Excess returns for the next WWE PPV, Bragging Rights. This event will feature a 60-minute Iron Man match and the interbrand match for BRAGGING RIGHTS. Let’s get to the card!

World Heavyweight Championship
Fatal 4-Way
The Undertaker © vs. CM Punk vs. Batista vs. Rey Mysterio
I don’t really agree with the setup of this match. I wish they had kept ‘Taker-Punk together but not put Batista & Mysterio in the mix. Batista is constantly in the main event picture. Is it too much to ask him to step back for a while and elevate some younger guys? I still don’t agree with Mysterio’s tag title and now world title shots. I realize he’s a guy that moves merchandise but it doesn’t send the right message. It’s telling kids you can get in trouble for the wellness policy but still keep your main event spot. Maybe I’m looking into that too much. Either way, this match put Team Smackdown into a bind. With their top 4 stars in this match, Team Smackdown had to scramble to the mid-card. I think the title change last time was done just because it was Hell in a Cell and it was Undertaker’s match. A Punk win would be huge for his career, beating the top 3 guys over the last few years. An Undertaker win would be just another notch in an illustrious career. A Batista win would make me glad that I don’t cover Smackdown. Mysterio supposedly won’t ever get another title run because Vince doesn’t see him as championship material. Therefore, I’m going with CM Punk.
My Projected Winner: CM Punk

WWE Championship
Iron Man Match
Randy Orton © vs. John Cena
Does anybody honestly think John Cena will leave the flagship show of the WWE? I would love to enjoy my last few months on WNW by not having John Cena on the show I cover. I mean, I would LOVE THAT! But, it’s not going to happen. Anytime they’ve placed a “last chance” or “loser leaves the brand” match on the card, that guy that’s about to get thrown out WINS. It happened with Batista one time. It happened with Edge & his “last chance” at the world title. I think giving Randy Orton the title again is boring the living shit out of me. I’m tired of this feud. We’ve seen it. Move on. It’s not “the” rivalry. That would be Rock-Stone Cold. This shit ain’t even in the Top 5 of the all-time rivalries in wrestling history. I would argue that it’s not in the Top 10. As most of our readers talked about, I look for this to be a boring match. Samoa Joe & CM Punk wrestled 2 60-minute draws that kept my attention the entire match. I’ll probably make a sandwich or fix a pizza during this match. You can’t tell me John Cena won’t win this match. I think he’ll get some falls right at the end of course. You can’t be Superman and not make a miraculous comeback. Just please, end this shit soon.
My Projected Winner: John Cena

Bragging Rights Match
Team RAW: DX, Kofi Kingston, Big Show, Mark Henry, Cody Rhodes, Jack Swagger
v.
Team SD: Chris Jericho, Kane, Matt Hardy, Finlay, R-Truth, Hart Dynasty
Up until this past Friday, not including the spoiler days, Team Smackdown looked like they were going to get their ass handed to them. Seriously, Eric Escobar? I’ll take Cody Rhodes & the lisp over that any day of the week. Drew McIntyre? Give me the All-American American. Even with the new additions to Team Smackdown, I don’t think they’ve got a good shot at winning this match. I just don’t see how a team with DX, Big Show and Mark Henry can lose to Kane, Jericho, Finlay, Truth and Matt Hardy. On paper, I would go with Team RAW. With the way creative books things, I could see Vince putting Team Smackdown over but seriously? Over DX? I doubt it. I could see Vince putting Team RAW over and sending Cena to Smackdown as a sort of consolation prize. If you were into this sort of thing, you could do the Iron Man match before the Bragging Rights match. Have Cena lose, thus sending him to Smackdown. Then, have R-Truth get “taken out” backstage. Cena gets put on Team Smackdown & wins the whole damn thing! Oh shit! I just gave Creative their plan! In any event, I want to go with Team Smackdown but my gut says Team RAW.
My Projected Winner: Team RAW

Melina, Gail Kim, & Kelly Kelly vs. Michelle McCool, Natayla, & Beth Phoenix
Does anybody really care about this match? Seriously, let’s have a show of hands on who cares about this match. They’ve moved all of the “green” Divas to RAW and the veteran Divas to Smackdown. In turn, that makes me look less-forward to seeing Divas matches on my show. I guess they’ll keep a few of the ones with some experience feuding for the title and make people like Eve managers. By default, I’m going with the Smackdown Divas to win this one.
My Projected Winner: Michelle, Natalya, Beth

The Miz vs. John Morrison
This is one of those matches that excites me. It involves two of the future main-eventers in the WWE. Now, I want to go on record of saying I think Morrison can be a bigger star than Miz. One of the knocks on Miz is his former stardom from MTV’s The Real World. I do think that would help him more than it would hurt him. When Miz first came to RAW, he was buried. I chronicled this burial each week on RAW and how John Cena treated him as a joke. Do they honestly think people will take him seriously because he’s the United States Champion? Then again, they wanted us to take “The One” Billy Gunn seriously as a King of the Ring winner and former Intercontinental Champion. I think Miz’s stock has plummeted so far that it’s going to take a while for him to regain some legitimate traction as a contender. Morrison on the other hand has been elevated like future stars should be. He’s caught fire like crazy on Smackdown and done a lot of damage since moving over in the Draft. It’s like when two pro athletes are on the same team, then they’re split apart. I like to think of Morrison as Shaq. He won a title quicker than Kobe did after their initial split. Kobe had finally caught back up. Now, I’m not saying Morrison will bounce around and not do a whole lot like Shaq has done the past few seasons. I’m just saying he’s gotten further along than Miz. Because of that, I’m picking Morrison.
My Projected Winner: John Morrison

The Final Word:
There we have it folks. Five matches headlined presumably by the 60-minute Iron Man match. Then again, the order of WWE PPVs has been suspect as of late. Starting off Hell in a Cell with Punk & Undertaker? Are you kidding me? That’s like playing the championship before the 1st round of the tournament!

Running down the matches, the Divas match is a sure bathroom break. I’m anxious to see if Morrison & Miz are given sufficient time to show their skills. I think the RAW-Smackdown match will be ok but probably setup future storylines.

The Smackdown 4-way for the title should deliver considering who is involved. I wouldn’t mind seeing a Punk-Batista or Punk-Mysterio program setup.

I think the Iron Man match will deliver but it depends on which side of the fan spectrum you’re on. If you like Cena, you’ll be happy. If you don’t like Cena, you’ll probably be pissed. If you are a wrestling traditionalist, you’ll be pissed. If you could give a shit about how guys work in the ring, you’ll be right at home.

I think this PPV can deliver but we’ll see!

RAW – Mondays at 9PM on USA Network

Bragging Rights – October 25 – 8PM – Only on PPV!

Excess returns for the next WWE PPV, Hell in a Cell. Each main event match will be contested inside the Hell in a Cell structure. We’ve got 7 matches with 6 titles on the line. Let’s get right to the card!

World Heavyweight Championship
Hell in a Cell Match
CM Punk © vs. The Undertaker
This could possibly steal the entire show. I think it will. I mean, it’s the hottest feud in the WWE right now. I like how Teddy Long has turned heel and is helping Punk keep the title. I mean, last PPV was excellent with the Screw Job angle. Now, I expect some color in this match. They will steal the show. They will put on a match for the ages. I think it’s too early for Undertaker to gain the title back. A victory over Undertaker in HIS match will do wonders for Punk’s future.
My Projected Winner: CM Punk

WWE Championship
Hell in a Cell Match
John Cena © vs. Randy Orton
Does anybody think John Cena won’t win this match? Good cause if you do, you need to be slapped upside your head. Cena won’t lose and if he does, I will be shocked. I look for the action to spill onto the top of the cage. I don’t see a huge bump taking place but I do expect to see some blood. Then again, with this whole PG crap I doubt we’ll see it. I hope this will once and for all end this feud. I’m sick of seeing John Cena & Randy Orton. Who they’ll elevate, I don’t know. But if I see John Cena & Randy Orton again, I will throw up!
My Projected Winner: John Cena

Unified Tag Team Championship
Chris Jericho & The Big Show © vs. Batista & Rey Mysterio
This match has caused some rift in the locker room. Mysterio will be returning from his suspension and putting him in a high-profile match rubbed some people the wrong way. I think they probably should have kept him out and had another match against MVP & Mark Henry. Giving Batista & Mysterio the titles wouldn’t be wise either considering they both are just coming back. Jericho & Big Show are now in a rhythm and taking the titles off them wouldn’t be smart either.
My Projected Winners: Chris Jericho & The Big Show

Intercontinental Championship
John Morrison © vs. Dolph Ziggler
The going word is that Ziggler will get the title soon enough. I think the way Morrison is going right now, he’ll need to pull an MVP & drop the title before he can be elevated anymore. He’s already had it before so keeping it doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. I think the timing is right to go ahead and elevate Ziggler to the IC title level. I just don’t know who you would get to replace Morrison if they went another direction. I think they need to keep the belt on Morrison for the time being.
My Projected Winners: John Morrison

United States Championship
Kofi Kingston © vs. The Miz vs. Jack Swagger
As good as this feud looks on paper, it has sucked in reality. I hate storylines that involve someone stealing a belt. It makes the belt look like a prop and not an actual championship. You wouldn’t see Forrest Griffin walking up & stealing Brock Lesnar’s belt. Then the next event, GSP comes out & takes the belt from Forrest. I mean, that is stupid. Why not just let these guys do their thing? I think this would be a good time to put Swagger over. After a while, the All-American American will need to win the United States (of America) Championship. The Miz hasn’t gotten enough momentum in my opinion since his “return” to warrant a title win. Kofi has remained somewhat lucky throughout his run. However, why would we want a guy to be champion when he can’t keep up with his own belt? Exactly. I’ll take the All-American American.
My Projected Winners: Jack Swagger

Diva’s Championship
Mickie James © vs. Alicia Fox
I’m shocked the Divas have a match on the card considering their botching of spots. Now truth be told, I have been impressed with Alicia’s work so far. She’s not as botch-prone as someone like Kelly Kelly. No offense to Kelly. It’s also refreshing to have someone other than Beth Phoenix working against Mickie. I think the heel turn for Gail is inevitable. I think though that Mickie will retain the title here.
My Projected Winners: Mickie James

Hell in a Cell Match
D-Generation X vs. The Legacy
Last time we had DX in a Hell in a Cell match, it was against the McMahons. I think this time we won’t see anybody’s face shoved up Big Show’s ass. This feud has been bearable to watch. It started off horrible but they’ve picked up steam in the past few weeks, minus a few times DX has treated Legacy as a joke. Normally they have great matches on PPV. Nothing too memorable but nothing that’s been horrible. With Survivor Series coming up soon, I don’t think they’ll do anything too crazy to end this feud but anything is possible. This is a toss up and I’m not sure to pick. However, I think to give Legacy some traction, they need to go over in this one.
My Projected Winners: The Legacy

The Final Word:
Ah, another PPV. They’re happening so quickly these days. I’m glad they’re not doing EVERY match inside Hell in a Cell. One thing I hate about Lockdown is the overkill on the cage matches. I think this show has potential to deliver. It’s got more potential than the TV shows they put on each week. I don’t know how they buyrate will end up but it should be decent. I’ll follow the live results on WNW but I won’t be ordering this. Have a great week!

RAW – Mondays at 9PM on USA Network

Hell in a Cell – October 4 – 8PM – Only on PPV!

Excess returns for the next WWE PPV, Breaking Point, live from the place of the infamous screw job, Montreal, Quebec, Canada! This event will feature every main event match as a submission match.

World Heavyweight Championship
Submission Match
CM Punk © vs. The Undertaker
Oh how I’ve longed for the return of the Anaconda Vise. I mean, CM Punk used it for nearly all of his initial victories in his debut on the semi-original ECW. Ever since then for some reason, they haven’t let him use it. Now with that said, I do expect him to win this match. It would be boneheaded though for him to go over clean. With the Hell in a Cell PPV coming up, it’s only natural for ‘Taker to win the belt there. ‘Taker started using a submission back when Vickie Guerrero was running the show on Smackdown. Hell’s Gate was a good maneuver for ‘Taker to start using. Why he hadn’t used it before, I don’t know. As I said earlier, Punk will go over but it won’t be clean.
My Projected Winner: CM Punk

WWE Championship
I Quit Match
Randy Orton © vs. John Cena
All signs point to John Cena to finally win the WWE Championship from Randy Orton. As much as I hate to admit that, it’s true. He’s been dominated on RAW in recent weeks and he hasn’t gotten a title win in some time. Nearly all of his promos include the standard “I’ll never quit” line that’s grown as tiresome as an Obama press conference. I think Orton has had a good run with the belt but as usual, WWE creative leaves something to be desired for. I think Orton could have done a better job carrying the belt than he did. Cena will FINALLY go over and make all of the Jonas Brothers fan club happy.
My Projected Winner: John Cena

ECW Championship
Christian © vs. William Regal
This is an interesting feud considering I haven’t gotten to see all of it. They’ve been stacking the deck in Regal’s favor with his cronies Jackson & Kozlov. The Ruthless Roundtable has been somewhat ruthless. I just don’t know if it’s enough to get Regal the title. That would be a predictable outcome with the RR out at ringside. Now, last PPV they had a HORRIBLE match with maybe 7 seconds of action then a BS post-match beat down. If given a chance, these two could put on a clinic. However, this is WWE and good wrestlers need not apply although I wish Bryan Danielson would join Regal’s group. I’m going with Christian for some reason because all of my predictions this weekend have SUCKED!
My Projected Winner: Christian

Unified Tag Team Championship
Chris Jericho & The Big Show © vs. MVP & Mark Henry
This feud has actually been good. They’ve done stuff with each team’s members to get them over somewhat. I doubt I could handle another few weeks of a Henry-Show slam contest. I have enjoyed the Jericho-MVP matches. For some reason, I think Jericho & Show continue their reign. I think it’s because they’re hot right now & they continue putting the titles in a good light. Jericho & Big Show for the win.
My Projected Winners: Chris Jericho & The Big Show

United States Championship
Kofi Kingston © vs. The Miz
Man, where were these guys on Monday night? I think it’s stupid that they didn’t put these guys on TV but put them on the PPV. There’s hardly any build for this. Sure, Miz made the claim he wanted to get the title but didn’t they have a 4-way match a few weeks ago? What about those guys? The way it’s going, Miz will win simply because of the lack of build & logic used in today’s storylines. Logic is missing in a lot of parts of the world today. I’m picking Kofi Kingston to win.
My Projected Winner: Kofi Kingston

Submissions Count Anywhere
D-Generation X vs. The Legacy
Submissions Count Anywhere…interesting. This event is taking place in Montreal. Screwjob anyone? I think Legacy should go over. If you look at the body of work by the group since their inception, they haven’t done much to impress anybody. They’ve come on in the past couple of months but it’s critical they go over in this match. I realize DX was brought back mainly because of the merchandise sales that they can get but they won’t be here in 10 years or so. Rhodes & DiBiase should be. I would think that since we haven’t seen any submissions from Legacy, they won’t go over. Plus, it’s HBK & Triple H. Trips has been known to give the rub to guys he likes but I don’t know if Legacy falls into that category. I’m doing with DX in this one.
My Projected Winners: D-Generation X

Singapore Cane Match
The Great Khali vs. Kane
One word to describe this: boring. By way of a coin flip, Khali wins.
My Projected Winner: The Great Khali

The Final Word:
Another WWE PPV with lackluster build. Imagine that. When I first heard this concept, I thought I’d like it. I did think that all of the matches would be submission matches instead of just the main event ones. That would be overkill though. I feel Khali-Kane will be a bore fest. I think Miz-Kofi could put on a show if there had been decent build. The ECW title match could be good if they give them time. DX-Legacy will be good. I think Cena-Orton will be alright as long as we don’t have another crazy finish. The tag match should be good if they keep Henry & Show away from each other. Punk & Undertaker will steal the show for sure. Have a great weekend!

For those wondering, I will have my thoughts on the Jeff Hardy situation in RAW is Blogged.

RAW – Mondays at 9PM on USA Network

Breaking Point – September 13 – 8PM – Only on PPV!

Excess is back with the biggest party of the summer, Summerslam! All 3 “big” titles are on the line plus the return of DX! Let’s get to the card!

World Heavyweight Championship
Tables, Ladders, & Chairs
Jeff Hardy © vs. CM Punk
I for one am looking forward to this match. I expect a classic battle from these two in one of the most gruesome matches in the WWE in a TLC match. I think the writer’s on Smackdown have done an excellent job with this feud. They turned Punk heel, which is always great. They’ve made it seem that Jeff could actually get beat, instead of run over his opponent like another moron we know. Now, with the way Jeff’s contract stuff is going, I could see him dropping the title here. However, that would be way too predictable and Smackdown’s writers, for the better, aren’t predictable. Typically, previous participants in TLC matches, mainly the ones that put it on the map like the Hardys, Edge, Christian, don’t fare too well in this contest. Three years ago, John Cena beat Edge at Unforgiven for the WWE Championship. Last year, Edge beat The Undertaker. The non-previous-participant is due but I think Hardy will keep the title to swerve the fans.
My Projected Winner: Jeff Hardy

WWE Championship
Randy Orton © vs. John Cena
As most of you have read or noticed, I hated this feud from the beginning. I mean, who really wants to see the same main event from Summerslam 2007? It’s not like these guys are the Rock & Stone Cold and are headlining Wrestlemania for the second year in a row. It’s not a state-secret that the main event picture on RAW is as stale as old wheat bread. I figure this will be the time Cena will get the belt and run with it for a long ass time. Orton’s done ok as champion but it hasn’t been something stellar. I’m going with Cena for obvious reasons.
My Projected Winner: John Cena

ECW Championship
Christian © vs. William Regal
I know ECW is supposed to be the brand for the young guys to prove themselves but I’m really looking forward to this match. Probably two of the best workers in WWE will be squaring off. I’m sure these two went at it before in the old, pre-PG WWE but I’m excited to see this. I think Regal would make a good champion but I’m not sure the timing is right. There’s not much left for Christian to do. He’s proven himself as the best worker in the company right now. Yet, he’s still stuck on ECW. I think Christian retains.
My Projected Winner: Christian

Unified Tag Team Championship
Chris Jericho & The Big Show © vs. Cryme Tyme
Most of this build has taken place on Smackdown, the best show in pro wrestling right now. However, I’ve caught bits & pieces in various places. I think Cryme Tyme has finally arrived. They’ve gotten over with the crowd but over the past few weeks, they’ve gotten that little extra push to make them viable contenders. However, I do not think the titles will change hands at this time. I think Jeri-Show has done ok over the past month. I think their reign will continue but not for very long after Summerslam.
My Projected Winner: Chris Jericho & The Big Show

Intercontinental Championship
Rey Mysterio © vs. Dolph Ziggler
Dolph Ziggler has arrived. After being portrayed as a joke on RAW, Ziggler has made strides & improved. This would be a good time for Mysterio to pass on the title. I think Ziggler deserves a run, how long is anybody’s guess, with the IC title to further establish him. I’ll take Ziggler going over clean.
My Projected Winner: Dolph Ziggler

D-Generation X vs. The Legacy
Burial central? I have no idea. I do know that the latest reincarnation of DX sucks. DX used to be cool. I loved tuning into RAW to see what they would do next. Now, I dread seeing them each week. I feel for Legacy. Rhodes & DiBiase have a lot of potential but they spent so much time being buried & being Orton’s Bitches that the crowd doesn’t take them seriously. Now, if creative was smart they would put Legacy over in this match. However, we’re dealing with the same yuppies that brought us the Katie Vick angle. With that said, I’m going with DX to bury, I mean, win against Legacy.
My Projected Winner: D-Generation X

The Great Khali vs. Kane
One brightspot about doing RAW is not having to see this “feud.” I say that to say this: who gives a damn about this feud? You’re right, I don’t either. By a flip of a coin, I’m picking Kane.
My Projected Winner: Kane

Jack Swagger vs. Montel Vontavious Porter
This is one of those matches that I just don’t want to see. I say that because MVP & Swagger have some more to prove before they’re put on a PPV card. I think John Morrison against Swagger would have been a good, intra-brand, young star showcase. Anyway, MVP was in line for a megapush and I think a win here would start that off just fine.
My Projected Winner: MVP

Well, that’s my Summerslam preview & picks. As usual, there hasn’t been a good amount of build to make me want to purchase the event. Maybe they’ll deliver. Have a great week!

Excess returns for the next WWE PPV, Night of Champions, live from the birth place of ECW, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania! This event will feature every championship in the WWE on the line!

World Heavyweight Championship
CM Punk © vs. Jeff Hardy
As you may have noticed, I’m somewhat jealous of Smackdown in having a fresh main event picture. Yes, I know Hardy & Punk have been going at it for a couple months or so but that’s better than the Triple H-John Cena-Randy Orton saga that’s been going on for a couple of years now. Either way, Punk should fully be heel by now or at least getting close to being the people love to hate. Punk was golden in ROH while he was a heel. He would do commentary throughout the show then wrestle his match. He’s a complete guy that would fit into a commentary role if he wanted that when he retired. I think it’s too early for him to lose the title. After all, he just got it not too long ago. I think he’s had a much better run this time around than last summer when he was being bailed out, in no relation to companies in the United States, and barely hanging on to his title. This time, he’s done enough to be a legit threat so far and it needs to continue. With Hardy’s future uncertain in the WWE, I doubt there’s anyway he’ll win here. Last time he won, they had the Money in the Bank to bail them out (sorry).
My Projected Winner: CM Punk

WWE Championship
Triple Threat Match
Randy Orton © vs. Triple H vs. John Cena
If this were a gift, it would be the gift that keeps on giving. I, for one, am sick of this entire feud and even the people involved. Now, I don’t mind Randy Orton but after a while, he’ll get stale too. John Cena is still loved by kids & most women so he won’t be turning heel until they milk that cash cow dry. Triple H is of course trying to catch Ric Flair in the title reigns department. I have to admit he doesn’t make me want to see him as champion. It’s about like having another DX reunion; it’s been done so much that people are tired of it. I think this would be a good way to get the title off Orton but where would you go? John Cena can only run over people for so long. Triple H could make himself useful by, oh I don’t know, ELEVATING SOME YOUNGER GUYS! That’s why I think Randy Orton retains.
My Projected Winner: Randy Orton

ECW Championship
Tommy Dreamer © vs. Christian
I’m still shocked that Dreamer is still champion after last month. After all, I figured they’d throw him a bone in the form of a one PPV win title reign and then take it off of him. Kozlov looks to be the next competitor to challenge him but really, Vladimir Kozlov? Haven’t we done the stereotypical Soviet gimmick enough? No, I don’t think so either. This is interesting in the way they’ll handle this. I for one think Christian should be moved over to one of the top brands as a way to establish another main event guy. Keeping Christian on ECW is like keeping an ace pitcher in Triple A for the time being. I realize he’s there to help younger guys but there’s plenty of veterans to do that. I think Dreamer retains but how long he keeps the belt is anybody’s guess. It should be VINTAGE TOMMY DREAMER!
My Projected Winner: Tommy Dreamer

Unified Tag Team Championship
Chris Jericho & ??? © vs. The Legacy
This match is a tad hard to predict since we don’t know who Jericho’s partner will be. I know they want to elevate Legacy but if DiBiase’s face turn happens in the fall as rumored, it’s pointless to give them belts for a little bit. I wish they’d move Christian to Smackdown by teaming him with Jericho. They’ve been teasing a Christian heel turn and now would be the time to put it in play. I think though they’ll put the belts on Legacy as that “dominate” faction. Legacy hasn’t been elevated enough from their run as Orton’s bitch-boys, constantly getting buried. But knowing creative, they’ll give Legacy the belts.
My Projected Winners: The Legacy

Intercontinental Championship
Rey Mysterio © vs. Dolph Ziggler
I get that officials are high on Dolph Ziggler. However, from his time on RAW and the little I’ve seen on Smackdown, he hasn’t impressed me enough to deserve a title shot. I guess he’s won a few matches on Smackdown to make him viable for a title shot. Now’s not the time though to take the belt from Mysterio. To elevate Ziggler, have him win the belt at Summerslam…a bigger event than Night of Champions.
My Projected Winner: Rey Mysterio

United States Championship
Kofi Kingston © vs. MVP vs. Jack Swagger vs. Big Show vs. The Miz vs. Carlito
The following is based all the way up until the match was made prior to Monday night. So, raise your hand if you can tell me the reason Carlito gets a US title shot. Next, tell me why the hell Evan Bourne isn’t in this match. Oh, there’s that crappy reason that it’s because he’s selling injuries from Big Show. MVP since the Bash has lost to Triple H, hosted the VIP Lounge, and lost to Jack Swagger so there’s no reason for him to be in the match. Big Show had a no contest with Kofi, beat Kofi & Bourne down after a match, and then beat Bourne. That’s not a strong resume for the Semi-Show to be competing for a title. The Miz beat Primo and got taken out by John Cena and that’s about it. Really the only people that should be in this match might be just Jack Swagger. It’s tough to pick who wins since there’s 6 guys involved with one that should be involved. I think the smart thing here would have Kofi retain. There’s so many potential feuds involved in this match. They could continue with MVP-Swagger. They could continue with Miz-Primo-Carlito. They could continue Kofi-Show. I want Kofi to retain to elevate the title and a win over 5 other guys would help push him a little further. But, I think it would be a good time to establish Swagger.
My Projected Winner: Jack Swagger

Divas Championship
Maryse © vs. Mickie James
Mmm. Maryse makes one of the best heel women in the business right now. You could make the case she’s a copy of TNA’s Beautiful People. Either way, she’s doing a good job with that whole “bitch” gimmick. I think this feud can continue until Summerslam. I wouldn’t put it past them to have Maryse get DQed for using the hairspray or getting a dirty way. That might not be a bad idea so the feud can continue & the fans can get behind Mickie.
My Projected Winner: Maryse

Women’s Championship***
Michelle McCool © vs. Melina
I’m assuming that this match will be added since “every title is on the line” for the one night a year. I’m also assuming that Melina will be McCool’s opponent. As of this writing, which is Wednesday afternoon/night, I’m not completely sure that this will be added to the card. Nonetheless, I’m adding it to my preview so it won’t be left out. That way, if it is added, it will already be in my preview and I won’t get 50 e-mails about it. I think that it’s too early to take the title from McCool. Melina just lost it but hey, this is WWE and creative does some wacky stuff from time to time. I think Michelle will retain on her heel run.
My Projected Winner: Michelle McCool

The Final Word:
Once again, we’ve got another WWE PPV with subpar build. We’ve got the main event from Wrestlemania 24. We’ve got a FRESH main event on the Smackdown side of things. ECW gives us it’s monthly title match with Dreamer & Christian. The US title scene is jumbled and a lot of potential talent is in that match. The IC title match could be a potential “passing of the torch.” The tag belts are on the line and Jericho is still keeping us in the dark on hints for his partner. I’m not too hung up on the women’s belts. Overall, they’ve got to bring the funk if they want this PPV to succeed. Based on the build, they won’t get buys they want. They might get somebody to buy it out of curiosity.

RAW – Mondays at 9PM on USA Network

Night of Champions – July 26 – 8PM – Only on PPV!

Excess returns for the next WWE PPV, The Bash, live from Sac-Town in California! This event was once known as The Great American Bash but in a politically correct world, it’s been shortened to The Bash, which I don’t like. So, let’s get to the card!

World Heavyweight Championship
CM Punk © vs. Jeff Hardy
This probably won’t be the main event like past months although I think it should be. This is such a refreshing feud it’s amazing. I’m so used to Hardy & Edge going at each other it was becoming a little stale despite their kick ass match at Extreme Rules. Once again, Punk is actually proving himself worthy of carrying the title. We shall not forget last summer when he was pretty much a paper champion, barely hanging onto the title. I’m sure the readers that have been reading my blogs for the past 3 years know I wasn’t too happy. Punk seemed to be a champion who never could win on his own, despite being face. Punk needs to be heel. I think Jeff is a natural face and turning him heel would be a mistake. The whole face paint is a hit or miss type thing. I don’t care whether he’s painting his face or not although it does look somewhat silly. As I said before, Punk needs to be heel. He’s such a natural heel and his work in ROH as a heel was astronomical. I’m going for Punk because he needs the title more than Jeff does.
My Projected Winner: CM Punk

WWE Championship
3 Stages of Hell: Singles, Falls Count Anywhere, Stretcher Match
Randy Orton © vs. Triple H
Don’t worry fans, this feud ain’t over until Summerslam probably. I do wish it was over as soon as possible. To me, this is boring. They have their good weeks and their bad. This past week, they beat the hell out of each other just days before their match. When Triple H came back, he destroyed Legacy by himself. Now, the last 3 Stages of Hell match took place in 2002 between Shawn Michaels and Triple H. The first fall was a street fight, the second a steel cage match, and the last was ladder match. Prior to that, Triple H competed against Stone Cold Steve Austin in a 3 Stages match at No Way Out in 2001. The first fall was a regular match, then they had a street fight, then the last fall was a steel cage match. Ironically, Triple H has won both of these matches. Now, I’m not completely sure he’ll win this one although history is in his favor. The title change at Extreme Rules was stupid along with the reclaiming of the title by Orton on the 3-for-All show. I think Orton should have just kept the title. I think they’ll push this feud all the way until Summerslam, perhaps having a Hell in a Cell then and maybe one of those “former champions” challenge at Night of Champions. I see Orton winning the first fall, Triple H the second, and then Orton the last fall. Hell, they could have somebody interfere and cost Orton the title. No, it won’t be Batista. I see Orton keeping the belt.
My Projected Winner: Randy Orton

ECW Championship
Scramble Match
Tommy Dreamer © vs. Jack Swagger vs. Christian vs. Mark Henry vs. Finlay
Hey, what do you do when you don’t build any storylines after your last PPV? You have a scramble match of course! Now, for those that don’t remember I’ll explain the rules. Two wrestlers start the match. Then, after five minutes another wrestler enters the match. Once all of the wrestlers are in the match, there will be a five minute “dash to the finish.” Whoever is “in possession” of the title at the end of the time limit will become the champion. Now, this will be a good way to get the title off of Tommy Dreamer if that’s the route they’re going. I honestly hope he keeps it because he deserves a good reign & it’s not like he’s going to be leaving the company. Swagger lost the title and I don’t think he needs the title back just yet. Finlay is entering a feud with The Hart Dynasty so he’s not going to win…unless it was the tag titles. I don’t think Henry wins because he’s playing around with Evan Bourne. That leaves Christian & Tommy Dreamer. I think they should have continue a feud between these two under the “I didn’t get pinned” clause. I’m going with the Tommy Dreamer.
My Projected Winner: Tommy Dreamer

Unified Tag Team Championship
The Colons © vs. Legacy
If you’ve been keeping score at home, Legacy has been getting buried the past few months. Now, they’ve been beating the Colons. Therefore with a little match, the Colons suck ass. I think it’s crappy the way they’ve been thrown into the title mix when there are other more-deserving teams, say Cryme Tyme, or the Hart Dynasty. I guess the Brian Kendrick/tag partner hunt storyline has been nixed for now. I don’t think Legacy should go over in this match. I think it should until maybe Summerslam. Back in the day, the Hardys and Edge & Christian could feud for a year and nobody would get tired of it. However, they haven’t done much in this feud to make me want to see it continue. Yeah, they’ve had a few matches but that doesn’t matter. Legacy hasn’t handcuffed Primo to the ropes as they cut Carlito’s hair. The Colons haven’t gotten revenge for said hair cut. I think the Colons should go over but then again, I’m not head of creative. I think with the way things have been going, Legacy goes over for the belts here.
My Projected Winners: Legacy

Intercontinental Championship
Title vs. Mask
Chris Jericho © vs. Rey Mysterio
A mask is a wrestler’s identity in Mexico. Masks are passed down from generation to generation. You have to earn your mask through rigorous training & winning matches. Rey Mysterio adopted his ring name from his uncle when he was finally allowed to join AAA. Basically, the mask is Mysterio’s identity. They attempted to unmask him in a bullshit match in WCW against Scott Hall & Kevin Nash. Mysterio was said to be upset at this whole deal and I would be too if I were him. It was his mystique, similar to Kane’s mask. You always wanted to know what they looked like. Anyway, Mysterio’s mask is a huge revenue seller for WWE, similar to Cena’s spinner belt. A lot of kids get these masks and wear them for Halloween or just to wear them. With all this said, I don’t think Mysterio will lose his mask. It’s just not feasible…unless Mysterio’s on his way out. Like the stuff with Vickie, him losing his mask could send him out. Chris Jericho doesn’t need any hype about him. He’s a kick-ass heel.
My Projected Winner: Rey Mysterio

Women’s Championship
Melina © vs. Michelle McCool
I honestly forgot about this match when it came to putting together my preview blog. I remember seeing the news note but forgot to add it! Now, I will be honest and say that I haven’t gotten to see much of this Divas feud. After all, on RAW we like to mess around and not build a feud, then throw a match onto a card. There’s a race to become the first ever Women’s/Diva’s title holder. There’s talk of Mickie James doing it and if Michelle were to win here, she would be the first Diva to hold both titles. Usually, that’s reserved for a prominent face that has been with the company for a while. There probably is a better example but the first Hardcore Champion in WWE was Mick Foley. This might be a bad example but I think if they were to have given it to someone like Billy Gunn, it might not have been as “cool.” That’s why I think Melina will go over and win to continue the feud. I just can’t see Michelle, as a heel, becoming the first person to hold both titles. It’s just not right in my opinion.
My Projected Winner: Melina

The Miz vs. John Cena
R.I.P. Miz March 7, 2006-June 28, 2009. Well, I can hope that Miz won’t be buried but let’s face it, it’s a PPV and Super Cena is the opponent. Whenever Miz & Morrison broke up, Miz started out pretty good on RAW. But in the past few weeks, his status has dropped significantly. After his treatment by Semi-Show and Cena, if he doesn’t win he’ll be just another job boy. I want the best for Miz. I really do. I think he’s got a bright future as a heel. But, after the way things have been going, I’m expecting him to have to job to Cena. If Cena puts him over, I might faint or have another hamburger. I’m not picking Cena because he’s as awesome as Miz. I’m picking him because it’s a PPV and by God, John Cena rarely if ever loses on PPVs.
My Projected Winner: John Cena

Dolph Ziggler vs. The Great Khali
This will be a No DQ match. I honestly don’t see why they’re making a match between these two. It’s strictly as a time filler. I’ve heard Ziggler’s come on in recent weeks. I’m glad he’s not jobbing or a laughing stock like he was when he was on RAW. The face turn for Khali has done some good too. I see him going over in this match but with a No DQ stipulation, it’s very possible Ziggler could win. I hope RAW takes a page out of Smackdown’s book and actually builds feuds. Holy crap! What a concept: building feuds & storylines!
My Projected Winner: The Great Khali

The Final Word:
On paper, this looks to be a good event. In reality with the lack of build, it’s not going to be that great. Smackdown builds their stuff while RAW has hits & misses with its stuff. I’m shocked Vince hasn’t noticed that & moved the Smackdown writers to RAW and vice versa. I hope my picks go as planned since I’m in last place. I just think it sucks to know that Miz will potentially be buried & Legacy could get the tag titles after being buried so much. If they’re smart, they’ll put Miz over. I’ll most likely be in the live blog if we have this weekend. I hope everybody has safe weekend. GO EAGLES!!!

RAW – Mondays at 9PM on USA Network

The Bash – June 28 – 8PM – Only on PPV!

Excess returns for the next WWE PPV, Extreme Rules, live from the Big Easy, New Orleans, Louisiana! It’s the one night that the WWE totally goes extreme! Let’s get to the card!

World Heavyweight Championship
Ladder Match
Edge © vs. Jeff Hardy
I haven’t gotten to see much of this feud since it’s on Smackdown and I don’t get to watch Smackdown every week. But judging from the reports I’ve read, they’re kicking ass. Now, I think they could somehow make this go all the way until Summerslam. Either way, I expect this Ladder match to be pretty damn good. This will be the first time these two have faced each other in a Ladder match. That’s hard to believe but it’s true. Christian’s faced Edge. Edge has faced Matt Hardy. I’m not totally sure if Matt’s faced Christian. Either way, this will be the first time it’s been Jeff against Edge. I think this could be a good time to change the title but for freakin’ sakes, don’t give it back to Edge so soon! He’s gotten a lot of title wins over the past few years. I wouldn’t mind him chasing after the title although they usually garner more money when it’s the face chasing for the title. I think Jeff will win though, at least I’m hoping he will. However, with his crazy contract status, I’m picking Edge.
My Projected Winner: Edge

WWE Championship
Steel Cage Match
Randy Orton © vs. Batista
Batista has said that he’s going to tear Orton apart. Let’s face it. That will probably be a reality after the way Orton’s been “booked” over the past few weeks. The ending segment on RAW this past Monday was good. They need to make up their minds on how they’re going to book their heels. If they’re going to be wusses, they need to do sneaky things. Edge is a good heel because he can do wuss-like things but still look strong. Orton on the other hand is a hit-or-miss when it comes to that stuff. Either way, I don’t want Batista winning the title. We know there won’t be any blood in this match. I don’t want Batista winning the title. Didn’t I say that already? I think Orton will win, perhaps by going over the top after handcuffing Batista to the ropes. That would be a good way to end a match and make the fans NOT feel like they got screwed. It would continue the feud, yet keep both Orton & Batista safe. Rumors are flying that Triple H will be coming back at the event. I’m not sure if that will happen or not. I could see him come back and turn heel by slamming the cage door in the face of Batista. Either way, I’m picking Orton.
My Projected Winner: Randy Orton

ECW Championship
Hardcore Match
Christian © vs. Tommy Dreamer vs. Jack Swagger
This could potentially be Dreamer’s last match, which is one reason I’m going to tune in. No, I’m not buying it. Use your brain! Anyway, I’m anxious to see how these three are going to put on a hardcore match with NO blood. That certainly limits their options, considering how Dreamer is the Innovator of Violence. I think it’s a strong possibility that he’ll win the title. I want him to win the title. The thing is, it’s going to be interesting to see how they both end the Christian-Swagger feud and start a Swagger-Dreamer feud. I wouldn’t mind seeing someone interfere and cost Christian the title. It’s a dirty finish but it might be the logical thing to do.
My Projected Winner: Tommy Dreamer

Intercontinental Championship
No Holds Barred Match
Rey Mysterio © vs. Chris Jericho
This has “Match of the Night” written all over it. I’m not sure what all they’ll be able to do with the No Holds Barred stipulation. There definitely won’t be any blood, unfortunately. If given the right amount of time, which becomes a theme with great matches with potential, these two could tear down the house. Jericho’s already said he would unmask Mysterio. If that were to happen, Mysterio would lose all his lore with kids and a big portion of his merchandise sales from masks. I think Jericho will go over in this one because to keep a feud going, the heel needs to win. It could be like a Mysterio-Guerrero feud where Eddie could never beat Mysterio. I’m going with Rey.
My Projected Winner: Rey Mysterio

United States Championship
Fatal Four Way Match
Kofi Kingston © vs. MVP vs. Matt Hardy vs. William Regal
I never knew a Fatal Four Way match was EXTREME! I guess that Armageddon Hell in a Cell with six guys was OVER THE TOP EXTREME. 3-way matches were semi-extreme. Anyway, this is what I wanted to happen from the start but the whole Hardy-Regal tag team deal makes it weird. Why would you want to pair up with a guy who’s after the same title you are? Might be some twisted TNA logic in there! Either way, I think it’s too early to switch the title. Hell, Kofi just won it on Monday night! I do like the potential for a 4-way feud, which is what I’m hoping for. I’m going with Kingston in this EXTREME 4-way match.
My Projected Winner: Kofi Kingston

Submission Match
The Big Show vs. John Cena
I hope this will be the blowoff to this feud. I like Show but as all of you know, I’m not that big a fan of Cena. The whole premise of this match will be built around Cena not being able to get the STFU (this is a No PG Zone) locked onto show. I would go so far as to say he’ll debut a new submission move or somehow get the STFU locked on. The right booking call would be for Show to win to continue this feud until The Bash. Cena was destroyed on RAW so I could see him winning and all of the Jonas Brothers fans going nuts. By the way, Metallica owns the Jonas Brothers. Anyway, I think Big Show wins this one to continue the feud to the Bash. If Cena wins……I don’t know. I’ve run out of things to say to the WWE’s Customer Service department!
My Projected Winner: The Big Show

Samoan Strap Match
CM Punk vs. Umaga
Is the briefcase on the line in this match? No. A requirement for the Money in the Bank winner each year should be that they must defend their case in every match, minus tag & 6-man tag matches because after all, this isn’t TNA. However, I’ve said this before and I’ll keep saying it until the WWE realizes it. Having the MITB winner defend the briefcase every time he goes out helps build his character up so he’s a legitimate threat. I’m not saying he has to win every match cleanly. However, Goldberg didn’t win cleanly every match but it still counted. It’s very easy to use the case or have the opponent us it. Make it like a title; it only changes hands by pinfall or submission, depending on what the match calls for. Now, I’m not sure what the difference is between a Samoan Strap match and a regular strap match. Maybe the strap will have nifty little designs on it. Maybe Umaga will get on the mic and talk in perfect English! That’s stupid as well. Punk needs to go over or take the MITB away from him. I don’t know why the hell they had Punk win on Friday night.
My Projected Winner: CM Punk

“Miss Wrestlemania” Title
Hog Pen Match
Vickie Guerrero vs. Santina Marella
This screams buys doesn’t it? I mean, somewhere in this world, there’s about 15 people who are dying to see this bull…err hogshit. I honestly don’t give a damn who wins this match. I wish they could get a “change the channel” or “boring” chant during this match. I pick Santina to win.
My Projected Winner: Santina Marella

The Final Word:
On paper, this seems like a definite B-show. The Hog Pen match might as well be a bathroom break for people. It might be funny to some people but not to this writer. If a title change is going to happen, I think it will be Dreamer winning the ECW title. It’s not a strong show on paper and they’re going to have to try hard to deliver. I think with the no blood rule in effect, an extreme PPV will suck. It’s like have a Home Run Derby and not seeing any home runs. That might be a stretch but still, no blood on an extreme PPV? I’ll probably be in the Live Blog if we have it so I’ll see you then. GO EAGLES!!!

RAW – Mondays at 9PM on USA Network

Extreme Rules – June 7 – 8PM – Only on PPV!

It’s time once again for another WWE PPV. This time around, it’s Judgment Day so let’s get to it!

World Heavyweight Championship
Edge © vs. Jeff Hardy
It’s simply amazing that a decade or so ago, these two guys were tearing it up on the tag circuit. Now, they’re main event opponents. It’s freakin’ amazing. With a title change coming at Backlash, I think they’d be hard pressed to change the title right here. Enter CM Punk. Punk’s already cashed in the Money in the Bank, technically, and I think this would be a good time to do it here. Hell, they didn’t build him up last time, why not go with the obvious? Then again, Jeff Hardy needs to get his stuff together. He can be placed in the forefront, a spot most guys would love to have, or he can lose and go on his merry way. I think Edge wins here.
My Projected Winner: Edge

WWE Championship
Randy Orton © vs. Batista
If there was a feud that could win the award for Worst Build it would be this one. Batista somehow won the chance to face Orton, with the help of Cena. The next week, he looks like a bitch apologizing to Shane McMahon like he had just cheated on Shane with Big Dick Johnson. Then last week, he magically took out Legacy, further damaging their credibility. Anybody can see that he’s still favoring the leg. He’s slow. He’s not as quick as he once was. He’s seemingly going through the motions. When you put Orton out there, one week he looks weak because he has to have his buddies’ help to take out poor Shane McMahon. The next week, he looks week because the guy challenging for the title just goes right through the group and takes him out. Pathetic. I hope Orton retains without any outside BS or this will suck as well.
My Projected Winner: Randy Orton

ECW Championship
Christian © vs. Jack Swagger
“GO! If you close your eyes, your life, naked truth revealed, dreams you never lived and scars never healed, in the darkness, light will take you to the other side, and find me waiting there you’ll see if you just close your eyes!” Yes blog faithful, that’s the opening of Christian’s theme song…which has become one of my favorites over the past few weeks. I think it’s too early for a title change here. Swagger doesn’t need to be challenging for the title right now. He needs to move on to somebody else. With the unveiling of the new Hart Foundation, Christian has two contenders already. I think Christian retains here.
My Projected Winner: Christian

Intercontinental Championship
Rey Mysterio © vs. Chris Jericho
I’m pretty jealous that this feud isn’t taking place on RAW instead of Smackdown. I would have loved to see a Jericho-Mysterio feud on RAW. Then again, they would have probably screwed it up with Mysterio riding on a fake wooden horse or something. Wait. That was Chavo Guerrero in WCW. Speaking of which, I could have sworn these two feuded in WCW. My mind’s been off lately as far as knowing everything about wrestling. After all, I just discovered Dustin Rhodes, aka Goldust, was once in WCW as ‘Seven’ which was another stupid character. That’s neither here nor there. This match could possibly tear the house down. The key factor, like every other potential show stealer, is that they’re given plenty of time. I think it’s too early to switch the title. Then again, that seems to be the going thing in WWE, which makes the titles worth less than they already are. Either way, I’m going with Rey to pick up the win.
My Projected Winner: Rey Mysterio

The Big Show vs. John Cena
Can everybody see my excitement to preview this match? I mean, John Cena has pulled that “I’m injured” crap for too long. His selling of Big Show’s clutch on Monday was laughable. The guy can supposedly barely move, yet he’s got enough energy to yell & moan like he’s perfectly ok…except for the 500-pound elephant on his back. Yeah, I get on Cena a lot but the criticism is due. I know he puts fans in the stands and moves merchandise but he’s getting on my freakin’ nerves with his bullshit. Go Big Show!
My Projected Winner: Big Show

CM Punk vs. Umaga
Is the briefcase on the line? Nope. Why the hell not? Because building Punk up as a true contender has gone by the wayside. Can they still pull it off? Sure. Will they? I’m not ready to answer that. Umaga has finally returned and it would do him a disservice to have him lose so early. However, with Punk as the MITB winner, it’s time to build him up big time unless he’s going to cash it in later in the event…which is something I’m hoping for. I think I’ll go with Punk here with a surprise later.
My Projected Winner: CM Punk

Shelton Benjamin vs. John Morrison
This will be an interesting match. On paper, this is a show stealer. Morrison & Benjamin can work like crazy. Will they be given enough time? Your guess is as good as mine. I think however that Benjamin deserves a big push. He reminds me of DDP. He’s capable of kicking major ass but he’s never been given that push. Morrison can work and play heel really well. The jury’s still out on him as a face. I’m going with Morrison here.
My Projected Winner: John Morrison

The Final Word:
On paper, this show looks like a kick-ass event. In reality, it’s going to suck. Backlash was decent, mainly because of it coming off of Wrestlemania. However, this crap is going to suck because the build for it sucked. Smackdown is kicking the piss out of RAW right now. I don’t know who’s got their head up their collective ass during the RAW creative meeting but they need to sit in at a Smackdown meeting, maybe take some notes. Hopefully, I’ll luck out and end up in the league in the Brand Blog Writers PPV Challenge!

So that’s the Excess preview for this year’s WWE Judgment Day. One can only hope they’ll deliver!

Excess returns for the next WWE PPV, Backlash, live from the Dunkin Donuts Center in Providence, Rhode Island!

World Heavyweight Championship
Last Man Standing Match
John Cena © vs. Edge
I really don’t want to see this crap again. I’ve seen John Cena-Edge too many times. After this match, they don’t need to even be in the same match with each other for at least a year. Maybe I’m still stuck in 2006 and part of 2007 but I’ve seen enough Cena-Edge to last me until I graduate college. It’s not secret that I’m sick of John Cena already. He is bugging the living hell out of me with the way he runs over everybody and is constantly getting the title. I wouldn’t be too shy as to say that the decline in the quality of storylines in the past few years is because of him. He’s the face that never really loses and if he does, it’s by some fluke cause. He’s always got the belt. I mean, when Stone Cold had the belt, it was cool. I think it’s because the McMahon-Austin feud and getting back at your boss and all that stuff that made him the best modern Superstar. As you know, Cena is shoved down our throats and will continue to do so until he does something stupid & gets a lot of media attention or the kids/women finally get sick of him. Edge on the other hand is still one of the company’s top heels. Now that he hopefully has seen the last of Vickie Guerrero, I see him dominating on Smackdown. I’d love to see a pairing of him & Chris Jericho. As for the winner, do you honestly think that John Cena will lose the title after winning it at Wrestlemania? I’m still up in the air if a Money in the Bank cash-in is used but I see Cena winning first.
My Projected Winner: John Cena

WWE Championship
Batista, Shane McMahon & Triple H © vs. The Legacy
I’ll go ahead and note that if Triple H’s team gets the pin, he keeps the title. However, if Randy Orton’s team gets the pin, Orton becomes the new WWE Champion. Doesn’t this scream TNA to you? All that’s missing is a pole, a ref bump and maybe 10 people interfering. They’ve teased dissension the entire build up so it’s up in the air on who turns on whom. I would not mind at all if Shane McMahon turned on Batista & Triple H and joined The Legacy. I mean, we all know the McMahons can’t keep their hands out of a potential money making feud. The thing is though, the crowds the past few weeks, despite being hot crowds, haven’t reacted like you would think they would. Yeah, Batista’s return was nice but that can only last so long. Just ask Chris Jericho. Now, this could very well be the time the Money in the Bank cash-in happens. I can’t see them going on too long with two titles on one show. Then again, will they even enforce the brand separation? I think that there’s a good chance that Orton wins this match. Triple H has had the title since No Way Out. If it’s time to switch the title, it’s now. Cena won’t lose so somebody’s gotta lose their belt. Then again, with the way they’ve been teasing dissension in the Team Triple H camp, he could walk out with the belt. I’m going with Legacy.
My Projected Winner: The Legacy

ECW Championship
Jack Swagger © vs. Christian
I time to fish or cut bait, as they say in these parts, for Jack Swagger. Officials were said to be upset with his ring work for the match against Finlay at No Way Out, hints why he wasn’t on the Wrestlemania card. Christian is somebody who can groom him and work with him to improve his ring work. Now, I think it might be a good time to switch the title. I don’t see Christian going too long before he either gets the ECW title or gets the MITB from Punk. I mean, he can’t stay on ECW forever. The build up has been good, considering they did a “chase” thing and we had a contract signing. That’s where ECW differs from the other brands. Yeah, it’s the C brand but they at least build their one match respectably. I think Christian goes over with the Unprettier/Killswitch/Bacon Bits or whatever it’s name is.
My Projected Winner: Christian

I Quit Match
Jeff Hardy vs. Matt Hardy
I’ve made it quite clear that I don’t like this non-blood PG crap. Now, I’m not some freak that loves seeing blood in matches and needs to see it every match. However, when weapons are involved, it’s necessary to have some blood in the match to make it realistic. Are you honestly telling me kids believe that if they hit their buddy with a steel chair or something like that it won’t bust you open? Anyway, I won’t understand why Matt went over at Wrestlemania if Jeff wins at Backlash. I’m guessing they’re paying Matt back since Jeff has had a major title run and Matt’s had mid title runs. With the way Jeff’s contract negotiations are going, I think Matt wins unless Jeff can get his head on straight. It’s weird to see a guy who can be on top of the world messing around with this shot.
My Projected Winner: Matt Hardy

Chris Jericho vs. Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat
A week’s worth of build! Wheww! This is one of those, last minute, hey we need a match type deals. Instead of pulling the trigger last week or the week before, they waited until a few days before Backlash to announce this. Quite frankly, I could see Steamboat going over in this one. However, I don’t think they want to keep extending this feud too much longer between Jericho and Legends. I see Jericho going over simply for the shot he took from an actor on the biggest stage of the year.
My Projected Winner: Chris Jericho

CM Punk vs. Kane
Man, doesn’t this scream buys? Seeing as how this match was just announced on Friday Night Smackdown, it won’t pull the 200 buys WWE was hoping to capture. I think they might as well put the Money in the Bank title shot on the line from here on out so Punk can rightfully earn it. That would be a compelling storyline, similar to the Career Threatening matches involving Ric Flair. Punk has to put the briefcase on the line for every one of his matches, excluding tag or 6-man tag matches. It would only make sense to do that, seeing as how they’ve built this up over what, 2 matches? Punk beats Kane on RAW so that means Kane wants a rematch at a PPV? How about a Mysterio-Big Show match at Backlash? Wait, nevermind. I think the only way they’ll make up for last year’s debacle in Punk’s MITB is to give him a streak of wins or give the briefcase to somebody else. I remember when RVD cashed his in. He had to defend it against Shelton Benjamin before making his intentions known. They need to do that here!
My Projected Winner: CM Punk

The Final Word:
As you can probably tell, I’m not too thrilled with the way this has been handled. The buildup for the main event title matches has been handled ok. The ECW title match buildup was fine, considering they did it over a period of time. However, the Punk-Kane and Jericho-Steamboat matches might as well be TV matches. Nothing makes me want to see them except the fact that Steamboat could put on a hell of a show. Hopefully they’ll pull out a few surprises and make it worth at least reading about.

RAW – Mondays at 9PM on USA Network

Backlash – April 26 – 8PM – Only on PPV!

It’s time for the granddaddy of them all! It’s the biggest event in sports entertainment! It’s Wrestlemania 25, LIVE from Houston, Texas at Reliant Stadium!

World Heavyweight Championship
Triple Threat Match
Edge © vs. The Big Show vs. John Cena
This is certainly an interesting match. Basically, the only new guy involved is The Big Show. I talked a few weeks back about new guys being involved. This could certainly be a chance to upgrade CM Punk, MVP, Shelton Benjamin, or somebody else. They’ve used a love triangle to push this angle, particularly involving Edge & Show. They got Cena involved for about 5 minutes. I honestly think they could have milked this right up until last Monday, then had Cena put into the match. Then, this past Monday, they could have revealed that Vickie was pregnant, similar to the April Fools joke they tried to play. Then, after Cena won the title, the next night on RAW they could have revealed it was just a ploy between Cena & Vickie to get Cena the title, thus turning Cena heel. Or, they could have done the same thing with Big Show. Instead, we’ve got this shit with John Cena probably going to save the damn day again. I just hope that Cena doesn’t win. He didn’t win last year so I figure it’s his time. But for the love of me, I’m pulling and picking my favorite Superstar, the Rated R Superstar, Edge.
My Projected Winner: Edge

WWE Championship
Triple H © vs. Randy Orton
This is probably the show stealer right here. I hope it’s the main event. I put it under the World title match because I feel that the WWE title is just the top champion in a company. The World title is the top title in the world. Then again, Nigel McGuinness could wipe the floor with either Triple H or Edge. For those that don’t know, he’s the ROH Champion. Anyway, Orton finally returned to being the sadistic freak he is with his attack on Stephanie McMahon. They should have stuck with that the entire time. I thought the Triple H home invasion angle was kind of overblown. It seemed too contrived with the various camera angles involved. Like I said before, the attack on Stephanie was top notch. I liked the return of the McMahons, along with Triple H, and their attack on Legacy. As for the match, I’m expecting a show stealer honestly. I mean, they’re going to have to be better than the Edge-Undertaker match last year. They worked it so well to almost make you believe Edge was going to win. A title has to change hands. I think that Orton has been on a meteoric rise since winning the Royal Rumble. I’m going with Orton to pull out the victory and take the WWE Championship!
My Projected Winner: Randy Orton

World Tag Team Championship vs. WWE Tag Team Championship
Unification Lumberjack Match
The Miz & John Morrison (World) vs. Carlito & Primo Colon (WWE)
This is the first tag title match since Wrestlemania 22, where the Big Show and Kane defeated Carlito and Chris Masters for the World Tag Team Championships. Now, Carlito is defending the WWE tag titles, with his brother Primo, against The Miz & John Morrison in a unification match. I really hate this for tag team wrestling. Most of you know that I’m a big tag team wrestling fan. I always figured if I ever got into the wrestling business, I could make it as a tag wrestler. Tag team wrestling has taken a backburner in the WWE. Now, they’re supposed to be moving it to ECW. Whether or not all of the tag teams will be on ECW, I don’t know. It’s interesting to see if they move the teams during the draft to ECW and perhaps most of the singles guys to Smackdown or RAW. This will be an interesting match with the lumberjacks involved. I don’t know for sure if it’s going to be other teams or what. I see the Colons winning because of a potential singles push for Morrison and maybe Miz. I think they’ll split these two up on separate shows now. I take the Colons with a Backstabber from Carlito!
My Projected Winner: Carlito & Primo Colon

Intercontinental Championship
JBL © vs. Rey Mysterio
So this is one of those matches that seem to be just thrown together for some reason. I don’t know if it’s to just get Rey Mysterio on a Wrestlemania card or what. For the past few Wrestlemanias, I believe it’s been a few, Rey has been injured. He was supposed to take part in the Floyd Mayweather angle last year but didn’t. I would have much rather seen Rey in the Money in the Bank match but strikes me as too big a star to be in that one. Now, with Tazz’s departure, whom I will miss greatly, the logical thing to do is to bring him back as a color commentator. I could see a scenario with him joining Michael Cole and Vince sending The King to Smackdown. Whether that happens, I don’t know. As far as the match is concerned, with Rey winning on Monday night, I doubt he wins on Sunday. After all, JBL has said he’s going to have the most decisive victory in Wrestlemania history. I guess he’ll beat Rey in under 8 seconds like Kane did Chavo last year. I’m going with JBL although I’ll be pulling for Rey.
My Projected Winner: JBL

Money in the Bank Ladder Match
#1 Contender’s Match: Any Championship
CM Punk vs. Kane vs. Mark Henry vs. MVP vs. Shelton Benjamin vs. Kofi Kingston vs. Christian vs. Finlay
This year’s Money in the Bank Ladder match won’t be nearly as good as last year. We’ve got 2 big guys, Kane & Mark Henry, as well as a guy who doesn’t like to climb a ladder, Finlay. We’ve got a guy who won the MITB last year, CM Punk. So that leaves MVP, Shelton Benjamin, Kofi Kingston and Christian as potential winners. I really don’t see Henry, Kane, Finlay and Punk winning this year. MVP has come a long way since his feud with Matt Hardy. He went on that losing streak that supposedly “humbled” him so he wouldn’t leave. He captured the United States Championship from Shelton Benjamin after finally turning face. I think he’s got a really good shot at winning. Shelton Benjamin has been in four out of five, counting this year’s, Money in the Bank Ladder matches. I think he’s overdue for a big push into the main event picture. Christian just got back and I think it’s a stretch for him to win this year. He came from TNA & being a top guy back to the WWE and now he’s a mid-carder. Kofi Kingston is a long shot to win. He’s not exactly established like a Punk or Benjamin or even Kane. So in my opinion, it’s down to Benjamin and MVP. Either one is a good pick to win. I think MVP has the edge because he’s a good talker. So, I’m going with Montel Vontavious Porter…M…V…P!
My Projected Winner: MVP

The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels
This is one of those matches that I think will steal the show. They’ve done a good job in building this up except for a few miscues in my opinion. Once the line, “you’ve never beaten me before” comes into play that without a doubt means that that person will lose. Who is it in our case? Shawn Michaels. Unlike years past, they’ve had the challenger take the fight right to the Undertaker. Do I think they could have gone a different route in getting Michaels in the match? Yes. Oh, I don’t know, how about an accidental Sweet Chin Music during the Royal Rumble, costing The Undertaker? I didn’t watch the Rumble so I don’t know if they actually did that or not. I just think that having a series of matches between two guys to see who gets to be defeated this year is so TNA. Back to the change in philosophy, Michaels has taken the fight right to ‘Taker. He’s kicked over tombstones, come out from under caskets, and even kicked ‘Taker right in the chin. It’s a totally different animal this year. Who will win? Are you kidding me? ‘Taker goes 17-0 at Wrestlemania.
My Projected Winner: The Undertaker

Brother vs. Brother
Extreme Rules Match
Matt Hardy vs. Jeff Hardy
I haven’t been as receptive of this feud as other people have. I honestly don’t remember the last Hardy-Hardy feud but I do remember it wasn’t that great. This time around, there’s more to it with Jeff winning the WWE Championship and Matt becoming ECW Champion only to say he’s being held back. I like that dynamic to it. Now, with this being an Extreme Rules match, I honestly feel that they will pull out all of the stops in this. Remember, these two guys are the kings when it comes to TLC matches. I expect some insane spots from Jeff along with some brutal weapons shots from Matt from his seething anger towards his brother. In the end, I want Matt to win despite me being a Jeff Hardy fan. Hell, I like both of them. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t have bought their book, their first home video, and then the “Twist of Fate” DVD. When it’s all said and done, I think Jeff wins.
My Projected Winner: Jeff Hardy

Legends Grudge Match
Jimmy Snuka, Roddy Piper & Ricky Steamboat w/ Ric Flair vs. Chris Jericho
In all honesty, I think this match will be a clusterfuck. About the only person besides Jericho that I expect anything out of in this match is Steamboat. He looks like he can still go a few rounds. No offense to Snuka & Piper but I don’t expect much of anything about them. Of course, Jericho comes out with the victory in this one. I expect some bloody and brutal stuff. Mickey Rourke will probably get involved in some capacity. He might even get involved enough to give the victory to the Legends. Since it’s elimination style, I figure Jericho will dispose of two of the Legends and the 3rd, whoever it may be, will take him the distance.
My Projected Winner: Chris Jericho

Miss Wrestlemania 25-Diva Battle Royal
Doesn’t this scream “buys” to you? I know, it doesn’t to me either. Regardless, this one will be a fun one to watch providing there’s some hot outfits out there to reveal some, well, you know. I really don’t care who wins. I figure with the past Divas they’re bringing in, one of them will win. I’m going with Trish Stratus…because she’s sexy as hell and I pulled her name out of a hat!
My Projected Winner: Trish Stratus

The Final Word:
I honestly think this year’s Wrestlemania buildup has been crappy. I don’t know what Vince’s deal is but he’s not good at this anymore. Wrestling is better when it’s being laid out weeks in advance, when seeds are being planted. This year, it seems they just changed stuff on a weekly basis if they thought it wasn’t going right. As I’ve said before, Wrestlemania will draw based on its name. Will I watch the show? Definitely. Will I be shelling out $55 this year? No I won’t. There are too many options on getting coverage of ‘Mania for me to pay money for it. I think it will be a good show and they will pull out all of the stops. Where it ranks among the best is anyone’s guess.

RAW – Mondays at 9PM on USA Network

Wrestlemania 25 – April 5 – 7PM – Only on PPV!