurinaitis wore spandex pants. Long wore a black WWE logo t-shirt. When the bell rang, Laurinaitis got the mic and asked if Long was really going to put Aksana in danger. Laurinaitis told Long to be a man and do the right thing. I feel like it wasn’t that long ago that we had a match where Long was forced to job. Laurinaitis told Long to lie down. Long refused. Laurinaitis called out Kane, whose fireworks went off. Long protected Aksana in the ring after Laurinaitis left. As Kane reached the apron, Randy Orton ran out and pulled him off, RKO’ing him. Laurinaitis was quite animated in his disdain for Orton’s actions. Long then rolled Laurinaitis up for the win.

WINNER: Long, at 2:27. Still an hour left on the show, plenty of time for Kane to recover and face Aksana…right?

Laurinaitis was still throwing a fit in the ring as the camera picked up Long and Aksana walked briskly through the backstage area, discussing dinner plans and likely leaving the arena. Back at ringside, Orton’s music played as he stood over Kane.

5 – KOFI KINGSTON & R-TRUTH vs. PRIMO & EPICO

Epico began the match against Kingston. Monkey flip by Kingston put Epico on his back. Quick tag to Truth and a double hip-toss by the faces. Truth did a lot of dancing before hitting a legdrop. More double-teaming, this time Epico leap-frogged Kofi only to get side-kicked by Truth. Kingston hit the ropes and while the ref was distracted by Truth, Primo pulled the ropes open, sending Kingston to the floor. Booker called it “a little underhanded,” but still complimented the heels for their illegal tactics. Double underhook slam by Epico for two. Booker talked about his tag team days, as part of one of the greatest teams ever. “Ebony and Ivory?” Cole asked, and Booker corrected him, saying, “The Ebody Experience.” False tag to Truth and the heels continued on Kofi. Kofi kicked away from Primo and finally made the tag at 4:25 of the match. Truth landed the corkscrew elbow on Primo, but Epico broke up the pin. Kingston got involved and Epico was backdropped to the floor. Rosa Mendes got on the apron but she couldn’t help her charges. Flip kick by Kofi, then Truth dropped Primo with a version of the Downward Spiral for the win.

WINNERS: Kingston and Truth, at 5:12. Basic tag-team booking and Primo and Epico still looked good by controlling the bulk of the match.

6 – SHEAMUS & BIG SHOW & RANDY ORTON vs. DANIEL BRYAN & CODY RHODES & THE MIZ

Sheamus and Rhodes began the match. Orton tagged in at 29 seconds of the match. He hammered away with rights in the corner on Rhodes. Clothesline by Orton as Cole bragged about how long Rhodes has held the Intercontinental Championship. Rhodes held Orton, allowing the newly-legal Bryan to kick Orton in the chest. Cole has become such a fan of Bryan that he even suggested he’s going vegan. Dropkick by Orton, then a tag to Show. Show headbutted Bryan to the mat. Miz tagged in and Miz stumbled backward when Show feigned a right hand. After a hard slap to the chest by Show, Miz retreated and tagged Rhodes. Rhodes stepped in and tagged Miz back in. Show brought Miz in the hard way as they cut to break at 3:36.

Back to the show at 6:33 of the match. Sheamus and Miz were in the ring, and Sheamus ran over Miz with a few Irish Hammers. Near-fall at 7:28 by Sheamus. Sheamus fought off Rhodes, then put Miz back down. Forearms to the chest of Rhodes, then an elbow to Bryan. Miz dropkicked Sheamus out of the ring, as the three-on-one was just too much. Bryan hit a flying knee to Sheamus off the apron. Bryan wanted the tag and got it. Sheamus fought back to his feet, but wasn’t there for long. Bryan dropped several knees across the chin and throat of Sheamus. Running boot by Miz after he tagged in. Rhodes also got a chance to work over Sheamus. Short DDT by Miz for a two-count. Side Russian leg sweep by Rhodes after he avoided a Celtic Cross. That got him a two-count at 11:33. Irish Curse backbreaker and the match reset at about 12:00. Both men made tags, with Orton showing a lot of energy against Miz. Show took care of Rhodes and chased him up the ramp. Orton gave Miz a rope-assisted DDT. He avoided a kick from Bryan and tried to give him the same DDT. Instead, Bryan brought Orton throat-first across the top rope. Sheamus knocked Bryan over the apron then over the barricade and into the timekeeper’s area. Orton avoided a Skull Crushing Finale and hit the RKO for the win.

WINNERS: Orton, Show, and Sheamus, at 13:33.

[Arcademan]

WWE RAW Results: 3-12-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed to in-ring results along with my own two bits thrown in on the non-ring sequences.

- Thuganomics version John Cena came out and did some rap including some non-PG stuff. Nice to see thug John but also shows you can't turn back the clock.

1 -- SHEAMUS vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Basic feeling-out process as Cole hyped Sheamus vs. World Hvt. champion Daniel Bryan at WrestleMania. Sheamus then knocked Ziggler to the outside and Zigs recovered on the floor as they cut to break at 2:00.

The match was back in the ring following the break. And, again, Sheamus knocked Ziggler over the top rope to the outside. Sheamus tried to follow up, but Vickie provided a distraction for Sheamus to crawl under the ring to the other side and sneak-attack Sheamus. Ziggler then smashed Sheamus into the announce table, nearly prompting Cole to curse to sell it. The camera zoomed in on Sheamus's back, which was cut up from the announce table.

Sheamus beat a ten count back into the ring, where Ziggler went to work with a methodical attack. Cole then relayed information that Daniel Bryan and A.J. are watching the match from a skybox. Josh Mathews was up in the skybox with Bryan and A.J. to discuss recent events. Bryan accused Mathews of judging their relationship. Bryan asked A.J. for comment, and A.J. gave a response that was essentially saying what Bryan wanted to hear.

From the skybox back to the ring, Sheamus made a comeback as Vickie tried to encourage Ziggler. Sheamus then blocked a top-rope attempt from Ziggler, but Ziggler rolled through the Celtic Cross into a crucifix pin for a nearfall. Sheamus then tried the power move again, but sort of awkwardly dropped Ziggler. It was good for a nearfall and the wrestlers talked a bit in the ring to reset. Ziggler then hit a Rocker Dropper, but Sheamus kicked out in time. The crowd came back to life after the botched spot and rallied behind Sheamus, who nailed the Brogue Kick out of nowhere. Sheamus with the pin for the win. Up in the skybox, Bryan wasn't impressed as A.J. stared straight ahead. Afterward, Cole and Lawler recapped high points from the match before noting the three count is how quickly the World Title count change hands at WrestleMania.

WINNER: Sheamus at 11:53. Solid match other than the pre-finish botch. (**)

2 -- U.S. champion SANTINO (w/Aksana) vs. MARK HENRY & DAVID OTUNGA -- non-title handicap match

After the bell sounded, Smackdown GM Teddy Long stomped out to the ring as everyone paused to watch Long approached the announce position. Before that, he grabbed Askana to make sure she was okay. Long then began arguing with Laurinaitis as the director cut back and forth between the announce position and the ring. Long gave Laurinaitis a light shove and Laurinaitis over-sold by spilling himself over the announce position. Back in the ring, Henry blocked Santino's Cobra and gave him the World's Strongest Slam for the pin and the win.

Post-match: The ref sold concern over Santino before the heels picked up Santino and slapped him around a bit. Kofi Kingston then stormed the ring and went after Henry, but a World's Strongest Slam took out Kofi. R-Truth then stormed the ring and was beaten down by Henry and Otunga. What happened to babyfaces who know how to make a save? Henry wasn't done with Truth, as he gave him a giant splash mid-ring. Laurinaitis then entered the ring and introduced the newest member of Team Laurinaitis, Mark Henry. Ringside, Long and Aksana sold concern over these developments as the heels stood tall in the ring.

WINNERS: Henry & Otunga at 1:33. What a giant cluster during the match. If Laurinaitis was intentionally acting completely lost and clueless (more so than usual), then he's the greatest actor of all-time. The post-match was effective for finally getting Henry back on track and setting up Long to find some new babyfaces. Kofi and Truth sure looked ineffective, though.

- A couple of backstage things involving Zack Ryder, Eve and Beth Phoenix, another with The Miz trying to get into WM XXVIII.

In-ring: Back from break, Jinder Mahal was on his way to the ring. Mahal placed his headdress into the protective case before the Funkasauras's music played. This brought out Brodus Clay and his dancers for Clay's first TV appearance in nearly two months. After Clay and Co. danced in the ring, they cut to a shot of Mahal indignant over these developments. Mahal then tried to jump Clay from behind and the ref pulled a TNA by calling for the bell.

3 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. JINDER MAHAL

Clay quickly shook off Mahal's attack and delivered a slam followed by a big running splash for the pin and the win. Afterward, Clay danced it up with the Funkettes. The post-match celebration lasted longer than the match. After a video replay, they returned to the ring for more dancing to stretch out the segment.

WINNER: Clay at 0:28.

- Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker face - face in the next segment. Taker vows to continue the streak and if HBK gets in the way win or lose, there will be hell to pay:
"The Streak will continue. And, I will officially end an era. But, if you don't do the right thing, I will officially end you."
Nice!

4 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. THE MIZ -- non-title match -- Miz makes Team Laurinaitis if he wins

Early on, Punk and Miz collided and sold the effects leading to a break after 40 seconds.

Back live three minutes later, Miz was in control as the announcers discussed Miz's recent rough patch. Punk then made a comeback with a swinging neckbreaker before landing a corner knee followed by a bulldog. Punk teased the GTS, Miz escaped, and Punk answered with a flying leg to the face. Miz came back with a kneeling and leaning DDT for a two count. Cole said Miz needs to calm down as they showed Miz looking toward the WM28 logo and trying to keep himself under control. Miz then went for a corner move, but Punk countered and slapped on his submission finisher. Miz fought the hold, but had to tap out. Roday made it official as Cole wondered if Miz's Mania dream is gone.

WINNER: Punk via submission at 6:15.

- Jericho come out on the Titantron and says he's dug into Punk's past and found out why he's straight edge; his dad was an alcolohic. Jericho will win, take his belt and take his sobriety and make him drink. Now...it's personal.

5 -- RANDY ORTON vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Vickie's voice was the only noise heard in the arena early on as Orton and Swagger felt each other out in the "comedown match" position. Orton flung Swagger to the outside, then followed up on the floor with more offense. Orton threw Swagger back into the ring and they cut to break with Orton still in control.

Back live, Swagger was working on Orton as Vickie screamed at Swagger to focus. Orton teased a comeback and the two men began trading right hands. Swagger then clipped Orton at the left knee and Vickie cackled from ringside. Swagger went to work on Orton to set up for the Anklelock, but Orton escaped and kicked Swagger away. Orton hobbled on one leg before dragging Swagger to the top turnbuckle for a superplex clear across the ring. Orton then went to That Place to get the crowd involved for the first time in the match, leading to a powerslam and spike DDT from the second rope. Orton then teased the RKO and he connected center-ring. Orton with the cover for the win.

WINNER: Orton at 8:32. Orton wasn't presented as a big deal here, which is either a product of WWE not planning in advance or WWE losing confidence in Orton as a top star. The finish was fine to give Orton a solid win pre-Mania, but, then again, Swagger lost to Santino twice last week, so a victory over Swagger doesn't mean much.

- The Rock comes out and sings the same song over and over with different words except for the last line 'Cleveland Rocks!' which makes the crowd happy but Rock please...stay away from singing. Two weeks in a row is two times too many.