#he's so good how he's not at the top of everything at aew is beyond me like how????? do you fumble????? him?????

[padmesbox]

I have decided who I will be.

[dreadwhoop]

Reviewing the All Elite Wrestling personnel 2022 Edition (Part 3) -

Part 0 - https://dreadwhoop.tumblr.com/post/697331836428353536/reviewing-the-all-elite-wrestling-personnel-2022

Part 1 - https://dreadwhoop.tumblr.com/post/697332640769081344/reviewing-the-all-elite-wrestling-personnel-2022

Part 2 - https://dreadwhoop.tumblr.com/post/697333058207154176/reviewing-the-all-elite-wrestling-personnel-2022

REMOVE

After their failure to rebrand themselves as The Dark Riders with Adam Page, The Dark Order has floundered for any relevance beyond beating The Factory over and over on AEW Dark. Had Stu Grayson and Anna Jay still remained this would be a harder sell but with Alan Angels also gone and Colt Cabana exiled from on-screen duties, the cast is down to its most pointless and fruitless members. Let me be the first to say I have all the respect in the world for a company putting on a tribute show to the untimely demise of one of their top talents who deserved better. However, with all due respect, if Jon Huber were alive today he'd of died from embaressment. The company has treated The Dark Order like a joke and never as any kind of creditable threat but when you factor in Pres10 Vance is FOURTH PLACE IN THE OVERALL WIN LOSS RATIO over Wardlow or Powerhouse Hobbs then no...I already made justifications to get rid of John Silver on his own terms. People who are happy to be there and not to be stars should go. The whole group is a farce and in shambles. The House of Black was simultaneously a better and less successful version of the whole thing. They're in shambles too. This whole group is a waste of time and effort let it end.

What a difference a year makes. AEW's biggest dissapointment. Ruby Soho deserved a chance to shine - she was being held back right? She got opportunity after opportunity and in the end fell flat. Literally falls flat - her finisher, No Future, either whiffs or has the effectiveness of an enziguri hit by a decayed sloth. Loses to the Women's Champion, loses her chance to be the first TBS Champion, and continues to be a loser where every win holds better talent back. It's embaressing to see her be so worried about what she does in the ring and her win over Kris Statlander in the Owen Hart cup cemented the tethering of patience AEW fans had waiting for her to justify beating better talent. I groan every time she shows up and now, thanks to Tay Melo, may not be showing up much at all. A tragic and cautionary tale as to why you don't hire every Ex-WWE person.

Why did Santana have to be the one injured and not this guy?! It's just not fair. Ortizitious is a condition involving the tongue being unfurled from the mouth and past the lips of the victim and then 'pants' or otherwise 'wags' the exposed muscle in front of everyone until you have the reflex to retract until the next time you are afflicted with said condition. Ruby Soho is a big sufferer of this but so are many others. Never forget Ortiz started all this. Ortiz deserves the door he's incredibly boring to watch at best and infuriating any other time.  

Under normal circumstances an injured wrestler shouldn't be cut for these reasons but with Darius the true detriment is how much he'll hold his brother back as a tag-team. He can't be trusted to wrestle in any capacity than a supporting role and yet he's not needed here either. He's no Kris Statlander or others sidelined with injuries. He's a waste of promotion. Sorry Dante but he's no good. Cut him.

The world's most boring wrestler. A poor man's Pac. No direction, no promo ability, no psychology, no fundementals, no crowd reaction, nothing but a good looking body and an average height to stake a claim on. Jonathan Gresham has everything this man has and he's been marginalised. Tony Nese teams with a guy called Josh Woods who overshadows him in every way and you could argue he's painfully average in presentation. It's ridiculous this guy still has a job. At least with jobbers like Fuego or Peter Avalon the presentation has some comedy to it. Tony Nese is just a lost cause.

Do I need a reason? Aside from what happened recently, AEW has long needed to dismantle one of the most damaging examples to modern tag-team wrestling. Everyone will say they hold FTR back, trying to turn them into the modern day Doug Furnas and Philip LaFon and, whilst true, you have to also understand they also held back Private Party's momentum and now they're jokes, The Butcher and The Blade, who aren't taken seriously, and even Best Friends or SCU or Dark Order or Jurassic Express or any tag-team. Any. Out of the 8 teams to hold this belt in 3 years only 5 still exist including The Young Bucks. It's why The Acclaimed and Swerve in our Glory has proven not only are Matt and Nick Jackson not needed but they're not missed either. They're so insecure they didn't even let Brandon Cutler come out, even as a joke, for the House of the Dragon episode in terms of who would be their 3rd partner in the trios tournament. Oh and how could anyone respect a person after losing a fight to a guy who had a torn pec? Nobody should put these guys over ever again and, as the biggest reason why AEW has problems right now, they need to be held accountable and be fired or become the jobbers they've made everyone else barring The Lucha Bros. Don't come back.

It's time to hang it up. Matt's sad tribute act was due to his brother who is a foregone conclusion in terms of also leaving. Matt has no business on TV anymore - he can be a backstage agent like Christopher Daniels. Stiff knees, dazed looks, tough as nails I'll give him this, but he's hard to look at - a shell of his former self. Why give him wins? He has less chance of being a big star than Dustin Rhodes does these days. Manage talent, be on commentary, just please stop wrestling. I'd rather see Mark Henry or Paul Wight in the ring which is to say I'd rather not them either. Retire with dignity before it's too late.  

The prophecy is incomplete but I cannot wait another year. The time has come. We got part 1 completed with him winning the tag titles with Jungle Boy. Now all he needs to do is finish it with putting Jungle Boy over and we're done with this doofus. The fact this guy nearly ended Rey Fenix's career should be enough reason to remove. Every year he almost gets the cut but I stay the execution well now his time has come.

You probably forgot she even existed. It's worrying to think at one point they were contemplating her being a serious contender for the Women's title. Did you know she beat Kris Statlander on a PPV this year? Like Red Velvet, Leyla was never destined for greatness and her complete lack of charisma or presence makes it the kind of deal I worry she'd be inserted into the BCC instead of Jamie Hayter. Get rid of this charisma vacuum and channel changer.

If MJF calls himself The Devil then Chris Jericho is Keyser Soze. The greatest trick The Magician pulled is letting everyone call him The Wizard because he sure has pulled the curtain over us all. A masterful conspiracy has played out where Jericho has resurfaced as a top talent, because he's booking his own segments, whilst latching onto every big name and fan-favourite until they're squeezed out of relevance. Everyone from Santana to Orange Cassidy to Eddie Kingston to even MJF - the list goes on and on - and not once was it to benefit them because who is still being booked at the top whilst the rest follow behind? The man with the master plan. Look at the past at who I've slated to remove - 2.0 to Jake Hager to others latched onto Jericho. Is it any wonder why Jericho has to go now? Look Chris Jericho is a good wrestler - he still can go - but this is it. He's done it all. It's all played out. He's the last of a generation where his contemporaries are either retired, dead, or passing the torch to a new generation. Hi Rey Mysterio!   Look at Sammy Guevara - the most protected person in AEW. He is always causing issues and yet nothing happens to him. Why is this? Hmm...isn't he always with Chris Jericho? What a coincidence. Is Chris Jericho bad for AEW? Let me answer with a question and you can figure out if I said yes or no - if Chris Jericho were released would it hurt AEW? Because your answer will be the same as my answer to the first question. Jericho should of been the one to hand off to a new generation - the kind of thing CM Punk spoke out - the kind of thing Dustin Rhodes wants to pass the torch over - the rub of a veteran to help those who need to be names in this business. Who has he made who didn't already get made without him or are hopeless without him? It only works one of two ways for Jericho - you are either better with him or he buries you subtly and plays out a performance worthy of WWE's favor. The weakness of those unable to call this out is why AEW has growing pains. If it turns out the entire CM Punk/Young Bucks + Kenny Omega situation was secretly orchestrated by Jericho and Moxley then it certainly validates why they're the biggest benefactors of their leaving. Remember a rule in life - whenever something bad happens look to who gains from the situation and ask yourself if it didn't happen would they have not gained more than if it had happened. This is why bad things happen.   Maybe you still don't get it. Maybe you never will. It is too late to change what Jericho is to you or to AEW. All I know is the future of AEW is not Jericho. It will be the end if he stays.

[itoldsunset]

semi-translating/summarizing some things p’boss said on the hardest brief podcast. putting it under the cut because it ended up being wayyy longer than expected. also, my thai knowledge is that of a little kid who left her country very young so i probably missed some words/references, sorry!

(i got lazy and skipped the last part where they talked about the props and the colors (red = oh-aew, blue = teh, purple = tarn) but i feel like enough folks on here have done the color/visual analysis so we should be good):

he had this story he wanted to tell about two childhood friends and also knew he wanted to cast pp and billkin, but to make it work they had to pull from pp and billkin’s personalities to make sure that the characters they ended up creating would mesh with who pp and billkin are as performers; in writing the script, they sometimes asked pp and billkin to talk about their experiences as teenagers and adapted it to the series, so for example the storyline where teh and oh-aew meet each other again at afterschool chinese class and start out not liking each other, comes from pp and billkin’s real life when they first met and didn’t like each other

the interviewer asked p’boss to talk about how the itsay team has balanced representation in terms of gender and sexual orientation, and p’boss said it was important to have a team that understands the human experience and can draw from life experiences from multiple perspectives, which led to diversity in gender, sexual orientation, and age

when asked whether itsay is a Y series (BL), p’boss said his intention is to tell a story about the relationship between two boys, so it depends on how you define what counts as BL, LGBTQ, etc.

the interviewer and p’boss had this conversation about what characterizes something as BL, and the interviewer said after asking around it seemed like BL is about relationships between boys but more from a fantasy lens and tends to be different from gay couples in real life, and focuses on scenes between the two male leads, scenes that make you “pinch your pillow” (op: like scenes that make you squeal), but not so much on other moments outside of that; p’boss’s response (approximate translation): “i’m not sure myself, but from what i know, BL series seem to be about relationships between boys, but from the perspectives of girls, since that tends to be the target audience. so it tends to be what makes girls happy, what entertains them, that ends up being the content of BL.”

p’boss on lgbtq series: “i think it looks deeply at the real lives of people who are lgbt, it might be more realistic. it might be like, this is a real thing, but when you tell it in a series it becomes dark, but it’s real. in terms of itsay, in the beginning i didn’t know how to classify it, but when a lot of people started calling it lgbt, i thought, okay. [...] it’s just the story i wanted to tell, and i wanted to tell it with as much humanity as possible. i don’t want to limit viewers, i want as many people to see this as possible, so we can call it whatever they want as long as they watch it and it makes them happy.”

this is his first series focusing on lgbtq characters, but in hormones he wrote goi and dao’s characters (op: i didn’t know this?!)

with itsay, p’boss said it was important to him to have slower pacing to explore the intricacies of the emotions in each scene (different types of anger, different ways of sulking, different types of happy, different types of crying), making it somewhat different from my ambulance where things had to move more quickly to keep up with the speed of a tv drama

the interviewer asked “how does having two male leads change how you work?” and p’boss said there’s nothing different in the way you build chemistry between the two characters because you would just pull from their personalities, but the difference is in the conflict of the story which involves confusion and questioning about sexual orientation which a straight couple wouldn’t go through

p’boss: “when we think about how teh is the kind of person who doesn’t say what he’s thinking, or how oh-aew is the kind of person who’s upfront, anyone can play those roles--women, men, gay people, trans people can all have these roles.”

the interviewer said “itsay seems to be expanding the scope of lgbtq narratives by presenting it as easier for the characters to come out and say they love someone of the same sex. for example, especially compared to love of siam where the kiss scene between mario and pchy was considered something shocking, or in hormones, with the relationship between march and tou (phu and thee) where the characters spent a lot of time fighting with themselves about who they were attracted to. but in itsay, oh-aew was totally straightforward in saying he liked bas. do you think that’s because it’s easier and more open today?” p’boss: “i think the content changes depending on the generations, and oh-aew is really of today’s generation. it’s not that there are no longer kids who are confused about their sexual orientation or afraid to come out, even if ten or twenty years pass there will probably still be some kids who experience that. but there are people who are open and happy about how they live their lives. oh-aew is the type of lgbtq character that’s like, ‘i’m gay, and i’m proud to be who i am.’ [...] and it’s very positive that he sees himself as equal to straight people, because when we’re born, we can love anyone. if you’re a man, you can love another man and that’s a normal thing. that’s oh-aew’s attitude: i’m lgbtq, i’m gay, i’m proud, my parents accept me, and i can tell anyone confidently who i can love. i think a lot of people in this generation already see this as something normal, and we really need to make it something that’s equal. oh-aew represents that equality.”

p’boss on teh: “teh is a character who seems to come from older societal expectations where he’s a man, and he has to love women. but there are people who do still think this way. for teh, it’s hard for him to accept that he might like boys, but when he finds out oh-aew likes boys, he’s totally fine with it and sees it as normal. i feel like society needs to progress to this point, and beyond it, because it all has to be seen as normal. a lot of people when they talk about gay people they say there has to be a top and a bottom, but in reality anything can work, love can happen however. one day i could date someone who’s a trans woman, that’s possible, because it’s about feelings. or a woman who has always loved men could one day date a woman, that’s possible too. there’s a lot of freedom, and i want the characters to show that.”

they talked about how in the scene where teh pretends to hit on oh-aew in front of all their friends, the friends are shocked not that teh is attracted to guys, but they’re shocked that teh likes someone in the friend group. and that goes to show that it’s normal for someone to like someone of the same sex, whereas 20 years ago maybe the characters would have reacted in confusion or shock.

p’boss talking about what was challenging about making this series: “in terms of writing the script, we had to think about how to tell the story in a way that shows the characters’ emotions at all times. for example in episode 2, we explored the restlessness that teh feels when he’s confused about he feels jealous or possessive of his friend. when we say it like that, it’s relatable to people who know what it’s like to feel possessive of their best friend, but how to execute that on the screen is a different matter.”

why phuket? p’boss: “when i decided to tell a story about two boys, i wanted the atmosphere to be romantic. even if the story isn’t romantic, like two boys who are best friends eating together, but i wanted the visuals to be romantic that it looks like it could be a romance film. it intrigues the viewers and adds a certain sweetness to it. i wanted a good environment, so i searched in a lot of different provinces. at first i went to ayutthaya, mae hong son, chiang mai, chiang rai, songkhla. but when i talked to the team, one person wanted to go to the mountains, another wanted to go to the cape, another wanted to go to the beach. even if there’s a beach there has to be a city. we wanted everything, and phuket has it all. old town has a city feel, but there’s also the beach and mountains, so we decided to go to down to phuket while we were writing the script, to confirm whether it would actually work. i’m from hatyai, so i’m from the south, but i rarely ever went to phuket so i wasn’t sure if it would work.”

p’boss said filming the underwater kiss was difficult because there needed to be sunlight in order to capture everything in the way they wanted, but when they got to the island, there was no sun and it was about to rain. so they looked up the color of luck/success for that day and it was purple (op: i don’t have context for this so i can’t explain further lol), so they told everyone to wear a purple shirt. the day they went to film the scene, they all wore purple shirts, but when they got to the site it looked like it was about to rain, so p’yong took off his shirt and hung it on the boat, and as they were filming, every time they said “action” the sun would come out and every time they said “cut” the sun would go away, and p’boss said it was magical and that’s how it came out to be the scene we saw.

[wrestlingisfake]

Best in the World preview

After getting confused about MLW Battle Riot, now I feel like I have to check to make sure all these shows are actually available to watch live!

Best in the World is $29.99 on Fite.tv, or $14.99 for Honor Club members, or free for Honor Club VIP members. (HonorClub is really only worth signing up for if you're already going hard for ROH.) The pre-show starts at 7pm EDT, and the main show begins at 8pm EDT.

Rush vs. Bandido - Bandido won the Survival of the Fittest tournament for the right to challenge Rush here for the ROH world title. Rush won the belt for the second time in February 2020 and, thanks to the pandemic, has only defended it three times since then. But this show kicks of Ring of Honor's return to live crowds, so maybe now we can get back to normal. This is the company's big chance to get the Rush era back on track, or to turn the page and start a new era with Bandido.

There really isn't anyone else like Rush in ROH. He just clobbers dudes, wins all the time, and looks like a star. He's not exactly Brock Lesnar, but he has an aura that makes him feel like he should be in a bigger company, and no one on this roster can carry his jock. I would figure the plan is to set up a rising young star to finally figure out how to beat this guy. Bandido would make sense in that role, but it's anyone's guess if that's the plan for him.

AEW wanted very badly to sign Bandido in early 2019, but he went with ROH instead because at the time no one knew if AEW was actually going to work. That gave ROH a huge opportunity to build their future around a top prospect AEW wanted but couldn't get. Instead Bandido spent the past few years lost in the shuffle with Lifeblood and the Mexisquad. I really feel like ROH dropped the ball with this guy. The fact he's suddenly on top now doesn't totally make up for that.

It's tough to pick a winner here. Rush is the logical favorite, but ROH might want to shake things up as they go back to doing shows in front of live crowds. An upset win for Bandido would create a lot of options for fresh title matches at upcoming shows. But if Rush retains, ROH will have the same problem Smackdown is having with Roman Reigns--how do you convince the audience that anyone is left that can beat this guy?

Jonathan Gresham vs. Mike Bennett - Bennett won a seven-man gauntlet to earn this match for Gresham's ROH pure championship. This title is contested under "pure wrestling rules," which basically limit rope breaks and add tighter restrictions on punches to the face and outside interference. Gresham is an expert at this type of match, whereas Bennett is new to the format.

Bennett (along with his wife Maria Kanellis) was a mainstay in ROH, and then had a decent little run in Impact before going to WWE as "Mike Kanellis." Everything went wrong with that WWE run, but at least that's led to Bennett receiving a lot of sympathy from fans as he picks himself up and keeps going. Since returning to ROH, Bennett has mainly been supporting Matt Taven in his feud. So this is an interesting way to get him spun off into his own thing.

The pure rules stuff doesn't do a lot for me, but I like the idea of a styles clash where one guy is completely out of his element. Gresham should wrestle rings around Bennett, but Bennett should be so tenacious that Gresham can't quite put him away. It wouldn't hurt Bennett to lose, although a Bennett title win would probably be such an insult to Gresham's pride that it could set up an intense long-term rivalry.

Honestly my main interest in this match is that I recently listened to a WARHORSE interview where he said he almost quit wrestling but Mike Bennett talked him out of it. So Bennett seems like a cool guy and I'm pulling for him.

Jay Lethal vs. Brody King - Back in March, King disrupted the feud between The Foundation and Los Faccion Ingobernable by introducing his own stable called Violence Unlimited. That's pretty much all there is to this match--it's just a Foundation guy and a VU guy facing off in the latest round of a three-way war.

It stands to reason that the winner of this match would move on to start something with LFI's leader, Rush. So unofficially this feels like a match to decide the next contender for the world title. However, Rush already defended the title against King in December and Lethal in February. So I don't know, maybe these two will just clobber each other and it won't matter who wins. That's how a lot of ROH matches feel to me, honestly.

Tracy Williams & Rhett Titus vs. Homicide & Chris Dickinson - Williams and Titus (of the Foundation) are defending the ROH tag team title. The challengers are representing Violence Unlimited. Dickinson came to ROH by way of teaming with Brody King on NJPW Strong, so he made good sense in King's ROH faction. Homicide was at the very first ROH show in 2002; before aligning with VU, it had been seven years since he appeared in the promotion.

This is another match where I can't get a feel for where things are headed, and I'm not sure it makes much difference. I guess my gut says they should put the title on the new team to get them over.

Tony Deppen vs. Dragon Lee - An injury forced Lee to vacate the ROH television title, which Tracy Williams won for the Foundation, who lost it to Violence Unlimited's Deppen, and now Lee wants to get it back for Los Faccion Ingobernable. Once again, I'm not sure it matters which guy ends up with the belt, but I'll go with Lee to win since the injury situation probably messed up their plans.

Shane Taylor & Moses & Kaun vs. Dalton Castle & Dak Draper & Eli Isom - Shane Taylor Promotions is defending the ROH trios title. Castle has been doing this weird passive-aggressive thing with Draper and Isom, so his latest move is to arrange this title shot behind their backs. It might be interesting to put the title on three guys who want championships but not with each other. But I'm fairly confident this just ends with Castle's team falling apart because he's a dick.

EC3 vs. Flip Gordon - When EC3 started here as a heel, he recruited Flip to help him fight Jay and Mark Briscoe; later as EC3 went babyface, he took exception to Gordon's cheating tactics. So now Flip is the target of all the weird cryptic multimedia presentations that EC3 likes to do for his opponents.

Flip used to be a beloved babyface, and it was just mildly amusing that he was a flat-earther in real life. Then he turned heel, and then he caught heat for complaining about face masks during the pandemic. So I'm pretty sure any goodwill Gordon had with the fans is gone by now. I don't see much upside in giving him the win now; pushing EC3 is the better bet for ROH.

Jay Briscoe & Mark Briscoe vs. PJ Black & Brian Johnson - I guess the Briscoes were having some issues but they've worked them out, so they're back in the hunt for the tag team title. Meanwhile Johnson seems to be getting frustrated under the mentorship of Black, and they're regrouping by making their own tag title run. Presumably the story of the match is that both teams want to be back on the same page, but only one of them really is. Pretty sure the Briscoes win this one.

Josh Woods vs. Silas Young - This is a "last man standing" match, so the match can only end when one participant is on the ground and cannot stand up again before the referee's ten-count.

Woods became Young's protege all the way back in September 2019, forming a tag team called, uh, "2 Guys 1 Tag." Right from the start I didn't expect that to last very long. But as it happened, what with the pandemic and all, Young didn't turn on Woods until March 2021.

You'd assume the point of all this would be to have Young put Woods over and establish Woods as a rising star for ROH's future. But it feels like every time ROH sets up something like this, they have the bitter old bully win to get heat. By the time they set up a rematch for the face to finally get vindication, I've usually given up and lost interest, which defeats the purpose of dragging the story out so long.

Demonic Flamita vs. Rey Horus - This is scheduled for the pre-show. Flamita, Horus, and Bandido were all in a trio called Mexisquad up until Flamita snapped and turned on the other two. Now he's "Demonic Flamita." I'm guessing the idea here is to give Flamita an impressive victory here to build up Bandido vs. Flamita to be a bigger deal.

PCO & Danhausen vs. The Beer City Bruiser & Brawler Milonas - This is also scheduled for the pre-show. PCO is basically a wrestling Frankenstein monster, but he's also Qubecer Pierre from the WWF in 1993, which still blows my mind. Danhausen is sort of like if Conan O'Brien played a character on What We Do In The Shadows. I like the idea of these two teaming up, and I hope it goes somewhere beyond prelim matches. I think the Bouncers (Bruiser and Milonas) turned heel when I wasn't paying attention, but that wouldn't be hard since I never pay attention to them. They should be easy pickings for PCOhausen.

[lancearcherinrippedjeans]

Moving On

Pairings - Cash Wheeler x Reader, Kenny Omega x Reader

Category - Angsty, Hurt/Comfort

Warnings/Promises - Cussing and cheating

Word Count - 1,462

Summary/Desc - Y/N gets cheated on, so, she tries to move on.

For @kploveswrestling​

I was so proud of them. Cash and Dax just made their debut here in AEW, and I was beyond excited. I finally get to work with my longtime boyfriend.

Cash was so good to me, he made me happy, and well, he is my happiness.

I walked to their locker room, when Dax stopped me, “Y/N, uh, I don’t know if you wanna go in there.” I looked at him confused, “Why?”

He looked at the door and back at me, “You just don’t, if you don’t wanna get hurt.” “What? Is he trash talking me or something? Come on Dax, move.” I laughed.

“Please Y/N. I care about you, just please, don’t.”

“If he’s naked I don’t care,” I pushed passed him opening the door, “It’s nothing I haven’t seen befo-” Well, Cash was naked. Just, on top of someone else. He heard my voice, and quickly detached from the girl, quickly putting on some clothes.

“Y/N, it’s not what it looks like.” Cash tried to defend himself, like I hadn’t seen anything. “No I think it’s exactly what it looks like,” I couldn’t even look at him, “You’re throwing away our relationship for some brunette whore?”

“Um I would like to cut in!” She defended herself, cutting in the conversation and putting on her clothes. I looked at her, “Get. Out.” She walked towards the door, “No, Amanda, stay.” He objected.

“Oh so she has a name now?”

“Look, Y/N. It’s getting old. It’s always ‘I’m tired’ ‘not tonight’ ‘I’ve been training all day’. I needed to fill the gaps.” I folded my arms, “So this is over cause I didn’t want to have sex? Really?”

He shrugged. I just nodded, hurt, “Alright, we’re done. If you want to throw it away, then I will too.”

He turned away, “Whatever, you’re not worth my time anyways.” I couldn’t believe what he just said, I had to get out of here.

 I walked out the room and bumped into Dax again.

He looked at me with sad eyes, “Y/N I-” “I’m fine. Just, let me leave.”

I walked around him to the women’s locker room, grabbing my stuff and leaving. And before I could leave the general area of the locker room to order my Lyft, before someone else bumped into me. “What the hell man?!” I yelled not even looking at the person before trying to walk away.

Whoever it was grabbed my arm and pulled me back, “Y/N? What is wrong with you?” I moved my hair out my face to see Kenny Omega, worried look on his face. I hadn’t talked to him much, just friendly conversation here and there.

I snatched my arm away, “I don’t want to talk about this okay? I just want to order my Lyft and cry in my hotel room.”

He thought for a second, “You can ride with Adam and I, you know, to pay you back for bumping into you.”

It could be nice, and I wouldn’t have to dump all my problems on some random stranger.

“Alright, do I have to stay any longer?” He shook his head, “No, I was about to leave anyways, Adam is waiting for me outside.” 

We headed for parking and Kenny told his tag team partner, “She’s riding with us tonight, hope you don’t mind.” Adam just shrugged and grabbed my back, putting it in the trunk, closing it. 

I headed for the backseat when they said I could take shotgun, I tried to object, but it was no use, I buckled up in the passengers seat and got ready for the ride ahead.

“So, Y/N, if you don’t mind me asking,” Kenny looked at me for a split second, “What happened?”

I felt the urge to cry again, but held it in. “Well, uh, I was about to check in on Cash, Dax stopped me. And when I got around him, I found out Cash was cheating on me.”

“What!?” Both men shouted in unison. “I know, I know. I didn’t expect it either.” 

“But you two have been together for so long.” Adam said, confused. “Well, that didn’t matter to him.”

Kenny looked over at me, “Y/N you deserve better than that, for sure.” I weakly smiled before turning back to the road, waiting to get to the hotel.

The Next Day

I was woken up by loud banging on my room door. I got up to answer it to see Cash, with flowers. “Y/N, I’m so sorry. What I said, was horrible and what I did was worse. Can we just, try again?”

I took the flowers, “Well, maybe.” I smiled down at them. “Besides, Monica meant nothing to me,” He said grabbing my hands, “I miss you.” I stopped smiling when I realized, he said a completely different name than Amanda, “Monica? I caught you with Amanda?”

“I mean-” I threw the flowers in his face, “So there were multiple women?” I asked, voice barely above a whisper.

“How long have you been sleeping with other women?”

“I don’t know, Y/N, a few months? Can you just let it go?”

I bit back the tears, I couldn’t let him know how much he had hurt me.

“Please, just leave.”

“Wait...is this because of Kenny or Adam?” “What are you even talking about?” “Dax saw you leave with them last night. So what? You’re with one of them now? Is that it?”

“Cash, Adam is married. And Kenny, he was being nice.”

“Sure, like I’ll believe that.” “Oh my gosh just go!”

I managed to get that out without breaking down. “Alright fine, I’m sure Monica or Amanda would be pleased to here that it’s over for good.”

He walked away, without anymore words. I was actually done.

I closed the door and hit my back against it, crying. The only man I had loved for years no longer cares? How could he let me go so quick? I heard and felt a few thuds against my back, “Y/N? It’s Kenny.”

“Go away.” I sobbed out, not wanting to see anyone.

“Please? Open the door?”

I let out a breathe and decided to open the door. He offered a comforting smile and held up a bag, I don’t know what’s in it, but I’m probably gonna find out.

“I thought I would hang out with you for a bit, and y’know, try and help you feel better.” I smiled back and let him in, closing the door right after.

He sat on my bed, waiting for me to sit next to him. I did, reluctantly. He started taking things out the bag. He handed me a pint of ice cream and a small bear. I cracked a small smile and thanked him.

“Now, you wanna talk about it a bit?”

I sighed and slammed my head down on the pillow, having to explain how I actually felt. “I just don’t get it. He’s throwing years down the drain. I don’t understand. Is there something wrong with me? I mean, I bet those girls were beautiful. I guess I can’t blame him,” I felt tears rolling down my cheeks, “And I-I don’t know if I can move on. He was my everything. I can’t let go.”

He grabbed my hand, “Y/N there’s nothing wrong with you. You’re amazing from what I’ve seen. You’re funny, nice, beautiful and a 10/10 that he apparently just can’t realize. And there’s probably a line of people that would love to have your heart.”

“But Kenny-”

“Don’t object! Cause I’m right, and I don’t get how you don’t see it! Cash is a fucking idiot. He can go fuck whoever he wants but they’ll never be Y/N L/N.”

I looked up at him, tears still in my eyes, “You really mean that?”

“Of course I do.”

I couldn’t comprehend what I was hearing, so I just sat up and hugged him. Kenny really was a good guy.

Time Skip

He was hanging out with me for a few hours, “I gotta head out gotta talk to Adam about some things.”

I was kinda sad, but it’s fine, “Oh okay, I’ll walk you out.”

I walked him to the door but he hesitated, “Y/N, are you free Saturday?” “Uh yeah, why?” 

“Well, I learned more about you today than I ever have, so, I want to take you out, you know, like a date.”

I was so happy by what I was hearing, I perked up, acting like I wasn’t stunned, “Uh, yeah. Sounds great.” “Well alright. See you Saturday.” 

“See you then, bye.” He walked out, closing the door behind him.

Well, I guess I have a date Saturday. And better yet, I get to move on. To a man who is actually worth it.

BLEH I HATE THE ENDING. Butttt I hope you enjoyed, this stressed me out cause I was soooooooo busy and unmotivated this week/last week.

[malethirsty]

The Master & The Prinxe - Seth Rollins & Finn Balor

Summary: Seth Rollins has been the lightning rod of anger from the WWE Universe and it’s starting to affect him. After Kevin Owens insults him by bringing up The Shield, Seth is at his breaking point. However the arrival of a friend from another brand throws everything up in the air.

Warnings: M/M smut (21+), Violence

Authors Note: This was a fic I had posted on my personal account @thesimonkshow​, reposted here because this is where my M/M fics go. 

Seth Rollins was in a bad mood. He had just confronted Kevin Owens about his defection to NXT at War Games & he retaliated by bringing up Seth betraying The Shield, which had happened once, incomparable to the opposing RAW team members consistent level of betrayal, which seemed to happen every other day.

He didn’t notice the pacing of feet as someone sat down besides him “Well hey there Seth. Someone got you hot and bothered?” Seth turned to see Finn Bálor, his friend & also a member of the NXT team this evening. “And why would I tell you?, you’d only use it to further your team.” “Now why would I do something like that? I may be on their team, but you & I run deeper than this match.” Finn responded. Seth sighed, it seemed he would be safe. “Fucking Kevin Owens, I brought up War Games, cause I was worried about our team that I have pit my grieviances aside for, and that bitch brings up me betraying The Shield, when he’s on Betrayal number who fucking knows?” Finn chuckled “That little cunt wouldn’t know loyalty even if it decked him in the face.” Seth let out a gutteral laugh, somehow things felt better when he was with Finn. They had grown close when they first feuded, the connection deepening when they would face The Miz for the Intercontinental Championship, Seth even considered making him a Shield member, maybe something even more, but anytime he thought about it, his mind returned to Dean & he pushed the thought away.

“It seems like your putting your reputation on the line for people who couldn’t give a shit about you. They just throw you away like you’re nothing. I remember when I faced The Fiend, everyone wanted me to lose, I was so alone, so unhappy. And when I lost I heard the audience cheer & I felt so full of rage, like darkness just filled me. I waited for my moment to strike, and when it came, I ripped Johnny Gargano from limb to limb, I became The Prinxe.” Seth listened to Finn entranced by the Irishman’s words, he felt the same way, he’d tried to stand for the lockerroom, for Vince, for WWE, but found himself hated and despised. Legends had tried to stand up for Seth like Bret Hart, but their appreciation did the exact opposite of what was intended. Hell In A Cell was both a release of that tension but also rock bottom, the hatred became like acid, attacks on him became more frequent. After emerging from that damn hole after being attacked by The Fiend at the draft, he had felt humiliated, but that quickly turned to rage, he had felt that same anger Finn felt.

“Yeah, I know what you mean, after everything that has happened, when I beat Bray up & set fire to his house, I felt so good, like at WrestleMania where I won the Universal Championship. I felt like Seth Rollins again.” “When Hunter pulled me from the roster & got me back to his brand NXT, I felt like I had just won the Intercontinental title again. So on top of the world, even though I should have known I was all along, I just needed that push.” Seth paid attention to every word Finn said, it felt as if his friend knew his struggle & was giving his hand to help, the only person he cared about was giving him a way out. “Listen, I have to get back to my team, but I heard you weren’t gonna be wearing your RAW shirt, so if you choose, I got you something more your style. See you out there.” He pushed a package into Seth’s hand, grinned and set off. Seth opened the package, making sure no one was looking & grinned, he knew what he had to do.

The match was fury and fire as expected, Drew scored a big opening by knocking Dominik Dijakovic out in a few moments and to Seth’s delight, Kevin was quickly chucked by Tomasso Ciampa. After a lengthy match, he, Roman & Finn were the only surviviors. He knew Roman would form an alliance with him & sure enough “We take Finn, then you & me” he heard Roman whisper in his ear “Always man” Seth said back, Roman advanced forwards. Seth knew, now was the time.

He raced up behind Roman, low blowing him, putting Roman into a Pedigree & let Finn take him out. The crowd, already hostile enough on it’s own right, began booing at an alarming rate. Seth caught Finn’s eye & Finn knew what Seth wanted to do, he slipped out of the ring, marched to the announcer & tore the mic out of their hands. Returning to the ring he passed Seth the mic, the crowds now preceding to chant ‘CM Punk’ as loud as they possibly could. “SHUT UP!” Seth screamed with so much malice and venom exuding from his booming voice, that everyone actually listened and fell silent, even the commentary team. “For years I have been the one paving the way for WWE, creating The Shield, becoming the beacon for all of the heels when I joined The Authority, setting a precedent for Money In The Bank when I cashed in the Main Event of WrestleMania, a precedent yet to be topped! I became a Grand Slam Champion & even came to your aid when Brock Lesnar had this division by it’s balls and wouldn’t let go, TWICE!” Seth sucked in an angry breath & continued “And how did you repay me? You went beyond the booing expected by the WWE Universe. You spat on my reputation, you cursed my name when I disagreed with AEW, when I tried to stand up for everyone in the back, you hoped for The Fiend’s success, though he’ll soon run through the entire division, treat us like he was treated by Vince, until the entire division is buried. You wished for my death just for your own pettiness to be sated. You ran from me, just like your precious Roman Reigns ran.” He kicked Roman’s unconscious body emphasising his point. “He ran, all the way to SmackDown & besides our match at the Draft never once bothered to check up on me. Use me to achieve his selfishness of wanted his ‘Band of Brothers’ back together, and what did he do? Threw me away like I was disposable. Dean left because Vince used him, got the crowd to hate him through his turn that night, through those orders of saying he wanted Roman dead. Dean saw through it, much earlier than this time last year, he was right to leave.”

Seth looked at Finn, every word he said about the universe turning on him, he meant, not just for himself but for Finn as well “There was one man who truly cared, and that” he gestured over to Finn, watching on with his trademark smile, not filled with love, but with pure evilness, joyful at how Seth was brutalising everyone “was Finn Bálor. He was the only one who knew exactly what I was going through, cause he was there in my spot just months ago. He even knew I wasn’t myself, so he got me something that showed he knew me, what I’m all about, what I should have been about from Day One.” Seth ripped off his Red Chicago cover & the entire arena gasped. Below it, Seth wore Finn’s package, a half shirt, one side with Seth Freakin’ Rollins, another a side decorated in gold and black, the NXT logo emblazoned on the front.

“The Prinxe saw me when I was feeling the strain & gave me a way out. So Monday’s will no longer be Monday Night Rollins, cause I am no longer here to please you or anyone else. I’m in it for myself like Finn, doing things because I want to. I’m The Master of NXT, and if anyone gets in my way I will BURN. THEM. DOWN.” Seth let out his familar heel cackle & threw the mic away, hitting Corey Graves in the face with it. As the crowds boos sounded, he no longer cared, he was liberated, himself again. He grabbed Finn’s hand, the two survivors, the two that would always survive & strode to the back of the arena, they turned & in unison, raised Finn’s trademark guns, and shot right at the centre, where Roman still laid broken.

NXT would go on to win the evening, and a party at the bar was where everyone went, even the Undisputed Era, still sore but exctatic that their brand won the night. Triple H was the only one whom noticed Seth & Finn were not there, he rang them both, letting them know where their victory party was. Unbeknownst to Triple H, Seth & Finn were partaking in their own victory party. In Finn’s apartment, the two had thrown off each others clothes, both men on the bed, Seth’s head thrown back in ecstasy as Finn’s mouth worked his cock. “Fuck Finn, I’ve wanted you for such a long time.” Seth moaned, Finn proceeded to suck Seth’s balls, Seth letting out a sharp groan “Fuck, I should have told you earlier, I put it to the side, scared of hurting Dean, no more, I do what I want from now on.” Finn moved up to Seth’s face, kissing him. “And what does The Master want?” He asked, flirtingly, Seth gripping onto Finn’s back, nails digging in “You, Finn Bálor.” He threw Finn onto the bed, sinking into his tight ass. Both men moaned as Seth began to fuck his Prinxe “Fuck, you feel so good around me Bálor. So good for your master.” Finn gave Seth a seering kiss “We work with each other, now and forever, the NXT division will tremble before both of us, together on our rightful thrones, the way we knew it was from day one, the way it should have been.” Motivated by Finn’s powerful words, the two began to thrust faster and faster, the clock on the wall, the pouring of the rain, the buzzing of their phones, all lost to their pleasure. “Seth, Master, I’m about to cum.” Finn moaned out loud as Seth grabbed his dick and began to jerk it, desperate to get Finn off, to get his Prinxe to orgasm. “Seth yes, keep going. SETH FUCK!” Finn screamed at the top of his lungs as he came, landing atop of Seth’s chest. He leant down and licked it off, causing Finn to moan. “God Finn, your ass is so tight, I’m going to cum!” Seth made to pull out but Finn shook his head, he wanted Seth’s load. Seth moved his hand onto Finn’s torso, gracing every single one of Finn’s amazing abs. “God, I love you Finn Bálor.” Seth’s face, eyes and whole body lit up with adoration as he thrusted with more strength than he’d ever had, leaning down to kiss Finn as he came, shot after shot filling Finn’s ass. Pulling out slowly, Seth collapsed next to Finn. Pulling him in for a kiss. “Wow babe.” Seth grinned at Finn “You’re welcome babe.” The Prinxe letting out a cold laugh, one that many would never thought they would hear out of the good hearted Finn Bálor, but one that was soothing to Seth as The Master laughed coldly as well “We’ve got each other now though, as we truly are: The Master & The Prinxe.” Finn moved up to Seth’s face, Seth leaning down, catching his soulmate’s lips in an Earth shattering kiss.

[danwhobrowses]

WWE - Best and Worst Booking from Wrestlemania 36 to 37

Wrestlemania 37 is in the books and so a new saga of WWE booking begins anew.

But the year has had its ups and downs, in the outside world and the booking, so - for doing something new - I'm gonna run down some of the best and worst booking decisions made by WWE from the Raw after Wrestlemania 36 to Wrestlemania 37 Night 2.

I will note, these are my opinions - some of which acts upon hindsight rather than 'in the moment' - and if you're gonna call me an anti-WWE mark rest assured I plan to do this for AEW too after Double or Nothing in May

Also, there is the off chance of spoilers...somehow? But it's worth covering that base

April 2020 Best WORST - Samoa Joe on Commentary On April 27th, Samoa Joe was called upon to replace Jerry Lawler (we'll get to that) on Commentary. Joe provided a great presence to commentary and it kept him on TV, we do still await his return but seeing more of Joe is a huge plus. EDIT: This was best until just now I learn that Samoa Joe has been released, the fuck WWE?

Worst - 'Ramen Noodle Moonsault' Part of what caused Lawler's replacement was the scrutiny caused by an April 13th call by Lawler during a match between Austin Theory and Akira Tozawa. He called a Step Senton a 'Ramen Noodle Moonsault', Lawler is rarely funny nowadays with his dated comedy but this was the straw that broke the camel's back.

Best - Giving Sonya and Mandy the Floor It could've been a huge down not to see Sonya vs Mandy at Wrestlemania after she was outed in manipulating Mandy away from Otis, but their feud managed to carry on strong all the way to Summerslam thanks to Sonya stepping up her game to come off as a fantastically asshole heel - which in turn made Mandy a sympathetic character. Their post-mania build allowed for an anticipated match, it was only unfortunate that an attempted irl kidnapping in August would sour the momentum and cause Sonya to take some justified time off.

Worst - Charlotte Flair on all 3 Shows Charlotte's NXT Title win did not go down as well as WWE had hoped, somehow giving the woman that had won next to everything another title reign at the expense of Rhea Ripley's Wrestlemania debut backfired on them. And unfortunately, exposing Charlotte on all 3 shows did not help matters at all, furthering the criticisms WWE have often faced when they overbook Charlotte on the upper card.

Worst - COVID-19 and Black Wednesday While not necessarily a booking thing, it was very bad of WWE to do what they did at the time. Another outbreak raised some backstage concerns over the conduct WWE, who had tried to not acknowledge the pandemic in the same vein then-president and somehow HOFer Donald Trump had done, were acting towards the pandemic. The worst of it all though was Black Wednesday, a mass exodus of talent in the height of the pandemic was never gonna be great PR, but a lot of the talent let go were very popular - Drake Maverick's video also cast a negative light on WWE even when they rehired him and used it as a storyline. While some found greener pastures to flourish, not everyone landed well on their feet, equally baffling was that WWE would then boast a quarterly profit before rehiring some of the staff they let go.

May 2020 Best - Giving the title to Asuka While we were all surprised to see Becky Lynch survive Shayna Baszler at Wrestlemania, nobody could dispute the post MITB segment on Raw when Asuka was rightfully awarded the title for winning the MITB. Being a shining light in the Empty Arena Era, Asuka was certainly a fan favourite choice to succeed Becky as she embarked on her journey towards Motherhood. A truly wonderful segment which showed that segments can pay off just as much as wrestling.

Worst - Not Pushing Otis While Asuka's MITB victory was done right, the same could not be said for the Men's Winner. Otis had the fan's backing and while his victory was surprising especially given the competition it had potential. Which WWE then squandered and buried as hard as they could. Otis never got to develop beyond a joke act, his love interest and partner taken from him, before he would months later lose it to the Miz.

Best - MVP joins up with Lashley Lashley was in a rough spot here. His main story was cucking Rusev by having an affair with Lana, and then marrying her. The pair was not built to last and mercifully we upgraded to the MVP/Lashley partnership. Together both men began their career resurgence as they now stand at the top of the pile, this was the beginning of the Hurt Business.

Worst - The Brand-To-Brand Invitational Much like how the Wild Card Rule was stupid, the Brand-To-Brand Invitational was also stupid. Often used as a tool for Survivor Series or to bring Charlotte or Corbin over with their bad heat, overall it served nothing for the fans or the booking, regardless of whatever they named it.

Best - The Fight Pit Timothy Thatcher can still do a lot more in NXT, but he still leaves a great legacy in introducing the Fight Pit. When there's not enough people for War Games but a Steel Cage won't do, the Fight Pit sold stiff aggression with its debut affair between Thatcher and Riddle, a brutal match only since done once more. It may have been done twice, but if someone calls for a Fight Pit you know shit's gonna go down.

Worst - Stripping Sami Zayn of the IC title, for staying safe Sami Zayn had finally won a championship on the Main Roster in March, then COVID happened. While WWE did make an outward statement that anyone who didn't wish to risk their health could exclude themselves, when Sami did it he lost the championship. This was rather hypocritical given that Jordan Devlin was still the Cruiserweight Champion and an Interim Champion was being crowned, rather than an official one like Smackdown did. While Sami would return to reclaim his title, his time away is still not acknowledged.

June 2020 Best - NXT start using old show names Partially due to AEW using Bash at the Beach, WWE decided to hold onto some of theirs and WCW's old PPV names. While this was slightly petty, the way they used them proved fortuitous in exuding nostalgia in a big way. To start, we had In Your House but this would also lead to the resurfacing of Halloween Havoc and Vengeance.

Worst - Not Firing Jaxson Ryker During this time the BLM protests were in full swing, so Jaxson Ryker decided this'd be the right time to praise Donald Trump on twitter. The backlash was high and his stablemates suffered for it as well, depushing and taking all the Forgotton Sons off TV. Jaxson Ryker still somehow has a job and tv time in WWE, and that continues to baffle.

Best - Maverick vs Fantasma in the Finals While exposing Maverick's firing was in poor taste, the story of the former GM chasing the title was one we can get behind. Paired with El Hijo del Fantasma finally getting the platform to debut after being hired in August 2019. The finals match would also beget to a strong title reign by Fantasma where he showed his charisma as a heel and birthing his faction Legando del Fantasma, as for Drake it led to a mismatch team with Killian Dain, it could be better but it could be worse.

Worst - Jeff Hardy vs Sheamus' narrative You'd think putting Jeff and Sheamus together would be fine, and the wrestling was indeed good. The storyline however was wrong, very wrong. Rehashing the Jericho/Punk angle, WWE decided a urine test angle would make for good TV - which was a particular low for both men.

Best - Io Shirai at the Top (which she could jump off of) When Charlotte won the NXT Championship from Rhea I vocally worried that this'd mean curtains for Io Shirai, the Stardom Ace had found her footing as the 'Mad Queen' heel character and won a ladder match to contend for the title, but she was going up against Charlotte Flair - WWE's 'Queen' who had already cut the legs from Asuka, Rhea and Bianca Belair - so the worry was high. Fortunately In Your House decided to give Io the much-deserved title win, granted she should've beaten Charlotte and Rhea was there to take the pin but this would begin Io's long reign as the female Ace of NXT, as well as jumping off of anything and everything on each TakeOver.

Worst - Street Profits vs Viking Raiders doesn't happen for Backlash During their time as Raw Tag Champs, the Street Profits engaged in an 'Anything you can do, I can do better' series with the Viking Raiders. The segments itself were mostly silly but some parts were admittedly humorous like the leg of meat popping up everywhere. But the payoff match on Backlash never came to be, instead we continued a cinematic brawl which would've been fine...but it had no conclusion. It ended in a bin, much like the feud was trashed, with the malice of the Viking Raiders mostly thrown away.

Worst - Nia vs Asuka ends in a Double Count Out Backlash 2020 already had the questionable booking of Profits vs Vikings, Braun vs Miz and Morrison and promoting Edge vs Orton as the 'Greatest Wrestling Match Ever'. But another that could not be let go was the women's title match. This was Asuka's first major defense, the storyline should have been her proving that she deserves the title and the best we got was Nia Jax. Like Profits/Vikings it could've been salvagable had there been a legitimate finish, but the match ended in a double count out, only to follow up with a Raw rematch - sadly this would not be the end of Asuka being poorly booked as champion.

Worst - Kairi's Injury Speaking of Nia, in a May taping that released in June Nia faced Kairi Sane in the build to her feud with Asuka. But Kairi came out of the match with a nasty head cut after being thrown into the steps. Unfortunately, this was not the first time Kairi had been injured by Nia so it was not a good look on Nia to repeat herself.

Worst - *Unmasks* 'Old Man Santos Escobar!?' When El Hijo del Fantasma revealed himself as the leader of the masked men, it began the stable Legando del Fantasma. But of course, 'El Hijo del Fantasma' isn't really a heel name that rolls off the tongue, the name change was justified but the choice was not. Using the surname of a drug lord exposed WWE's continued hypocrisy of things - who were adamant in removing Apollo Crews' surname when a killer was also named 'Crews', among their usual obsession with cutting names - but it was worsened by the choice of Santos, which means Saint. It also made it odd that his faction carried his old name but not him, what was wrong with Santos del Fantasma?

July 2020 Best - A New US Championship Design Aside from the 24/7 title, the US Championship design was one of WWE's weakest, fans had been calling for a change for quite some time. During Apollo's feud with the Hurt Business though we got a new US title unveiled by MVP; a slightly better design, it was definitely a good move in terms of booking and merchandising.

Worst - Asuka loses to Shenanigans, and then to Count Out Alas, Asuka's reign hit a bump in the road when the Bayley/Sasha connection set their sights on claiming all the gold. While this would do well for Bayley and Sasha's story, it was once again a story that came in Asuka's expense. She lost stupidly in Extreme Rules and when that was revoked she lost by count-out in a match where nothing was meant to influence the wrestlers on the outside. This was an added blow because Asuka was counted out to save Kairi from being attacked backstage - which effectively wrote her out of WWE, which meant that the attempted save was worthless.

Best - Big E goes his own way, but doesn't split from the New Day Before the WWE Draft split Xavier and Kofi from Big E brand-wise, injuries to Xavier and Kofi left Big E unable to compete for tag titles. However, fans had been hoping for another singles run from Big E and this was the platform for it. What made it good though was that Big E didn't leave the New Day to pursue a singles career, keeping the beloved faction still alive.

Worst - Bye, Kairi Kairi Sane carried a similar star aura that Io and Asuka before her did as the Mae Young Classic winner, former NXT Women's champion and basically being an all-round adorable human. When it was learned that she would be taking an ambassador role in Japan - where she would get married and spend time with her husband also - fans were upset to see her go. But WWE never gave her a proper sendoff, the last we see of Kairi is just her KO'd backstage with Asuka having given up her title to fail in saving her, and that left a bad taste.

Best - Keith Lee: Double Champion Keith Lee had captured NXT hearts with his physicality, athleticism and theme song, he was NA Champion and WWE had decided that double champions are all the rage now, so they pit Lee and Adam Cole against one another. It was a brief run, but the moment Lee held two belts became a big moment signifying a new chapter for NXT.

Worst - 'The Horror Show' Extreme Rules was kind of a low point for WWE. Rather than just continue with the no DQ gimmick they threw all their chips into the Braun vs Bray swamp fight, which tanked horribly. Also Rey vs Seth suffered from it with the daft Eye for an Eye stipulation - which AEW had previously done effectively - it was a great wrestling match marred by its goofy stipulation and thus its ending, all of which was made simply because Rey hadn't extended his contract at this time. Needless to say, overbooking and stupidity left 'The Horror Show' Extreme Rules a dud.

August 2020 Best - Introducing the Thunderdome There was some hesitations about the introduction of the Thunderdome, the fact that it's just screens some of it reused to pair with piped cheers and boos doesn't sound too good on paper. And granted, it has its flaws still, but at the same time the Thunderdome has been more positive on WWE's atmosphere than a purely empty arena has. The NXT cages are probably better paired with AEW's using their backstage staff as the crowd but you get what you give sometimes.

Worst - Retribution Retribution is a lost cause, even to this day. It tried the Nexus-esque debut with big names but shitty masks, as well as their purpose contradicting their actions. It all began here, and shouldn't have happened in the first place, Mercedes learned that one quickly. At least T-Bar has Twitter game.

Worst - Changing Keith Lee's attire, theme, and making him a side character to Drew vs Orton Within a month of winning both belts, Lee would be moved up to Raw where immediately he was pitted against Randy Orton - who was feuding against Drew McIntyre. With a new outfit and new music, Lee was a stepping stone to simply further Orton's feud with Drew rather than influence it, in a single moment WWE had made fans lose confidence that they could book Lee as well as he was in NXT, a worry that continues to this day even with another theme change.

Best - Damian Priest gets a shot A star who needed a chance to shine, Lee's vacating of the NA title left a slot open for someone to get a solid push and the winner was Damian Priest. Having proven himself there and in a prior feud with Finn Balor, Priest was a worthy candidate to hold the title and he still is able to hold that momentum in his main roster pursuits.

Worst - Raw Underground Doing something different is nothing to be afraid of, but sometimes you have to read the room. And Shane McMahon introducing a boiler room fight club was not it. Granted, Raw Underground didn't get the fairest crack of the whip, but it had also not distinguished itself on the card nor did it have as many decent stars to carry it. The repackaging of Babatunde to 'Dabba Kato' didn't sell any seriousness to it either.

Best - Pat McAfee Shines The Adam Cole/Pat McAfee feud did somewhat stumble at the start with WWE's insistence that this was a shoot, but the end result paid dividends. Pat McAfee raised a very low bar on celebrity contributions in wrestling matches, showing what celebrities who are actual fans could do to pull off an athletic and entertaining affair.

Worst - Mauro and Renee leave Mauro Ranallo may've been divisive for some fans in his enthusiastic commentary, but I loved the guy. He actually sold the energy of the matches and he knew the moves. Renee Young was also someone who proved to be a fantastic sports journalist, her commentary times on Raw marred by micromanaging she was a great host for Talking Smack and her podcast showed how relatable and fun Mrs. Moxley truly is. The departure of both had left a void WWE have struggled to fill again.

Best - Dominik Mysterio steps up In Summerslam 2005, the PPV was main evented by Shawn Michaels overselling Hulk Hogan for 20 minutes. The event saw not just titles go on the line but Kurt Angle's Olympic Medal...and the custody of a child. That child was mini-Slim Shady Dominik Mysterio, who in storyline had recently discovered that Eddie Guerrero is his biological father, adopted by Rey Mysterio and his wife. Fifteen years later, Dominik would step back into a Summerslam ring, this time to make his wrestling debut. While he would lose, Dominik gained a lot of positives especially given how he was up against Seth Rollins, Dominik's progression continues to impress as his father ensures that he gets the best training he can provide, the prince of the Mysterio household has a bright future ahead of him.

Worst - Murphy takes the fall in the Mysterio/Rollins Feud Alas, the Mysterio Family vs Monday Night Messiah would only have sporadic good moments and part of that is because Seth would escape mostly squeaky clean. The few times the Mysterio family would win was when it was a tag match with Murphy to take the fall. This wasn't just unfair on the Mysterios since they were being robbed again of 'winning' a feud which involved Seth ripping Rey's eye out but it also was a disservice to Murphy's talents as a former Ace of 205.

Best - Reigns FINALLY turns Heel, and is a Heyman Guy Roman Reigns was consistently booed for about 5 years, earning a reprieve when kayfabe was thrown away to support him in his bout with Leukemia. Given his dialysis, COVID left him as a risk for most of the year, but he made a huge return in the Universal title match between Braun and the Fiend. Debuting a heel persona which would align with Paul Heyman, WWE had finally done what the fans wanted - turn Roman heel. And Roman has been on top ever since, the Tribal Chief Reigns.

Worst - Splitting the IIconics In a bout of trying to raise stakes, WWE decided that the best way to service their women's tag division was for 2 popular teams to fight for contendership - but the losers would have to split up. Between the Riott Squad and the IIconics, the former would win the match - but continue to be underbooked to the point where their reunion after feuding with each other has become fruitless - which meant that one of the few established tag teams in the women's division were splitting...not too long since the Kabuki Warriors had split too. Despite half a year later Peyton delivering a killer promo and Billie showing some comedic flair, neither bounced back from the split - their only solace now is to reunite now that they too just now have been released...

Worst - Velveteen Dream comes back June proved to be a shocking time for wrestling in general when brave people publicly called out their experiences with sexual, emotional and physical harassment and abuse. This rattled all companies and blacklisted a ton of once renowned wrestlers such as David Starr, Jimmy Havoc, Jack Gallagher, Marty Scurll, Travis Banks, El Ligero, Joey Ryan and shut down all of Chikara pro wrestling. Velveteen Dream was among the names listed, accused of having inappropriate communications and grooming minors, this was of course a huge blow to the once-popular rising star. Like they did with Matt Riddle, Joe Coffey, Wolfgang, Jordan Devlin and Sid Scala, WWE decided to investigate rather than immediately release Dream. During this time, WWE should have kept Dream off TV for an extended period of time, instead he appeared a month later on NXT to qualify for the NA Title ladder match Priest would win under heavy scrutiny of the fans. As much as WWE point out that they had found nothing, many still remain unconvinced and while Dream is currently off tv now, having him return so soon did not inspire confidence.

September 2020 Best - Sami gets the IC Title Back After being unfairly stripped of the title back in May, Sami returned to claim himself the true IC champion. Pitted against AJ Styles and Jeff Hardy, the trio would embark on a smart and highly acclaimed ladder match for the title, which Sami would win. Course correction coming into play for Sami to resume his reign, but I still wonder why he was the heel in all of that...

Worst - Changing Aleister Black's Attire and Entrance Aleister Black had the IT Factor, he was a superb striker with a great gimmick of a dark and brooding warrior, rising like a vampire in his entrance with a demonic jacket, he oozed the aura of a main event player. Until Vince changed the music and decided that Black should wear an eyepatch...this of course was done after a span of barely booking Aleister anyway - despite him delivering in his matches - before not booking him at all.

Best - The Prince is Promised Finn Balor's return to NXT had been on a slow burn at this point, but with Karrion Kross having to vacate due to a separated shoulder a new NXT champion had to be crowned. After a 4-way iron man tie, Balor came on top on Super Tuesday Part 2. Finn being champion again was indeed the right choice, while it delays his collision with WALTER indefinitely he has had a superb reign filling in for Karrion Kross, who would reclaim in a good match at Stand & Deliver.

Worst - Telenovela Bullshit The Mysterios/Messiah storyline tangented in a bad way in its ending stages before fizzling out. Aalyah Mysterio had been booked into a romance with Murphy, the acting was like a soap opera and not in the good way. 'But mother, I love him' literally being the weekly storyline of coaxing Murphy away from Seth, all of which became dropped to mean nothing for anyone.

Best - Kyle O'Reilly and Jey Uso enter the Main Event Primarily tag wrestlers for their WWE careers, Kyle O'Reilly and Jey Uso were given unexpected chances at the world champions Balor and Reigns on NXT and Smackdown, and boy did they take those chances. Both men impressed hugely in their matches, enough to get multiple rematches and a bigger role in the main event from it, Jey would join Roman as a heel and support to the Tribal Chief while O'Reilly would come to blows with Adam Cole in an unsanctioned match. Both men can be seen as world champions now.

October 2020 Best - NXT UK Acquisitions NXT UK hasn't really gained the desired momentum, which is a shame because there are a lot of great talent still there, and they sport one of the best looking active belts in Wrestling today. The problem is the limited audience and minimal roster depth, which is why it was refreshing when WWE signed more to the brand, the big name of Meiko Satomura being the headliner but also Rampage Brown and the steal of Ben Carter - now Nathan Frazer - from under AEW's nose. Later they would push A-Kid and sign the former Lucky Kid and Millie McKenzie to further bolster its brand.

Worst - Not Repackaging Retribution On October 5th, WWE decided to turn Mustafa Ali heel and put him as the leader of Retribution, but they would also pit them against the Hurt Business - a heel faction - and reveal himself the 'Smackdown Hacker' - who had unveiled some heels doing heelish deeds. Confusing at the best of times, Retribution never got past losing either, forcing Mia Yim to do tantrums in the ring on a mini-push that came to nothing and elevating nobody. Retribution had chances to save itself, but WWE didn't take those chances.

Best - Sasha wins big! At last, Sasha wins a big title match clean in a storyline payoff against Bayley. Both women at the top of their game, they earned the Hell in a Cell spot and began a title reign that would go longer than any of Sasha's other main title reigns. The Boss was finally standing on top as the main roster finally did Sasha vs Bayley right.

Worst - Orton wins big... Randy Orton had been feuding with Drew since beating Edge at Backlash, losing on consecutive title matches until Hell in a Cell, where he won despite the slow burn hints at a Fiend feud. While Randy was at the top of is heel game and Drew didn't have to hold the title all year, the multiple past attempts deflated this story as well as scrutinizing WWE constantly saying 'no rematch clauses' and 'you can't just walk in and demand a title match' but then doing the absolute same thing. Orton's title run wouldn't last either, which makes it all the more meh.

Worst - The Draft The Draft is meant to lead to surprising new dynamics and storyline changes, but 2020's Draft was a misfire. For one, there was no competition for it, Raw got 3 just because it ran longer and a percentage of the draft picks were wrestlers staying on the brand they were already on, making the shock factor limited. The Mysterios followed Rollins to Smackdown to continue their drab storyline, the tag champions swapped belts to remain colour coded and for some reason some tag teams were treated as individual and some not.

November 2020 Best - Undertaker's Retirement Ceremony After 2 previous 'retirements', the Undertaker finally hung up his boots for real this time, ending it where it began: Survivor Series. It was a very tasteful affair with nods to the card he debuted on such as the Gobbeldy Gooker and Brother Love, it was a good time and a good sendoff for one of WWE's greatest characters.

Worst - Survivor Series books it wrong While there was many good matches in Survivor Series, it did suffer from the usual booking mentality of 'Raw Superiority'. Lana became a sole survivor by default of count outs and DQs in a team including Shayna and Asuka, the Smackdown men were completely squashed despite having a strong team and Baron Corbin and finally, no NXT. There was the potential for adding Balor, Io, Priest and Imperium to these matches and that just could've elevated it, the last was more understandable though given COVID.

Worst - Not booking 3 Future Stars Andrade, Aleister and Murphy. All three had shone before reaching the main roster be it for NXT on the former two and 205 Live on the latter. But on the Main Roster their luck was a mixed bag; Murphy had recently beat Rollins clean, but after the Mysterios were about to come down with COVID themselves WWE didn't push anything with him, Andrade was a former US Champion in a faction that all fell apart within the year and Black was a shitkicker who WWE were methodically gutting. All three would soon see themselves not on tv at all, and for two they had an alarming connection.

Worst - Zelina gets fired Zelina Vega was the one who elevated Andrade to a face midcarder to a heel main eventer on NXT, she was also coming along well as a wrestler with some decent bouts with Asuka. But when WWE enacted a policy that their wrestlers couldn't profit from third party stuff like twitch, when Zelina resisted and found loopholes she found herself getting released soon after, Andrade and her irl husband Aleister Black now ominously missing from WWE, it was for the most part pettiness on WWE's behalf to forbid their talent from making money elsewhere by being themselves.

December 2020 Best - Big E wins the Big IC Without his New Day buddies, Big E could continue his singles run despite daft claims from Corey that as a decorated tag champion Big E couldn't do singles wrestling like he did when he was NXT Champion and IC Champion. But on the Christmas Smackdown taping, Big E would win the IC championship to a big babyface moment, which he would carry into Wrestlemania.

Worst - Gargano wins the NA Title (again) I have nothing against Johnny Gargano, but it is odd that he was the one to usurp Damian Priest and then Leon Ruff. To this day he still holds that title despite Dexter Lumis, Bronson Reed, LA Knight, KUSHIDA (who recently just won the Cruiserweight title) and Cameron Grimes all looking like worthy competitors to get a push. It's a strange place where Gargano builds a faction with gold but it doesn't elevate anyone around his waist.

Worst - Charlotte returns just to add another title to her list WWE's obsession with mismatched teams is matched only by their obsession with pitting a champion and no.1 contender against tag champions, both of which are overdone. So when TLC came along with Asuka having a mystery partner to face Shayna and Nia, it didn't quite land that her partner was Charlotte and they went on to win the titles...only to drop it in about a month as they teased a title match between the two. It showed the low pecking order the tag titles had, the lowered stock of Shayna and how the title change was merely to say that Charlotte had won every title in WWE (at that time).

Worst - Miz fails his Cash-In, but gets the Briefcase back The Men's MITB was horribly booked all year and time was running out, WWE had to decide whether they would have to book a failed cash in - and put the Miz in the same list as Sandow and Corbin in those who lost their cash-in (Cena and Braun if we include those who didn't capture gold), making Miz champion or hot potatoing again. At the end of TLC it looked like they picked the latter, which would've tied things up in a bow. But the following Raw, the Miz got his briefcase back because Morrison had cashed it in for him, meaning the saga was forced to continue.

January 2021 Best - Xia Li finally gets a repackage Xia Li has been on the NXT Roster for a long time, like Vanessa Borne and Aaliyah long time, but the best NXT could give her for a long time was 'Chinese Undercarder'. 2021 however made a shift, by turning Li heel with a storyline of her and Boa answering to a mystic overlord, Li turned into a brutish kickass killer, squashes building to her dispatching her former friends. While she still sits low on the card, it's promising stuff that can easily be pushed towards the main title scene, and frankly Xia Li has done her time to earn such a push.

Worst - Goldberg challenges Drew 'for disrespecting legends' The whole Goldberg fiasco was once again a rush job that served nobody except old Bill. Still soured by the fact that he cleanly defeated the Fiend and also had a horror match with Taker, nobody was quite amped to see Drew vs Goldberg at Royal Rumble. His reasoning for feuding with Drew was also confusing since he was claiming that Drew had disrespected the legends on Legends Night when he had been fully supportive and respectful towards them. Mercifully, the feud did not go Goldberg's way.

Best - The Women's Dusty Classic is Announced The Dusty Rhodes classic has in NXT become a platform for tag teams and mismatch alliances to flourish and open into newer storylines, and also to sometimes set up War Games, and with the vast depth of the NXT Women's Locker Room it was the right call for WWE to make a women's variation. The tournament allowed Candice, Dakota, Raquel, Ember and Shotzi to get tv time outside of a world title shot and so their talents weren't entirely wasted.

Worst - Sonya Returns, but as a GM Assistant When Sonya Deville took some time off post-Summerslam, she had proven herself to be skilled on the mic and in the ring. But on Jan 1st's Smackdown Sonya would be spotted and later it was officially announced that Sonya was back on Smackdown, but as Adam Pearce's assistant. Aside from some backstage talks and Street Profits trying to bribe her for a title match, Sonya hasn't seen much TV time - which is a poor utilization of her skills. The position is fine to an extent, but Sonya should be using her position to further her in-ring prospects too, take a leaf from AJ Lee's book.

Best - Edge returns at the Rumble While I was never unhappy with Edge winning the rumble I wouldn't say it was the best booking choice out of the roster. If anything though, Edge returning from Injury at Number 1 was a definite crowd-pleaser, and pitting him against Orton to resume their hostilities set the tone for the Men's Royal Rumble.

Worst - Corbin beats the Mysterios Clean on Consecutive Weeks I don't know what the purpose of this was. After returning from COVID, the Mysterios were put against King Corbin in weekly matches, Rey lost to Corbin clean, Dom lost to Corbin clean, there weren't any interferences or weapons, and there wasn't really a plot to this. Only when Dom beat Corbin thanks to Rey's help did the feud 'end', but it didn't really do anything for them, in the end, Dom cheats to win and not in an Eddie Guerrero way. It was just weird.

Best - The Women's Royal Rumble The Women's Royal Rumble in 2021 was a masterpiece, nearly every woman in that match got some shine and a bit of story. There was depth, context and clarity in the bout and the exciting prospect of the final two being Bianca and Rhea - two NXT prospects who would both later grasp gold. The ending segment solidified a perfectly-booked bout that would set a standard the men couldn't outshine that night.

Worst - The Universal Title Last Man Standing botch Handcuffed on the scaffolding, Roman Reigns looked certain to lose his Last Man Standing match against Kevin Owens as Heyman frantically tried to uncuff him. Of course, this was a botch at the worst of times but instead of attempting to ad-lib something, the Ref just restarted his count after reaching 6. It was a daft choice that killed the sails of the match, they should've either attacked the ref or let Owens - who had lost to Reigns several times already - hold the title for a month or so before dropping back to Roman.

February 2021 Best - MSK win the Classic On Impact the Rascalz were a beloved faction, and when two thirds of them jumped ship to NXT as MSK, fans were eager to see if WWE would go all the way with them, or if they would let the UK uberheel team of Grizzled Young Veterans take the spot. Fortunately they went for the former, which was a big boost for the future tag champions - only slightly delayed by injuries to both MSK and the then-champions Burch and Lorcan.

Worst - Top Tier Bad Booking on all 3 Shows Despite Smackdown and NXT regularly dwarfing Raw in quality, each show had begun a less than stellar narrative to build some feuds among their favoured wrestlers. On NXT, Gargano's faction The Way were having a Dexter Lumis problem - and although Lumis had won a non-title match against the NA Champion he did not get a title shot - one which had its bright parts but was often found goofy especially with the Indi Hartwell romance stuff. Smackdown merely had to keep it simple with Bianca and Sasha, but instead, they decided to go through the 'can they work together' route with Shayna and Nia, again shoddy booking threatened to dampen a Women's Wrestlemania Main Event. But Raw of course had the worst of it, Charlotte would be a babyface feuding with Lacey Evans, who was fucking her father...fans were already aware that Lacey has a husband and child which WWE had acknowledged before, and the feud only ended because Lacey was legitimately pregnant - which they storyline'd to be Ric's too - sparing Asuka of the same fate. It just wasn't a good time.

Best - Cameron Grimes STONKS The Gamestop Reddit Stocks moment came out of nowhere and made people a lot of money, WWE decided that Cameron Grimes would be one of those people. Already exuding charismatic energy and a decent catchphrase, making Grimes rich somehow elevated his character further as a hilariously snobby whackjob. Here's hoping he gets a solid crack at it as he cites DiBiase, maybe like he did Grimes can pay his way to the top.

Worst - Sheamus sucks at history Sheamus turning on Drew was an inevitability, and their matches were strong and entertaining affairs. But WWE really didn't try too hard to think of a reason for Sheamus to turn on Drew, citing his reasoning to be that Sheamus had lived in Drew's shadow. I mean really? We're talking about the same Sheamus who has won every men's accolade in WWE bar the IC title while Drew was doing air guitar with Heath, Jinder and Hornswoggle in the undercard? You have to make things make sense for people to buy into it.

Worst - Miz gets to be King for a Week Following on from Miz's failed cash-in was Miz's successful cash-in after Elimination Chamber - an action he succeeded in thanks to Lashley assaulting Drew post-match. While Miz being world champion again was anticipated for a long time, the timing was not right at all and fans were more or less relieved to see that Lashley would be taking the title from him within the next week. It was mostly a bit of clean up after realising that they don't want to use the MITB in the build to Wrestlemania, afterwards Miz went from WWE Champion to feuding with a rapper - also spare a thought for Morrison who doesn't really get to do anything outside of being the Miz's buddy.

March 2021 Best - Lashley wins the WWE Championship Speaking of Miz's short-lived reign, the one saving grace from it was that Lashley would claim it soon after, looking like a monster in the process. An overdue run for the man who was slowly looking like he was about to fade out of the company the same way that several others had and later would got his position to be WWE Champion, long may he reign.

Worst - La Sombra de El Idolo Andrade remains one of the most talented wrestlers of his generation, he had several paths in WWE that could have moved him to the top of the card, several feuds that people were amped for. And none of it came to be, because Andrade was granted release on his second attempt. Where Andrade El Idolo will appear next remains up for discussion, the likely route being AEW or reconvening with his old Ingobernables, but wherever he lands it'll be on his feet.

Worst - Shane returns just in time for Wrestlemania Season Shane McMahon is the boss' son, with a masochistic urge to be thrown off of things. But he doesn't seem to realise that every time he's on the card someone more deserving is not, not even with a posse as he tries to renew his 3 Minute Warning days. This time around Shane beleaguered WWE's card with a feud against Braun Strowman circulating around Shane calling him stupid and pouring green goo on him...who asked for this?

Worst - Apollo changes his accent Speaking of 'who asked for this?', Apollo's heel turn in embracing his Nigerian heritage was fine, a new edge for the otherwise smiley naive face character. But then Apollo decided to put on an accent, even though he's spent years without it. It was just unnecessary, a stamp that was to say 'I am foreign, boo my foreignness' that certainly has no room in today's wrestling. What's the odds that within a year Apollo's Nigerian Royalty gimmick will be warped into a Nigerian Prince scammer gimmick?

Worst - Women's Tag Fuckery Upon winning the women's Dusty Classic, Raquel and Dakota got a Women's Tag Opportunity against boringly longstanding champions Shayna & Nia, however rather than just pull the trigger and give the titles to them, WWE opted for a cheat finish which had Adam Pearce turn heel for the day just to screw over NXT. This was all a convoluted plan to create NXT Women's Tag Championships, which were awarded to Raquel and Dakota...before immediately losing it to Ember and Shotzi. Just what you want when establishing a new title huh? Quickfire title changes! It was all just very roundabout, should've simply announced the titles for the Women's Dusty Classic prize or given the Women's Tag to a team that could actually use it.

April 2021 Best - Edge and Roman add a bit of YES Alone Edge vs Reigns was still a highly anticipated Universal title bout. But the addition of Daniel Bryan brought in several new layers and conflicts for all characters. Each of them (like Balor vs Kross would) were presented as warriors who were forced medically to vacate the top prize only to come back stronger, each of them main evented Wrestlemania, and each of them were some of the best wrestlers in the world. The triple threat also meant that No DQ stipulations could be opened up, allowing Edge to show more of his heelish and psychotic side, as well as Bryan and Roman's viciousness. All three sold that they wanted that title and it made it stand out.

Worst - That Hurts our Business The Hurt Business was looking to become another success story in modern WWE factions. Masterminded by a resurgent MVP and helmed by now WWE Champion Bobby Lashley, Business was indeed booming. Until the final few weeks of Wrestlemania decided to cast aside Shelton and Cedric - the latter they strived to convince in joining them within the past year - and effectively dissolve the group. The loss of the Hurt Business led to high criticism, especially since Cedric and Shelton fell hard into the undercard only to see King Corbin cross brands to do Lashley's dirty work, it just wasn't a good thing and the possibility of replacing those spots with Mace and T-Bar does not quite fill the void.

Best - Cesaro gets his Push Cesaro had often been haunted by the dangling of the 'brass ring' over his head. Despite a frequent tag champion and also a US champion, WWE shied away from his strong and dedicated fanbase that desired more for the Swiss Superman/Cyborg. In the build to Elimination Chamber, fans were intrigued by Cesaro's clean wins over such names as Daniel Bryan, but were not surprised when he didn't come out on top in the chamber itself. In the aftermath though, Cesaro began a feud with Seth Rollins, someone who could boast an impressive Wrestlemania W/L record, compared to Cesaro - whose only Wrestlemania singles match was last year's Pre-Show. The match was put on Night 1 and was a lovely affair with a clear story, most importantly though Cesaro came out on top with a huge rub and like that, the Cesaro section gets to believe again.

Worst - Fiend Falls to One RKO After spending the last year re-mystifying the Fiend by having him survive all manner of things including drowning and being set on fire, the return of the Fiend to open Night 2 of Wrestlemania left a sour taste in fans' mouths. After 8 minutes of no-selling Orton's offense, Alexa Bliss reappeared with black goo over her face to distract the Fiend, he was hit with an RKO and pinned for 3. The bafflement was high as fans wondered what exactly the intention was for having the Fiend lose on his return, and why it took only one RKO to finish it when so much worse things have struggled to keep him down.

Best - NXT Stands and Delivers before Mania In what was a long and entertaining week of wrestling, NXT said goodbye to Wednesday Nights in style with their Wrestlemania-esque 2-Day Takeover. The shows were good sporting some fun matches, including an entertaining CW unification ladder match and Io passing the torch to Raquel, though NXT weren't invited to Survivor Series or Mania this time, they still put on a great show before moving to Tuesdays.

Worst - Riotts, SD Tag Champions slighted The Riott Squad currently stand as one of WWE's last surviving genuine tag teams, everyone else being singles wrestlers thrown together to avoid Main Event or Superstars. However, they also stand as a team who after multiple attempts are still not tag champions. After carrying the bulk of their Night 1 Tag Team Turmoil, the Riott Squad were unfortunately left to be felled by Natalya and Tamina - who would lose on Night 2 rendering this pointless anyway - and I have to ask, is it ever going to happen? The Riott Squad are not the only tag team hard done by at Wrestlemania, as the Smackdown Tag Championship did not even make it on the card! A fatal 4-Way between the Dirty Dawgs, Street Profits, Alpha Academy and Mysterios could've brought some infectious energy into Night 2 given the amount of talent in those four teams, but instead it got put on a 'Wrestlemania special Smackdown' while Shane vs Braun ended up on the main card. Priorities were not straight there and WWE robbed Dominik Mysterio of a Wrestlemania debut, their only contribution being a video recap and a Dirty Dawgs interview on Night 1 to prelude the Raw Tag Championship match.

Best - Wrestlemania dished out the goods, and the fans In spite of some questionable booking in the early stages, we end the list on a high. Wrestlemania didn't have the best build or go-home show, but it certainly delivered on a blend of storytelling and wrestling, big title changes for Bianca and Rhea and solid matches for the majority of the card meant that WWE ended on a high. Most importantly too, it was in front of a crowd, the ambiance very much missed on the Grandest Stage of them All.

I would rant about April 15th 2021 but I said it's from Mania 36 to 37 so yeah, footnote fuck April 15th. In the end though WWE had its ups and downs, but hopefully they will learn from some of their mistakes and come back stronger

[let-me-love-you-loki]

Worrying Too Late

A/N: Inspired by @not-that-kinda-gurl08​

Sitting backstage in front of a television, I did my best to wrangle RJ and Ty. They might enjoy watching their Dad and Papa wrestle, but it was hard to keep their attention on other matches. So I traveled with a bag of toys to keep them occupied, and just now it was almost impossible to find something they were interested in. Mattie, Nicole, and Lee were up in the production area with Kenny and QT Marshall.

           At just past sixteen, Mattie was already in training to follow in her fathers’ footsteps. Matt and Nick had bought another enclosed garage and set it back on the property behind Matt’s house. Inside, the old PWG ring was permanently set up. They’d worked with Matt Sr. to put in some wall air conditioners and ceiling fans. The Jackson Brothers School of Wrestling was open.

           She had the best trainers anyone could ask for. Besides her fathers, Kenny and Adam came by every other month or so and spent a week at a time working with her. Cody worked with her at shows, so did QT and Dustin and even Jericho. The only kind of training she didn’t have was lucha libre, and it wouldn’t surprise me if Matt and Nick were working on Pentagon and Fenix to do the honors.

           After the fiasco at her school, Mattie had been homeschooled… taking classes at a local co-op and traveling with Matt and Nick whenever they went to shows or other events. God knew, I was sure that being able to be with her fathers was the only thing that kept Mattie with us.

           “Look, Mama,” Ty said, pointing to the monitors. I looked up to see Matt and Nick coming out of the tunnel, Anna Jay already waiting at the top of the ramp. The three of them were in a six-person mixed tag match with Butcher, Blade, and Bunny.

           Even in her late thirties, Anna Jay looked as if she hadn’t changed. She was fit and fast and still amazingly talented. Her early years with AEW had included a strong run as the first female member of Dark Order, and she’d continued gaining momentum through the years since. She’d competed all over the world, and she’d won a good number of titles.

           As I watched, she hooked her arms around their shoulders and sauntered to the ring between them. The boys climbed up on the apron, reached down one arm and easily lifted Anna up beside them. Then they sat on the middle rope and lifted the top one to create a clear opening for her to climb into the ring. She stepped through, bending at the waist, and slipped through. The smile she cast them was beautiful and dazzling. They smiled back. Matt even winked.

           “Watch Dad and Papa,” I said to my sons, putting them on the sofa in front of the TV in the dressing room we’d been given.

           I walked over to the mirror over the vanity counter and took a long look at my reflection. When I’d met Matt and Nick, I’d been in my mid-twenties—settled age wise just between the two of them. While I had never thought of myself as a beauty, I’d been pretty. Now… I didn’t know what to think.

           Seventeen years had brought lines around my mouth. Crows feet at the corner of my eyes. Five children had added weight around my waist, hips, and thighs. My hair wasn’t quite as lustrous as it had been when we’d met. Whatever I’d been when I’d first set eyes on Matt and Nick Jackson, I certainly was less than that now.

           I could hear the boys shouting and carrying on watching the match. Their excitement let me know that the Bucks were doing well. I had to rely on them for the result. For some reason, I couldn’t make myself watch the two of them fighting alongside Anna Jay.

***

           The whooping and hollering from my sons was a clear indication that their fathers had won the match, something for which I was happy. I hardly saw my husbands after the match was over since they had to manage multiple parts of the show. In the meantime, I packed up everything I’d brought for the boys and tried not to dwell on the thoughts that swirled in my head. My eyes skimmed over the mirror every time I walked by it, not wanting to see my own reflection.

           It was almost eleven when they finally showed up in the dressing room, Mattie, Nicole, and Lee right on their heels. The five of them bore a mix of adrenaline and exhaustion. RJ and TY had fallen asleep on the sofa not long after Matt and Nick’s match finished.

           “Sorry, Mama,” Matt said as he leaned in to press a kiss to my cheek. “Tony grabbed us on the way back.”

           I forced a smile. “It’s okay. Can you and Nick get the boys?”

           Nick nodded in response, but there was something worried in his gaze. It wouldn’t surprise me if he figured out that something was wrong, but I didn’t have it in me to talk about it just then. Honestly, I didn’t want to talk about it at all.

***

           We settled into the hotel half an hour later. Mattie and Nicole shared a room next to our suite. The boys were tucked together on the pullout sofa, although they wouldn’t go to sleep until Matt and Nick told them a story or two. They were growing up so fast, but they were still our sweet little boys. I changed into my sleep clothes and crawled into bed, praying I’d be asleep before my husbands came to bed.

           Matt slipped into bed first, curling up behind me and tucking his arm around my waist. His lips ghosted over the back of my neck. I waited for the sound of his even breathing, but it didn’t come. Instead, he whispered softly into the darkness.

           “What’s bugging you, Y/N?”

           I sighed and turned my head into the pillow. “Nothing,” I murmured, trying to force a yawn. I didn’t want to talk. Not about this.

           For a moment, I thought he was going to let it go, but instead he sat up and leaned over me. “I know that’s not true. We could see it in your eyes.”

           “So Nick sent you in here to do the intervention?” My heart skipped a beat, and I felt like I was going to be sick.

           Matt stroked my hair away from my face. “No, that’s not how it went,” he assured me. “You look so sad, and we hate seeing you unhappy.”

           Tears slipped down my face without my permission. I couldn’t look at him. I hugged the pillow against my chest and whimpered. How could I say what I was thinking? I felt stupid and useless.

           “Anna looked great tonight,” I said at last. It was as close as I could get to actually saying what was on my mind.

           “She’s good in the ring. QT trained her well, but what—” His head dropped, and he sighed, recognition clear on his face. He climbed out of bed and walked to the door, opening it and leaning out. I heard his voice and knew he was calling for Nick.

           A moment later, the two of them sank onto the bed. “Y/N, sit up and talk to us.”

           When I didn’t respond, they let out a huff and stretched out on each side of me. Matt curled his arm around my waist, and Nick brushed his fingers against my cheek. He kissed my forehead just as Matt nuzzled against the back of my neck again.

           “You are everything we could ever want,” Matt murmured. “There’s nothing about you that we would change.”

           The tears rushed out, slipping down my cheeks and onto the pillow. Nick swept his thumbs beneath my eyes to wipe them away. “Being with you is the best thing that’s ever happened to us. You are the most wonderful woman, and we are beyond lucky to have you as our wife, as the mother of our children.”

           I tried to hide my face. Shame swept over me. “I’m not the same as I was that first day. So much has changed.”

           Matt’s lips curved against my skin. “None of us are the same as we were then, Mama. But that doesn’t change how we feel about you.”

           “I’m not…” I squeezed my eyes shut and tried to curl in on myself. “You two look almost exactly the same as you did sixteen years ago.”

           Nick sighed and kissed my forehead. “And you’re still as beautiful as you were the first time we saw you. More even.”

           “I’ve gained weight.”

           “You’ve carried and given birth to five children,” Matt said firmly. “And there’s not an ounce on you that we’d change. Have you forgotten how much we loved seeing you pregnant? How much we love touching you? Holding you?”

           Nick moved closer, nuzzling his nose against mine as he trapped me between them. “No one is ever going to match you, Y/N. You are it for us. The most beautiful, the most kind, the most amazing woman to ever walk into our lives.”

           My heart slowed, soothed by their words. “You aren’t disappointed with me? I’m almost forty. I’m the mother of teenagers.”

           They laughed together, snuggling closer. “We’re almost forty, too, Sunshine,” Nick said playfully. “Matt’s gonna get there before the both of us.”

           “I got you by four years, little brother. And when our wife turns forty,” Matt murmured playfully, “we’ll celebrate how she’s still beautiful, still vibrant, still smart and wonderful.”

           “And way too good for us.”

           I took a deep breath, feeling my tears dry up slowly. My hands reached for them, one for Nick and the other for Matt. They cuddled me between them. “I love you both,” I whispered in the darkness. “I love you both so much.”

           “We love you too, Sunshine,” Nick reassured.

           Quiet settled in and soon, I was lulled to sleep by the sound of their even breathing and the warmth of their arms.

Tag List

@mox-made-me-do-it​ @not-that-kinda-gurl08​ @lilred91​ @imagineall-the-fandoms​ @maelleoute​ @librathepheonix13

[adampage]

Post Revolution | Adam Page

Pairing: Hangman Adam Page x Selena (Latina OFC) Word Count: 2.5K Warnings: alcohol mention, themes of depression, a bit of swearing, NO smut A/N: This is self-indulgent hurt/comfort. I just want him to know how much he’s loved ok.

****

It was particularly difficult to imagine the state Selena’s boyfriend was in after that emotionally turbulent tag championship defense. Watching from two rows back had been heartbreaking enough, the knots in her stomach were still tight even minutes after it was over. Selena made her way backstage then, not wanting to lose sight of him for more than a second.

He’d been vulnerable for weeks, and the alcohol wasn’t helping even if he thought it was.

She flashed her backstage pass to a security guard, who finally let her through to where the talent was gathered. The bucks were the first people Selena saw, and they didn’t do much in the way of easing her stomach. She hoped they wouldn’t see her, because she knew she was liable to say something regretful and beyond repair.

“Hey, Lenna!” Nick smiled at her as she made her way past them, grabbing her by the fingertips. “It’s good to see you, did you like the match?”

“Yeah, Nick. I loved it.”

Behind him, Matt’s ears perked up at the sound of her name and her voice, and he turned toward her with one small kid on his hip, ever the perfect, handsome father. He looked at her amiably enough, but there was something dark in his eyes that she couldn’t quite understand. It almost felt like a provocation.

And it was enough to flare her temper.

Nick's smile was big and bright, and it tore at her heart to even think of saying what was on her mind at him directly, so she looked plainly at his brother behind him. “But my favorite part was that y’all lost, and my boyfriend beat you.”

She flashed Matt a thousand-watt grin, lowered her head in regret to Nick, and excused herself.

Si yo fuera Adam, donde estaría? she asked no one. She knocked on the door of the make up room, the AEW make up artists slowly packing up their supplies with help from a backstage tech. “Stella,” she called.

“He passed by about two minutes ago,” Stella replied, popping up from underneath a black table cloth. Selena helped her up and dusted her off. “He was raving about ‘glitter dick’ and went down the hall to the showers. Lord knows what the fuck that meant.”

“Thank you, Stella,” Selena grinned, continuing her search for her lost cowboy. She felt like a sober Arthur Morgan looking for her Lenny. The quest was just as long, and yet it wasn’t any fun because the drunk one wasn’t her.

Her eyes scoured the doors of the hallway for one that would lead her to the showers. She found a paper sign, finally, with an arrow pointing down another hallway that read “men’s showers”. Her heart leapt once, pounding just a little bit faster at the thought of finding her man.

Why didn’t he come for me? She thought. Why did he isolate himself again?

He was like a sick dog. Keeping himself away from those he needed most just because he felt he was too much of a bother. But it was moments like this where he needed to be around the people who cared for him the most.

The wooden door to the showers sat slightly ajar, and steam escaped from it. Selena could hear the sharp and steady stream of a shower head in use. Not wanting to catch anyone else in the shower, she called out before entering, stunned at the echo of her voice that filled the room.

“Adam?” Her voice quivered. Already, she couldn’t help but feel a little afraid at how she might find him.

A moment’s pause. And then, softly but with feeling, the cowboy made himself known. “Yeah?”

“Can I come in?”

Another pause. He seemed to be debating something. “I—I’m not. Decent.”

“That’s okay, sweetheart. I don’t mind.” When he didn’t answer back: “Do you?”

“Maybe. A little.”

She ran her tongue across her lips. It was perhaps the only reaction she made that could have possibly told someone that his words ached at her heart. Her eyes remained steady on the ground, a hand resting on the door. Selena could feel him, there, inside. She only hoped he could feel her there, too. “Okay. I’ll be out here, waiting. Take your time.”

A quiet “okay” was the only response.

She waited outside for him, somewhat impatiently, but she didn’t want to push him. She stared at the ceiling. At the wall. At her feet. She gave closed-mouth smiles at the backstage techs that hurried past, trying to load some equipment back up into the trailers. Some of them looked sorry for her. Others glanced at her, confused, then shook their confusion away and continued their work. A few of them she recognized. They gave her tiny waves or quick hellos. Apart from them, the hallway was empty of AEW talent.

Except for one.

He sat on a production crate, head leaned back against the wall. She hadn’t noticed him at first, as he was known to be eerily quiet. This moment in particular, though, he managed a sigh that was loud enough for her to hear in the now silent hall.

“Orange?” she said meekly.

His head turned slowly to look at her. It was hard to tell just what sort of emotions were on his face, as his eyes were hidden behind his shades.

“Are you all right?” Selena pressed. But he didn’t say anything. Next to his crossed legs was a piece of printed paper. He shuffled it away from him, and it fell on the floor, luckily at her feet.

It was a miniature sized poster of one of the blown-up ones she’d seen at the entrance of the arena. A graphic of Pac, hulking and menacing, and Orange himself, with the words “Pac vs Orange Cassidy in a singles match at AEW Revolution” underneath them.

Selena picked up the paper and smiled, glad of the chance to take her mind off the anxious cowboy in the showers. She figured Orange must want to talk about it, since he took the time to show her the poster, and sighed loudly enough for her to hear, specifically. So she took the bait. “Why, Orange, you aren’t...worried about this match, are you?”

It took Selena a few moments before she realized Orange was shrugging.

“Hm, you don’t seem too sure.” She took it a step further, “in fact, I’d say it’s like you think what Pac said about you is true.”

What little she could see of his eyebrows furrowed together, and she noticed him take another deep breath. Selena took a step closer to him, glancing back at the door to the showers. She probably still had a few more minutes till Adam appeared, so she inched a bit closer.

“No, that’s not it, is it?”

A small quirk of his left elbow told her maybe she was onto something.

“It’s the fans. You’re worried they aren’t going to like the match. That they’ll finally see you wrestle, and be disappointed.”

A tiny clench of his jaw told her she’d hit it right on the mark.

She found herself standing right in front of his perch, determined to get him out of his slump. Her hands held onto both corners of the crate, and she looked at him directly in the shades.

“Now you listen to me, Orange Cassidy. I’m going to tell you something that I wish I could tell my boyfriend every day of my life, because it’s the truth. And I think it’s true about you too, okay?”

He nodded. Not too quickly. Just slow enough.

“The fans adore you. They love every second of you out there, and you never fail to make them smile. The crowd goes absolutely buckwild for you, and there’s no reason for me to think that they wouldn’t ever have your back. You’re one of the best wrestlers on this show, one of the best wrestlers in the world, and don’t think for one minute that you aren’t.”

Selena could feel tears welling in her eyes, and she looked away from him, drawing a deep breath. She tried to focus her eyes on the floor, and it was then that she noticed a pair of cowboy boots at the edges of her vision.

(Unbeknownst to Selena, Orange Cassidy had also smiled at this exact moment, slipped off the crate, and proceeded  down the hall.)

Adam Page stood next to her in all six feet of his glory. His light blue jeans hung tight against his thighs, held firmly on his waist by a dark brown belt and its grand belt buckle. He was wearing one of those flowery western shirts of his that Selena loved so much, his hair still glistening wet.

“Adam,” she breathed. His name rushed out of her like a sigh of relief. He was close enough to touch, and she so desperately wanted to. She eyed him, noticing a gentleness in his gaze, and an openness of his body. She reached for his hands, kissing them tenderly, giving them a small squeeze.

“Babe,” he ran his tongue along his lips, stammering out the next few words: “I’m-I’m sorry I didn’t come to find you. I needed a-a-a drink.” He winced at the sound of his own voice.

Selena nodded, looking away from him. Once again, he’d decided alcohol was a better help to him than herself. Though it stung at her pride, she wanted him to know just how much she loved him. “I understand. Do you want to stay and watch the other matches?” It was a question meant to gauge how he felt still.

Adam’s eyes fluttered closed, pulling her in for a warm embrace. He took in a deep breath, faintly smelling the aroma of her soft perfume. He was reaching for anything that could keep him grounded, anything intoxicating enough to melt away the resentment and the pain he felt during the most adrenaline-filled match of his life. He felt like a bottle of soda so shaken up that if someone managed to pop his top off, he’d be ready to blow, covering everything in his wake. He didn’t want to be uncontrollable, he didn’t want to be full of ire. Something about his win, he  thought, didn’t feel right. It felt...tainted.

But how could he tell her? How could he tell her that despite everything he accomplished today, there was still a gaping void in his chest that ate at him from the inside?

He thought back to what he heard between Selena and Orange as he walked out of the shower room. “You’re one of the best wrestlers in the world, and don’t think for one minute that you aren’t.” Did she really think that? Or was that truly only a figment created by his lack of sobriety?

“What you said. To Orange,” he pulled away, his clear eyes meeting her dark ones. “Did y-you really mean that?”

She could feel the welling of tears at the corner of her eyes again. Now was the time. If ever she could quell his inner demons, even for a moment, this was it.

“Of course I did. I wish I could say those things to you every day, but I know you wouldn’t believe them. Your mind…” a tear fell down her face, tickling her skin. “You won’t let yourself believe it.”

Adam’s eyes glistened. “I wish you could see what I see. A wonderful man who’s come so far, who still has so much more to go.” Selena raised a soft hand to rest it against his cheek. “You are kind, and you are smart, and you are ever-evolving. There isn’t a day that goes by that I’m not awestruck by how you’re improving. As a boyfriend, as a wrestler. As a man. As a human being.  You are so much better than all of them, Adam.”

He swallowed hard, her words tightening that void within him.

“But the one thing they have right? They ask each other for help. Now, maybe...maybe they were too caught up in their own shit to realise you were calling out for help. But I’m not. I’m here.” “I see you, darling man. Do you see me?” The tears were overwhelming her now, but she couldn’t look away from him. She wanted him to feel it, feel how much she meant her words.

It wasn’t long before she felt her cowboy’s lips on her forehead, on her cheeks kissing away the tears. When he reached her mouth, they meshed together so needily, so desperately. She could taste the salt of her tears on his lips, but she didn’t care. She needed him, and he needed her.

The words rolled out of him so softly, so clearly that Selena could hardly believe he was still drunk. “I see you, babe. I see you. And I love you so much, and I’m sorry that I ever thought I could do this without you.” His forehead pressed against hers, his nose nuzzling her ever so affectionately. The knot inside him was too much to bear, and he realised he needed to let it go. “I just feel so lost. I feel like. Like nothing I do is enough. Like no matter what, I won’t be happy. At the end of everything, I still feel like...like I’m nothing.”

The tears were already staining his cheeks before he realised he was sobbing into her shoulder. She wrapped an arm around the back of his neck, placing her fingers at the nape in hope that it would give him some comfort. He was so, so heavy. Heavy with a pain that she had known before. But this is what he needed. He needed to let it go. His entire body engulfed her, but she remained firm and unyielding, when he couldn’t be.

With every heaving of his chest, every shuddering breath, the weight of the void in his heart lifted. The suffering seeped out of his every pore, disappearing like a wisp of smoke. The shroud of anguish that consumed his mind vanished, leaving him feeling lighter than he ever had.

And for what it was worth, Selena could feel it.

Adam pulled back a bit, so he could look his girl in the eyes, and noticed the damp spot on her shoulder that he left behind. “Fuck, I-I’m so sorry.” Still drunk, maybe. She gave him a gentle smile.

“It’s okay, Adam.”

“N-no, it’s not, I-babe, I-” he protested, but she raised a finger to his lips.

“Everything’s okay,” she whispered, embracing him again and leaving a chaste kiss at the corner of his mouth. “Feel better?”

Adam ran his tongue along his mouth, letting his mind wonder about its own ease. “Yeah, actually.”

Selena pulled his arm over her own, locking the two of them together by the elbows with a proud grin on her face. “Good.” She leaned her head on the side of his arm, and motioned for them to get going. “Sometimes the best way to get rid of the burden of a heavy heart is to share it with someone else.”

He grinned at her, planting a kiss on the top of her head. “How did I end with such a wise girlfriend?”

“I don’t know. But Orange you glad you did?”

***

[emblem-333]

Nothing Matters In Wrestling Anymore

A lot of what made wrestling great in the past is sorely lacking today. Usually, this is attributed to the revolving door of personnel, except in the WWE the same person who oversaw the wrestling boom in the 1980s and its roaring renaissance or the late 1990s and early 2000s is still here. Vince McMahon still runs everything. One of the greatest performers in the history of sports entertainment, Triple H, is Chief Operating Officer of WWE and has been since 2011. Bruce Pritchard, a booker during the WWE’s most successful periods, was appointed the Senior Vice President. While the title is vague, it is implied Pritchard is no empty suit.

So why is the product so poor nowadays? Why does it seem McMahon is resting on his laurels even when there is no laurels to rest on?

In my eyes, the issue is too many cooks in the kitchen. The product became over bloated since the fall of WCW. Somewhere along the line, McMahon believed the WWE brand itself is the main selling point and not the wrestlers. You can see this in how the Survivor Series pay-per-view is booked in contrast to before. Monday Night Raw and whichever day Smackdown is airing, have been engaged in a fictitious war since the brands split in 2002. The “war” ended in 2013, then resumed in the summer of 2016.

The Survivor Series are traditionally characterized by having tag-team elimination matches, pitting teams of four or five combatants against one another. Before 2016, the teams were captained and defined by the highest ranking babyfaces and heels of the WWE. For an example, in the 1993 Survivor Series the top babyface was Bret “Hitman” Hart and the Hart Foundation, a stable made up of family members he was the leader of. They formed a five-man team to take on the heel Shawn Michaels and his “Knights”, who were just wrestlers going by “Knights” for reasons I have yet to understand.

Every Survivor Series team is now defined merely by which brand they are on. Team Raw vs Team Smackdown; in the most recent pay-per-view the WWE added NXT to the fold.

It’s curious in an era where the WWE invested so much into Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins, they are given the role of leading their respective Survivor Series teams, but it is always about the brands they are on, not about them.

So why am I complaining about Survivor Series 2019? The PPV aired almost four-months ago, and it is WrestleMania season. Who cares about Survivor Series? But this is a perfect example of WWE not wanting to commit to anything long term, or having any real plans beyond kicking the can down the road and see what happens later on.

In October, Chris Jericho and TNT launched their weekly All Elite Wrestling show “Dynamite.” Quickly making an impression on a wrestling audience in search of anything but the stale product they’ve been subjected too. Despite wrestling in America being synonymous with the WWE, AEW caught on rather fast and NXT was thrust on to television to counter their chief competitors new show every Wednesday.

NXT is simply Triple H’s offspring. A pet project he began when his transitioned away from an every day performer on the road. It is a tighter, scaled back version of Raw and SmackDown. NXT is notorious for creating stars, like Bayley and Sasha Banks, then giving them to WWE who have no idea what to do with them. NXT is a modest boutique in the larger realm of WWE. But the brass of WWE thought it be a good idea to showcase the talent of NXT by staging an invasion storyline in hopes of gaining eyeballs on their Wednesday show.

For those wondering whether this worked, AEW and NXT have gone head-to-head since October 2nd and have won the ratings war just three times out the 26 weeks.

This is after NXT ran rough-shot on the best WWE had to offer. Adam Cole defeated four time champion Daniel Bryan on SmackDown. On the Survivor Series, the NXT women’s team destroyed Team Raw and SmackDown, and on the men’s side Keith Lee made an impression by taking Roman Reigns the distance in a losing effort. Shayna Baszler bested two WWE Women’s champions, Becky Lynch and Bayley to wrap the dominance of NXT up in a nice bow.

Outside of Lee, nobody walked away from Survivor Series with a rub. You could say Baszler earned some respect points, but she pinned Bayley, and the next day the WWE Twitter account downplayed the accomplishment by reminding us Becky, the champion that matters, did not eat the pin. Baszler didn’t even win the Royal Rumble. Charlotte Flair made her look like an idiot and won something she didn’t need to win. You can say challenging NXT champion Rhea Ripley is a continuation of the invasion angle, but you could have gotten her there by not sacrificing Baszler. Having Flair win the rumble only to challenge the smaller brand is like The Undertaker winning the Royal Rumble in 2007 and challenging ECW champion Bobby Lashley at WrestleMania. It doesn’t feel organic, and not thought out.

NXT began their invasion targeting former champions The Miz and the aforementioned Bryan, Baszler ambushed Bayley after her match against Nikki Cross. The next week, Triple H boasts the accomplishments of Baszler, Tommaso Ciampa, and Adam Cole, telling us he is the leader of this invading force.

There’s a couple of problems with the sacrifice lambs being Miz and Bryan. Since 2011, Miz has been a joke. There was a time when Miz managed to get himself over as WWE’s top heel, but ever since main eventing WrestleMania 27 he’s been ridiculed and minimized. Now on to Bryan, Triple H hates him. Never takes him seriously as a top guy and holds legit naked contempt for him and his most ardent fans. In this age of wrestling, the fans are as wise to the behind the scenes machinations and sausage making we can easily see through Triple H’s words even if it is meant to be viewed through the lens of keyfabe.

It makes the NXT guys look like losers they ignored Brock Lesnar and Bray Wyatt, who recently won the championships of their respective brands.

WWE never pooled their resources together to try and defeat the invaders. They just went about like business as usual. In the tag elimination matches, Raw wrestlers eliminated SmackDown wrestlers, and vice versa. It served as counterproductive, in the women’s 5-on-5-on-5 triple threat elimination match, the only NXT star to score a pin was Rhea Ripley at the end. The men’s side fared better. Ciampa eliminated Kevin Owens and Baron Corbin. Matt Riddle pinned Randy Orton. Lee pinned Seth Rollins.

But neither Ciampa, Riddle or Lee have done anything significant to capitalize. Ripley is the only one from either division to have a match at ‘Mania.

When Baszler failed to take the belt off of Becky, it perfectly signified the half-assed nature of WWE. A constant string of start-stop pushes, then wondering why the talent isn’t over. Nobody likes “always the bridesmaid.” Nobody likes a loser. Nobody likes wrestlers who express vulnerability. We like bad asses. We like killers. WWE isn’t cinema where you have to adhere to the Hayes Code.

If WWE booked Baszler to break Becky’s arm at Survivor Series and win the Rumble she is likely in a better position to be a main event player.

WWE had no plans for NXT beyond Survivor Series. The NXT roster will remain where they are until they are individually called up. The invasion meant nothing. Triple H didn’t try to stage a coup. Rollins didn’t defect, join NXT, and resurrect The Authority (I know they’re dead). None of the champions were challenged.

All of this meant nothing. None of it mattered. And if nothing matters, then there’s no point to getting invested in anything.

[beingallelite]

Independent wrestling's ultimate bad boy Joey Janela didn't close the show at All Elite Wrestling's inaugural pay-per-view, Double or Nothing, this May. He's hoping that will come in time. But he definitely left a heck of an impression in the new promotion's opening match, the Casino Battle Royale.

Not only did he take the craziest fall of the entire night, a reckless crash through a table courtesy of a Luchasaurus chokeslam, but he also had a lit cigarette stapled to his forehead by the dastardly Jimmy Havoc.

You did not read that wrong.

I'll repeat it for emphasis—he had a lit cigarette stapled to his forehead.

Such hijinks are typical of the world that spawned him, the gritty "garbage" matches that often include much wilder stunts and decisions somehow even more questionable. But it was something new for mainstream wrestling, a level of violence not seen since the last time wrestling had a good old-fashioned war: the famed Attitude Era of the late 1990s.

The 30-year-old Janela, it turns out, isn't looking to usher in a new era of ultra-violence, instead preferring to adjust what he does for a wider audience.

Bleacher Report had a chance to sit down with him last week for a wide-ranging discussion, covering everything from his influences to the fact that he still lives at home with his mom.

Jonathan Snowden: How does it feel to be one of those overnight successes who were 10 years in the making? Did you ever think about just walking away from this life and getting a regular job? At some point, it must have been kind of disheartening.

Joey Janela: It's definitely humbled me a bit. The few times I felt like quitting when I was younger. Wrestling really wasn't going anywhere, and I was taking off work and stuff on the weekend to make $25 and putting it all toward gas. It really isn't ideal, but I stuck with it, and sure enough, I've found myself in a position where I can make a living wrestling and make it to the mainstream.

JS: What are some of the ways you used to pay the bills while trying to get to the position every independent wrestler craves: earning your living from wrestling alone? Someone told me you used to deliver pizzas a couple of years ago?

Janela: I don't know when was the last time [I delivered pizzas]. Maybe three years ago? I tried to get a job at a factory. It was going to be a job making those gold credit cards, like Visas. That didn't work out and that wasn't ideal for me. I tried Uber and delivering pizza. I had pretty much done it all or tried to. Most of the time I found myself getting fired. That was basically my run in real-life work.

JS: This must be a pretty nice change. Has your life changed a lot since signing with AEW?

Janela: For sure. There's a lot less to worry about now. I used to throw all my money to wrestling. Now I'm living comfortably. I'm still living at home, but I'm usually not home at all. Usually I'm here like once a week, so it's not a bad deal.

JS: Home, like with your parents?

Janela: I still live with my mom, but I'm never home, really. When TV starts, I'm gonna get my own place and stuff, but right now my mom, she doesn't mind, and I don't mind, either.

JS: You are so closely identified with the indy scene that I wasn't sure I'd ever see you in a mainstream promotion on a channel like TNT. Did you imagine yourself reigning as the king of the underground shows forever? Or was this always your goal, wrestling on a national stage like this?

Janela: Absolutely. If you're not in the business to make a living and get to that point, I don't know what you're doing it for. Some people say they do it for the love, but there's got to be an endgame when you're killing yourself week in and week out.

My body right now is not as bad as you think it would be, but I've been doing this for half my life now—15 years. I feel it. I have to get adjusted, get massages and all that stuff to make sure I'm good to go every week for TV and for the future.

You need to make money and you need to have an endgame to make it to a mainstream, national wrestling company. It's never been closer for a lot of these new people getting into the business.

I remember when I first started it was almost unattainable to get to that point, to get to WWE. Yeah, TNA was still in town but to get to WWE was so hard. Really just the cream-of-the-crop guys made it in: the CM Punks and Bryan Danielsons. It was almost unattainable back then.

Now there's a light at the end of the tunnel, and if you work hard enough and bust your ass, you can not only get to a national wrestling company, now you have your choice of them.

JS:  I know you're used to having a lot of creative freedom on the independent scene, especially in the shows for Game Changer Wrestling that you helped create and run. How has your experience in AEW been so far?

Janela: So far, they've given me a lot of creative freedom. The agents, like Jerry Lynn, have been great. At All Out, we had Tommy Dreamer. He just wanted to know where we were going with stuff and that was it. It was no different from calling a match at any company. We really haven't crossed the line yet. And we won't, especially with TV coming.

JS: I wonder where that line is? At Double or Nothing, you had the famous spot where a cigarette was stapled to your head. The match with Jon Moxley was brutal. And the three-way match (against Jimmy Havoc and Darby Allin) at All Out was beyond bonkers. Have they given you any idea yet where the left and right limits are?

Janela: The three way, I think it was good, harmless fun with some craziness in there. We were within the boundaries of a PG-14 environment. And, if we had done it without the staple gun, I think the match could work in a PG environment. For the most part, the craziness was contained.

I'm not really big on people taking chairs to the head. I know how bad concussions can be. When I was younger, I did take chair shots to the head. That's a no-no for me now.

JS: It's been funny for me to watch your ongoing feud with former wrestling manager Jim Cornette on social media. While he's been insulting you as a "mud show" wrestler, I actually think you've had one of the best years of anyone in the sport. What do you make of it all?

Janela: With my knee injury, you have to realize, I haven't even had the full year to work. So, I'm really happy with what I've done. I had two good matches at Joey Janela's Spring Break, with Marko Stunt and Jungle Boy, when I wasn't 100 percent ready to be in the ring again. But I had to get in there and do what I had to do.

For a month or so after that, I was hurting. I did a show in Alaska two weeks later and I could barely walk because of the cold and the way my knee was doing.

It lit a fire under me, and now I'm better than ever in the ring. I think I'm having a great year. Guys like Jim Cornette, of course they're not going to watch the matches that people say are great matches. They're going to watch the matches where the craziness happens and try to pull out things to engage his followers. It is what it is.

I think me and Cornette, we rub each other's back when it comes to getting each other publicity. So I have no problem with it.

JS: Every time he posts something about your belly or wrestling skill, a small army of people follow behind in the mentions. It's almost scary.

Janela: I'd rather deal with Jim Cornette than his followers, that's for sure. It's fine. I don't care if people want to s--t on my physique. I've gotten in better shape in the last year and I am looking to get into even better shape for TV. I'm starting to diet now. But, when you talk about my wrestling, that's where I draw the line. Other than that, have fun.

JS: I've been most impressed with you in the kind of old-school match that you'd think most of your critics would love. You and David Starr went an hour at Beyond Wrestling's Americanrana 19 in July, and it was one of the most incredible bouts of the entire year.

You spent almost the entirety of the first 10 minutes doing really old-school Ole Anderson-style armbars and matwork—and it was amazing. Then it became one of the best hardcore matches of the year. That's what I love about you. You never know what to expect. Are you trying hard not to have a template you follow in every match?

Janela: I don't have a set move set or a formula. A lot of these guys, they get lazy. They develop a formula which they use every match. And it makes their matches lack excitement.

I've always been a good technical wrestler. I'm pretty good at adapting to my opponent. I wrestled a match with Zach Sabre Jr. a couple years ago where we went to a 30-minute time limit draw. Thirty minutes of technical wrestling. That's the kind of match my critics are never going to watch, because they don't want to admit I have that aspect.

Starr is one of the best wrestlers in the world and easy to wrestle. And that's what happens. The crowd was very involved from the beginning of that match, because we'd built a storyline over three years. They showed us the proper respect and were into the story we were telling.

The match was organic. We didn't call it in the back. We just went out there and did it. We talked about the high points, what we were going to hit and the rest was done in the ring organically in the ring. It was one of the finest performances of my wrestling career. Fans were telling me the hour flew by, which is something that's hard to do in a one-hour match. I'm happy with it.

JS: October is coming up fast, and that means TNT and television. That's something, a production on this level at least, you've never really done. Is it daunting to try something new like this?

Janela: It's taken me 15 years to get to this point, and I'm ready to learn other phases of the business. I'm not too nervous about it. Every time I've gone out for a pay-per-view for AEW, I've smoked it. I don't think it will be any different on TV. I think I'm going to excel on TV.

A few years ago, people were doubting my ability, saying I was just a stuntman. I proved a lot of those people wrong, and they became huge fans.

Now I'm dealing with that on a larger, mainstream level. A lot of people who watch the TV show are going to be surprised at how much I grasp every element of professional wrestling. It's going to be fun doing a lot of interviews and stuff I haven't done too much of. And it's also going to be great on my body, giving it a rest and not having a crazy schedule like I've had over the last couple of years.

Outside of TV and outside the ring, I may still have a bit to learn. But, you know, these guys knew what they were getting with me. What you see is what you get. I'm not really a character. Joey Janela is Joey Janela, inside the ring and outside.

You can follow the further exploits of Joey Janela on Twitter and, starting October 2, on AEW television. Tickets are on sale for the promotion's next PPV Full Gear and weekly events across the country.

Hard Times Promo of the Week

Cody Rhodes has become one of wrestling's great heroes, not just because of his excellent body of work inside the wrestling ring, but also because of his galvanizing personality outside it. He's taken us into his life and his battle with the wrestling industry, making that fight our own.

Rhodes feels like a real person. We love his television persona, sure. But it's the real Cody, the one we've grown close to on social media, who truly shines—and that's the Cody Rhodes who was present for a sitdown interview on the latest episode of Road to TNT.

I'm admittedly biased because I saw this filmed in person when I was at Cody's beautiful home in the Atlanta suburbs for a feature profile coming soon to Bleacher Report, but it's typical of what is quickly becoming that series' signature style: just two guys having a conversation about life and sports.

It's as good as wrestling programming gets.

The Illegal Double Team Hot Take

I've seen a lot of criticism online about AEW's decision to book Rhodes into a title match against the promotion's inaugural champion, Chris Jericho, at the next pay-per-view Full Gear.

And, of course, I understand where that criticism is coming from.

Rhodes, along with his running buddies from Being the Elite, have been publicly acknowledged as AEW executive vice presidents. And that's not just in name only. I've seen firsthand just how much responsibility Cody is carrying on his shoulders as they attempt to launch a new brand into a space that has been very unwelcoming in the recent past. In a very real sense, he isn't being chosen to represent AEW at the top of the card—he's chosen himself.

But was there really any other decision to make?

I've been to each of the promotion's first four cards live and, while it's technically true that Rhodes has put himself into the main event, it's also pretty clear he and the rest of the AEW team are just listening to the audience.

He's captured their hearts in a way that doesn't happen every day. To AEW's fans, Cody isn't just another wrestler. He's family.

Rhodes, Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks aren't EVPs who happen to wrestle. They've earned those positions by being some of the top acts in the world. Pretending otherwise, and refusing to promote them as AEW's top stars in the name of fairness, would just be a terrible idea—it would be promotional malpractice.

Jonathan and Kristina Snowden host Illegal Double Team, a weekly podcast about wrestling and life. Available wherever podcasts are found.

[dreadwhoop]

Reviewing the All Elite Wrestling personnel 2022 Edition (Part 2) -

Part 0 - https://dreadwhoop.tumblr.com/post/697331836428353536/reviewing-the-all-elite-wrestling-personnel-2022

Part 1 - https://dreadwhoop.tumblr.com/post/697332640769081344/reviewing-the-all-elite-wrestling-personnel-2022

PROMOTE

One of the diamonds in the rough so to speak. One should not miss out on his unorthodox techniques or creative moveset. I liked him in Lucha Underground as Killshot and, like there, he stands out because he brings something different to the table. Unlike Keith Lee, who seems like a hit or miss, the only drawback to Swerve is the same probelem AEW has with any talent they don't know what to do with so I'll make it easy for them - push this guy, make his star shine in the spotlight, and give him the recognition he deserves.

Honorable mentions to Kris Statlander and Julia Hart. In Kris Statlander's case she's injured again so it hampers her improvements this year. Had she stayed healthy she'd of taken the spot Jamie Hayter now covets. As for Julia Hart she wasn't on the official roster and I feel sorry for her being put in such a bad position spending half the year in a "will she won't she" storyline between The Varsity Blondes and The House of Black and, when joining said House of Black, is now only 1 of 2 remaining active members and just last week almost died on TV. She deserves better - maybe if Saraya is cleared Julia should do something with her to help her out of this rut. Beyond this I just wish her the best - Justice for Julia!

Anyways Jamie Hayter is 2022's Dark Horse of AEW. She has won over the fans and interest all by being a superior athlete and a vastly improved look from her 2019 version. Even after loss after loss and made to seem like a sidekick the fans don't buy it - they want her to win like they wanted The Acclaimed to win the Tag Team Belts. What's the hold up? Strike whilst the iron is hot - give Jamie some meaningful wins. Oh and put her in the BCC - at least then the faction would mean something more than a platform to hold Bryan Danielson back. Jeez why does Toni Storm have the title and not her...beat her, beat Thunder Rosa to be undisputed, then beat Jade Cargill in a "Champion Vs Champion" match to cement Hayter as the top talent in the women's division.

The better Scorpio Sky. Everything Sky has achieved Jay Lethal should achieve more - one of the most consummate professionals in all wrestling, a fantastic help to guys like Sammy Guevara and Ricky Starks when he put them over, and very humble to help others as best he can. He has already paid his dues in AEW and it's time for him to be rewarded for this.

The bizarro Goldberg. Goldberg got everything but had no dues or tenured talent to deserve it. Claudio is an incredibly strong, fast, techical, versatile, and enduring person in wrestling. He has spent the prime of his entire life in a company who treated him wrong yet we're supposed to feel sorry for how CM Punk got treated. Yeah this is why the fans of wrestling eat poor and live poor because you have right here the most valuable asset in professional wrestling. Oh wait he can't 'talk' you mean he's a stoic throwback and not a bombastic dramatist like your Jericho or Moxley types? I never understand why people want AEW to be an 'alternative' to WWE when you have the most alternative answer to what you know about wrestling in Claudio. He's everything - he's old school, he's new school, he's the guy you could put in ANY ERA and he'd be great. This guy is the modern day Bruno Sammartino except the industry can't book him for 9 years on top because then it'd made sense. A crime this guy isn't AEW World Champion or at least TNT Champion. No no his ROH run doesn't even matter who brought this up!? Go sit down and remain silent until you're asked to talk again.

This was a hard toss-up between him and Max Caster but, like with all things, waiting just a little can make all the difference and Caster is in a good position right now where he belongs. What about Kaz then? He can work, he can talk, and he can help others. I don't get why good people get punished whilst bad people get rewarded. What did Kaz do wrong? You can't say he's too old because a number of talent are doing better than him whilst being older. You can't say he's boring because so is Garcia and Yuta and yet they're pushed. What is it? Lack of ego? No I don't mean Ethan Page I mean he's not causing problems. Is this it? He's too professional? Amazing. Maybe him, Ogogo, Sydal, and some of the others should make a faction, because Tony Khan LOVES FACTIONS, and call themselves "The Professionals" because all they're here to do is win matches and be examples of this business. Imagine AEW needing this as a gimmick.

I'm including this as an entry for them as a Tag Team but honestly you could say they'd do equally well as singles. The Lucha Brothers are mainstays of AEW who have always been constants in the company, Penta even more than Fenix, yet both are due for major pushes. It's like FTR - you can't deny something which always delivers. One day we'll see these two wrestle each other again, which was a treat the last time, and I hope this time it's for higher stakes.

As I've said before in previous years, anyone who is not on the list is because I either find what they are doing fine and AEW can just stay the course or, if they have appeared before, won't again beacuse I am principled to believe what I said before and will stand by it. In the case of Darby Allin I felt the last couple years he was doing fine but 2022 he's been misused and treated like a joke. No better example than the ill-fated loss to Jeff Hardy. If MJF is destined to win the AEW title then destiny sees Darby beating MJF for said title. How can you see it right now? They need to build Darby up now before it's too late. Cut him from Sting, maybe do a "Best of Seven" with Swerve, and try to ensure by 2023's annual recap I'm not regretting putting stock into Darby Allin now.

This comes with a caveat - I do not mean return him to AEW no I mean return him to ROH, let him beat Jericho for the ROH title, and bring it to prominence. Adam Cole's run in AEW was tainted after his win to Jungle Boy (and anyone else by low blow it seems) by having him paired up with Orange Cassidy and his friends Kyle and Bobby made to become second rate versions of themselves too. Kyle, in fairness, did get to be utilised better which only made Adam Cole look more diminished as time went on. We can't see him on AEW first - let him be the flagship to ROH and go from there. A calming influence within a sea of anger at AEW.

The unsung heroine of the women's division - the pinfall princess - Riho suffered an injury back in February and we've not seen her since. She's sorely missed. I never realised just how needed she was until I saw all the awful women's wrestling throughout 2022. Riho is always great just as Hikaru Shida is, just as Yuka Sakazaki is, and even Maki Itoh. It's a cultural export some don't have the stomach for yet people have never felt she didn't truly belong - they're just sour over the success of a perpetual underdog. Riho is a joy to watch because she has to brave the odds.

Last year, Bryan Danielson was the greatest AEW talent working, AEW was doing really well doing into 2022, and it all got ruined when Jon Moxley forced him to become part of this BCC storyline. Ever since then he's been made to look like the 2nd or 3rd or even 4th best of the group (maybe even 5th if you count Regal seducing his "Man in the Mask"). His loss to Daniel Garcia was one of 2022's most pathetic calls. Did Moxley lose to Yuta? Did Jericho position himself to lose to a upcoming talent like Dante Martin? If AEW can't do right by him then at least make him tear it up in NJPW or somewhere else where his style matters. Like Claudio, and as MJF likes to parrot, Bryan Danielson is GEN E RATIONAL TALENT. You can't afford for him to miss the last great years of his career by floundering in the midcard and wrestling bums like Matt Menure. He was born for this and, like Ricky Steamboat, will always be a great talent.

[itjazzbicch]

Bulletproof Love

Pairing:  Santana x Fem Reader

Summary: With Blood and Guts on the horizon, The Inner Circle and The Pinnacle are at each others throats. The Pinnacle loves playing mind games, getting to Santana the most whenever they mention his girl, the reader, which makes him angry and more. Those same reactions paass on to the reader and not only does she stand up to the Pinnacle, she makes sure Santana knows that she's not going anywhere...

Warnings:  N/A

Requested by:  Anon (whoever you are, I hope you enjoy!)

Word Count:  1954

Tag List: @demonqueen29 @jessiebean00 @new-zealand-chic @crowleysqueenofhell @justamess44 @thatpanpal @hungmanhorsecarriage @irish-newzealand-idian-dutch​  @linziland13 @yungbludjazz360

I DO NOT OWN THIS GIF

"You're stepping into my world!" Dax yelled into the microphone, "And I ain't afraid to die!"

In my opinion, this whole rivalry with MJF and the Pinnacle has gotten out of hand. It was horrible and this Blood and Guts match coming up wasn't a joke or something to be taken lightly

I have been a part of the Inner Circle since AEW started. As Santana's girl, I was always by his side and the rest of the Inner Circle, but this time, I was beyond worried for all of them, especially Santana.

He asked me to stay backstage during their confrontation. That's when all of the nerves came at me hard. I always went out there with them. We wrestled matches together. I was a daredevil too so there were times when I got some spotlight. They all agreed that I would have no parts in this match. I understand that they were just trying to protect me, but at the same time, it worried me.

''You boys, you have a lot in your life. This match, it's going to change that. Hell, it's changing now. For example, where's your girl, Santana?" Dax sighed, smiling because he knew it would get under Santana's skin.

Watching backstage, I immediately got pissed off and worried. Santana tossed his sunglasses off and there was a crazed look in his eyes. Thankfully, Ortiz was able to hold him back, that becoming a more difficult task whenever Dax continued:

"You had a pretty amazing woman, man! She was even fighting with you guys, but do you realize a particular part of what I said? You HAD. You don't realize it, but she's going to be moving on to bigger and better things when my boy, Cash finally seals the deal and steals your girl. Not only that, but whenever Blood and Guts is over, she won't have a man to come home to."

It took Ortiz and Jake to hold Santana back. He didn't want to wait and they made sure no one could hear what he was saying. It was not safe for television, but I didn't blame him one bit. If I was out there, I would have slapped both of them silly. The only reason he even mentioned me was that Santana and Ortiz beat them. They tried to use me to get the advantage and failed.

Right after I heard what Dax said, I went straight to the guerrilla. By the time I got there, Chris and MJF were having their little standoff. Thankfully, it didn't take long for them to finish up and Inner Circle exited first.

The moment I saw Santana come backstage, I ran to him, hugging him. I gave him the best hug I could and he did return it, but something felt off. His body was limp almost and I tried to make him feel better whenever I whispered to him:

"Baby, please don't let what he said get to your head."

Santana was in a different state of mind, just patting my back and walking away. The fact that he did that almost made me cry.

"Y/N, you know it's not you," Ortiz said to me, trying to calm me down, "Just give him some time to cool down. You know how he is sometimes."

There were tears in my eyes. The Pinnacle was pissing me off to no end and I couldn't do a damn thing about it. At that moment, I threw all of that out of the window. I noticed they haven't exited yet.

I pushed my way past Ortiz, taking a microphone on the table right by the stairs to the stage. They didn't even bother to stop me, cameras still rolling whenever I got to the stage. MJF was the first to spot me, adding to my anger when he said:

"Aww, you came to join us already?"

"At work, I try to keep my composure, but you all have been testing me!" I groaned, getting right in all of their faces, "You all want to push me out of this situation because I'm a woman, but don't get it twisted. I've been in the Inner Circle since day one and have accomplished more than any woman here!"

For once, everyone was silent, listening to what I had to say and I didn't stop there, making sure I got in Dax and Cash's faces, saying:

"Woman or not, I ain't afraid to get into that Blood and Guts match. I will get my ass in there and beat every one of you like the bitches that you are! And you want to get to my man by mentioning me? Cash, you're going to steal me?"

Dax and Cash started laughing with MJF and Shawn, thinking it was a joke, but I quickly put the seriousness back into the situation whenever I slapped Cash right across the face.

"You look at me when I'm talking to you," I growled, getting straight to the point, "Dax was right. I am an amazing woman, but I can't move onto bigger and better things when I have the most amazing man on this earth by my side!"

Everyone loved what I was saying, supporting Santana, finishing with, "When Blood and Guts is over with, nothing is going to change. I am still going to go back to the man I love, the Inner Circle will always be on top and you all are still going to be some jobber bitches! Don't forget, I am a part of the Inner Circle too and next time you want to say something about me, say it to my damn face."

The microphone dropped hard whenever I walked away, Ortiz and the guys still waiting for me.

"Holy shit," I heard Sammy whisper, they were honestly a little scared from how pissed off I was.

"Where's Santana?" I snapped, all of them jumping when they heard the sound of my voice.

"He went towards the football field," Jake quickly answered and I left them at that, storming off to the football field.

As Jake said, that's where Santana was, sitting in the stands, his elbows propped up on his knees and his legs were shaking like hell. My anger was still up high and I didn't mean to sound mean whenever I said to Santana:

"So, you're not going to talk to me?"

"You know I am pissed off right now," Santana murmured, but I hit him with:

"And you think I'm not!? You didn't even see what I just did!"

Quickly, his head shot up, looking directly into my eyes, saying, "What did you do?"

"I put them little boys in their place. That's what I did!" I informed him, "I am sick of being left out of this shit. I will not let anyone get away with saying something about me and my man. You know I don't roll that way, Santana."

Santana covered his head with his hands, even more, frustrated and it made me frustrated too. He had every right to be angry, but he wasn't just frustrated. It was like he was scared of something, extremely insecure.

"Why are you being like this?" I asked, finally calming down with a deep breath, "I know you're angry. You have every right to be, but it's like you're scared or something. You know how much I love you. I wouldn't trade you for the world, baby. What he said is getting to you and it shouldn't be."

"Because," Santana groaned, standing up, "How would you feel if a girl tried stealing me?"

"Don't get me wrong, I'd probably try to beat her up," I chuckled, "But at the same time, I really wouldn't worry because you're loyal. You have always been loyal to me; I trust you and I know you would never just leave me."

Santana just got quiet, nothing to say after that, turning around so that he was facing the football field.

"Are you questioning my loyalty or something?" I asked, getting emotional again and he turned back to me, noticing how this was making me feel, near tears when I barely got out, "After everything you been through and you think that I would just leave you?"

"No!" Santana exclaimed, "You know-"

"I don't think I know," I cried, cutting him off, "I have never got such mixed feelings from you. Any time we hit a roadblock, we plow through it and keep on being happy. Why is this different?"

Finally, I was able to get him to tell me his true feelings, Santana looking at the ground, whispering, "Sometimes, I can't help but feel like you're too good for me and that someone may take you away, just because I'm not good enough."

"Are you crazy?" I chuckled, smiling through some tears, "Since you didn't hear what I said out there, I'll gladly say it again."

For me, it felt like forever, but I was able to get all of the bad and crazy emotions to go away. I wrapped my arms around his neck, holding his head, telling him:

"They were right. I am an amazing woman, but I can't move onto 'bigger and better things when I have the most amazing man walking this earth by my side."

My words put a big smile on Santana's face, growing whenever my thumb stroked his cheek, bringing his head to mine when I whispered, "When Blood and Guts is over, I am still going to have the man I love. I'm not going anywhere and never will. By your side is where I will always be. I love you with all my heart and soul, Santana."

A tear rolled down my cheek, but I was so happy whenever he wrapped one arm around my neck, the other around my waist, my face on his chest whenever he hugged me, keeping me close and not letting me go. It was just so comforting, so full of love and I never wanted to leave his arms, just stay in his sweet embrace.

"I love you too, baby," Santana whispered in my ear, "I'm sorry I reacted that way."

"Trust me, I wanted you to beat him up," I whispered, making the both of us laugh, "But don't worry. I have you, you have me and no one or nothing will ever change that. I promise you that."

"I won't ever doubt it," Santana smirked, picking his head up, mine following his, smiles on both of our faces.

"You know I don't break promises," I cooed, kissing his cheek, but I got a lot more in return.

Thank goodness he was holding me or I would have stumbled, his lips smacking into mine. That's not what he intended and I was perfectly fine with it because his kiss was like nothing I have ever experienced.

He kissed me hard at first, but it ended up being so soft and heartfelt, savoring every single element, from the touch of our lips, our bodies against one another, his scent filling my brain, all of the love he had for me, I could feel every drop of it and it sure was a lot. I made sure I gave all of that back to him, double confirming everything that I told him; another happy tear falling down my cheek when he kissed me softly one more time, keeping his head against mine.

"Don't cry, baby," He cooed, stroking my cheek, thumb poking at my smile when I said:

"I just love you so damn much."

"Like you said," He smirked, looking deeply into my eyes, planting a kiss on my lips, "We have each other and that will never change."              

[ecoorganic]

Q&A: David Finlay on New Japan Cup-USA Tournament, His Father's Influence on His Career and More

David Finlay discusses the New Japan Cup-USA tournament, his father's influence on his wrestling career and more.

David Finlay is looking to take advantage of wrestling during the pandemic.

A fourth-generation member of the wrestling industry, Finlay is the son of legendary wrestling tough guy Fit Finlay. He first joined New Japan Pro Wrestling in 2015, but he has significantly altered his look and presentation over the past two years as he pursues a higher position in the promotion.

The 27-year-old Finlay is part of New Japan’s NJPW Strong show streaming every Friday on New Japan World. Following back-to-back victories, he has advanced to the finals of the New Japan Cup-USA Tournament. The winner receives a future title shot at the IWGP United States Championship, a title held by Jon Moxley, who is also AEW’s world champion.

Finlay spoke with Sports Illustrated about his journey in wrestling, his father’s influence on his career, and what he has to prove in the tourney finals against KENTA.

Justin Barrasso: The win against Tama Tonga advances you to the finals of the New Japan Cup-USA tournament. You and Tama share some legitimate chemistry in the ring, and the finishes to your past couple of matches together were really solid. You hit Sliced Bread on Tama to finish the tag title match at Wrestle Kingdom this past January to win the IWGP Tag Titles, then won this week’s tourney match by with a series that started by blocking his Gun Stun, hitting a suplex neckbreaker, a stunner, and a Prima Nocta jumping stunner for the victory.

What about Tama is so special in the ring? Why do you think you two work so well together?

David Finlay: Although we would consider ourselves rivals, there is a mutual respect between us. We both are multi-generational wrestlers, our fathers wrestled together, and we both came up through the New Japan Dojo. I just think there are a lot of similarities, and we always want to prove we’re better than the other in the ring.

JB: You missed the majority of 2019 after suffering a torn labrum during a match against the Briscoes in February that kept you sidelined until October. You were finally getting comfortable again in the ring, then the pandemic hit and New Japan did not run shows in March, April or May. At you at a point where you feel like yourself again in the ring?

DF: I do. Pre-pandemic, after I came back from my injury, I felt like I was really getting the ball rolling. Then the pandemic happened, and it felt like hitting a giant brick wall. I actually feel pretty comfortable in the ring again.

A big mental hurdle for me was during the Tag League [last fall] constantly thinking about my shoulder. I was terrified of being in a sling again. But I don’t worry about my shoulder too much anymore, and I’m able to wrestle without thinking about it.

JB: What is the atmosphere like at the NJPW Strong tapings in California?

DF: There is no atmosphere, there are no fans. It felt reminiscent of amateur wrestling in high school or college. It’s one on one, so you need to go figure out who’s better.

JB: This experience must have enhanced your appreciation for the fans.

DF: Definitely. It’s nowhere even close to the same energy compared to when we have fans there. It’s way more fun, way more exciting, and you have more adrenaline so things hurt less. I miss the fans, 100 percent.

JB: Were you comfortable with the COVID testing and policies put in place by New Japan Pro Wrestling?

DF: Oh yeah. We get tested before we leave and when we arrive, they’re on the ball with everything. I feel super safe.

JB: You are a fourth-generation family member to the wrestling profession, and wrestling always came so naturally to you. You made the decision to hone your craft at the New Japan Dojo, but over time, you saw peers and dojo mates surpass you in terms of matches and success.

Over the past two years, you have worked incredibly hard to show the world your worth, including a significant change to your body due with advanced training. What has your journey been like in Japan?

DF: You can sum it up with start-and-stop. I started in Japan when I was 21 years old in 2015. At the beginning, I think it was due to immaturity. I didn’t intend to have a sense of entitlement because of my last name, but I think I did. I didn’t put in the work that I should have. I was coasting off my last name.

When I got hurt, that was a wakeup call. I wasn’t happy with my career. If that was a career-ending injury, I would not have been happy with what I accomplished. So I decided to do something to change that.

JB: What steps have you taken to change the direction of your career?

DF: I’ve been hitting the gym real hard and living way cleaner. It’s all the things I’m supposed to do. I’ve changed my mindset, too. I used to hate training, but now I enjoy it. It’s become a fun challenge for me–how good can I get?

JB: Obviously you are very proud of your father, but do you have to work extra hard to prove that your success is not solely a byproduct of your last name?

DF: I think so, and I don’t think I’ll ever escape that. I get in my foot in the door easier because of my name, but I am striving to break out from underneath that shadow and be my own person when it comes to career comparisons. I’m super proud of where I come from, my dad is my hero, but I want to be my own person, as well.

JB: Your father will forget more about wrestling than most of us will ever learn. How influential has he been on your career?

DF: My dad is a genius. He’s been wrestling professionally since he was 14 years old. He knows so much about it. My dad means everything to me. He’s been a father, a coach, a mentor. He watches all my matches, critiques them. He’s the man.

JB: Your best friend in the business is Juice Robinson, who you won the IWGP tag titles with this past January at Wrestle Kingdom. What does Juice mean to you?

DF: I’ve been all over the world with him for the past five years. I’m around him more than anybody else, so it’s good to have someone you get along with and like being around. We’re fortunate that we clicked right off the bat.

JB: The winner of this tournament gets a shot for the IWGP United States title, which is currently held by AEW champ Jon Moxley. That match would give you an incredible spotlight. Is it possible that match could happen in the United States? And what impresses you most about Moxley?

DF: It would be cool if that match could happen in the U.S. It would be weird if we couldn’t defend the United States Championship in the United States. But that’s for New Japan and AEW to figure out.

A match with Jon Moxley would be awesome. He’s a huge name, and we would have a lot of eyes on us. I’m just impressed with how unorthodox he is. He’s unorthodox, but extremely effective.

JB: Your next match in the tournament is a date in the finals with KENTA. He’s had a fantastic career in Pro Wrestling Noah, as well as a run in NXT. What about his career stands out to you?

DF: There’s not a whole lot he hasn’t done. I remember before I even started wrestling, watching KENTA. Now I’m in the finals of a tournament with someone I was watching years ago, which is kind of surreal.

JB: Beyond a win, what do you have to prove in a match against such an established talent?

DF: My goal is to prove I can go toe-to-toe with anyone. I want to prove to myself I am as good as the top guys, even that I’m better than them. That’s the goal, that’s the challenge. This has the chance to be awesome for my career.

Justin Barrasso can be reached at

JBarrasso@gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter @JustinBarrasso. from Blogger https://ift.tt/2PTFzoX

[thecompostpile]

Night 19 of the 31 Nights of Hallowicked

Night 19

Rory Gulak, Cornelious Crummels and Hallowicked vs Mike Quakenbush, Boomer Hatfield and Danjerhawk

Pizza Party Wrestling- Grapple Picking

One of the great things about Chikara wrestlers is how well they mesh with each other. You can take any random pairing and stick them together and while it won’t make much sense for a storyline the team will work out great. One of the major benefits to having a rudo locker room and a technico locker room is that those, of course, all of those wrestlers would work with each other. A perfect example of this would be Chikara atomicos matches where even the weirdest of teams can combine to create an outstanding match. Some of my favorite matches have been Chikara atomicos and you can see Chikara fingerprints all over the atomicos matches that have been on AEW Dark. 

Pizza Party wrestling came at the very end of the summer. Chikara had spent their 20th season in a weird fashion kind of not having many shows. The ones they did have were in baseball stadiums over the summer and usually had short matches. This is the exact opposite of last year when they were having shows every other week. The positive of this was it let the Chikara roster spread out across other promotions to show a new audience their talents. Promotions like Beyond, Flying V and Pizza Party Wrestling all go their hands on Chikara members all summer. 

This match comes from the main event of Pizza Party Wrestling’s third event Grapple Picking that took place at the Wrestle Factory. It is also part of Mike Quackenbush’s 25th anniversary tour. Where he will be having exactly 25 matches over the next year. This match was team Quackenbush vs team Gulak. Quack was leading two of his best rookies into battle with Gulak, Gen-1 original and trainer Hallowicked and Cornelius Crummels. Even with Mike Quackenbush leading the team it would be tough to take on that team of veterans. 

What is most interesting about this match is Mike Quackenbush has trained everyone in the ring from scratch. He trained Hallowicked 18 years ago, he trained the Gulak brothers before they were even 18 yet, he trained Boomer and he trained former Young Lions Cup Danjerhawk. My dad used to tell me “I taught you everything you know but not everything I know” which I would also assume true for Mike Quakenbush. Sure he has trained these wrestlers from the bottom up but has he taught them all 1000 holds? Probably not. For the very reason that he knows he will be wrestling these men many times. 

Another thing about this match is the first time matchups. Apparently, Rory Gulak has never faced Mike Quakenbush. This will be their first time. And even though they have been wrestling in the same rings since Hallowicked started Hallowicked and Mike Quackenbush have only wrestled each other one on one a handful of times and only once in Chikara. 

Mike and Rory start off. They shake hands and then have exactly the quick and intricate exchange you would expect these two to have. These men are both very good wrestlers and they certainly show it off here. They have an all out mat wrestling match and it is a great way to kick things off. Every hold the other has a reverse for it. Mike goes for a handshake again after they break up and Gulak refuses. Mike tags in Boomer Hatfield. 

Gulak outweighs and out experiences Boomer but Boomer uses his speed to get Gual off his feet. Boomer tags in Danjerhawk and Gulak tags in Crummels. These two speed things up a bit flying a bit more than the other competitors. Danjer hits a rolling facebuster abut only get s the two. Crummels gets Danjerhawk in a headlock and tags in Hallowicked. Hallowicked pounds on Danjer’s back with heavy strikes. Then he picks him up and hits him with uppercuts. Danjer hawk hits a sling blade on Hallowicked and they get a two count. 

Danjerhawk tags in Mike Quakenbush and as soon as he does the tension in the room changes. Mike gets a serious look on his face. He knows better than to underestimate Hallowicked. He swings a kick at Hallowicked hard and fasts but Hallowicked scoots out of the way. Mike Quackenbush looks serous. Hallowicked passes the ring. They finally lock up. Quack gets Hallowicked in a double wrist lock and then swings Hallowicked with an arm drag hands on to his leg and ties his legs up. If Mike was on commentary I would know what this hold was but he isn’t so I don’t. Hallowicked gets out by firing back some elbows and then gets an arm drag on Mike.

“All Glory Nazmaldun” Hallowicked screams He gets Quack in the corner and kicks him in the stomach. Then tosses him across the ring but Mike jumps from one rope to another and flips off the rope then does a handstand. Gets Hallowicked into a leg scissors and turns him into an arm drag. Seriously beautiful wrestling by an absolute pro. Mike then runs past Hallowicked jumps off the second turnbuckle and arm rags Hallowicked again. Hallowicked is right there the entire time as the perfect base for all of this. He then pins Hallowicked’s arms behind his back while he steps on his kneecaps, another one of the thousand holds. 

A baby in the crowd screams I think and it sounds like Eraserhead. Hallowicked fights his way out but Quackenbush gets Hallowicked’s arms behind his back as they stand back to back. (it is really hard to write about what Mike Quackenbush does because I can barely understand it while I am watching it all I know is it looks cool) Gulak runs in and goes to chop Quack but Quack turns around and Gulak hits Hallowicked. This happens again and then Mike Quackenbush chops them both. Hallowicked rolls out of the ring. 

Gulak and Quackenbush look like they love wrestling with each other. I would like to see them wrestle again in a singles match. I would also like to see Hallowicked and Gulak wrestle but honestly, they may have and I forgot. Anyway back to the match where Boomer and Danjerhawk hit stereo hurricanrana. Danjer jumps out while Boomer hits a springboard crossbody. Gulak catches him Hallowicked comes in and helps Rory hold Boomer. They toss him and Boomer hits the ropes. Hallowicked tosses him up high and he smacks his face on the time rope, basically fling across the entire ring to do it. Hallowicked screams “Yes” While Guiak powerbombs Boomer. 

Rory tags in Hallowicked. They double team powerbomb Boomer Hatfield for only a two. Boomer vs Hallowicked was one of my favorites feuds form last year so I love to see it picked right back up. They trade strike but Hallowicked gets the better of it and pushes Boomer into his corner and gets a tag Cornelous Crummels comes in. He argues with Bryce while Hallowicked and Gulak attack Boomer behind the ref. Gulak holds Boomer and tags in Hallowicked. The crowd chants “Gulak suck” which is a bad chant, also blatantly not true and bad language which isn’t supposed to be allowed in the Wrestle Factory. Mike Quackenbush yells at the crowd. 

Hallowicked hits Boomer with the Go To Sleepy Hollow and Boomer kick out hard at two. Hallowicked gets Boomer in a dragon sleep octopus hold. Boomer hits a stunner. Then he uses the rope to spring up and kick Hallowicked with an enziguri. Boomer tags Danjerhawk who hits Hallowicked with a crossbody. Hallowicked rolls out of the ring and Gulak takes his place. 

Rory Gulak has Danjerhawk in a surfboard hold while the fans chant. “Let's go Danjer” Suddenly out of nowhere Hallowicked enters the ring knocks both Danjer’s partners off the ring then dropkicks Danjerhawk while in the octopus hold. Mike Quackenbush tries to save his partner but Bryce Remsburg yells at him that he needs to make a tag and so he stays out. Hallowicked tags in and attacks Danjerhawk. He hits a senton and can’t believe when Danjer kicks out. Hallowicked goes for a submission but when Danjer fights his way out Hallowicked just strikes and then double stomps Danjerhawk. Danjerhawk then hits a kick on Hallowicked. Danjer tries for the pin but Hallowicked drags him across the ring away from his partners. Hallowicked then attacks the two men on the apron. Danjer hits another enziguri dropping Wicked. 

Both Boomer and Mike reach out for Hallowicked and Danjer tags in Mike who goes wild on Crummels. Mike hits a kick to Cornelious’ head and goes for the pin but Hallowicked breask it up and Crummels rolls out for the tag. Mike whips Hallowicked into the ropes and Wicked hit a step-up frankenstiner sending Quack out of the ring. Boomer takes his places.

Boomer hits a yoshi-tonic for a two count on Hallowicked. Boomer tries to rally the fans behind him as he goes to the top rope. He misses and Hallowicked hits a Rydeen Bomb for a two. Danjerhawk gets in a chops Hallowicked. Gulak gets in and they try the double team move where Hallowicked launches the other person into Gulak but Danjer turn int into a facebuster. 

Danjer sweeps the legs of Hallowicked and his own double stomp. Cummerl tags in.

Mike runs at Crummels and does a handstand on the turnbuckle landing on the apron. Hallowicked is quick to meet him there with a big boot. Hallowicked charges at Mike who is on his back and uses his legs to launch Hallowicked over the turnbuckle and onto the floor. A huge fall and nothing I have ever seen Hallowicked do before. Danjer does his own splash and Rory and Mike are alone in the ring.  

Quack gets Rory on the top rope and tells his partner “stack it up, boys”. So Danjerhawk gets on top of Boomer’s shoulder. Gulak sees it coming and hops off the top rope and germans both of them. Hallowicked hits a step up kick onto Quakenbush and then helps Crummels do a tag team move he usually does with Defarge. Hulak then germans Mike off the middle of the top. It isn’t enough to beat him though. The three triple team Boomer but he gets out of it. Until he gets hit by a yakuza kick from Hallowicked who gets hit by a superkick from Danjerhawk. Danjerhawk then calls for the three amigos then Quackenbush calls for the six amigos and Boomer and Hallowicked joins so all everyone is in this suplex for the nine amigos. 

The technicos hit the suplex once then twice but on the third, the rudos push their way out and Gulak gets a roll up on Quakenbush for the win. 

[leehaws]

All Elite Wrestling has the WWE Shook

Last week, All Elite Wrestling held a big news conference to confirm most of what we suspected. The new promotion headed by Cody Rhodes and The Young Bucks has cash, good wrestlers, and attitude, placing it in a good position to chip away at WWE’s dominance. AEW is real and it’s spectacular.

David Bixenspan wrote up a quality post-mortem of the press conference last Thursday over at Deadspin. It’s worth a read, but the final takeaway is that this is as close to a modern, wrestler-led approach to the business end of pro wrestling as we’ve ever seen. The contracts are tailored to each wrestler and merchandise rights are far more generous, with wrestlers being able to operate their own merch shops—a far cry from WWE’s draconian control of wrestlers’ image and exclusivity clauses.

All of that is good, but where AEW represents a real change is in how injuries are handled. As Bixenspan notes, the rumored health insurance wasn’t confirmed, but AEW will be covering costs for any injuries incurred at their events. That’s a massive change from how most promotions—WWE generally takes care of in-ring injuries, as well—deal with injury issues and puts pressure on them to change up how pro wrestlers are taken care of.

Health insurance must be an integral part of any worker-centered promotion, however: the men and women of AEW are employees and they deserve the benefits which come with that status. Pro wrestling has historically been a perverse foreshadowing of our current age of precarity. We’re all independent contractors now, working by the gig and paying for travel expenses. And besides, AEW has the money.

We know this by, of course, looking at the Khans, Shahid and Tony, who are the co-owners. They’re wildly wealthy, worth twice or more what Vince McMahon is. This is their third sporting venture, after Fulham FC and the Jacksonville Jaguars; their portfolio is the definition of the billionaire sports adventurer. But we also know just by looking at what information we have about the contracts.

In an interview with Chris Van Vliet, Chris Jericho let slip that his AEW money is “the biggest offer of my career by far.” Jericho has long been one of the big names in pro wrestling and worked under big contracts with WCW, WWE, and NJPW prior to this new stint in AEW.

The speculation over the past few months has been that the contracts may be very lucrative. While we don’t have specifics, Jericho’s interview indicates they are and that, at least at the top end, they outstrip WWE’s offerings by a wide margin. For him to be offered a contract which dwarfs an upper-card WWE contract, with the implication that the offer may have been bigger than WWE’s contracts without much negotiation, means WWE is in trouble at the one place they’re strongest since WCW folding: the size of their contracts.

This is going to have all sorts of knock-on effects. There are WWE wrestlers who are very frustrated with their lot in WWE. Little is ever said directly—nobody wants to be blacklisted by a monopoly—but murmurs always come up via snide comments on Instagram or eye-rolling in interviews. We know that Zack Ryder is hardly happy and that Rusev probaby isn’t. Andrade Almas is ready for something new. Beyond that, take your pick of who has solid grounds for being frustrated. Are Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn really content to be a duo comedy act working the same frenemies angle for the next decade? Is Kairi Sane going to risk being buried on the main roster after another two years in NXT?

This is the trap WWE has created. By buying up so many top pro wrestlers from around the world in an attempt to lock them down, WWE has assembled the most talented top to bottom roster in pro wrestling history, but by necessity can’t make them all happy. Instead, what’s happened is that every single wrestler in WWE gets more mainstream exposure than they otherwise might, making them stars in waiting for a promotion like AEW.

WWE is shook. While the AEW rumors were still coalescing, it turns out that WWE offered The Young Bucks one of the strangest contracts in its history. Knowing that the Khans weren’t going to launch AEW without the Bucks, WWE offered the brothers a contract worth AJ Styles money to each, with a clause that they could leave without consequence during the first six months if they were unhappy.

That sort of contract offer isn’t a mark of confidence, but a sign that WWE was willing to change every bit of how they do business in this one instance to squash AEW before it started. The Young Bucks are very good, and perhaps creative geniuses for an ironic age, but the WWE contract had nothing to do with either attribute.

None of this means that AEW is destined to succeed. Pro wrestling is littered with the pet projects of rich, vain men. Tony Khan seems to be taking the day-to-day reins from the business end and he’s a pro wrestling superfan. But Ted Turner was a pro wrestling superfan, too, albeit one who was less knowledgeable about its inner workings than Khan seems to be. WCW didn’t survive, despite all the in-ring talent money could buy. It may be that the historical lesson is that pro wrestling only has the barest chance to work at a large scale with a meddling money mark, in which case that mark needs to be very, very good at what they do. We don’t know that Khan is, only that Turner wasn’t and McMahon used to be.

AEW also still needs television, which they don’t have. In a sign that the universe is a vicious appreciation for irony, TNT and TBS are the two networks coming up the most in rumors, 20 years after the Turner networks swore that pro wrestling was never going to be on their corner of cable after WCW died.

If they get that deal, AEW is cemented as a big deal. As it is, something has already broken in pro wrestling’s treatment of its workers. They’ve always borne the costs for everything their profession needs: clothing, travel, healthcare, and the hard work of continuous creative self-invention. They take all the risks. We have confirmation that they’re getting ready to see a lot more of the rewards.

All Elite Wrestling has the WWE Shook syndicated from https://justinbetreviews.wordpress.com/