I missed the Amazing Red and Homicide match, but upon later screening it was just as great as I expected. And I have to say I am thrilled ODB, Sarita and Wilde retained their titles. If they had put any belt on Lacey I would have been mortified! While I am not thrilled that TBI retained their titles, it was a very solid match. I know a lot of people did not like that I chose the MCMG to win this match, but I really think they need a push and that would have been a smart way of doing it. I still stand by my feelings for the Guns.

Everyone knows I wasn’t thrilled about the Cage Match between Kong and Tara, that I figured Kong would destroy Tara and to do anything else would look silly. I have to say I still feel Kong should have won it and in a real fight between the two of them Tara would have no chance, but I have to say I was very impressed with how realistic they made that match. I completely enjoyed watching Tara and Kong fight it out in the cage. It held my attention and made me want more. Since I was not interested in this match at all, I think that says a lot. They left it all in that cage and both deserve a huge bravo for the work they did Sunday night. While I do not agree with the ending, I think the actual match was off the hook and a truly unexpected success!

I honestly have no idea how and why Rhino and Team 3D won their match. It makes no sense for the storyline! Basically it all falls off with this win. How can Rhino and 3D claim they’re being held down and be bad boys if they actually won? Very confusing, but it was a good match. They all looked solid. The Pope impressed me even more and of course Morgan and Hernandez looked fabulous. These three are destined to be stars!

Then they followed it up with Lashley and Steiner. I know I complain so much about these two, but there so much wrong with this feud and them in the ring that it’s not even worth my time to go there.

I know a lot of people, mostly in TNA, are talking about how great the Wolfe and Angle match was. I have to say I am not one of those people. That match just seemed to go on and on and it did not hold our attention. My boyfriend surfed the web and I worked on my novel (www.nanowrimo.org) rather than actually watching much of the match. Yes, a few of the moves were interesting and exciting, but much of it we found incredibly boring. Knowing now that Angle “threw his back out early in the match” impresses me that he was able to continue the way he did through more than fifteen minutes more in the ring with Wolfe. That shows the toughness of Angle. What I don’t think is cool is that he taped Impact the next day, getting in the ring with Wolfe as if nothing happened. I know Angle prides himself on working through injuries, but at a certain point you have to realize when it’s time to rest. Angle’s not in his 20’s any longer. Then again, when Angle was in his 20’s he had a broken neck and won his Olympic Medal, so Angle’s known for pushing through injury. But if Angle’s not careful he’s going to get to a point that his body will not take any more abuse. I worry every time he hit’s the mat in a strange way that he’s not going to get up or his career is going to be over because of something moving in a way it shouldn’t. I rarely actually worry about wrestlers, but Angle is one of the few who makes me tweak every time he takes a hard bump.

The main event at Turning Point was everything everyone expected it to be. That AJ won does not make me feel at all bad I picked Daniels. Honestly, I would have been thrilled with a Daniels win, but the match itself was the most important thing to the fans. The three of them left it all in the ring, as was expected. They’re some of the best in the industry and proved it at TP. I’d love to have a Daniels and AJ feud coming from this, but it looks as though AJ will be feuding with Tyson Tomko. I don’t think of this as a spoiler because Richard has spoken about it a couple times recently. While I have never been the biggest Tomko fan, I am looking forward to see what they’re going to do with this. The only thing that bothers me is that the attacker really hasn’t been built like Tomko. Tomko has eight inches and ninety pounds on Styles, but the attacker was barely taller and only had about forty pounds on AJ. While I can understand that maybe TNA did not know who would end up being the attacker, I have trouble stretching my brain far enough to believe one is the other. I guess I will just have to force myself to suspend my personal disbelief and enjoy the feud as it unfolds – as I’m sure I will.

All in all, Turning Point was average with a few spectacular matches. That seems to be the way of most TNA PPVs, heck most wrestling PPVs! All in all there were more good matches than bad matches, so I have to consider Turning Point a success.

On a completely separate note, I do not understand how ANYONE could possible believe that Flair attacking Hogan at that press conference is at all real! I thought we were past the point that anyone thought anything in professional wrestling was ‘real’! Yes, it’s hard on the body, tough work and can be dangerous, but everyone knows it’s scripted! That TMZ and so many media outlets are reporting this ‘altercation’ as real because of the amount of blood Hogan lost just blows my mind. I thought it had been at least a decade since anyone truly believed professional wrestling was real. I can’t help but wonder which cave these people have been living in.

Show Starts

Video

About Turning Point and what happened in the ring, between EY and Nash, in the cage and beyond. All shown in stills ala WWE.

In Ring Segment

Foley came out with Abyss in tow. Abyss pushed a camera away before he got in the ring. Foley’s left eye is patched. Taz claimed 1st degree burns around the eye socket. Interesting as the fireball was so small and nowhere near him. Foley can barely talk about the lights being out and a flash of light. His life became very clear. He doesn’t think Carter values him very much anymore. Why else wouldn’t she consult him about the hiring of Hogan? Why should she be dodging his phone calls? She’s even dodging his texts! He had to show his ID, Foley held it up to show he still had it on, to get in the arena. He was forced to show it to be able to get in, even though they know him. Abyss started freaking about Stevie and Raven. Foley said they almost have Stevie out of there and Raven came in without a contract and tried to end Foley’s career. He and Raven have fought a lot of wars, but always on the same side. Foley and Abyss will have their vengeance. Abyss didn’t like that, but Foley wouldn’t listen. Raven, Stevie and Daffney came out. Stevie said Foley looks a little hot under the collar. That Foley’s burning with anger. Foley tried to get rid of Stevie, so what did he expect? That it would go unanswered? Back a rabid animal in a corner and you get your face chewed off, or burned off in this case. Chris started this war, but they will end it. Stevie handed Raven the mic. Raven said he’s disappointed in Mrs. Foley’s Baby Boy. He’s more interested in the business. He thought it would bring back the old Foley, but it only made him more worried about Hogan. Raven said he didn’t think Foley could make a match without asking Carter. This, of course, pissed off Foley and forced the match for later in the night. Abyss was worried about Foley and not sure about the match, but never actually spoke on mic.
5/10 – We all know it’s scripted, but this is just pushing my level of belief. This storyline was so good and the more Foley gets into it, the worse it gets. I love the man, but he’s sucking things up big time!

Backstage Segment

Borash with Angle and AJ. After the show Borash said Wolfe wasn’t beaten by Angle, he chose to tap. Daniels said AJ didn’t pin him, but Joe. AJ said he didn’t go out to pin Daniels, he went out to win the match. This has become personal and their friendship went out the window. He should have known that winning the WHC was the end of it for them. Daniels challenges at Final Resolution? What makes Daniels think he’ll make it through tonight? Borash asks about Angle teaming with AJ. Angle asks how AJ won when it was Morgan who blindsided him with the boot? He’s been thinking about it since September. And what about Wolfe, where did he come from? Did AJ just give Daniels a shot at FR? Maybe AJ can clarify. AJ said he can’t back down from a challenge. He wants Angle one on one to see who’s the best. Angle wants the match too. Borash reminds them they have to tag later. Angle stomped off, then AJ did the same.
7/10 – That was very cool. For once a wrestling company isn’t letting all of their storylines die after a PPV! Finally, a side feud that makes sense! I understand Wolfe has been on Angle’s ass, but Angle always has to hold the title or go after it, it’s who Angle is! That Angle is playing both sides of the fence makes his character much more believable and makes me wonder how the match later will go. (No, I have not read the match spoilers at all.)

Match #1

Steiner out and then Amazing Red with West in tow. West on mic even though he’s ringside. He said this match makes no sense and is not fair. Steiner’s only out to hurt people and Amazing Red shouldn’t be in the ring with him. Steiner’s not in the X Division, so Amazing Red shouldn’t have to face him. Steiner beat on Amazing Red and really threw the little guy around while West verbally berated Steiner and the ref from outside. Steiner left the ring to grab Amazing Red’s belt and his big pipe. The ret didn’t try to remove the pipe from Steiner’s hands and let him (not really) hit Amazing Red with it. Of course Lashley ran out when Steiner wouldn’t stop the attack.
3/10 – Why the heck are these two wrestling? Makes no sense to me! I hate to agree with Don west ever, but I do. TNA’s booking of this match at all is just to make Steiner look stronger and more capable than he actually is. They might be trying to further the feud between Lashley and Steiner, but in fact only looked silly in putting together this match in the first place. Not cool.

Backstage Segment

Borash stood between a nervous looking EY and an ever cool Nash. Of course Nash has the belt he took from EY. Nash is supposed to have all the answers tonight. Nash said it’s not the former Legends Belt, it’s EY’s Global Championship Belt. Nash handed the belt to EY who looked even more shocked and confused, then smirked. At BFG EY did what few could do, out thought the smartest man in pro wrestling. Nash looks awed. For a while Nash wanted to kill him, but thought about it. But if he can do that to Nash, he wants to party with him. There was a guy about EY’s size who he tagged with and made a lot of history and a hell of a lot of money. He asks about EY giving it a shot. EY asks for a little time to think about it. Nash asks if it bothers EY that he’s American? EY asks if it bothers Nash that he’s from Detroit? Nash asks if he lives there now? They both laugh and shake. EY left and Nash about left, but then came back about Foley running his mouth wanting answers. He’ll be on the phone with Hulk and by the end of the night his answers will be there.
6/10 – While interesting, it wasn’t fabulous. Comparing EY to HBK was a bit odd, but TNA has been referring to WWE a lot but WCW did a lot of that too. I know Nash and HBK are very close friends, but I still find it odd. I see so little comparison between in the ring, but size wise they are almost identical. Both are billed at 6’, 225lbs which kind of surprises me. I didn’t realize they had the same height and weight as their builds are so different.

Match #2

MCMG out to the ring. Sabin needs a haircut, he’s starting to look rather geeky. BMI out to the ring to tag with them. W/E came out led by EY with the biggest grin on his face. Williams, Magnus, Kiyoshi and Borash will be in this match. EY to announce with Nash standing behind him. Hebner over to tell EY not to leave his chair or his team will be disqualified. EY said special rules for special people. Kiyoshi and Storm started the match and I realized Sabin’s not the only one in need of a haircut! Kiyoshi’s hair looks daft! Shelley tagged in and the Guns double teamed. Bashir kicked Shelley in the back and Shelley punched him off the apron. Taz complained about Nash standing behind him and making him nervous. EY said W/E was dangerous, but now they’re perfect – meaning since Nash wants in. Kiyoshi and Bashir really worked over Shelley! But, of course, everyone had to get involved outside the ring. Bashir met the ring post in that painful male way and Kiyoshi was double suplexed to the ramp. Roode and Storm yelled at EY who told them to leave. Terry materialized in the ring and tried to clothesline Sabin who ducked, therefore Magnus ate Terry’s move. Sabin took Terry out then the Guns double teamed Magnus for three. EY left announce to scream at Terry. That seemed to give them all free reign to verbally rip Terry’s head off on the ramp.
7.5/10 – That was very solid! Of course less people in the ring would have made it easier to follow, but the match actually made sense! I understood why they made the match and why it booked out the way it did. That it all made sense is a bit unnerving, but I’ll run with the afterglow of such a good match.

Announce Segment

Taz and Tenay said Foley’s trying to hunt down Nash backstage. Taz said Nash is a huge guy, how can he disappear so quickly from being out with them?

Backstage Segment

Foley walked up on Nash and asked for answers. Nash asked if he had a question. Foley said Nash’s Hogan’s boy. Nash looked very unhappy. Nash said he stopped being a boy when his dad died (Nash was 9 years old when he lost his father.) Foley said that’s melodramatic. Nash said it wasn’t melodramatic in 1968. Foley said Nash knows what Hogan’s up to and he’d like to know. Nash said Foley makes it sound so dirty. He’s there for business and business only. Nash brought up his suspension. Foley said he was overruled, even had to show ID to get in. Nash said he’s out of money. Foley gets him his money back and he’ll tell Foley everything he knows. And when Hogan comes back, he’s not coming alone.
8.5/10 – That was really touching. While Nash is a damn good actor, the bringing up of his father is a big thing. (While a number of pages I checked said his father died when Nash was three years old, but in 1968 Nash would have been 9. I’m thinking that someone got the age wrong and it was copied over wrong onto the other page. Wikipedia has already been fixed.) That was a very interesting segment. I like that they’re doing so much to keep Hogan in the forefront of the fans’ minds while Hogan is on his Australian tour. Very interesting writing and keeping Nash talking instead of in the ring. Of course Hogan’s not coming alone!

Video

Again we’re stuck watching that same press conference with Hogan and Carter. There’s only so many times any one person can watch that (other than Hogan and Carter themselves.) Show us the one between Hogan and Flair so at least we see some blood!

Backstage Segment

Abyss in Foley’s office and he’s trying to convince Foley to not wrestle. He said there’s no jobs for blind wrestlers. Foley said to think about how quickly his resume for TNA ref will be answered! No one else laughed at that. Abyss implored Borash to help him with Foley. Foley commented that Tweak and Tweet is back up. Foley laughed about the possible damage to his eye. But then he said it’s not funny, that’s why he has to do what he has to do. Abyss said doing what they do involves pain, misery and suffering. Abyss then “I implore you” to not go out to the ring. Abyss said he cares about Foley. Foley said the choice is his and no one else can stop him. Abyss said everybody has choices to make. Foley said like the choice Carter made when she didn’t tell him Hogan was coming in.
6/10 – I can’t believe I used the word implore and then Abyss used it. I type as they talk and did not know he would use the same word. While I enjoyed Nash pushing Hogan coming in, Foley’s pushing it too hard. It’s getting annoying. And I know a lot of people want Abyss to be more of a monster, but I have to admit I’m enjoying this. As long as he doesn’t go all Kane on us and lose the mask, as long as he goes back to being a monster pretty soon, I’m fine with short hiatuses of him being a goofy kid.

Match #3

Hamada out to the ring. Wilde out to face her. Why are two faces squaring off? I know TNA likes to say they don’t have heels and faces, but that’s total BS! A little chain wrestling, then they stopped and stared off. Beautiful wrestling, then a DDT from Hamada and I thought Wilde was done! She barely got her shoulder up, but then they were right back at it! A kick to Wilde’s face, then Hamada’s moonsault, but Wilde managed to get out! Back and forth, both easy and sick moves from both for just a fabulous match! Hamada driver and it was over for Wilde.
9.5/10 – That was fricken brilliant! While short, that whole match was edge of your seat excitement! When Wilde came in to TNA, so much was expected of her and she really fell short. I think her pairing with Sarita has done huge things for her confidence. I don’t know who Wilde’s been training with, but she’s picked up some new moves and it shows in her ring work. I knew this match happened, but did not read about the results. Honestly, I thought it might be a dud. Boy was I wrong! The only thing that could have made this better – and it’s tiny – is if it was longer with a little ebb to the action in the middle. Maybe a submission hold to slow things down, then back to the amazing moves. When I’m begging for more, it was off the hook! Now I will make one little comment as the clothing designer side of me comes out. Wilde’s bottoms are not cut right. They gape in the back, so she has to constantly readjust. I love her new ring gear that goes so well with Sarita’s, but she needs the bottoms fixed so she doesn’t look so uncomfortable. Picking her wedge between each move will take away from her matches.

Backstage Segment

Tenay said the TNA cameras are in reception outside Foley’s office. Abyss trashed the area and put the (cheap piece of crap) desk in front of Foley’s door so he couldn’t get out of his office for the match.

Video

Hogan talking to the camera. About how he did this once before. This is where he wants his legacy to end up. This is where the industry will end up. That TNA’s going to be number 1 in the shortest time period ever.
–/10 – After looking at the dates, Hogan’s prediction isn’t possible. WCW was bought by Turner in November, 1988 and Monday Night Wars started September 1995. That’s just shy of seven years before WCW was on top. TNA was started in the spring of 2002. TNA’s been going for over seven years already. I do not know who is doing Hogan’s math, but what’s he’s saying is not at all possible. Only if Hogan is talking about TNA on TV, well he could be talking about 2004 when TNA was on Fox or 2005 when TNA premiered on Spike. I feel revisionist history starting already!

Match #4

Raven and Stevie out. Foley said Raven doesn’t have a contract, then why does he have ring music and an entrance? Video of the hugely dramatic fireball last week. Abyss out to the ring and he’s ready to start. Foley’s music, but no Foley. Abyss on Raven and Stevie outside the ring as they looked for Foley to come out. Abyss briefly in control, but that didn’t last long. Finally Abyss was rolled into the ring and the starting bell was rung. Abyss saw Raven setting up for what looked like another fireball but Abyss kicked him in the face. Slick found the lighter and called for the bell. Abyss was pissed off and kept after Raven outside the ring. Stevie attacked from behind to gain control again. Daffney – in one sexy, kick ass outfit – brought out a cable of some sort. “Foley” chants, but it didn’t help as Stevie and Raven hung Abyss up from the ropes by the cable around his neck. Commercial.
5/10 – I will give it that good of a rating because the match really didn’t develop well. They did not have enough time to make it very interesting. It just wasn’t thrilling and interesting as all three of these guys can be in the ring. Wasn’t up to what they normally give us.

Backstage Segment

Talkin’ Trash With ODB! While I love her set… She had her belt on obscuring the fact that she didn’t seem to be wearing shorts or a skirt of any sort! She introduced Homicide who brought her a bottle oj Jose with about two shots missing out of it. Homicide loves her little set. He sits in a van bench seat while she chills in a beat up barcalounger. They talk about Suicide. Homicide said Suicide is ODB’s friend he wears a mask because he has crabs. ODB choked on Jose. Suicide is Homicide’s bitch now. Homicide said he wants a title shot with ODB, cross those lines! They dance around drinking, dancing and being lowbrow.

Backstage Segment

Lauren with the famous Tyson Tomko! He said it’s been a long time but it looks better than ever around there. Carter told them all to step it up and he’s going to give the boss lady what she wants. Tomko walked away and laughter behind Lauren. That could only mean one thing! TBP in the house. Velvet Sky teases Lauren’s interview skills. Velvet Sky takes Lauren’s mic and said Lauren has been annoying people, two people witnessed the crime. She ‘interviewed’ Rayne and Lacey. Rayne put on a fake voice and tears. Lacey tried the tears too while she spoke, but spoke very little.
8/10 – For the Tomko part of that segment. He was very soft spoken and sweet. He came off as the uber good guy thrilled to be back on the job. Perfect cover for the attacker, if things work out as the rumors claim. But then they had to bring in TBP! Actually, Velvet Sky was really very good. I hope, at some point, she’s given the chance to change her character up some. I’d love to see what she’s capable of because she shows such promise on mic and in the ring, especially compared to Lacey. Even Rayne has been getting better all around. It’s becoming obvious how much better the other girls are getting in comparison to Lacey von Erich.

Video

AJ talked up how wonderful Hogan is and what a great change to TNA. He said he’d love to sit with Hogan and ask him question after question, Hogan would throw him out of the room. Hogan coming to TNA and there’s great changes ahead.
–/10 – AJ actually looked like he believed what he said, but we all know how good he can be on mic. I’m starting to get annoyed with the top wrestlers talking about how wonderful it is that Hogan’s coming to TNA. There’s only so much the fans can take before we hit mute when that screen comes up.

Match #5

Flash comes out, zips up her top to be a mock turtleneck and then goes to the ring. Sarita out to face her. I’m excited to see this after the last Knockout match we saw on this show! Flash showed her power over Sarita, but Sarita used her luchador background to fight back. Flash’s zipper would slide down and she’d make a point of zipping it back up. They went kick for kick at each other. They both threw it out there hard. Flash ended up with a couple of rips in her tights because they fought so hard. Rather than an enziguri, Sarita hit more of a mule kick with her other leg being held by Flash. Flash hit the mat like a lump and Sarita got the three. After Flash left the ring, Traci attacked her and beat her down on the ramp. Sadly, I don’t think we’ve seen the last of the two of them fighting in the ring.
8.5/10 – It was good. It was a very solid, hardworking match. The problem – for Flash and Sarita – is that they wrestled on the same night as Hamada and Wilde. Had it not been for the earlier Knockout match, I would be raving about this one! Flash and Sarita really gave us a great match. Again, it would have been better with a little ebb to the flow, but for the time they had they worked it. I thought that TNA made a bad decision sending Traci out to attack Flash after the match. I think it would have worked batter as a backstage segment as I feel it took a little away from the great match that just happened in the ring.

Backstage Segment

Foley wandering backstage hunting down Stevie and Raven. Foley saw Daffney who distracted him enough to give Stevie and Raven the upper hand. They hung Foley up on the stair rail while they verbally abused him.
5/10 – At least it was short because it wasn’t very exciting.

Match #6

Team 3D and Rhino out to the ring. There’s trash cans full of weapons around the outside of the ring. Video from TP. They started announcing The Pope, but he ran out to the ring with Morgan and Hernandez right behind him. The ref looked confused about starting the match – how and when. Everyone ended up outside the ring except Ray who landed hard on the mat thanks to Morgan. Hernandez was about to fly out of the ring, but Ray clotheslined him. Hernandez took Ray down, then flew taking out Devon and Rhino who were where they needed to be thanks to The Pope and Morgan. The Pope used two trash can lids on Ray who then executed a perfect Flair flop. Outside The Pope stayed on Ray with a cookie sheet. In the ring moved Morgan and Devon. Morgan in control put a trash can over Devon’s head and did the elbow smashes to the trash canned Devon in the corner! They moved from the ring and Ray hit Morgan over the head with a cookie sheet. Into the ring moved Rhino and Hernandez. Rhino tried for a superplex, but Hernandez sent him flying to the mat. The Pope put a cookie sheet on Rhino and Hernandez splashed for two. Ray in and scoop slammed Hernandez like he was Spike! The Pope hit Devon, then Ray over the head with a kendo. Devon up top at a number of stick hits from The Pope, then Morgan sent Devon flying across the ring. Hernandez and Morgan held Devon’s ankles. The Pope set a kendo in Devon’s crotch, then flew to drop an elbow into Devon’s whoo-ha! The Pope slapped Morgan’s chest, counted and told him – with the fans help – to get the tables! Morgan out and did just that! Morgan set the table up outside. Ray came out and tried to attack, but didn’t get far. Morgan set him up and flew off the apron, but Ray moved and Morgan’s ass went through the table. Then in the ring a 3D on The Pope. But then Hernandez hit his slingshot in on both Ray and Devon. Rhino up for the border toss, but Devon had a chair. Hernandez dropped Rhino and punched the chair into Devon’s face. Hernandez speared Rhino and pinned, but the ref was pulled from the ring. Suddenly there’s some tattooed, mohawked, jeans clad, shirtless sexy freak in the ring with a chair. Taz and Tenay realized it was Jesse Neal. Chair to Hernandez’s head and Neal pulled Rhino onto Hernandez to pin for three.
7.5/10 – That was a really good Street Fight. I’m not big on gimmick matches, but sometimes they work out perfectly. For the people involved, that was just perfect. Normally I don’t like interference, but I think that was a great way to bring Neal back to TNA. I also understand now why Neal was always in long sleeves. They didn’t want the fans to see his huge tribal tattoos until the time was right. Neal looks like such a different man with his mohawk spiked, no shirt and piercings. Not sure how it will all work out since he and Rhino were at odds before he left, but that could all be explained away by creatively ignoring the whole previous storyline as pro wrestling does so much when it suits them.

Backstage Segment

Angle argued with AJ about why he won’t give him a title shot. AJ said he never said he wouldn’t give Angle a title shot. Angle then demanded to know when he’d get his title shot.

Backstage Segment

Team 3D, Rhino, Neal and Borash. Rhino said that Neal cost him matches and made him butt heads with 3D. Now Neal helped them win and gets IT. Rhino slapped Neal’s chest hard. Neal told Rhino not to touch him! Ray screamed and yelled and called Neal a BMF. Ray said he’s now part of their wrecking crew. Neal looked at the camera and said if you want to be hardcore, you have to train with the most hardcore. If you want to be extreme, you have to train with the most extreme. If you want to be the best, you hand with the best. Devon then told Hernandez, Morgan and The Pope that this is what they wanted. 3D, the heart and soul. Rhino, the backbone. Neal, the future, the real future of TNA! They will eliminate them from TNA. They all yelled ‘testify‘.
4/10 – It seemed like a group of 11 year old buys trying to pump themselves and each other up to do something scary – like go into that abandoned house all the rumors say is haunted. It wasn’t up to 3D’s great mic segments by any stretch of the imagination. And Rhino’s explanation of why Neal is suddenly wonderful makes absolutely no sense to me. Maybe it’s because I’m female, but it really didn’t seem to have any basis in reality.

Announce Segment

Tenay talked about how there was supposed to be an interview with Sting to be taped earlier in the day at his home near Dallas (I thought he lived in California), for reasons unknown to them… Then it cut to video of Sting outside a house in a chair. He got up and walked away. Tenay kept talking over the video of them setting up for the interview, saying he didn’t know if this was about possible retirement or Hogan or anything else. He didn’t know why Sting wanted to do this interview.

Backstage Segment

Lauren with Wolfe and Daniels. She asked about them facing AJ and Angle. Are they getting along better than AJ and Angle? Wolfe said he usually flies solo, but he has respect for Daniels. As he’s proven himself, not just because they’re on the same side of the locker room. Wolfe said Angle might have surprised him with an illegal submission move, but he has plenty of surprises of his own up his sleeve. Then Daniels asked why Lauren didn’t say it’s the first time Daniels and Wolfe are teaming up? Because it’s more of TNA’s propaganda that AJ and Angle are more important than anyone else. If AJ’s so good, why couldn’t he beat Daniels at TP? Tonight he’ll prove he deserves a one on one title shot.
7.5/10 – I really enjoyed that! They’re both damn good on mic and put out creative reasons for their losses at TP. I thought that was very interesting and it makes me more interested in the main event. Very cool.

Main Event

Daniels out first, then Wolfe. Angle rose up through the stage in what appears to be new ring gear (but I could be wrong). AJ was last to the ring through much pyro. It started off Angle on Daniels who needed to back off and regroup, but then really on Angle and seemed to be in control, but only got a pin of one. Angle called for Wolfe to tag in, but AJ wanted Daniels. It ended up being AJ and Wolfe as Wolfe didn’t want Angle and Daniels seemed to be avoiding AJ – such the WWE heel roles they’re playing. Daniels took a cheap shot on Angle from the apron to prove he really is a heel, even though he heel turn was as blasé as Angle’s face turn. Daniels really worked over Angle’s left shoulder, but he fought back with a belly to belly and really sold the shoulder pain. Both AJ and Wolfe in fresh. AJ on Wolfe hard and hit a sick back breaker! Wolfe out of a Styles clash but walked right into the pele. AJ up top, but Daniels screwed him by grabbing his ankle from outside. Wolfe hit a stunner type move on AJ who had still been sitting up top, but couldn’t get the three. Wolfe fled the ring from Angle, but Daniels in and hit his BME to pin AJ for three.
8/10 – That was a really great match. Not the best match of the night, but damn solid. They all put it out there, but didn’t kill themselves to do so. Many solid moves, some of each of their best. They all looked very strong and sold their moves as well as their characters. A very solid way to end the show leaving a great match in our head with some of TNA’s best competitors.

Post Show

TNA spent so much time during this show promoting Hogan coming in and changing the course of TNA. While I enjoyed Nash talking about Hogan coming in as it keeps it in the fans’ minds and it makes sense coming from Nash as he and Hogan have known each other for so long. They worked together for so many years. But Foley harping on Hogan coming in just grates on my nerves. It feels horribly phony and dread Hogan coming in. It could be a great thing, Hogan coming in, or it could be the end of the company. I’m hoping for a lot, but getting less hopeful the more I see. Too much of these old guys in the ring and it will all fall apart around their ears. They will need some of the names to bring in the fans, but they should be used sparingly. I know that the younger guys can carry this company if given the chance and have some of the legendary wrestlers backing them – if given the chance, good storylines and booking. I KNOW they can!

Compared to last week, I think this show was worlds better! The mic segments were better and made more sense. They had more interesting stories to run with coming off the PPV and the wrestling was down right fabulous compared to last week. We didn’t have to deal with match endings that went on forever, run ins from too many people and every match containing too much extra baggage.

What the heck happened to Sting’s interview? I wasn’t really clear on if it didn’t happen, if something happened during it or if they just pushed it off for lack of time. Wasn’t very well explained and left me hanging. By far the biggest downer of the show.

The thing that really warmed my heart was that the Knockouts really helped carry this show. The Knockout matches were the best of the night. Hamada and Wilde’s match ranks up there as one of my top three favorite Knockout matches ever. They were just so impressive. Following that up with Flash and Sarita made the Knockouts the stars of the night. It might have made more sense for the TV audience to see them in a reversed order so that Flash and Sarita built to Wilde and Hamada, but it’s not my call. Heck, even Velvet Sky impressed me on mic tonight. All around the Knockouts made this show what it was.

Finishing off with the main event that they had was the perfect way to tie it all up into a neat little package. They all worked hard developing their characters, the storyline and throwing it all into a solid match. Damn good!

KB

Not much on this card is really fabulous. I think the couple of matches that look solid will be fabulous and the rest will make us want to run off to grab a beer or go to the loo. The main event should be the talk of the industry. I’m afraid this PPV could be quite depressing and a huge stinker for TNA.

X Division Championship Match – The Amazing Red (c) vs. Homicide

I see TNA starting Turning Point with this match as it should be amazing. Homicide has been on a huge push lately and Amazing Red is an incredible wrestler. Amazing Red throws moves that leaves my jaw on the floor and my eyes bugged out. He is the best smaller wrestler to come up the ranks since Rey Mysterio Jr. Even though Homicide is really good and has been in the middle of a strong push, I do not see him winning this match. I think Amazing Red, with Don West in his corner, still has some serious time with the X Division strap around his waist. I think the partnership between these two men has just started and can only get better from here. But I think it will be one of the best two matches of the night, only to be beaten by the main event. Winner – Amazing Red

Revenge Match – Bobby Lashley vs. Scott Steiner

Who’s going to win this match? I don’t care! This is the same storyline as when DDP stalked Sara and feuded with Taker. This storyline has been done so many times and by so many better wrestlers! Steiner should not be in the ring regularly. Lashley’s been pushed as unstoppable, but we wonder everyday if he’s going to walk away from wrestling to fight MMA full time. At this point TNA would be better off if both of them left wrestling and let the younger guys who can rock a match have the time these two are sucking up. At this point either could win and I wouldn‘t care! Even though Lashley hasn’t lost a match yet in TNA, Steiner’s backstage ego and unhappiness might dictate the outcome. TNA might hand this match to Steiner to keep him happy. As long as Kristal doesn’t turn on her husband because she’s so in love with Steiner, I see Lashley winning it. He’s just too strong and powerful for Steiner to get one over on him face to face. Winner – Lashley

6 Sides of Steel Match – Awesome Kong vs. Tara

This is another match that doesn’t hold much interest for me. They’re going to spend more time setting up the cage and ripping it down than the match will actually last! I know Tara is a tough chick and will be trying MMA, but I don’t think she’s any match for Awesome Kong. And what happened to Kim Couture who got into it with Tara at the last PPV? I know this is a cage match, but if anyone will get involved it will have to be her. Either way I think Tara has bitten off more than she can chew. Kong is going to destroy Tara, but I think they will do everything in their power to make it look good in the cage. Winner – Awesome Kong

Challenge Match – Kurt Angle vs. Desmond Wolfe

A while ago there was word that Angle’s contract was up in September and he would be leaving TNA to possibly return to WWE. Angle even went so far as kiss up to Vince McMahon in a couple of interviews, just to smooth over all the bad stuff he said when he left WWE and joined TNA. But I have heard nothing about that in months, nor have I heard about Angle signing a new contract. So I have no clue. If he was leaving, this would be the perfect way to write him out. Though I doubt TNA would have shown the video of Angle talking up Hogan coming in and how he will be changing the direction of TNA on this past Impact. This leads me to believe Angle’s not leaving, but you can never be sure. I haven’t been thrilled with Desmond Wolfe’s overly strong character in TNA. While strong heels are fabulous, TNA creative have made him too strong and it feels horribly fake. Wolfe has completely destroyed everyone he’s touched in less than three moves, usually in one. That can lead to some serious issues in the future for feuds. We all know he’s a damn good wrestler, but I think TNA is creatively screwing Wolfe up in a big way. Anyway, in picking a winner I have three thoughts – 1) Either Wolfe will bowl right over Angle, it will be ugly and sick. 2) Angle will hold his own somehow, even though Wolfe’s been booked as unstoppable until now, and the beaten down face will win at the PPV as so many matches have been booked in the past two decades! 3) Someone else will get involved, there will be a DQ or some other sort of flummox. With those three ideas in my head, I have to go with the third. I do not see how TNA can pull this match out any other way and save face for either wrestler. Winner – No Contest / DQ / Screwy Mess

TNA Tag Team Championship Match – British Invasion (c) vs. Motor City Machine Guns (c) vs. Beer Money

This could be a really great match or it could be barely this side of boring. It’s never easy to tell with TBI involved. Williams is fabulous and Magnus has really picked it up recently in the ring. As long as the ref gets rid of Terry ringside, it should be an honest match. I don’t see TBI retaining, but then again I did not see them winning the belts when they did, so I could be way off on this one. I really think TBI with the belts has been quite a drag. And while I’d love to see BMI winning, as would so many of their fans, I think it will be MCMG. I think it’s time for the Guns to $h*t or get off the pot. I know that sounds bitchy, but they haven’t had a great reputation backstage and a lot of people think they have just been wallowing in mid-card purgatory because they haven’t shown the initiative needed to get further. I have not heard much bad about them lately and it really seems as though – from where I’m sitting – that they’re ready to work hard. I say put the straps back on them and see what they give back! They’re damn good wrestlers who finally seem to have become serious about their jobs. If what we’ve been seeing is at all true, I think they should and will win this match. BMI have held the belts so often and for so long, I think a feud with MCMG – a semi-friendly feud – could be off the hook. Winners – MCMG

TNA Knockouts Tag Match: All Titles on the Line – The Beautiful People vs. Sarita & Taylor Wilde (c) & ODB (c)

How is this match supposed to run exactly? Both the Knockout Tag Team Titles and the Knockout Title are on the line, but how exactly are they going to be won or lost? I figure if someone pins ODB, that person will win her title. But what if someone pins Wilde? Which of who wins what? Too confusing and not very smart. Not enough explaining. Basically another gimmick falling flat for Russo and Ferrera. My feeling is that none of the titles should change hands. While ODB isn’t the best Knockout Champion, she’s a heck of a lot better than many other choices. If TNA puts any belt of any sort on Lacey von Erich, I will be disgusted and nauseated! The only person with the skills to even hold a belt is Velvet Sky and her gimmick is what’s holding her back. She could do well as Champion if she didn’t have to carry Lacey von Erich. At this point none of these titles should change hands in this screwy match. Winners – ODB, Sarita & Taylor Wilde

Six Man Tag Team Match – Team 3D & Rhino vs. Matt Morgan, Hernandez & D’Angelo Dinero

Nothing like changing the whole direction of a storyline and characters on the last show before a PPV! Suddenly Ray and Devon completely agree with Rhino and think he makes perfect sense? This doesn’t jive with me, but I also doubt that they‘re messing with Rhino. This is the second time in the past month we’ve been expected to believe the quick swerve and daft explanation thrown upon us (the first being Angle’s sudden face turn and he now completely loves and respects the young wrestlers). Cough *BS* cough! Okay, so now Team 3D completely believes the younger wrestlers are out to get them, even though Ray was all hangdog about hitting Morgan and Hernandez over the head with a chair just over a week ago. Now the ECW Originals completely agree with each other and are ready to square off with the two biggest young wrestlers in TNA – that makes complete sense! And while those young wrestlers don’t feel they need a partner, The Pope suddenly decided that he HAS to be part of their group and fight side by side against the ECW Originals? I call foul! This is too contrived. Of course the younger wrestlers are going to win so that Team 3D and Rhino can continue their vendetta storyline. If Team 3D and Rhino were to win their whole theory would fall apart around them. Winners – Morgan, Hernandez & The Pope

TNA Championship Match – AJ Styles (c) vs. Samoa Joe vs. Daniels

This should, by far, be the match of the night! That we’ll have to wait through so many other blecht matches to see it really blows. TNA keeps claiming this is the second time that these three men are facing off for a championship, but from what I have seen, this is their forth time facing off in Triple Threat matches. They faced off at Unbreakable 2005 for the X Division Championship, at Destination X 2006 in an Ultimate X Match and again at Against All Odds 2006 for the X Division Championship. I’m not sure which match TNA has been talking about the past couple weeks, but considering Dave Meltzer gave the Unbreakable match a five star rating, I figure it was that one (just the info I found in my research). While each time prior to this was for the X Division Championship, it does no lessen this match in any way. What I do find interesting is that they have each won a Triple Threat from the other two. Why TNA was not promoting this as the ‘rubber match’ I have no clue! That could have been the perfect angle to push leading up to this PPV. Huge missed opportunity – AGAIN! Even with all that I think this will be the match of the night. If you don’t know anything about how good these guys are in the ring together, go watch the Unbreakable match on YouTube or any of the Styles versus Daniels matches that took place in TNA though the time that all those Triple Threat matches took place. They had some killer matches that should be in the record books. But back to who will win this match? I could make a case for any of the three to win this. Joe is one bad ass and can always handle a title run. Plus he has done such a fabulous job creating strife between AJ and Daniels. But AJ has not been Champion for that long and should retain. AJ is at the top of his game and possibly the best to lead TNA into a new era. Then there’s Daniels. They’re bringing back the (#&^$!#&) Feast Or Fired Match, so why not make Daniels Champion so he can’t lose his job for the third year in a row? Also, Daniels is as justified to be Champion as much as the other two. More actually as he has not won the title yet and deserves to do so! But that still doesn’t answer who I think will win THIS match… Of course Joe will sit back as much as possible and smirk as AJ and Daniels beat the holy heck out of each other, but I doubt Joe will win. Honestly I think it will come down to AJ or Daniels and I do think the ‘attacker’ will be involved in some way. I think the attacker will somehow cost AJ the title and that the attacker is working with Daniels. Winner – Daniels

I really hope that Turning Point is better than it looks on paper, because if it isn’t, we’re in for a horrible PPV, long hours of ranting to each other about it on the live Blog.

TNA threw some matches at us that made no sense but not other matches that would make more sense. Like what happened to a possible match between Abyss and Dr. Stevie or Raven? I really thought something would happen between them there. They did so much setup for nothing to happen. So confusing.

I really wonder how TNA plans on pulling it all out on WWE when this is all they have. I was really hoping things would get better, but it doesn’t seem as though it’s happening at this point.

KB

Yes, I bought Hogan’s book. I figured if he’s getting involved with TNA and supposed to be turning the company around, and I write this, that I should read it. So I keep plugging through Hogan’s book. Everyday I read a little until the real world invades or something in the book so totally pisses me off I have to stop reading. The first thing that made me stop reading was when he got preachy about religion. This is about wrestling, so I won’t rant about that here, but expect it in my personal blog before long. Then this morning I had to stop reading because I got so mad it was either stop reading or hunt down Hogan and give him a piece of my mind! Much of the early part of his book – I’m not even half way through yet – talks about all the drugs, especially all the steroids he took to gain and maintain that look he had in the 1970’s and 1980’s. While I understand all too well that people, even doctors, did not realize how bad steroids were for the body, that gives him no right to make the comment that forced me to put his book down this morning. He flat out said that he thought ‘roid rage’ was an urban myth. Before that he commented on wrestlers who killed themselves and possibly their families. We all know he meant Benoit with that.

That he claims ‘roid rage’ is an ‘urban legend’ truly upsets me because so many people, including wrestlers have died due to steroids. Hogan claims those people had to have been on a whole slew of other drugs at the same time and that it couldn’t be steroids that caused it. I know for a personal fact that it’s not true and Hogan is very wrong on this matter. Steroids are steroids are steroids. There’s many different types, but they’re all hormone based drugs. If you have ever lived with a female for more than a month or been a teenager, then you know how powerful hormones can be. But add to that extra hormones of any type that are not closely monitored and your whole body, including your brain, can go out of whack. Every chemical you put into your body changes how it reacts to the world around you.

At the same time Hogan was taking steroids to build up his body, I was 8 years old and living in a hospital bed. The doctors were pumping me full of prednisone and solumedrol – steroids – to try to fix my body and keep me alive. Ultimately only surgery helped. Again when I was a teen and in my 20’s my doctors put me on prednisone and solumedrol to try to counter act the horrors going on inside of me. When I was a young child I would get so mad – not at all in my normal nature – that I would just hold myself and shake. In high school and college I would have to sometimes lock myself away so I wouldn’t physically attack someone for no obvious reason. I would lock myself in the bathroom without any sharp object so I couldn’t hurt myself or anyone else. Only when on these steroids (doctor prescribed for a serious medical condition) have I ever raged and had no problem wanting to kill someone else or myself. I was not the only one in the hospital ward as a child on these steroids and not the only one who would fly into rages for no reason.

If a peaceful child could go murderous on a nurse (another ill child, not myself) and chase her down the hall with a pair of scissors, just because she moved the child’s stuffed animal two inches so she could plug in an IV, then I have no doubt about ‘roid rages’. I have felt them myself more often than not to know they truly exist. My whole personality was different each time I was on steroids
And now that I am off I still feel side effects.

While I know every human being is different and reacts to different chemicals differently, for Hogan to claim ‘roid rages’ are ‘urban legends’ really make me wonder how observant this man is. How much has he put blinders on so he wouldn’t have to see the truth? I’ve seen the truth behind steroids and it is extremely ugly.

It makes it hard for me to take Hogan seriously as a businessman going into TNA right now because of these things I have read in his book. I have Bischoff’s book lined up to read after Hogan’s. I just hope he’s more tuned into the real world than Hogan is!

Show Starts

Video

All about the press conference that “shook the world” and is making us all wonder if Hogan is every really going to show up in Orlando.

Backstage Segment

Foley with Borash and Super Dave Osborne. Foley’s thrilled Super Dave is there and how he has a new show – Super Dave Spiketacular. Foley said Super Dave has to live within his parameters. Super Dave can only book one match, no title matches and if it’s Knockout they have to be dressed appropriately. Foley only got one skit on Dave’s show, so Dave only books one match. Foley whispered to Borash that Dave had more brain hemorages than Foley. Foley left his office and Dave started going through Foley’s desk. Then Lethal rushed in looking for Hogan. Someone answered his challenge and he needs to ask Foley… Lethal realized he wasn’t Foley and called him Marty Funkhouser – another character of Bob Einstein. Lethal couldn’t understand how this guy could be more than one person. Lethal wants to know where’s Hogan! Borash rushed him out. Borash asked if Dave followed Borash’s Tweets. Dave went off about talking to people and hating Twitter and not he doesn’t Facebook either.
3/10 – Super Dave looked so old and sounded like crap! He sounded like he gargled with razor blades for the past month. The man is not funny and I wasn’t impressed. If you don’t know who he is, look him up. I had to and I’m still not impressed – sorry to those who might like the guy, but I think he’s well past his prime and his gimmick is quite old.

Match #1

Foley out to announce. Taz asked about Foley being out of the loop with Hogan coming in. Foley blew it off. Dr. Stevie came out with Daffney in tow. What an outfit on that girl! Even without the corset she looked scary hot. Abyss out and pinned Stevie the moment Abyss was in, and then again. Stevie managed to kick out. Even when Abyss wasn’t in control, he was running the match. It was almost all the monster’s work. Great superkick from Stevie, but most of the work was done by Abyss. I know Abyss is huge compared to Stevie and the age difference, of course Abyss did most of it. Black hole slam, but then the lights went out. When they came up Abyss was down and Stevie threw an arm over him for three. Foley in to stop Stevie who got a chair from Daffney. Foley checked on Abyss then back after Stevie. Foley with the chair then the lights out again. I’d heard of a fireball to Foley’s face, but when it happened, it was the lamest fireball I have ever seen in pro wrestling. The lights came on and Raven attacked Foley.
4/10 – They should be ashamed of themselves! That was the worst fireball I have ever seen in the industry, and these are old ECW guys! What the hell was that? I was expecting so much from Raven and it sucked! The lights were out and it should have been beautiful. Instead it looked really pathetic! That fireball coming after that match was not a good way to start the show. I was hoping for so much when I read the spoilers. Now I am dreading what TNA is going to throw at us the rest of the night.

Backstage Segment

Borash with Raven hanging over his shoulder and Stevie seething into the mic. Stevie went off about Abyss not understanding about Stevie never leaving TNA. Raven went off about Foley getting between him and Abyss and Foley had to burn. Daffney made faces through the whole thing. Raven said they’re going to have a lot of fun playing in the sandbox. They both had abusive childhoods but Raven has intelligence.
7/10 – It was good and I’m thrilled Raven’s back. Maybe now Abyss will have some decent matches and the storyline will take a turn for the better as it has become very stale lately.

Video

About Sting and what has happened with him possibly retiring. Then a clip of Larry King talking to Hogan about TNA. Carter said she doesn’t’ know if Sting is coming back. Pictures of very young Sting. Next week Sting will talk – but will he retire?
6/10 – It would have been good had they not made it all about Hogan coming in. the fans want to know about Sting and what’s going on. We don’t need everything tinged with Hogan coming in to TNA and Carter’s face at every turn. Carter is feeling very Vince McMahon to me right now, but not in a good way.

Match #2

Flash out in a black turtleneck and blue wrestling boy shorts. Traci out to face her. Since she’s no longer covered in the Saeed outfit we don’t want her all covered up! Flash really worked over Traci’s right arm and screaming at her the whole time. A back arm bar on Traci who taps out quickly. After all of Flash’s posing, Traci attacked her with that bad arm. There was a lot of bleeping out of what Traci said. More bleeping than not!
4/10 – Yes, rated the same as the first match. It was not good. Flash is an amazing wrestler and she should not have to be in with Traci Brooks who cannot hold her own in the ring. Traci should not have been brought back to the ring, ever. Then to let Traci end up with the upper hand after the match? What were they smoking during creative for that segment?

Backstage

A pair of beat up wrestling boots walking along. Tenay and Taz wondered who took Lethal up on his Legends Challenge?

Match #3

Just over a half hour into the show and they’re going into their third match. I would be thrilled if they had been good, but… then Lethal out to the ring and he’s thrilled when Jim ‘The Anvil’ Neidhart came out. He was wearing his old pink ring gear, but looked very beer belly. The fans chanted “Anvil” for him. Beautiful high back body drop on Lethal that made my law drop, even though Lethal is tiny compared to Neidhart. “You still got it!” chants from the fans after one move. The fans booed Lethal for taking Neidhart down, but then a clothesline from Neidhart took Lethal down to the mat. Damn nice body slam from Anvil and he pinned Lethal for three.
7/10 – Other than his build, I have to say I’m bloody impressed. I missed much of the Hart Foundation as I was not watching much during that era. My boyfriend and I have to go back and find old matches now! Stacy’s (the boyfriend) comment was, “He must have been absolutely amazing in his day.” I know he was and am really bummed at what I missed.

Video

Lauren was supposed to have an interview with Lashley earlier. Taz and Tenay spoke about this going bad, then they went to the video. She asked about his problems with Steiner and how Kristal is in the middle of it. Kristal isn’t there because she’s too scared. Then someone came up during their interview and said something was wrong in production. In the truck they showed him a video of Steiner who said he wanted to be a friend, but it’s a man who’s always the last to know about his wife. Steiner’s at the hotel and forgot his wallet. But his good friend Lashley checked into room 305 and he’s going up there. Lashley flew out of there with a camera crew jumping into a truck and following Lashley.
5/10 – I will give TNA credit for reality. If this had been WWE they would have bounced around. That they showed the camera men jumping in the truck to trail showed a nicer touch of reality than we normally see in the industry. While I think it’s a lame and overdone storyline, I will give them props for trying to make it look more real than WWE ever has.

Backstage

TBP on their way to the ring. Tenay asked if they will be able handle partnering with Kong.

Backstage Segment

Super Dave was still sitting behind Foley’s desk and Borash was still pacing. Dave asked how Foley is. Borash said Foley’s on his way to the hospital. Dave wanted to go to the hospital. Borash said they need to run the show for Foley. Dave then said they’re not a team, that Dave is in charge. But then he told Borash that he knows the wrestlers so it’s up to Borash to put together the best match possible in honor of Foley. Right now. Borash said X Division is the way to go. Dave asked if they’re wild and daredevils. Borash said they are. Dave told him to go do it. Borash wanted to send out a Tweet, but Dave sent him running.
3/10 – That was lame! I hate to use that word so much on one night, but this show is begging for it. I know Spike wants to promote their other shows, but throwing Super Dave on TNA was NOT the way to do it!

Match #4

TBP out to the ring and then Kong came out to tag with them. ODB came out with Sarita and Wilde following her. Then Tara joined them and they all came from the stage together to form their very interesting team. Rayne and Tara started. Rayne got the first move, but then Tara was on her with a sick chinlock that impressed the heck out of me! Wilde tagged in and kept up the faces on top. Sarita tagged in and they double teamed with a move that almost worked well. Lacey tagged in and I wanted to leave for a beer. She really sucked! Commercial. During the break Rayne and Sky double teamed Sarita as there’s no way Lacey could do anything in the ring. ODB in and she hit the bronco buster on Velvet Sky and a fallaway on Rayne. Lacey in and Tara took her down with one slap. But then Kong came in and it was all over. Wilde really was in trouble. Implant buster and it was over. Lacey, on the apron looked all happy about their win while Tara and Kong stare off. TBP in the ring to celebrate. Lacey tried to approach Kong to hug her for their win but the other two grabbed her quickly.
5/10 – A couple of good moves, but it would have been so much better if there had been less wrestlers of a better grouping. The face team was fine, but the heel team sucked. Rayne and Velvet Sky have it, but they’re trying so hard to be pretty that their ring work is sucking. Lacey is a lost cause which leaves Kong. We all know how the Division looks and who should be in the ring facing whom, why can’t creative see it?

Backstage Segment

Borash brought all the guys from the X Division in to see Super Dave. Borash said Super Dave’s in charge and do what he says. Dave said he needs them to give it all in the ring. Kill themselves and donate this match for Foley. Bashir said something and Dave didn’t get it. Dave had hands in and is was sad. He threw them all out but kept West. Dave said homicide is stealing stuff, he stole a couple of pictures off the wall.
2/10 – That really sucked and made no sense. I have no clue why spike would even want to be associated with this guy who is so past his prime! I’m completely confused.

Video

Another one of those asking what Hogan will do for the wrestlers and TNA. Angle said Vince McMahon created a monster in WWE. Hogan and Carter together are going to be something great. Together they will create another monster. He’s worked with Hogan and he’s so intelligent from a wrestling perspective, and everyone knows who he is. Hogan partnering with Carter will be the most amazing thing since the late 90’s. Hogan is their change.
8.5/10 – When he’s not playing crazy, Angle is so good on mic. I know he said what they wanted him to say, but he was good and believable. I just wonder how much he believes of what he said.

Backstage

Angle, in his dapper suit, leaving his locker room and headed for the ring.

Video

Lashley running through the halls of the hotel. He ran into the hotel room and Kristal is there sitting there confused as to why he’s there. Steiner attacked from behind with his lead pipe and then with a lamp. Kristal screamed and freaked the entire time.
4/10 – That totally killed the reality I wrote about earlier. It looked so fake! Yes, a lot in wrestling looks not really believable, but that was one of the worst attack segments I have ever seen!

In Ring Segment

Angle came out. Video of Wolfe’s attacks on Angle. Angle said TP might be the most important match of his life. Morgan and AJ have taken him to the limit. These men have reached their full potential. But competition is what Angle strives for. These men put it all on the line for this business, he has respect for that. What he doesn’t have respect for is punks who come in off the street and try to break his neck. He laid in traction for three days last week. Wolfe knew his weakness and went after it. Two weeks later and Angle is right back where he belongs in his wrestling ring. Wolfe has earned nor proved nothing. At TP Angle will end Wolfe’s career. Wolfe was on the tron and said that’s why he’s not there tonight. He’s at a safe and secluded area – a bar. He knew Mr. Mangled, there was no way he was going to be there because he’d go crazy. Two weeks ago he nearly broke his neck and ruined his career. Angle went wild, but Wolfe kept talking, showing it was a tape. Angle tried to cut in and Wolfe kept going. Wolfe said he’s not in TNA to play, he’s there to take Angle’s place. Angle kept trying to get Wolfe’s attention, but to no avail. Then Angle got it. The camera panned out to show Wolfe behind Angle, but Angle knew. Angle turned and ducked Wolfe’s clothesline. Angle onto Wolfe. Punches, an upper cut and more punches. Wolfe rolled from the ring. The video was on a loop and continued while Angle beat the heck out of Wolfe outside the ring. Angle with a chair, but Wolfe moved and Angle hit the apron with the chair. Wolfe hit a DDT on Angle onto the floor. The fans yelled and screamed at Wolfe. Wolfe with the chair and hit Angle in the face with it. Wolfe over Angle and said that third time’s the charm, sunshine.
6/10 – That was actually better than much of the show we’ve already seen. Angle was poised, Wolfe was creepy and mean. It looked good and was a little different. I still don’t like Wolfe being billed as unstoppable. He’s too strong and at some point he will lose and it will all look really bad. It’s one thing to book someone as too strong and possibly unstoppable, they’ve gone too far with Wolfe and it doesn’t ring true to the fans who have seen him before.

Match #5

Super Dave down at announce. Tenay talked up Super Dave and his new show. Either the audio was really off, or his horribly destroyed voice wasn’t caught well on the mic because I couldn’t hear a word he said. MCMG and Amazing Red came out to the ring together as a team. Homicide, Bashir and kiyoshi out to the ring together to face them. Homicide put something on the desk wrapped in a flag. Homicide told them all not to touch it. Dave kept talking about how Homicide stole stuff. Taz said that wasn’t unusual. They all started fighting in the ring until it was just Shelley and Homicide in the ring. Super Dave asked if Bashir was a relative of the Iron Sheik. The heels really worked over Shelley in a big way. Homicide came over and grabbed the flag and unwrapped it to show it was Barbie. Security stopped Homicide from getting in the ring with her. Dave went off about Homicide stealing Barbie. In the ring Shelley fought back and was able to tag Amazing Red. Homicide was removed from ringside. Amazing Red showed why he is champ! MCMG double teamed Bashir when Shelley became legal. Shelley pinned Bashir for three and they celebrated in the ring with West outside clapping and looking like a proud papa!
8/10 – While short, that match was kick ass! Why can’t we have more matches like that? Not even Super Dave on announce could ruin that match! I have to say that the more I see Amazing Red the more I truly believe he is the best little guy in the industry today. He is amazing and deserves all the accolades I have heard about him and that anyone can say about him. I hope one day to see this man live in the ring, it could only be a thrill!

Backstage Segment

Lauren with Wolfe. She asked about him working over Angle. He said he’s going to be Angle. He’s followed Angle since the start. He’s not there to take Angle out, he’s there to replace him. He’s younger, better looking and more determined and healthier version. He got this close to ending Mr. Mangle’s career, but he left enough for Sunday. He’s ending Angle’s career and taking his place in wrestling history and everyone will bow to his hound.
7/10 – He is good on mic. I will fully admit that. The man is not only good in the ring, he’s also a solid talker. I just hope they don’t burn him out with this storyline and character direction before he can really become someone in TNA.

Video

Replay of parts of that speech of Carter’s from last week. She’s no McMahon.

In Ring Segment

Team 3D and Rhino out to the ring. Ray said life’s about a couple of things – change and choice. Carter said there will be a lot of changes in TNA. Everyone had to make a choice, on board or not. He and Devon are on board. Last week he made a choice to wrap a chair around Morgan’s and Hernandez’s head. After thinking about it he’s glad he made that choice. Rhino had been trying to tell them that the younger guys have tried to take out the veterans of the company. He told Rhino he’s sorry he didn’t believe him. Rhino was right, they were wrong. Rhino’s had their backs for 15 years. But they’ve tried to stab them in the back every chance they get. To the younger talent who will try to take them out… I think not. Ray said they’ll take the young guys down, out, hold them down and make sure what they’re trying to do won’t happen. Ray called out Morgan and Hernandez. The fans were not happy about Ray’s speech. Morgan and Hernandez came out to the stage. Morgan said that’s not the way things work around here any more. They don’t call THEM out. They walk their fat asses up and say it to them. Ray called them both the golden boys of TNA. Ray cut on Morgan’s time in TNA. Then he called Hernandez an uneducated Mexican with no green card. Hernandez said that everything they got in TNA, they took. Why they took it? Because they can! Ray ripped on Hernandez’s heritage again. Earlier in the week they issued a challenge for a Six Man Street Fight Match at TP. Have they found a partner or are they waiting for TNA to give them one? Morgan said they don’t need a partner, or help. They’re more than happy to do the job by themselves. Devon told Morgan to pray that somebody answers their call, because if TNA’s future is the two of them, then it will be no more. The Pope’s music and he comes out in one horrible suit! The Pope told them to look no further for the third man. Morgan, and Hernandez are the future and The Pope is pimpin’. He told Devon to testify to that as The Pope has spoken.
5/10 – Not very good, again. They should have been setting up for a great match at TP, but I felt it fell flat. maybe Carter’s speech caused more problems than it was worth because many of these guys just seem really off during this show. The last show was taped before the speech, this one after and it seems like few of them were able to hold it together after.

Backstage Segment

Lauren with TBI and EY. She said TNA has lifted their suspension, but if they get pinned or lose in any way tonight against BMI, then BMI will be added to the title match. Magnus went off about not having to wrestle until Sunday and this is discrimination. Williams said they’re a proud team and will do as is required of them tonight even if it’s not fair or just. They will ensure BMI will never darken a TNA wrestling ring again with their slovenly antics. Then EY handed Rob Terry his belt so he could talk to Lauren. He said this is exactly why they are the way they are. What type of company gives out a suspension and doesn’t stand by it? A company without authority in a country without authority. That way W/E is taking over. After the dust settles, BMI will be done. And Hogan, W/E has no problem with Hogan. In fact he was a huge fan of Hogan’s, when he was three. Nothing was handed to them, they earned it all.
7.5/10 – That was really good. They not only need to put Williams in more singles matches, but they need to let him talk more. Williams is damn goon on mic. He throws it all out there and it sounds great. Magnus could say the same words and he sounds like an idiot. It’s all in delivery and Williams has it. Of course EY sounded as impressive as ever. It is funny that EY was probably a Hogan fan when he was three. EY was born in 1979 which means he grew up on Hogan’s vitamins and prayers schpeal. I’m just glad they didn’t give the mic to Terry, that could only be bad.

Backstage

Storm wandering along with a beer in hand. Roode came up and they headed for the ring.

Backstage Segment

Borash with AJ Styles. Borash said emotions are running rampant. Going into the match everyone thought Joe was the underdog, but now he and Daniels are at odds. AJ said he was sorry as Daniels has not been jumping him. But he’s not apologizing for being Champion. He hates that Joe got into their heads. AJ has been jumped three weeks in a row. He didn’t give the match to Daniels because he was injured. They’ve been friends for so long and for Daniels to be drinking the Kool aid… Maybe it’s not that at all. Maybe it’s not that. Maybe Daniels wants what AJ worked so hard for. Sunday is his chance. And Joe stirs the pot and plays his games. But Joe’s games won’t work because they both know AJ is the best as what he does.
7/10 – Not his best, not his worst. I think it could have been his best if not for Carter’s speech. Yes, I really think it threw a lot of them off and ruined this show for what it could have been.

Match #6

TBI out to the ring and BMI out to face them. Roode started the match and was really on! Terry put with a chair, but Magnus made him leave so they wouldn’t lose via DQ. Terry threw down the chair and stomped off. TBI gained control of the match through double teaming, but Roode fought them off. Finally Storm came in. All four in and they worked well. Double teaming, but somehow Magnus kicked out. Roode sent a chair in and Magnus wanted to use it but Williams stopped him. Double team on Magnus and the three. Lauren was ringside to interview BMI. Roode said they will prove on Sunday that they’re the best tag team in TNA, of all time.
7.5/10 – Another decent match! BMI are so well loved and can go in the ring with about anyone. Williams is great and Magnus is actually getting better. I really enjoyed that match! I don’t mean to seem shocked, but the show so far has been less than stellar. I do have to ask – Has Storm gained a little weight lately? He just looks pudgier around the middle than I remember in the past. I know he’s never really been svelte, but he looks rather soft in the gut right now.

Backstage Segment

Borash with Morgan, Hernandez and The Pope in a locker room. Hernandez and Morgan argued about who’s “boy” The Pope was, neither wanted to lay claim to him. Hernandez said they’re not trusting anyone who wears sunglasses all the time, could be ashamed of something. The Pope wears them because his future in TNA is very bright. Morgan said he’s been around the block, not the block The Pope’s from, but a block, why should they trust a street pimp? The Pope says they have a code of honor and a code of respect so when The Pope give his word it’s golden. When they want to hold them back, that includes The Pope. So he’s going to team with the giant and the boy from cell block 6. They should hop aboard The Pope mobile because at TP they’ll all be pimpin’.
7/10 – I have to admit that The Pope was really good on mic there. I was impressed. Everyone knows I haven’t been a huge fan, but I’m getting more and more impressed. The one thing about that segment that really didn’t impress me was the racism! I know Hernandez is Mexican and would be offended by racial slurs, so why did he not have trouble calling The Pope “boy”? I thought that was really bad that they referred to the one guy who was quite dark as “boy”. TNA better be careful or they’re going to have the NAACP breathing down their necks!

Backstage Segment

Lauren with Daniels. She said this match is what everyone’s been waiting for, but it might be more than a wrestling match. Daniels asks what she means? Is it her way of saying his best friend AJ thought he was attacking him week after week? Or how last week AJ wanted to wrestle Daniels after Joe dropped him on his neck and he wasn’t 100%? Never mind, through it all they’re still friends. They’ll always be friends. This is a business and when the bell rings there are no friends. They both started together at the bottom. If TNA had supported Daniels the way they supported AJ, he could be Champion right now because he’s every bit the wrestler AJ is and AJ knows it. Is that why AJ wanted to wrestle him after he was hurt? Is that why the main event at TP is a three way and not one on one?
8.5/10 – Damn good. That was wonderful and the first thing tonight that makes me really want to watch TP. Nothing else has so far! Daniels impressed me there and it’s about time someone makes me watch to watch this PPV!

Main Event

Joe out. Video of Joe choking out AJ after AJ’s match with Daniels last week. AJ out to the ring. Joe played cat and mouse with AJ to get in his head. AJ hit a great dropkick, but then Joe gained control of the match. Joe locked on an STF which we see so little of since Cena took it as one of his signature moves. (Cole’s at home screaming vintage Cena! – Sorry, I couldn’t help myself.) AJ fought back and seemed to really be in control until Daniels was on the apron and knocked AJ from the corner he’d climbed. They got into a screaming match, Joe watched with a smile on his face, nodding. AJ punched Daniels and he fell to the floor. That gave Joe the chance to stalk AJ and lock on the rear naked choke. AJ ‘blacked out’ and the ref called for the bell. Daniels looked on smirking slightly, then seething as he watched Joe.
8/10 – These two know each other so well that anytime they’re in the ring together it’s fabulous! Of course it could have been longer and they could have given us so much more, but they held off for the PPV. It was the perfect way to end the show, leaving the fans wanting more from these three.

Post Show

Wow, most of that show was very bad! I expected so much from this show as the last before Turning Point. There’s so much they could have done. Instead I was left barely caring about the PPV that’s scheduled for this coming Sunday.

There’s very few matches on the card that jump into my head as I think about it now. After this Impact I should be thinking about this match and that match, but the only thing I really care about is the main event. I am itching to see this Triple threat Match. The previous PPV match between these three are still being spoken about as amazing and I expect nothing less from these three men on Sunday. Honestly, I expect they will top their last PPV Triple Threat. They know each other so well, are such good friends and that usually makes for the best feuds and matches.

Two other matches from tonight’s show are still running through my head. The tag match between TBI and BMI was decent and adding BMI to the Tag Title Match should make it very enjoyable. The fans are so behind BMI that I’m in awe. The other match that I cannot stop thinking about from this Impact is – of course you know I’m going there – the X Division match. Amazing Red is just fabulous! I really hope they leave the title belt on this young man because he could bring back the X Division the way it needs to be shown off on TNA. TNA is known for the way they (used to) use these smaller wrestlers and I think Amazing Red could usher in another era for the X Division. Being backed by Don West, Amazing Red could be huger than huge!

So while this wasn’t the best Impact we’ve ever seen, there were some high points worth remembering. Interesting that the points worth remembering are all the younger wrestlers who are trying to prove their way through all these legends. Maybe TNA should take not of who their stars really are.

KB

I did read, and who knows if it’s true, that two of the Knockouts might be on shaky ground with TNA. It didn’t shock me to read that Sojo Bolt might not be in the best standing in TNA. She’s barely been used since Dutch Mantel was released. Her contract is coming due in a month and it’s doubtful it will be renewed. Many expect her to be released without any contract negotiations.

Of course the other Knockout that is not on the best standing in TNA is Lacey von Erich. She’s been showing no locker room etiquette and much disrespect toward those with much more seniority in the industry and company. To top it off she’s horrible in the ring. She’s also the only one who stays in her wrestling gear all day at TV tapings. She refers to it as her ‘costume’. TNA is not the 7th grade, but sure has seemed to act like it since she was first signed. I haven’t been impressed since day one and am becoming less impressed by the day.

The other interesting little bit of information I came across was a short bit put out my Kevin Nash. He commented that he’s not on a paid vacation and had a long talk with Dixie Carter over both of their feelings to do with what he was afraid was a serious neck injury to Sabin. He understands where Carter is coming from, but it did cost him some money. While I agree with everything Nash did and said – from what I read – I also agree that Carter had to do something about it. If she hadn’t suspended Nash without pay, it would have set a bad precedent for the wrestlers and if she really wants TNA to grow, she has to be tough. Nash showed a side of himself, when he spoke up, that I truly respect. But Carter showed a truly respectful side by suspending him for it. I think they both did the right thing for who they are and what they needed to do.

Lastly, Dixie Carter has been Tweeting like crazy this week! I added her to my list since the whole Hogan thing came about. She’s been Tweeting a lot about TNA and the possible changes. At one point she told Shannon Moore to call of his tweeting fans. I guess they’d been inundating her with ‘hire Moore’ Tweets. The most recent one this afternoon was – “Met with talent before show. Preparing the troops for battle. 1st talent mtg w/cameras allowed. Look for footage at start of show tonight.”

Why she felt she needed to Tweet about this? I have no clue. Showing Carter rallying the troops is one thing, Vince used to show it on WWE every once in a while when something big was going on. But that Carter felt it was such a big deal that she has to Tweet about it really makes me wonder where her thoughts are. I know she wants big changes in TNA, but sending out Tweets like that makes TNA seem like smaller potatoes than ever before!

Show Starts

Video

All about Hogan joining TNA – press release and some of his interviews from his book tour.

Video

Dixie Carter starts that pre-show pep talk to the wrestlers that she Tweeted about. She talks about change and how no one like big change and how everyone will be effected differently. While they might not like it, they have to support her. When you question her, you question the company and she can’t have that. She put all of everything she has into TNA and needs them to support her the way she supports them. Either stand behind her or find someplace else to work. No great success comes without risk. Now’s there time. This is a test and she needs them all to step it up and work together. You need to believe it. If you don’t believe it you’re hurting the person next to you, her and the fans. If you believe it, let’s do it together and show everyone what they’re all about.
–/10 – Some people don’t like being told to conform and don’t question authority. Carter claims it was a real meeting, but it felt too set up for the fans. It felt cheap, weak and worrisome. If it had come from Hogan or Bischoff I might have been more willing to believe it, but that didn’t feel right. Too much like a politician, too much like a fake version of someone trying to be a McMahon and falling very short.

In Ring Segment

AJ out to the ring. Taz talks about the locker room being motivated by Carter, and who wouldn’t be. AJ said there’s been a lot of changes in TNA, but he’s AJ Styles and TNA WHC! There’s always been changes in his life and TNA – all positive. Who would have thought Hogan would be part of the TNA family. Mixed reaction to that!!! They’re on a new playing field, a whole new level. He’s been dreaming of this level for the past 7 years. But where there’s positive, there’s negatives. When he won the WHC, he made it clear he’s a fighting Champion. The only problem is someone’s been lurking and jumping him when his back is turned. He’s giving them the opportunity to come out and man up! He doesn’t’ care if you’re foe or friend, look him in the eye, take your best shot and try to take what’s his. Out comes Daniels! Daniels said it’s interesting AJ would say foe or friend and wanted an explanation. AJ said he doesn’t owe one. Daniels said he does after all this time. He actually expect it’s Daniels after Joe told him. Is AJ that gullible? Or, with all due respect, that stupid? AJ said it’s enough! Daniels said it isn’t! He called AJ arrogant. After all this time AJ’s been the face and future of TNA. Along the way he’s been pampered, coddled and a little spoiled. AJ always got special treatment, always. They came into TNA together and Daniels never got anything handed to him. And he’s every bit the wrestler AJ is. The fans know it and AJ knows. The only difference between them is AJ was always helped up, but Daniels was always pushed down. Carter comes to them and says there will be a change. Maybe it’s his lucky day. But if one person out back doesn’t like him, it will be another 7 years in hell for him. AJ asks if that’s how it is? Daniels has never opened up like that in their friendship! Is there anything he can’t say to AJ? Joe comes out to the ramp and says there’s a lot Daniels can’t say because he’s working AJ. Joe called Daniels a bald faced liar. Daniels has lied to him their whole friendship. Daniels has always been jealous and always will be. The only reason they’re not friends is because AJ has something he wants. Joe has not problem telling AJ that face to face, man to man. He doesn’t need to attack AJ from behind like a punk. Daniels said he can beat AJ face to face, no doubt about it. AJ asked if Daniels thinks he’s the best. How bad doesn’t he want to find out? If he wants a piece of AJ, all he had to do is ask. Why don’t they settle this tonight? Put it in the ring where there’s a winner and loser. They shook on it and Joe laughed on the ramp.
8/10 – This set up for the PPV is getting more and more interesting. To top it off we get AJ and Daniels in the ring tonight. As long as TNA lets them show off how great they are, I’ll be thrilled.

Match #1

W/E, EY and Rob Terry out to the ring. They’re now calling him simply ‘Big Rob’. He is muscled, but not really very tall. EY all smiles with his strap that he stole from Nash. BMI out to face them. The fans were wild for them. Terry started by throwing Storm around and looked strong, but not creative. And that faux mullet! Roode hit a back body drop on EY that looked a little off and EY landed a little strangely. Storm and Roode worked so wonderfully together that there’s no wonder they’re one of the best teams in the industry today. But then Terry raised Roode high and dropped him in a funny way – looked bad. EY brought the belt in and tried to hit Roode who ducked, so Terry ate the belt. Roode pinned Terry for three. After the match BMI went after EY, but the rest of W/E came out. After security broke it all up in the ring, Williams and Magnus were on the stage and the “USA” chants broke out. Suddenly MCMG tackled them from the side and security had to rush up there and break that up!
6/10 – While BMI worked beautifully in that match, Rob Terry was in the ring! Of the three in TBI, only Williams has any real skill. You can only push a guy so far on his looks. Terry just doesn’t have it! Then add in the over booked ending and the ref not doing much to make it a TAG match, I wasn’t thrilled. Three of these guys are some of the best in TNA, but they were forced to do that schlock!

Backstage Segment

TBP said they don’t have time to interview AJ because they’re making another movie – ‘The Meanest Girls, Part 2’.
2/10 – I’m sure we’re all thrilled!

Backstage Segment

TBP rush into a locker room expecting Sarita but find ODB putting on deodorant. They say it looks like a monster movie. ODB calls them the STD sisters. ODB says she’s making a movie and looking for some slut doubles. Lacey gets all excited about this until Rayne slaps her arm. ODB really talks up Lacey, then kicks her and the fight started. They pinned down ODB and then got her into a garment bag.
2/10 – Just not thrilled by them. Lacey looked like a total idiot there. I know she was supposed to look dumb, but she can’t act and just looked lame. It’s true I have no use for her and the more I see, the less I want to see. Velvet Sky has more talent in her little finger than Lacey von Erich has in her entire body. Seeing how bad Lacey is shows me just how good Velvet Sky and Madison Rayne really are.

Backstage Segment

Lauren with Jay Lethal. She’s gushing about Hogan coming to TNA, but no one’s as thrilled as Lethal. He said nobody has a bigger history with Hogan than him. They’ve fought side by side for years. Bygones being bygones and will be the first to welcome Hogan to TNA. He has an announcement. Next week is the start of the Black Machismo Invitational. He’s challenging everyone with legendary status who wants to bring it, to see if they’ve still got it. He called out Koko B. Ware, Jake The Snake, Nikita Koloff, Bundy, Warrior, Flair! They can all come because next week starts the Freak Out Black Machismo Invitational.
7/10 – (SPOILER – In this segment!!!) This should be interesting! I know Koko B Ware has put in a little time recently working for our local NWA here in Maine – anything is better than that, even just one night in TNA! But I haven’t heard anything about any of them showing up yet. I’m sure everyone’s read that Jim ‘The Anvil’ Neidhard will be on next weeks show, and this explains why. I’m sure with Hogan and Bischoff, TNA will be able to draw a lot of the older names for one offs like this. I’d be surprised if we didn’t see Nasty Knobbs and Brutus Beefcake showing up during this Invitational because of their close friendships with Hogan.

Backstage Segment

Borash walked into Foley’s office trying to find out what’s going on with Abyss. Foley said he mentioned it last week when he said it was between him and Abyss. But you’d think with being a shareholder he’d be informed about all the changes going on. Borash asked what changes? Foley asked if Borash is a Hulkamaniac. Borash said Foley’s his favorite wrestler. Foley said Borash was busted. He says Foley, but his eyes say Hulkamania. When they were interrogating people about what happened, Borash was rather upset, shocked when he found out Foley had a camera in his office. Is there some reason behind that? Is there something he wants to tell Foley? Some footage he doesn’t’ want people to know about? Borash said no, he just came in to talk to him about Abyss. Foley said he had something for Abyss and left calling Borash a Hulkamaniac.
7/10 – I have to say TNA fans are very perceptive people. Many people said that something would later come of how Borash was acting when he found out about the camera in Foley’s office. Here it comes. That was short and worked very well. I’m impressed. I wasn’t sure how Foley’s character would be changing with Hogan coming in, but it looks like nothing’s changed yet.

Backstage

Desmond Wolfe getting ready for a match.

Match #2

Wolfe out to the ring. Video of Wolfe and Angle in the ring on last week’s Impact. Bloody hell! Cody Deaner was in the ring waiting for him! Do I smell squash match? Angle was on the phone with announce. Yes, one clothesline and it was over. Angle barely said hello and Wolfe pinned Deaner. Angle talked about his larynx being damaged and a pinched nerve in his neck running down his left arm. Wolfe got his attention, but not his respect. Wolfe grabbed his jacket and put it back on. His sunglasses and a mic as the camera flashed on people working on Deaner in the ring. Backing up the ramp Wolfe told them to cut his music. He said he wants everyone to take a look at the muppet in the ring. Another victim at the fangs of the Wolfe. What he doesn’t understand why all these common wankers want to get in the ring with him. They’re all the same. It’s so easy for them to get in the ring, but getting out of the ring? Not so much. He then addressed Angle. Or, after what he did to Angle last week he should call him Mr. Mangled. Angle told him to keep talking. What Wolfe doesn’t understand why Angle wants to face him at Turning Point and suffer more pain and agony. “You suck” chants. If that’s what Angle wants, he’s happy to give it to him. He can smell the blood already. He’s hungry like a Wolfe. (The Duran Duran song he was referring to with that comment actually came out when he was four years old. I don’t see him remembering it. I know the song is still around, but I wish the comment was a little more age appropriate.) Angle said Wolfe said his peace, nice sunglasses.
6/10 – I’m not a fan of characters who can destroy anyone. I know Deaner is useless in the ring, but Wolfe is being too strong. I loved what I saw of Nigel in ROH, but I haven’t been getting enough of that from him yet. Yes, he’s good on mic and a great heel, but too strong coming in and no matter what, when he loses he will forever look weak. Not a balanced character in any way and I don’t like it.

Backstage Segment

Lauren said to Suicide that Homicide attacked and unmasked him a few weeks ago. That Homicide knew it was him all along. Lauren asked if it’s time to reveal himself. Suicide said if he wanted his identity known, he’d have never worn the mask. There’s a reason he wears a mask, but it’s not time for that. “Homicide, the Dark Savior will strike down upon you!”
7/10 – That was pretty good. After the rumors of Kaz asking for his release, but then being soothed by AJ and Daniels, I wasn’t sure what they’d do with the character. I hope they finish this off soon and creatively. I’m so sick of Kaz being stuck in that horrible suit with that horrible character!

Backstage Segment

Lauren with Team 3D. She said they’re scheduled to face Morgan and Hernandez, but the past few weeks they’ve heard a lot from Rhino about them. Ray said before they talk about Rhino, Morgan and Super Mex, he wanted to talk about what the world’s talking about – Hogan. Hogan in TNA, he never thought he’d say those words. No matter what people say, Carter has the biggest set of grapefruits in pro wrestling. Now, about Rhino. He was about to say he’s paranoid and delusional and here he is! Rhino came in the other side of the shot. Rhino said he was just walking by. Rhino said he knows he’s right. He asks how their match with MCMG went last week? They still found a way for 3D to lose. Yes, bad calls happen. Was it a mistake, or a mistake? Tonight they face Morgan and Hernandez, the two who have been trying to take him out for weeks. Is that a coincidence? Rhino walked off to Ray yelling that Rhino’s crazy. Devon said Morgan and Hernandez are phenomenal young talent and they respect them. They’re looking forward to their match. Ray said a very famous man said you’ve got to beat the man. Well, to be the team… 3D is the team. Devon finished with his favorite call phrase!
6/10 – Rhino was calm again and that was unnerving. But I’m still sitting back and waiting to see what they’re going to do with this. It’s a good build up, but I need more than talking right now. I need something interesting to happen with this storyline for it to move forward. Too much talking, not enough action!

Match #3

Joe out in a zebra shirt and purple gloves. Daniels out for his match. AJ out to face him. Backstage Borash stopped AJ for a word before the match. Of course the person in black attacked AJ from behind and really worked him over. The person looked right into the camera, but he was in black pants, black hoodie and black face mask so nothing could be seen. People start working on the downed AJ. In the ring Daniels starts to climb out to head to his friend’s side, but Joe stopped him and attacked him. Muscle buster on Daniels and he’s in a lump in the ring. Joe yelled down at Daniels before leaving the ring.
6/10 – While I’m totally pissed off that we didn’t get the guaranteed amazing match between AJ and Daniels, this sure set up more interest for TP! It’s hard because I want to be mad, but it makes me itch for the PPV even more now! Now I’m really wanting to know who’s attacking AJ. I really thought it was Joe, now I’m thinking it’s someone connected to Joe. But who knows! There’s so many possibilities for this!

Backstage

Tara, with Poison, on her way to the ring.

Match #4

Tara out to the ring. Video of Kong rampage through the ring last week and then the continuing fight between Kong and Tara. Hamada out to face her. Started with chain wrestling between the women until they stopped and stared each other down for a moment. A couple of sick chops and a head butt to Tara, but Tara fought back with moves and then her famous standing moonsault. Tenay said he got a note and Taz complained he never gets notes. Tenay said TNA would be making a major announcement next week about the suspension of TBI. Hamada had Tara’s hand and climbed. Taz said this reminded him of someone in the old company used to do something like this… obviously meaning Taker’s ‘old school’. But Hamada flipped off and hit an arm drag type move. An enziguri type move into a really interesting roll up for two on Tara. Hamada climbed for a moonsault, but Tara got her knees up. Tara struggled to get Hamada up for the widows peak, but Hamada (billed at 143lbs) isn’t 110lbs like a lot of the women Tara’s used to being in the ring with. Tara hit her finisher and pinned for three. But then, of course, Kong’s music and she came out. Security tried to stop her, but Tara flew out onto Kong and brought the fight to her. Finally, after a little bit, they were split apart.
6/10 – I know they wanted to set up even more for Tara’s match with Kong at TP, but the over booked endings are getting really bad in this episode. The match itself was decent. It was obvious that Hamada was holding back against Tara because we know how great she can be in the ring. (All you have to do is look up some of Hamada’s matches in Japan against Kong!) or look back to Hamada in the ring a few weeks ago against Flash. So the over booked ending and the holding back of Hamada led to a less than stellar match. I know they wanted Tara to look strong going in against Kong at a PPV, but Hamada would be a better choice for this match of TNA really wants to turn heads in the industry.

Backstage Segment

Lauren stopped Tara and talked about how she took it to Kong. Tara said she didn’t come here for this! In Six Sides Of Steel, Tara’s not getting locked up with Kong, Kong’s being locked up with Tara.
5/10 – While short, that wasn’t great. Tara isn’t scary compared to Kong, no matter how they’ve been booking things. I don’t know anyone who believes Tara can take it to Kong in any reality.

In Ring Segment

Foley out to the ring. He states the obvious that he has something in hand for Abyss. It’s a gift for someone special. He introduces Abyss. Abyss out in all his layers, including the blue flannel Foley gave him. But Abyss still doesn’t live up to the horror of what Foley has on his body and might actually be considering style. Foley said he knows Abyss doesn’t trust him and for good reason. Last time he brought out a framed photo it was cracked over Abyss’ skull. So Foley put it down to keep it safe. They went through a lot. Foley’s been through a lot in his career, and so has Abyss. The only time he’s felt bad saying something about someone’s career, it’s when he called Abyss a cheap carbon copy. When Foley’s Tweak and Tweet picture was broken he was hot. When he found out it was Chris who did it, he was angry. Then he realized he had an opportunity. For the past 6-7 years he’s been asked what he thinks about The Monster Abyss? Does he remind him of himself. Yes, he did. He watched as Chris tore the roof down, not only on TV, but in arenas around the world. He knew Abyss was tough and good, but there was only one real way to find out how good someone else really is. It’s not by standing back and watching. A war correspondent doesn’t send his copy from the hotel room, they get out on the front lines to see how hot the action is. He’s saying Chris is as tough as Foley thought he was, but he’s not quite as good as Foley thought he was. No, because he’s even better! Even better, even tougher. All you have to show, aside from the money saved, is your legacy in this business. Foley didn’t make it to where he was on his own. He decided 23 years ago he wanted to be a cross between Bruiser Brody and the Dynamite Kid. Maybe he wasn’t as good as either on their own, but putting them together he thinks he created something special. And he nibbled off other wrestler’s plates. He took a bite off from Harley Race’s plate. When he came to Terry Funk’s plate, he didn’t just take a nibble, he devoured it like it was a smorgasbord! Abyss was smiling and nodding. Foley said Chris has only scratched the surface of what Abyss is capable of. Years from now when people ask Foley if that reminds him of himself? If it’s a carbon copy of himself? He’ll take that as an honor! Abyss’ head was down and Foley told him to hold his head up. Foley acted like he was going to hit Abyss with the picture, teased him with it, then pulled back. Foley backed off and left him with this little reminder of what they did at BFG. It was a Borash drawing of Foley and Abyss together. Foley left the ring and then stopped on the ramp and said he’ll admit he put Abyss through a hell of a test at BFG, but he thinks he has one more test in him. Next week, on Impact, it will be Abyss and Dr. Stevie. If Abyss pins Dr. Stevie, then Stevie’s gone from TNA. This brought Abyss to tears as he thought about it and looked at the picture.
7.5/10 – While I thought it was too much talking, too long, it was nice to see the passing of the torch. Too many wrestlers never get the chance to face the man they pattern their careers after and Chris Parks was a lucky man in that regard. The real thing that rubbed be wrong was that anyone who knows Borash’s artwork would recognize the picture Foley gave Abyss as just that! So the whole backstage segment with Foley and Abyss feels really lame now considering Borash drew it for them, the segment, in the first place!

Backstage Segment

Borash with Steiner. Borash asked about Lashley and Kristal, but first what about Hogan coming in? Steiner said people know they have a long history, they were in the nWo together, for life. Hogan’s going to come in and put the young punks in place and then Steiner might ask Hogan to join MEM with him. As far as Lashley goes, he heard Lashley’s having his wife ringside. Why? She’s not getting satisfaction and lusting after Steiner’s body. She wants to be his #1 freak! When it happens in the MEM locker room or a fancy hotel, you can’t stop the lust of a woman.
7/10 – That was interesting and probably very prophetic. I highly doubt Hogan will make the same mistakes he and Bischoff made in WCW, therefore I see Hogan and Steiner at odds very quickly with them both in TNA. Should be fun!

Video

Morgan talking about what Hogan coming to TNA means to him. He said you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to see what it means for the company, but for him personally, it’s even bigger! He was a Hulkamaniac as a child. Then on American Gladiators Hogan helped him a long way. Gave him the ins and outs of being a good pro wrestler and he’s looking forward to having that opportunity with him 24/7 in TNA.
9/10 – I’m always so blown away thinking about Morgan’s ADHD when he comes out with something so eloquent. I know his problems as a child shaped who his is today and I hope more children dealing with the same issues can see where Morgan is today are realize how much there is in the world for everyone.

Match #5

Homicide to the ring. Video of Homicide when he face Amazing Red two weeks ago and was able to pin Amazing Red for three. Lashley out to the ring with Kristal in tow, but wearing a fugly dress! Video of the problems between Kristal and Steiner. But Hebner kicked Kristal out from ringside. That distracted Lashley and gave Homicide a chance to get an upper hand to start the match. Homicide looked sick starting this! But then Lashley kicked out so hard that Homicide flew. Tenay said he just got word that the AJ and Daniels match is still on for tonight! Somehow Lashley grabbed Homicide, slammed him down and pinned for three. The landing didn’t look right for Homicide either. After it was over Homicide attacked Lashley from behind. Homicide took off a boot to use on Homicide, but Lashley grabbed him and held him high in the air. Homicide was still in the air when Steiner and Kristal came up on the tron. Steiner demanded to know what Bobby was going to do when he discovered Kristal’s in love with Steiner, but Steiner had her pinned and really scared. Steiner picked up Kristal and started carrying her out of the building. Lashley found them, grabbed Kristal away and beat the holy hell out of Steiner, hitting him with a big metal something and then on top of him with punches while Kristal hid behind a pillar. Lashley kept on Steiner until he was pulled off by Lethal, Shelley, someone in a hoodie and someone else from backstage. Kristal screamed the whole time.
5/10 – The best part of all that was Homicide in the ring. He looked amazing! I’d love to give him a better rating, but that Lashley was booked to be so dominant and then all the extra crap juts killed it for me.

In Ring Segment

Homicide is still in the ring screaming at Hebner. Finally Homicide pushed Hebner down on the mat. Amazing Red ran out to go after him. Amazing Red really worked over Homicide until Homicide fled the ring!
8/10 – That was the best segment of the night so far. Some of the best wrestling from one of the best in the company. If it had only been an actual match with some length, I’d have been on the floor drooling. The thing I didn’t like was Earl being pushed down. I have always been of the feeling that if you’re not a wrestler, you shouldn’t have to take a bump. This came from all the times I’ve seen wrestlers beat up on refs and announcers. It mostly irks me when the older guys who aren’t wrestlers get pushed around – Hebner and JR.

Announce Segment

Tenay and Taz went through the matches slated for Turning Point.

Match #6

Madison Rayne came out all by herself, without Velvet Sky and Lacey – very strange. Taylor Wilde came out by herself to face her. Sick arm drag from Wilde, the speed! Rayne taunted Wilde who drooped her hard. A roll up and bridge from Wilde that was also impressive. Of course Velvet Sky and Lacey came out and attacked Wilde. A pink baton was held across Wilde’s throat by Lacey while the others attacked. Sarita out, but her domination didn’t last either and she was in trouble. But then ODB came out and made the save.
6/10 – These six will face off at TP, but we really didn’t need that over booked ending after all the others we’ve had to suffer through. We know there’s a PPV coming up and they’re setting up for it, but this is getting really ridiculous! Before that Wilde impressed the heck out of me. It was short, but she threw a couple of great moves and looked really strong. Now that she’s gained some confidence, she’s looking pretty good in the ring.

Backstage

AJ laces up his boots for his match.

Screaming Segment

Don West went through where TNA will be appearing live over the next weeks.

Backstage Segment

Morgan had his arm around Lauren as she talked to him and Hernandez. She said she’s sure they’ve heard Rhino’s rumblings. Hernandez said they all work for TNA. If they’re put in a match against anyone, they go out there to win. It’s what they do. Morgan said, exactly. The only conspiracy theory around there is Rhino conspiring to make himself look like an even bigger ass than he already does. They have much respect for Team 3D, but tonight they’re going to knock them off their perch. They might have been the best tag team in history. They key word is history. 3D has their work cut out for them tonight. Hernandez said something in Spanish and Morgan agreed with him.
7.5/10 – I’m thrilled with this team! These two could be scary together. Heck, they could be unstoppable if TNA booked them right. Oy, did I just say that? Anyone able to translate what Hernandez said for me? My Spanish is extremely rusty.

Match #3 – Again!

Daniels in the ring, Joe outside the ring in his zebra shirt and purple glove. AJ actually made it out to face him this time! Video of the earlier attack on AJ backstage. Joe really seemed to be working well as ref early on. Of course AJ and Daniels worked beautifully in the ring – first AJ in control, then Daniels. Daniels pinned and Joe seemed to be calling it honestly! Dueling chants for both men. Joe pulled Daniels off AJ after AJ got to the ropes. Daniels started to go after Joe but stopped because he didn’t want to lose his spot in the PPV match. AJ reversed a move and both were down – Joe counted to 8 before both were up. AJ hit his finisher and pinned Daniels for three. Joe handed AJ back his belt and raised his arm. AJ watched him closely, but Joe did it and left the ring after being an honest ref. But then, AJ turned his back to check on Daniels and Joe came back in to lock his rear naked choke on AJ. Daniels lolled on the mat as if he couldn’t respond. Joe finally let go and posed over both men holding AJ’s strap.
9/10 – That was absolutely amazing! Only reason it lost points is the over booked ending. If this had been the only over booked ending I wouldn’t have batted an eye. But after every match being over booked, this really annoyed me.

Video

Hernandez answering how he feels about Hogan coming in and what it means for him. The exposure will be great. If it’s good for TNA, it’s good for him.

Backstage Segment

Lauren with Stevie and Daffney. She said they can’t be happy with the match Foley made for next week, especially since Foley was playing Stevie the entire time. Stevie said nobody plays him! Abyss won’t beat him next week. Stevie has to take Abyss out once and for all, fine for him. He told Abyss to back out of this, because he won’t like what Stevie has in store for him next week.
7/10 – They’re both so good at crazy! And then there’s Daffney’s corset – damn! I really wonder – have not read the spoilers – what’s going to happen next week between Abyss and Stevie. Should be interesting!

Match #7

Team 3D came out to the ring. Super Mex and Morgan out to face them. Dueling chants for Morgan and Devon who started the match. Devon shoulder blocked Morgan to the mat. Morgan hit his favorite back elbows in the corner on Devon. Hernandez hit his amazing slingshot shoulder block over the top. Ray superplexed Hernandez from up top. The match was going well, but then Rhino out harassing Ray on the apron. Rhino grabbed a chair and screamed that they’re trying to take out Devon’s injured knee. Ray off the apron, pushed Rhino to the floor and threatened him with the chair. The chair is left on the apron as Ray gets back in place. The whole time Morgan worked over Devon’s knee. Finally Ray in and plowed Morgan and then Hernandez with the chair. Ray went to check on Devon, but looked very confused. Rhino in and hugged Ray. Ray pushed him off. Rhino gored Hernandez and then Morgan. Rhino said that’s how it’s done and then raised 3D’s arms in victory. Ray’s head still hung low.
7.5/10 – That was such a good match… Until the end! They couldn’t give a clean ending and had to over book it! I thought that match was so beautifully balanced. All four wrestlers in that match were getting off good moves until Rhino came out and got involved. Even though Ray and Devon are not kids, they still were made to look great in that match. I thought it was very cool that all the wrestlers made that match look good and work – until the end.

Post Show

I know TNA’s setting up for a PPV, but to have every match end in over booking to set up for all of these matches is total bull. It would have been fine for one or even two of the matches to end that way, but that it was all of them was so contrived. It’s as if creative found a formula and decided each match would be booked according to that, no matter who it was or what was going on. It could have been a fabulous show with the matches on the card.

Instead the whole thing was over booked schlock with very little that was worth the watch. Team 3D against Hernandez and Morgan was solid, but AJ and Daniels was fabulous. So much of the show could have been good, but only the last half hour was worth even the most hardcore fans’ time. Huge props to the wrestlers in the last two matches of the night. They gave it their all and it was obvious. If the whole show had been even half as good I wouldn’t be so cranky.

Arg! There’s so much that could be so good, but just misses the boat. I hope the changes coming to TNA are good. It will all get better or TNA will die a sad and pathetic death, either way we won’t be force to deal with these segments that are worse than puppy farts! Something’s got to give, and damn soon! (Yes, I have a fairly new puppy in the house, I think you can figure out the rest.)

KB

On the other hand – Oh my goodness! I feel like I have been handed a wonderful gift. While I enjoy TNA, compared to the other Bloggers here on WNW, I get the short end of the stick a lot of weeks. We all know that TNA’s shows have not been the best they could be and some weeks I just loath having to write bad things about Impact and TNA creative. But now so much is happening with the company that I’m on cloud nine!

Either things are going to be wonderful, fantastic, or I’m going to be writing about the downfall of TNA. There’s two ways this could go and both would be fabulous adventures in wrestling and writing (for me).

I’m so blown away. Anything that will make all wrestling better is a good thing. Do you remember the fabulous shows we watched during the height of the Monday Night Wars? They were amazing! We’ve all been wondering if and when someone would challenge Vince McMahon for the top spot in wrestling. If anyone can do it, it’s Hogan and Bisch. They’ve done it before, can they do it again? They have everything needed to make TNA succeed in a big way. As long as they don’t go down the same bad paths they went down previously and don’t have the same ego issues they had in WCW, then they could put Vince McMahon on the run and give us some of the best wrestling TV ever.

I can only imagine the superstars that will be made, the wrestling matches we will see and the creative directions both wrestling companies will take us if this all works out as we hope it does. TNA fans have wallowed through bad shows, gimmick matches on poles and stupid storylines for too long. We have this one show tonight and then the new captains at the creative helm should be in charge. It’s time for us to be fed that big, gooey, fattening desert after suffering through too many meals of liver and lima beans.

Show Starts

Video

The video was short, but about Hogan! Shocker!

Video

Angle’s promo from last week when he talked up the young guys. Then the introduction and attacks by Wolfe on Angle.

Anounce

The talk about Hogan coming in, but it’s a voice-over – so they had to have created audio for the show. They keep talking about it.

In Ring Segment

Taz and Tenay kept talking over Desmond Wolfe coming out as if he means nothing. Compared to the changes Hogan will be bringing in, they might be right. He introduces himself and talks down to the fans. He said he’s not the next big thing, he’s the only thing. When he was born in London he was raised to be the best fighter ever. “You suck” chants. He said everyone who’s gotten in his way has been dumped on their asses. Some were born to be common folk, he was born to be Champion. He doesn’t need a gold medal to prove how tough he is. The “Angle” chants start. Angle has a tough guy image, but he knows it’s a façade. He knows that because he slapped the taste out of his mouth and left him on the floor. Then Angle called him out and he did it again. He could have broken Angle’s neck, but he didn’t, but he made his mark. That night he became the greatest wrestler in the history of TNA. Angle comes out in ring gear and t-shirt. He didn’t know Wolfe’s name before, but he knows now. Angle doesn’t know who sent Wolfe, but he’s overstayed his welcome and will be leaving tonight. Last week when Angle was commending the younger guys – guys like AJ, Hernandez, Morgan and EY – they earned his respect. Wolfe has earned nothing! A little secret, he messed with the wrong guy. If he thinks he’ll make his name at the expense of Angle, he has his head up his ass. Nobody comes in Angle’s yard and pisses on it! Angle’s shaking with fury. “Angle” chants. Tonight they’ll do things differently. They’ll be in the ring, eye to eye. No attacks from behind, no interference. Good, old fashioned Street Fight. He’s going to beat his ass like it’s never been beaten before. It’s real, it’s damn real.
6/10 – I was more impressed with Angle than Wolfe in this. Wolfe is good, but I think he just needs to find his groove in TNA. This is only his second day of taping with this new character. I think he needs to grow into it. Not sure I believe Angle as face yet, but the fans sure do. I need more time to truly believe he’s not throwing a swerve of some sort.

Backstage Segment

Lauren with AJ and she talking about the attack on AJ. She asks if he knows who it was. He said it was dark. They’ve seen the tape, but nothing. Only a punk will attack from behind! Joe said to tell him to his face. AJ said it’s Joe? Joe said he’s in his face, not behind his back. But what about his bald friend? Joe went on about how Daniels has been screwed when AJ rose to the top. Daniels is jealous of AJ’s rise to the top. When AJ won, Daniels was the first one out there. It was AJ and Daniels out there sucking up the win. AJ said no way it’s Daniels. Joe said maybe AJ’s so angry at Joe that he’s not seeing his best friend stabbing him in the back. Joe left and AJ kicked around the room in anger.
8.5/10 – They were both on and set up a beautiful story for the main event at the next PPV. Have to love that bit of question placed in AJ’s head by Joe, works so well. I’m impressed!

Backstage Segment

Kong trashed a locker room. It was all red and very pretty. Looked like Booker’s but not sure.
710 – Love the growth of her character. Can’t wait to see more and so glad Melissa can wrestle and not hide under all that fabric!

Video

Little bits from the press conference.

Match #1

Flash in the ring. Tara out with Poison. Tara hit a move similar to Tajiri’s tarantula stretch around the ropes and made it look really good, much better than Candice Michelle did. They went back and forth. Some nice moves from them both, but nothing earth shattering or made my jaw drop. Flash did lock on a surfboard move and then let Tara’s face slam the mat. A side slam gave Tara the three. Then Kong came out and hit a sick big boot on Tara and then an implant buster on Tara onto Flash.
7/10 – My boyfriend, Stacy, said he doesn’t’ see Flash and Saeed as the same person as Melissa looks so much smaller in the birka than in Flash’s wrestling gear. While I understand why they put this match out there, but Tara isn’t in Flash’s league! I want to see Hamada and Flash feud! Honestly I thought Kong brought spice to the match, more than I felt it was over booked. She’s running loose and what better way to show that than attacks?

Backstage Segment

Ray and Devon talking smack, but then Rhino came in all cleaned up. He asked if they’re calm. He’s not there to thank them for stopping Hernandez. He hopes they see that Hernandez wanted to take him out and take his place. Tonight he’s facing Morgan. TNA management has a plan. Ray said they stopped Hernandez from Hernandez. If he splattered Rhino’s brains he’d be suspended. It’s all conspiracy theory crap. 3D is facing MCMG and don’t need Rhino’s help. Rhino said to watch their back because they’re all in on it. Ray thanked ‘Lee Harvey’ for the heads up.
7/10 – That was decent and makes me wonder where things are going to go with this. I really hope this storyline doesn’t fade away with new creative at the helm. I think it could go either way – conspiracy or not – and either would be interesting. I want to see this play out between these ECW Originals.

Match #2

MCMG out. Video from the Ultimate X Tag Match last week. Team 3D out to face them. This is THE match we’ve been reading about since it happened. Dueling chants for Shelley and Devon as they fought. Ray and Sabin in and dueling chants for them. Sabin hit a beautiful cross body from Sabin and then right into the move that screwed Sabin. As soon as the move was hit, I knew that was it and Sabin was done. Ray hit a yurinagi, or so Taz claimed, that concussed Sabin. They showed it again and again. Devon had Sabin up in the air and Shelley chop blocked Devon and Sabin flopped to the mat. Sabin reached up and tagged out, but it was obvious that he did it from learned muscle movement and something other than his mind told him to reach out. After the tag Sabin just fell forward onto the mat and laid there. His feet were way in the ring, not sprawled on the apron as I’d heard in reports. The ref checked on Sabin and then went back to working the match! And then they show the injury again! Medical staff out working on Sabin on the apron. Devon tagged out and Ray went to work on Shelley. Taz talked about a match that he tweaked his neck and Eddie finished the match while Taz laid on the apron through it all until it was over. Single leg Boston crab on Devon who slapped a hand down, but the ref called for the bell saying he tapped. Ray argued with the ref about it. Medical staff still working on Sabin on the apron and Shelley right to his side.
–/10 – I’m not rating this match. I just can’t. while I can see why Nash was totally pissed and completely agree with his right to go out there to shoot on it and that he told the cameras he was doing so that they knew when to edit, I think they didn’t handle it as badly as was said. As soon as they realized Sabin was hurt, they got medical out there. I think it would have scared the fans more if they’d stopped the match than continuing. They had no clue what was wrong with Sabin at the time and they wouldn’t have moved him until they knew what was wrong. So the fans would have been there watching something that could have been tragic and scary, or they could be distracted by the match. I’m not sure what I would have done if put in the position to make the call, but I’m also not sure if they made the wrong decision. I’m just playing devil’s advocate here. I think the most important thing is that they got medical out there when they realized Sabin was injured and that Sabin is okay.

Backstage Segment

Lauren asked about Steiner bugging Kristal. He said he’s sorry Kristal has no idea what it’s like to be with a real man. He can see the lust and desire in her eyes. She has the want and need to be his number one freak, and he’ll make it happen. Tonight he’ll be watching Lashley’s match and he has a big surprise for Kristal…
6.5/10 – Not bad, but not his best. I really don’t want to see Super Lashley in the ring if he’s not going to lose and I don’t want to see Steiner in the ring. So this feud is not fun for me.

Backstage

Wolfe laced his boots in a locker room.

Hermie‘s Hotseat

Amazing Red and West with Hermie. Amazing Red talked about how perfect West is for him. West said Amazing Red is a great guy. He’s great for kids to look up to and parents can be proud of their kids looking up to him. The rest is online. While the info I found said Amazing Red’s from Brooklyn or billed from Brooklyn, he has an accent I can’t place. Anyone know where Amazing Red is really from?

Match #3

EY out to the ring. His stats – 5’11”, 225lbs, 11 years pro and the piledriver is his finisher. Video from BFG when EY screwed Nash. Lashley out to face him. His stats – 6’3”, 250lbs, 4 years pro, undefeated MMA fighter. Video of Steiner on Kristal last week and then Lashley out to attack Steiner for it. EY and Lashley fighting when Steiner came out and started taunting Kristal Lashley attacked Steiner from the side. Back in the ring Lashley would have had EY, but Steiner in with chair on Lashley for a DQ. Steiner recliner on Lashley.
4/10 – I will give it props for furthering a storyline, even though it’s a storyline I don’t think should happen. I will give them what I gave them for the little ring wrestling they showed, but the interference really annoys me. Actually, Lashley being booked as Goldberg also annoys me. We have enough with Super Cena, we don’t need a Super Lashley too!

In ring Segment

TBI in the ring in W/E track suits. The suits look rather cheaply made. There’s an W/E on the left upper chest, names across the back that don’t fit in the area they should fit in and their country of origin down the left legs. But it all looks like cheap iron-ons on blah white suits with green and yellow trim! If they were going for a strong look, they missed by a mile! Magnus said before their illustrious leader enlighten again, he has something to say. TBI has been suspended until TP. They didn’t like that he decked a ref! They found a loophole. That was BMI’s last shot. They had to make sure they left with the belts and they did. They were fined too. Pocket change to them. They might call it a suspension, TBI calls it vacation.

EY said American swine has a hard time keeping score. But what they saw was EY the leader of W/E hand Lashley his first defeat. He’s there for his big announcement. It will change the wrestling world. The Legends Title is dead, done. His belt can be referred as the TNA Global Championship. Two simple rules… 1- He will never defend it on American soil. 2- It will never be defended against an American wrestler. This is because the fans don’t deserve him as our Champion. He’s cut off by Nash who slowly came out through the tube to the top of the ramp. Nash said at BFG they had a deal. Wasn’t it that Hernandez didn’t touch EY, Nash retained his strap and earned $60,000. But EY didn’t keep up his end of the bargain, did he? And the joke of paying him 60,000 Iranian dollars, Bashir, which equals $13.25, that’s funny! The watch on Bashir’s wrist is about $40,000. Is this the way EY does business? EY said the shoe’s on the other foot. Nash has been doing this kind of thing for years and that why Nash is where he’s at and he respects that. You could say he learned from the master. They both knew one of them was getting screwed and EY made sure it wasn’t him. They can wash it away, water under the bridge, or Nash can come down to the ring and they can work it out face to face, big man. Suddenly, behind W/E, BMI was in the ring, with chairs swinging. Everyone taken down but EY and Homicide who fled. Nash said they can run, but they can’t hide. “TNA” chants and BMI’s music played. Nash smiled when he said that, but then he went back to scowling immediately.
7/10 – That was actually pretty good, except a few problems. First off, there’s no such thing as an Iranian dollar, they use Rials. 60,000 Rials actually equals 6.05 Us Dollars. You’d have thought TNA would have done the research on this and done it right! Boo!!! And they did cut it together pretty well. If you weren’t looking for it you wouldn’t see the tiny glitch in Nash’s movements or that look in his eye. Only because I was looking for it did I actually see what I was looking for. So while it wasn’t horrible, it wasn’t the best for either EY or Nash.

Backstage Segment

Daniels in to talk to AJ about what Joe had been saying. AJ told Daniels not to worry about it. Daniels said how about AJ saying he knows it wasn’t him, and he wouldn’t do that. AJ said he doesn’t think Daniels would ever do such a thing. Daniels didn’t like AJ’s wording for that. Daniels can’t believe a couple of words from Joe got AJ doubting his best friend. This is what Joe wants. Daniels starts to leave to talk it out with Joe.
8.5/10 – The passion and heart in that. It wasn’t long, but wonderfully done. Loved it!

Match #4

TBP to the ring. Video of the food fight last week. ODB, Hamada and Hemme out to face them. Taz and Tenay talks more about Hogan being all over TV and the web. Obviously dubbed over the show later as none of this was known when this was taped. While TBP worked like a well oiled heel team, they’re no match for Hamada’s ring work. Though I give Hamada props for selling their moves. Lacey tagged in, but only did a double team and then tagged right out. ODB tagged in and took them all out, even Lacey on the apron. ODB looked decent and even hit the bronco buster to make the fans go wild. Hemme tagged in, missed her FCG. Lacey tagged in, hit her claw and pinned Hemme. Then Kong out again. Tara came out and attacked Kong from behind and took it to her. Security out. Four men holding Kong, one holding Tara. Tara kept breaking free and attacking.
4/10 – Yes, the same as the Lashley/EY match. It wasn’t good. Hamada looked decent and sold well. ODB looked better than normal and the fans loved her. But then there was all that over booked ending. While it worked earlier, this was too much! Once is one thing, or a couple of short ones. This was too long to be enjoyable. Anytime the refs can’t keep people apart and they keep getting free, it looks contrived. To have one guy on Tara and four on Kong, but Tara kept getting the upper hand. It didn’t work.

Backstage

Security is still trying to keep Tara and Kong apart.

Video

The feud between Abyss and Foley.

Match #5

Dr. Stevie out to the ring. He’s 6’1”, 215lbs. He says Chris wants to be the Monster Abyss at Monsters Ball and hurt Daffney? He should come out and see the monster it created in him. Abyss out to face him. Stevie up to meet Abyss on the ramp with weapon in hand, but Abyss already with the upper hand. In the ring Stevie hit chops to no avail. Clothesline from Abyss dropped Stevie, then happy little boy claps from Abyss. Stevie thrown from the ring by his hair. Stevie face first off the steps and Stevie over sold it, and it wasn’t pretty. Stevie bent over the barrier and chopped right in the faces of fans. Tenay said on Tuesday, right after this show was taped, was when the partnership with Hogan was announced. So they’re actually admitting that this is dubbed over and not a live show – no matter how much they try to act like it’s live. Abyss threw two trash cans in, right on target, both times! But in the ring Abyss ran into a flying chair. Even though they’re in Florida, the hockey stick came into play. But Abyss fought back kicking Stevie off. Shock treatment on Stevie and it’s over. After the bell Stevie attacked Abyss with the kendo stick. Foley came out to the ring while Stevie had Abyss choked with the stick. Foley took the stick and hit Stevie over the head with it. Foley and Abyss started across the ring and then Foley rolled out. Foley glared at Stevie as he walked by.
7/10 – That wasn’t a bad match. They both fought hard and gave it a lot. Foley hitting Stevie over the head after it was over really makes you wonder what will happen at TP.

Backstage Segment

In the shadows Borash stopped Foley who said no comment. Borash said he needs more than that. He laughed strangely. Foley said what happened is between him and Abyss and that’s all they need to know. Tenay asked if Foley was channeling Baron Von Raschke.
5/10 – Only because I’m confused and it made little sense. But after thinking about it I realized that Foley was holding his hand up and holding his wrist the way Raschke used to. Only reason I have a clue about what’s going on is because I’ve seen him recently on old AWA shows. It took a moment to figure it out, but still have no clue why Foley was doing the Raschke thing. Is it because he stole the iron claw – with Socko on it – from Raschke, the way he accuses Abyss of stealing a lot of character from Foley? (Raschke and his wife own a gift and souvenir shop, open during the spring and summer months, possibly in Minnesota. How odd is that?)

Match #6

Rhino out to the ring. Video from Hernandez and Rhino last week. Morgan out to face him. They really started off fighting hard! Tenay talked about how Morgan was on American Gladiators, a show Hogan hosted. Rhino in control through a lot of it, but then Morgan really came back! Morgan set up for the choke slam but Rhino came back with a belly to belly. Taz said Rhino’s lower center of gravity made that move easy. But then Morgan came back with the carbon blueprint and it was over. Morgan posed and acted like the win was nothing, but then Rhino up and attacked Morgan from behind. Belly to belly and then Morgan turned around into the gore. Super Mex’s music and he came out. Only the strong survive in TNA and nobody’s going to take out Rhino, nobody!
7/10 – Nothing spectacular, but it was a solid match. I know they can both give more, but it was short. Lots of power, not a lot of finesse, but it’s how these two work. I’d like to see them go longer next time.

Backstage Segment

Daniels approached Joe. Daniels got on Joe for twisting AJ’s brain. Daniels said Joe knows he wouldn’t do anything like that. Joe said he doesn’t know. Joe said AJ rolled his eyes when Joe said Daniels could hurt him. AJ didn’t believe it. AJ doesn’t think Daniels can hurt him. Think about that when AJ looks at him, or looks down on him, however that works.
9/10 – That was even better than AJ and Daniels. This is just sweet! I’m loving the mind twisting setting up for this match. This is going to be amazing! Can’t wait to see what else happens leading up to this spectacular event.

Screaming Segment

West went through all the places TNA will be appearing, very soon. But then the camera got back to West, Homicide was there talking about his title shot. Homicide grabbed West and got right into his face, grabbed him and demanded his title shot at TP. Homicide took West’s wallet, talked about West’s wife’s pic. He then stole West’s license and all his money. That was really odd.

Backstage Segment

Borash with Angle. He’s seen Angle upset before, but he hardly knows Wolfe. Angle said Wolfe took a shortcut and they usually lead to a dead end. Tonight Wolfe dead ends. Borash asks if there might be someone behind Wolfe, someone who doesn’t want Angle in TNA. Angle said Borash sounds like Rhino.
7/10 – While Angle as a face really feels wrong, I must admit I like this quieter and more thoughtful Angle. I think I could handle him face as long as he doesn’t monopolize the show and scream all the time.

Backstage Segment

Lauren said something’s happened to AJ. AJ was on the floor. Someone in gloves had blood on his hand from the back of AJ’s head. He called for more help.
9/10 – And the plot thickens…

Backstage Segment

Lauren in front of an ambulance pulling away. She said AJ’s being taken to a local medical facility and to check the website for further details.
6/10 – So we’re back to treating it as if it’s a live show. While they wouldn’t have been able to get him boxed up in the cart that fast, having us check the website for details as if it was happening in real time? Makes little sense to me. This show needs some serious continuity adjustments.

Main Event

Angle out to the ring. His stats 6’0”, 240lbs. Wolfe out to face him. Angle on Wolfe quickly and hard. Angle went for a German and Wolfe fought back. Upper cuts and back elbows from Wolfe. Taz talks about hearing from other TNA wrestlers that Wolfe has this amazing lariat-like clothesline, but they’ll have to wait and see. Wolfe clotheslined from the ring. Tenay talked about the Hogan announcement next, after this match. Wolfe gained control and rolled Angle back into the ring. Forearms, upper cuts and the like to Angle. Wolfe called for Angle to hit him, but then he came back with this arm snap move on Angle that would have ripped the arm out of a normal person’s socket. I cringed. Angle came back with his three Germans and Angle’s strap came down. But behind Angle Wolfe was up and ready. That lariat clothesline on Angle and he didn’t move. Hebner stopped Wolfe and said Angle couldn’t move. Wolfe rolled Angle over and screamed in his face.
7.5/10 – It was a good match. I think Wolfe could go much harder with someone younger and in better shape. Heck, I’ve seen him go much harder in ROH! Now I understand why people were upset with Angle. I thought it was something he did last week, but this had to be it. After what happened with Sabin, that Angle did this ‘couldn’t move’ thing just looks bad. I know it was booked this way, but I agree that it should have been tweaked. Angle could have sold a neck injury without this whole ‘can’t move’ thing. Makes people forget about how dangerous things really can be when someone plays the same role right after it happened for real.

Video

Hogan talking to Carter, but no audio.

Video

‘Moments ago’ and it shows Angle being taken out of a back board with his neck immobilized. Video of Wolfe’s clothesline, over and over from every angle. I can really see why people weren’t happy with Angle selling this so well after Sabin’s injury. Sabin walked out, with help, but Angle was taken out on a stretcher. So no cool.

Video

Bischoff, looking very gray and more distinguished than I’ve ever seen him, announced Hogan at the press conference. Hogan up in pink – as everyone’s seen the pics. He started talking about getting back in the ring in the USA. He then announced his new business partner, Dixie Carter. She joins him and said no single name defines an industry the way Hulk Hogan does. TNA is thrilled Hogan is joining the company. A little over seven years ago TNA started as a weekly PPV wrestling show that aired to tens of thousands of people. Now they’re at MSG announcing the biggest acquisition in history. Hogan said he’s been born again. When TNA approached him, he saw how aggressive they were, how they made a stance and dug in with Spike TV, he knew that’s where he wanted to be. That’s why he’s getting back in the business. TNA’s going to lead the way in the future. Then the top stiff from Spike read a short statement – badly. Hogan said he wants to make this the number one sports entertainment company in the business. TNA has so much going for them, all they needed is a little momentum shifter like Hulk Hogan. Just like the last time he switched gears, they showed the world they were putting out the best product. Carter, Spike and Hogan together… He can’t wait to get in the mix. Then Hogan got into his call phrases and got the fans going.
–/10 – I’m not rating a press conference! But I do have to say that Hogan made quite a few digs at WWE and Russo in that segment! How he talked about WCW and that TNA needs a momentum shifter. He was very positive in what he said, but the digs were there.

Post Show

Well, I have to say it was an interesting last Russo show, but it was a Russo show! So much interference and over booked endings. And so much talking with such little wrestling. The same things we’ve been complaining about all along. All I can say is I hope a lot of that changes!

I think the best parts of the show were the little vignettes between Joe, Daniels and AJ. They really pushed their storyline along brilliantly, but didn’t take up a lot of time. And I would’ve loved to have seen Nash’s shoot, but you know Carter wouldn’t let that be seen as she suspended his ass over it!

I’d love to say I was blown away by at least one of the matches on this show blew me away, but none of them did. The Knockout Matches were fine, but not fabulous. Abyss and Stevie was good, but not jaw dropping. I was just waiting for Lashley’s match to be over, even though he was in the ring with EY. Rhino and Morgan gave a solid match, but nothing to write home about. Wolfe and Angle could have been good if Wolfe had been in the ring with someone I wasn’t afraid would break it Wolfe hit a move too hard. That one arm snap was sick. The best move of the night, and that’s sad.

So hopefully we’re going to be on the upswing very soon. I’m not expecting Hogan to hit a homerun first time up at bat, but I think things could only get better than this. We’re on the cusp of change and I can hardly wait!

KB

While I know this was Taz’s first Ultimate X Match, I think he over sold it. Yes, the match was off the hook impressive and some of the spot were sick, but Taz was in ECW! Though I do have to say I’m proud of myself for picking the winner of that match. There’s so many ways it could have gone, but I think it made the most sense to leave the strap on Amazing Red for the time being. And what a fabulous match! It was the first Ultimate X Match my boyfriend and I have seen while it happened, rather than on YouTube at a later date and we were absolutely in awe. When Daniels landed on his head I really thought he might be severely injured. I thought it was a great way to start the show. While it was somewhat of a spot-fest, the rest of BFG wasn’t so it worked out beautifully and felt right.

I wasn’t thrilled when TNA started letting it look like refs actually had control of what happened ringside, but when Hebner threw Lacey Von Erich out, even after she molested him, I loved it! Hebner just earned serious points from me! And honestly, the match wasn’t that bad. But it wasn’t that good either.

And then EY screwed Nash in the Legends Match. At this point in the PPV I’m in awe. In awe of what exactly? I’m not sure. I’m thrilled that out of the first three matches, I got them all correct, right down to EY screwing Nash for his title. But I’m not sure it’s a good thing to be proud of picking all the winners for a TNA PPV. TNA is known for its bad booking. So either they’ve become better, or I have completely lost my mind. Worry for me…

Steiner must have been on the stretching machine all day before BFG, because some of the moves he hit were old school Steiner! He hit a frankensteiner off the top on either Williams or Magnus, and it looked damn good! But TBI fought back with what’s up on Steiner. Booker was then removed on a stretcher at Sharmell’s prompting – good way to write him out! Loved it when Zakk Wylde threw his drink into Williams’ face and then took a chair from Ray to hit Williams with. Normally I’m not big on fan involvement, but it was openly recognized that Ray knew him as they hugged before the match. But then Rhino in attacking 3D made little sense. Yes, they’ve been feuding, but this match was so good without interference that wasn’t needed! My streak was ruined by Rob Terry! What the hell was he doing in the ring? He had no reason to be taking down the belt! Why does that count? At least I was half right with the results to this match! At least Booker and Steiner dropped the TNA TTC. And even better is that Booker was taken out on a stretcher. If he’d been hurt I wouldn’t be saying this, but since it was obviously a way to get rid of him, I’m thrilled! And if Steiner could perform every week the way he did in this match, I wouldn’t be so down on his ring skills. He looked better than I’ve seen him in the past couple years!

I’m totally confused. I wasn’t watching closely and have no clue why Tara left. That screwed up my prediction, but that Saeed accidentally screwed Kong again really adds to that storyline. So while I don’t think ODB is the best Knockedup Champion, that they furthered storylines makes me feel good about that match. But then Borash just Twitted that Kim Couture and Tara got into a fight during their match and that’s why Tara left. He also said more would come out about it on Thursday. I have to say I’m very happy I have Borash on Twitter and that my IM gives me pop-ups right now. And yes, Kim Couture is Randy Couture’s wife. I guess this will lead into Tara’s MMA career? Just a thought. Since BFG both Tara and Kim Couture have claimed that this fight was real. TNA said Couture didn’t show up until 20 minutes before the show started and they didn’t have time to go over the plan. Couture and Tara were supposed to have a small stare down during the match, but then Tara landed ringside and felt someone push her from behind. She figured it was a fan, but then turned and saw it was Couture who’s pushed her. Tara and Couture then physically got into it. And while I can see how that might be true, I highly doubt Tara would have been booked to stop away from ringside if there was only a little staring. The match continued just fine, without a glitch even with Tara gone. It makes me wonder what the true plan was and if it really was carried out between Tara and Couture. Did Couture put out the statement to cover her ass as an MMA fighter? Can’t have any of that nasty sports entertainment scripting dump over into the reality of MMA.

But I bounced right back from feeling interested and entertained with the Lashley win. I barely paid attention, but am confused if Joe actually tapped out. Did Hebner pull another screw job? Also, I didn’t think Bobby and Kristal were married, but Tenay called her Kristal Lashley and Richard confirmed it in a posting since BFG.

I was shocked Abyss won the Monsters Ball. I didn’t think Foley would be willing to let it happen, but I’m thrilled he did! I loved how Abyss counted to three with Stevie’s hand, but wasn’t thrilled with Daffney going through the barbed wire table. Just not cool. And now it looks like Daffney actually broke her arm taking that bump. I feel horrible for the girl. She’s been one of my favorites since she debuted in WCW as the screaming goth fan in love with David Flair in 2000. I know she’s one tough chick, but I absolutely hate that she’s been injured, and at the hands of a man. As a woman who has been in a violent relationship, this tweaks me out. Normally I say that these women are wrestlers and have signed on for taking some of these bumps, well that only goes so far. I know Daffney is hardcore, but injuries from a match she wasn’t even in sucks. On the other hand, I hope TNA doesn’t wimp out and avoids using this as part of the storyline. I know I might seem like I’m playing both sides of the fence on this, and I am! I see and feel both sides of it. While I’m against violence against women, wrestlers are wrestlers, no matter their sex.

Then Angle beat Morgan. But something happened that I didn’t expect. I did expect it to be quite the battle, even knowing Morgan was having some serious back spasms earlier in the day, but not for Angle to raise Morgan’s hand after all was said and done. I have to say that Angle showed a level of class that I didn’t think he still retained. I thought Angle no longer had it in him to be such a sportsman, but Angle stepped up and showed the classier side of himself after all was said and done. Yes, you’re used to me complaining about Angle, but I will give him huge props for how he ended his match with Morgan. Bravo Kurt Angle!

And then there was Sting versus AJ Styles for the TNA WHC. I honestly though that something really obscure was going to happen during this match. I absolutely didn’t see it going to a clean ending with either of these men going over the other. I didn’t think AJ could win because that would mean Sting would almost definitely be retiring. But Sting couldn’t beat AJ because AJ deserves to be TNA WHC and a month isn’t long enough of a title reign for him. I figured someone would run in, someone least expected like Ken Anderson (no, I’m not dropping a spoiler, just someone who I thought might possibly show up because he’s good and not under contract) might cause some trouble. But it went to a clean ending with Sting losing in his home state. After AJ dragged Sting back into the ring Sting didn’t really say if he was going to retire or not as the fans chanted for “one more year”.

I truly hope Sting doesn’t retire. While I’m not thrilled with many of the older wrestlers in TNA, Sting’s one of the few who’s been able to hold his own on a regular basis. If Nash and Steiner fell into more of mentor and managerial roles, TNA could be quite outstanding in the roster department. Honestly, I don’t want Steiner to leave TNA. I think he could be a great asset if utilized correctly, but keeping him in the ring isn’t the correct way. Getting the straps off Nash and Steiner as well as having Foley lose to Abyss is really a nice step in the right direction. I’m not saying everyone who won at BFG made me happy – but that it was the younger wrestlers who should be the biggest stars, who mostly came out on top and that’s why this PPV managed to keep up the fantastic history of BFG.

Show Starts

Video

Of course the video was about BFG. Daniels’ landing on his head, Amazing Red winning, 3D winning, ODB retaining, Lashley winning, Abyss beating Foley, Morgan losing, but gaining respect and AJ retaining against Sting. Sting said he didn’t know if he’d be coming back, but thank you.

In Ring Segment

Angle out to the ring in a natty suit. Angle said he stands there without a family. One year to the date when they created MEM. From the beginning MEM was misunderstood. MEM wasn’t about securing spots in the company. Well, maybe for some, but not him. Since he laced up his boots he knew he would be the best. It wasn’t about job security because he knew he was the best. It was about respect. Not just about the wrestlers, but about the game. Not about money but pride. When he came to TNA he saw young punks looking for handouts. Everything on a silver platter. It’s not easy to say, but he made a mistake. What he sees now is a bunch of young boys who have grown into men. It started with EY. He has passion in his eyes because he wanted to grow into Angle. Then AJ. That man has talent. The match they had last week, was a classic. He gave his all because he wants to be the best. Then Matt Morgan who has passion. A couple times Angle thought he had him. To the boys and girls in the back. He knows they’re gathered around listening. He now thinks of them as peers and is willing to fight the fight with him. He thanked everyone and started to leave, but Rhino’s music cut him off. He said he can’t believe what Angle’s saying. He’s glad Angle’s having revelations, but can’t he see what’s going on? Does it have to slap him across his face? MEM is no more. Booker’s gone. What’s he going to do, fight a fight against nobody? TNA management want them gone. Look at who TNA’s behind – Hernandez, Morgan and AJ. What about them? What about him? Angle said they earned it. Rhino said they earned nothing! He fought with them in the Frontline until Lashley came in and they threw him aside. Out came Team 3D. Rhino said he knows Ray’s mad at him. Ray said to look at what Rhino did to them. Rhino said he needed their attention. Several days ago he stood on the stage beside guys brought in to replace them. What will they do outside of wrestling? They were born to stand in the ring and fight. Security kept 3D out of the ring. Rhino told the fans to shut up and there won’t be a fight. And if they think TNA’s not replacing them, go look at the card and they’re not on it. They don’t draw like they used to. Since they aren’t working, they can come out and cheer on Hernandez against Rhino. Rhino yelled at security to keep 3D back. Lots of running around the ring. Hernandez will need them cheering for him. The only way Rhino will leave is when he’s dead. He will fight until he breathes his last breath. They played his music early to prove his point for him.
5/10 – I know Main Event Mafia is falling apart, but this makes no sense. Suddenly Angle’s making nice and we’re supposed to believe him? Yes, he was decent to Morgan at BFG, but that doesn’t change years of butthead moves and words. And then there’s Rhino’s paranoia. Where did that suddenly come from and why should we believe that? Yes, he’s always been a little wild, but this is new. I just don’t feel it. I know this is coming off a PPV and storylines change, especially after a big PPV – and this is the biggest – but it just felt too contrived for me. Have to wait and see how it all plays out.

Backstage Segment

Lauren with Daniels and AJ. AJ said if Angle’s serious, then it’s them against the competition. They need to put their feelings aside and put their best out there. Turning Point’s main event is AJ, Daniels and Joe for the WHC. TNA might be hoping for a rematch from five years ago. Daniels said they’ll exceed expectations. But tonight Daniels and AJ have to face Nash and Joe. Daniels almost died in the ring on Sunday. If there’s any question about who’s at the top of their game, they’ll prove it later in the ring.
7/10 – That was pretty good, but not fabulous. Both men were believable, except Daniels almost dying in the ring. After the stinger and all that happened to Sabin at tapings yesterday (not like it’s much of a spoiler now) I’m sure Daniels feels a little funny about that line. Yes, he landed on his head and it hurt, but he was functioning after he took the bump, unlike Sabin.

Backstage Segment

Lauren with Raisha Saeed. She’s shocked about Saeed facing Kong tonight. Saeed said Kong wants to be on her own? She taught Kong everything! She know what Kong does before she does it. Kong is her puppet, she pull the string. She will destroy Kong!
8/10 – She was actually better than ever in this role. I’m impressed whenever she plays this character in a speaking role. It’s not who she is, but she does a beautiful job of it. Though I’ll be happy when she’s only Flash and really puts it all out there in the ring the way she did with Hamada. That’s where I want to see Melissa.

Announce

Tenay and Taz shooting the bull. Tenay asked about Taz’s hoodie. It’s something he got through TNA, so they do a cheap plug of the “Taz Beat-down Hoodie. It’s black with orange letters ‘FTW’ with ‘Tazmission’ below it, 13 below that and bullet holes on the logo. Under them TNA put up their names and then their nicknames! Below Taz is “FTW 13”. Below Tenay is “The Professor”, actually in quotes! Someone needs to teach the production crew some proper grammar (yes, I know mine gets screwy, but it’s my artistic license – they’re supposed to be uber professional). They talked about Kong and Saeed. Then they went through matches slated for later in the show. Then they realize something’s going on in the entrance tunnel…

Match #1

Homicide and Amazing Red are fighting. Actually, Amazing Red was getting his bum handed to him all the way down the ramp. Homicide was in control until they got in the ring and the bell was rung, then Amazing Red was able to fight back some. Don West came out to cheer on Amazing Red. “Go, Red, Go!” chants from the fans. Homicide hit a sick looking move in a corner and then used the ropes to pin, but the ref caught him. Amazing Red came back with a hurricanrana. Then a move that made Taz scream, “What the hell was that?” I don’t know what it was, someone please fill me in. Taz was in honest shock, and so am I from that move. But then Homicide hit the gringo killah for three. Homicide threw things at West ringside before posing and motioning for the X Division belt.
7.5/10 – That was really solid. The moves were great and both wrestlers looked strong. I just wasn’t thrilled with how it was booked. I know Homicide is supposed to be a little out of control and wild, but there’s no reason they couldn’t have a solid match without all that extra crap to start it. It also could have gone on twice as long. But that we’re seeing more of the X Division again and the younger guys are wrestling, that makes me a very happy girl.

Backstage Segment

Lauren with Steiner. She asked about him facing Morgan, but what about with Booker gone and the shock over Main Event Mafia appearing to no longer exist, where does that leave Steiner? Steiner got all macho and asked who it appeared to that MEM is no more? He’s in MEM warm ups and left MEM locker room. As long as he’s in TNA, there will be a MEM. You have to be crazy to be in this business and Angle is already there. He lost his mind when he gave these guys credit. Angle doesn’t speak for him! He doesn’t give these young punks any credit, they have to earn it. The first of these punks he’s going to beat up is Mike Morgan. Lauren corrected him that it’s Matt Morgan. Steiner asked who’s Matt? Lauren said it’s who he’s facing. Steiner asked who’s Mike? Heck, he’ll beat them both up! When he’s done beating up Matt Morgan, he won’t even know what his name is.
8/10 – And that’s where Steiner’s so good. I don’t like it when Steiner’s screaming at the top of his lungs, but this promo was great. My boyfriend (Stacy) asked me if the Mike / Matt thing was a screw up. I said no. Then thinking about it, I said it might have been and that it worked so well they kept it. Steiner made that segment flow easily, whether a screw up or scripted that way. For reasons like that promo, the man needs to stay as a mentor, just not as a wrestler.

Match #2

Matt Morgan to the ring and Steiner out to face him. As Steiner came out to the ring they put a stat sheet overlay on the right side of the screen. It said he’s 6’1”, 275lbs and 23 years pro, his finisher – Steiner recliner. Upon rewinding I realized they did the same for Morgan saying he’s 7’, 310lbs and 7 years pro, his finisher – carbon footprint. I guess this is something new they’re trying. Not sure if I like it, but at least it wasn’t stolen from WWE! Steiner went to Kristal Lashley who was in the front row. Steiner posed and flexed for her. She put a hand up and shook her head. She obviously wasn’t impressed. Morgan in control, but Steiner did something to Morgan in a corner and gained control. He worked to keep Morgan on the mat. Steiner used power over Morgan, a suplex and then dropped an elbow. As the ref was counting Steiner rolled off and did push-ups. Morgan came back with clotheslines and then they ended up outside the ring. Morgan back in the ring, but Steiner grabbed Kristal and rubbed her hands down his chest and said she needs a real man. Lashley out to the ringside area to protect his wife. Lashley all over Steiner outside. Steiner rolled back in to get away, but Lashley on the apron. Morgan hit his finisher and pinned for three. Taz and Tenay talked about the ref’s power and how he didn’t call for a DQ.
7/10 – The reason I rated this match so high is for a number of reasons… 1- Steiner did look better than he has on recent episodes of Impact. 2- Morgan is just wonderful in the ring. 3- Even though it wasn’t the best match, it did further storylines and set up for future interest. I would rather not see Lashley feuding with Steiner, but that’s me. At least they’re trying different angles and ideas.

Backstage Segment

Lauren with Kong. Kong grabbed the mic and told Saeed no more orders. Tonight, finish.
8/10 – So nice to see her talking. Also add as I know how prolific she can be as herself on Twitter. I really wish we could see her real humor come through somehow. She’s such an interesting woman and I think it could be fun to both see her as a face and a talker.

Match #3

Joe and Nash out together. Below them were their nicknames, in quotes, and then below that their wrestling names. TNA’s production crew must have bought a new toy or learned to do something new as they’re adding all sorts of graphics on the screen. Joe’s in actual boxing shorts this week. Looks like his ring gear is changing a little. Video of EY screwing Nash at BFG. AJ out by himself, but then Daniels met him on the stage. They came down together. Daniels wasn’t given a nickname and AJ was listed as the WHC, no nickname. They all started fighting at the bell, but it ended up being AJ and Joe inside the ring. Nash worked on Daniels outside. Daniels had some sort of bandage glued up the right side of his upper back. Must have been from BFG when he landed on his head. Joe gained the upper hand and tagged Nash in to work over AJ. A side slam and a pin and then Joe was back in. Joe again did the majority of the work. Taz said Nash’s right hand is busted, that’s why it’s taped. Honestly, it wasn’t taped any more than any wrestlers hand can be taped at any time. Nash got cocky and AJ started fighting back. Beautiful springboard flying forearm from AJ! Daniels tagged in and worked over both Nash and Joe. Daniels sent Joe into Nash. Nash conveniently caught Joe’s head under his arm. Daniels flew to take down Nash who conveniently hit a DDT on Joe in the process. Daniels pinned Nash for a long two. Joe grabbed a chair and headed for AJ, but AJ flew off the apron onto Joe (actually about flew over Joe, but they made it work). Daniels took down Nash in the ring, but was distracted by AJ being downed outside. Nash used this to choke slam Daniels for three. Video of the end of the match – very WWE-esque. Lauren came out to interview Nash. Nash was pissed at EY for stealing his title and EY still owes him $60,000. He knows EY is out back somewhere and Nash is going to find him.
7/10 – It wasn’t bad, but from this crew, minus Nash, I expect so much more. I will give them the slack for the matches they were in only two days before taping this show. I’m sure they were still sore and beaten up from them – but these are three men who know each other so well and have put on legendary matches, one in particular that was spoken about earlier! What does impress me is the different way they went about furthering the Nash and EY issue. Sending Lauren out to the ring to ask him questions was a nice change from Nash grabbing a mic or it going down backstage. I give TNA props for that.

Backstage Segment

Borash talking mobile, as usual. But they EY grabbed the mic and pushed Borash out of the way. He said that if Nash is looking for him, he isn’t hard to find. He’s the TNA Legends Champion, the man who outsmarted Nash at BFG, leader of WE. Now that they have TNA TTC, he’s the leader of the most powerful group in professional wrestling. He asked Borash if they felt like they were playing with a man down and WE is on a power play? He needs Nash to stick around. He has an announcement for next week that will rock TNA to its core. Veni vidi vici.
8.5/10 – Damn that man is good! I know I say every week how he’s getting better each week, but he is! He is blowing my mind because I honestly didn’t think he could be a heel, never mind one of the most powerful heels I’ve seen in TNA!

Backstage Segment

Lauren with MCMG. She asked about the Ultimate X Tag team Match on Impact. Sabin said that’s progress because of MCMG. Their music, now this match. Lethal Consequences have an advantage because they didn’t pull double duty at BFG. But they will pull down that X and become number one contenders. Shelley said to excuse him, he got hit with a clothesline in their last Ultimate X Match. The viewers can turn up their TVs, he can’t turn up his larynx. It’s a good idea that TNA gives these opportunities to the younger wrestlers on the roster, but tonight’s the first time they’ve been included. They didn’t get the memo. So they’re going to make people take notice.
7.5/10 – That was very interesting. That they specifically talked about TNA giving opportunities to the younger wrestlers. This is what we’ve been talking about online for over a year – at least on this Blog we’ve been talking about it for little over a year – but it’s been the talk of the online wrestling world for much longer than that. I like how MCMG ride the fence between heels and faces. Shelley comment about turning up TVs, is just one of those little things that make them edgier and not the nicest boys in town. It works well for them, especially Shelley. I like them getting more air time, especially after seeing how capable they are in the GI2 match!

Video

TBP are making a movie and are on their new set ‘Meanest Girls’. They went up to catering and started a food fight with other Knockouts. They left Wilde and Sarita covered in ick. Next week is the sequel ‘Meanest Girls Part 2’. Of course they had a lovely new graphic for this too.
2/10 – I know people think I’m envious of them because of their looks, but I’m not. I just don’t find them funny. They are very pretty girls. Velvet Sky is beautiful! But I don’t think they are funny or interesting in any way. If someone can explain it to me, I’ll gladly take it to heart, but until then I just can’t be a fan or hate them for being so mean. I just find them pathetic, annoying and sometimes boring.

Match #4

Saeed out to the ring. Commercial. Kong out to the ring in new ring gear. We’re only told her finisher – implant buster. Video of Saeed getting involved at BFG and losing Kong the match. Kong hit a giant swing on Saeed and dropped her hard. Saeed rolled through a lot to stay away from Kong. A dropkick to Kong’s knee, but then Kong was back. Punch to Kong’s face, but then Kong took Saeed down hard. Kong up top sitting. Punches and kicks to Kong’s head. Saeed rode Kong to the mat with a leg drop on the back of Kong’s neck. Saeed pinned for two. Saeed up in the corner, second ropes, but Kong got her knees up. Saeed reversed out of an implant buster. Saeed up top of Kong and crawled down her back, but Kong hit a sit down splash on Saeed. Implant buster and Saeed was done. Kong pulled Saeed from the ring and dragged her by the back of the neck up the ramp. “Kong” chants. A ref tried to stop her, but Kong got Saeed up and release power bombed Saeed into the pyro area. Taz started freaking out, calling for help for Raisha. “TNA” chants.
8/10 – I had originally, right after the match, given it a seven. But then Kong finished off Saeed and I had to bring it up. That sit down splash was sick! That’s a lot of woman landing on you! Kong is Kong because of her monstrous size. Most female wrestlers are svelt and sexy. Kong is a big (beautiful) woman and makes no excuses about it. Then that power bomb! We all know Melissa’s a tough woman, but taking bumps like that always amaze me. It’s nothing worse than when she was in the ring with Hamada, but it looked more impressive in some ways because it was Kong throwing her off the stage. Very impressive way of (possibly) writing Saeed out so Melissa can focus on the Flash character. I like it!

Video

They re-showed Saeed flying off the stage at the hands of Kong. Then, during the break, they took Saeed off on a stretcher. Taz asked if the locker room is safe now that Kong’s handler has been removed by Kong herself.

Match #5

Rhino ran to the ring, so they couldn’t have put a stat sheet up for him, even if they wanted to. Team 3D is at announce. Ray said they promised TNA Management they’d go out there and cool their heads a bit. Makes not sense to me why sending them out there, face to face with Rhino, would cool them off! Ray said he got another concussion at the hands of Rhino. It’s Rhino’s way of waking them up. Ray said Taz, especially, knows how pissed he is. Hernandez out to the ring and they put his stats below his name – 6’2”, 285lbs. Ray and Taz talk about the good young wrestlers who are the same as they were back in the day. Rhino, at first had the upper hand, but then Hernandez took over and flew out, over the top, onto Rhino. Taz said if you can get a good look at Hernandez’s mouth, you can see he lost four front teeth at BFG when Nash drilled him in the mouth. That’s one injury I hadn’t heard about! Hernandez was crotched by Rhino who kicked the rope up as Hernandez climbed back in. Ray ranted at Taz while Devon stood behind them stoically. Ray said Rhino hit him in the head for no good reason, cost them the TNA TTC for no good reason. That how he gets their attention? How about calling him, Twittering him, Facebook-ing him, MySpace-ing him? Taz said Ray doesn’t have all of those, does he? Ray must have given Taz a look because he backed off and said he was just joking. Ray asked Taz when the last time he was in the ring was. Taz said it doesn’t matter, he’s not a wrestler any longer. They know how Rhino is, he’s always been combustible guy. Tenay said Rhino might be right about being pushed out. Ray got mad about this. Taz stayed out of it and Tenay said he’s thinking it might be possible. Taz said they’ve known each other a long time and they used to bust each other’s chops and he wants to see Ray lighten up a little bit. The whole time Ray and Taz were going at it, Hernandez and Rhino were beating the heck out of each other in the ring. Beautiful swan dive type splash from up high on Rhino and Hernandez won it. Ray was happy to see Hernandez win. But then Rhino attacked from behind. Belly to belly on Hernandez and Rhino set him up. Hernandez side stepped the gore. Hernandez’s shirt came off and took Rhino down. Hernandez got Rhino up for the border toss, but Team 3D rushed in to stop him. Hernandez dropped Rhino who rolled out. They calmed Hernandez down as the fans chanted for tables. They raised Hernandez’s arms, one on each side of the big man. Then they posed in the ring as some people in the front row took pictures.
7/10 – While the match between Rhino and Hernandez was quite strong, it was not the easiest to pay attention to because of the banter between Ray and Taz. Unlike the ongoing conversations that go on between people like King and JR that while wonderful are not distracting, I had serious trouble paying attention to what was going on in the ring because of what Ray and Taz were saying and how they were saying it. They were too interesting to listen to. While I adore JR and think he and King are fabulous together, they have a beautiful way of being unimposing in their clever banter. I really wanted to hear what Taz and Ray said to each other because of their long history as friends and co-workers dating back to ECW, especially since they were talking about another man they’ve worked with since ECW. It was a strong conversation and drown out a lot of what was a solid match. Hernandez coming over the top and taking Rhino out was amazing, but it just couldn’t focus on most of it. Also, I don’t understand why 3D stopped Hernandez from hitting the border toss on Rhino. I was honestly expecting them to attack Hernandez at that point. It seriously looked like they were turning heel at that moment. Just too much that didn’t work happened during a decent match which made the decent match much less decent. Kind of a bummer – for the fans and the wrestlers.

Backstage Segment

Borash with Angle. He said he’s known Angle a long time and he’s never heard words like Angle said earlier. Angle again said he was wrong. That these young guys wrestle night in and night out, leaving it all out there. Borash asked about what Rhino said. Angle said it’s a lack of confidence on Rhino’s part. He knows Angle’s the best, so is TNA better off without Angle? And AJ Styles, he knows there’s a Triple Threat Match, but the next month he has to face Angle to see who the best. Then Desmond Wolfe (Nigel McGuinness) walks into MEM’s locker room. He said he wanted to come in and shake his hand. He said he’s ‘currently known as’ Desmond Wolfe. He called Angle sir, that he doesn’t call anyone sir. He’s watched Angle since the Olympics. The reason he’s a professional wrestler is because of Angle. The reason he’s in TNA is because of Angle. Desmond steps off to the side and regroups removing his sunglasses. Angle said to Borash how nice that was, new young guys coming into TNA. But then Wolfe turned around and went right after Angle. Upper cuts on Angle then a forearm to his back dropped Angle. The sunglasses back on and Wolfe left, Angle on the floor and Borash rushed to his side.
6/10 – I still don’t believe Angle. And if this is just a way to turn Angle face so he can feud with a heel Wolfe, it looked contrived. Also, what’s with the ‘currently known as’ thing? We all know he’s Steven Haworth, otherwise known as Nigel McGuinness. I know TNA wanted to brand a new name for him, but the introduction was strange, just odd.

Video

Of Angle meeting and being beaten down by Wolfe. Taz acknowledges that it’s McGuinness and doesn‘t know why he‘s calling himself Wolfe. I’m even more confused now!

Match #6

Time for the Ultimate X Match. Lethal Consequences out to the ring. MCMG out to face them. Three of the four climb right off the bat, but Shelley went after Lethal and Creed climbed down to go after Sabin. MCMG took it to Lethal and Creed hard and fast. Shelley up and almost to the X, but Creed pulled him down. Creed and Lethal on MCMG hard to come back into the match. Sabin used Shelley as a step to fly and take out Lethal. They then pulled Creed down from the X. Creed slammed Shelley back knocking Sabin to land in that painful way up top. Lethal on Shelley while Creed went after Sabin, still up top. Lethal up and wrapped his leg, but then pulled down to hang by one knee. All four in that corner, and it looked like it was going to be a sick move, but then Sabin went out after Lethal and took him down. Lethal got his feet up while in a corner into both Shelley and Sabin’s faces. A great dropkick from Creed about took Shelley’s head off. They went back and forth with clotheslines, kicks and then a beautiful double team move on Shelley! “TNA” chants. Sabin fights them both off until Lethal gets a full Boston crab on Sabin. Creed used this time to climb. Shelley back in to grab Creed. Shelley got Creed up, Sabin who got free of Lethal hit a springboard clothesline on Creed from power bomb position! Sabin pointed up and climbed. He had his hand on the X, but before he could get it free, Lethal pulled him down and hit the Lethal combination. Shelley started climbing but Lethal stopped him on the corner. Sabin got involved and hit sliced bread off the top. Shelley favored his knee after landing, but Sabin up and across. Creed got across too, but was too late, Sabin got the X free and dropped. They celebrated and Shelley was really favoring that knee.
9.5/10 – That was kick ass. Not much to say about it as there’s not really much you can say about a match like that. You just have to see it to experience it.

Backstage Segment

West promoting and telling us where TNA house shows are going to be soon.

Backstage Segment

Lauren with TBI. Interesting to note that Williams and Magnus are holding the TNA TTC belts, though it was Rob Terry who pulled them down – even thought he wasn’t part of the match. She congratulates them for their win. Williams said it was a foregone conclusion that they’d win, beating BMI and 3D. They pushed out MEM. Magnus said the place’s still full of fat, useless slobs. Alcohol and money, the only things Americans care about. Tonight they make them sober and poor. They’re taking them out. Sorry about your bloody luck.
6/10 – They were actually better than usual on mic. Brutus was somewhat charming in that British heel way. Kind of how William Regal can come off charming, even when he’s being an ass. Then again, Regal’s damn good in the ring too. The only one of TBI who’s worth his weight in the ring is Williams. That they’re champions again is a real rotter.

Backstage Segment

Borash said it’s their last opportunity. Roode said it’s the only opportunity they need. They faced Booker and Steiner, 3D and TBI. Tonight it’s just the two teams in Six Sides Of Steel. Plus no Rob Terry in there to protect their backsides. Then Storm tweaked about being sober and poor. Roode hasn’t been poor since the day he was born and Storm hasn’t been sober since the night he left yo mamma’s house the night you were conceived. He as a question for you, who’s your daddy? This is their home away from home, six sides of steel. And they say sorry about your bloody luck? Take the tampon out and grow a pair! Sorry about your damn luck!
7/10 – I’m not usually thrilled about that type of locker room talk, but it worked. I wasn’t offended and actually laughed aloud. Something about Storm is also charming. He’s that fun guy you like to go drinking with – basically how he’s been cultivated. This team is so great and works so well in and out of the ring. They deserve the straps and were screwed at BFG. But that might make it that much more interesting.

Match #7

Both teams came out to the ring, then TNA went to commercial. When they came back the match was already started. Roode on Williams in the ring working hard. Roode pinned Williams. Magnus flew in but Roode moved and Williams ate the elbow from his teammate. Fabulous suplex from Williams. Magnus came in a couple times for double teams. Roode fought back but couldn’t get free to tag out. Roode into the cage and shuddered and fell back. Taz went on about there being six sides to their ring, so there’s so much more steel than in other companies’ steel cage matches. Roode slammed Magnus into the cage and then hit a great spine buster. Storm finally made the tag and really took both of them apart. A double suplex on Magnus into the cage, then they got him up again and hit a true suplex on him. BMI get the fans into it. Roode slingshots Magnus into a DDT from Storm, but only for two. Williams up top of the cage. Storm climbed up and hit Williams in the family jewels. They lined up and hit a tower of doom. Taz was in awe, but it looked so contrived. They took Williams out and pinned him, but Magnus decked Slick. A couple refs in to check on Slick and keep BMI from TBI. Hebner DQd TBI so BMI won the match. But TBI didn’t lose their belts in the loss.
8/10 – The match was good, but very little of the good was Magnus. The man just doesn’t have the talent of the other three. Roode sold his rib injuries that were inflicted by Terry at BFG. Storm was the powerhouse of the match and looked great. There was really nothing wrong with the match, but it didn’t leave me with that warm glowy feeling of seeing something awe inspiring that the Ultimate X Match did. I think if these matches had been split up this one would have gone over better. Two high spot gimmick matches in a row kind of burns out your brain. So while this was a great match, I think it would have been better if it hadn’t come right after the Ultimate X Match.

Backstage

Angle stomped for the ring in wrestling gear.

Backstage Segment

Lauren chased AJ through the darkened parking lot to ask him about a possible issue between him and Daniels. He said it’s her job to stir the pot, but they were just talking over a little strategy. Lauren said to Tenay and Taz that there was nothing as she walked away. But then AJ was attacked from behind in the conveniently shadowed parking lot, from behind a convenient building that AJ’s SUV was backed up to the corner of. No clue who attacked him. The person fled as Lauren ran full out to get back to AJ.
5/10 – Just so contrived! And I don’t know any woman who’d run full out at an attacker who was obviously much bigger than she, when they were attacking someone who’s obviously not that close to her. Most women would run for help, the safest thing to do in a darkened parking lot. But this is written by men. Men who have been known to write very inexplicable storylines. So I guess I should be glad that’s all Lauren did there.

In ring Segment

Angle came down to the ring in wrestling gear, mic in hand, ranting the whole way. He’s pissed about people who make a name for themselves at the expense of Angle. Whatever his name is, why doesn’t he come out and look him in the eye. Ring workers held parts of the cage up, most of it was down, but not all. People fled when Angle got in the ring, but held the cage up so it wouldn’t fall on Angle or the fans. Angle left the ring but was attacked from the side by Wolfe. Wolfe then removes his jacket folded it and put it on the apron before smiling and returning to Angle. Angle got the upper hand then. Angle rolled him into the ring, but Wolfe came back with a low blow to drop Angle. Wolfe got Angle up on a corner, one with part of cage still there. Then he DDTd Angle off the corner. Angle left laying in the center of the ring while the fans chanted “You suck” at him. Wolfe grabbed a chair and returned to the ring. He put to the top fo the chair to Angle’s throat and said it would be this easy. He knows about Angle’s neck, but he wants Angle to think about it. Then he yelled down at Angle that his name is Wolfe, Desmond Wolfe. Huge heat from the fans. More “You suck” chants. He stood over Angle in the ring.
7/10 – So they turned Angle face in one night so Wolfe could start a feud with him? And the fans in the Impact Zone were behind Angle from that small amount of change? I just don’t see it. Too big of a change too quickly. Doesn’t sit right with me. Also, I heard that there was some heat on Angle for something that happened at the end of the taping of this Impact. Something that happened when Angle came down to the ring. I have no clue what that’s about, or what Angle did wrong – other than bad acting as turning face. So I’m clueless.

Post Show

There were parts of this show that were amazing, but most of it left me scratching my head. As I said, I know that after a big PPV storylines change. The problem is that there has to be some continuity. The biggest heel in the company can’t suddenly love everyone and want to appreciate them all just because creative want him to feud with a new heel coming in. And then Rhino is suddenly extremely paranoid about losing his job to all the young guys, that they’re all going to lose their jobs. 3D stood up for Rhino after all the abuse he’s put them through. Just things that are too far fetched to be believable.

The only thing that did make some sense it TNA pushing the younger guys. The problem is that they made such a huge point of it. They went on and on about how wonderful these young wrestlers are – the same wrestlers we’ve been itching to watch week in and week out – as if they suddenly appeared on TNA’s doorstep out of the blue. Theses men have been paying their dues for so long and deserve to be on the show the way they’re talking. The problem is they’re talking about it so much that it makes me wonder if Russo suddenly looked at all the backlogged comments about TNA from the past couple years and suddenly realized what the fans want to see. They realized it and are showing us how on board they are by verbally jamming it down our throats.

And what’s the deal with all the new graphics? There was no continuity to it. This person had a stat sheet on the screen here, then that person had their finisher shoved there, but someone else only had their physical stats. It had no flow and made very little sense about why they did it.

I hope this isn’t indication of things ahead now that Russo and Ferrera are back together! They were known for storylines that were way out there and made little sense to many. Tonight’s show reeked of that. I must admit I’m a little worried after this episode.

KB

Bound For Glory is TNA’s superlative PPV. TNA’s equivalent of WM! So many interesting matches lined up for this show of the year.

Pre-Show Match – Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin vs. Jay Lethal & Consequences Creed

This match will air on MyContent.com during the pre-show that starts at 7:30. What I don’t understand is why these fabulous wrestlers aren’t on BFG! These are some of the best wrestlers in the company and they’ve been delegated to pre-show pergatory! That’s worse that mid-card hell! Lethal and Creed haven’t been on Impact in weeks and the only time we’ve seen the MCMG is during vignettes and promos, never in the ring. What a horribly wasteful way to treat such prodigious talent. Any or all of these men could easily have been booked in the Ultimate X Match. These are X-Division wrestlers and should be given a chance to show their wares in the title match but TNA didn’t feel these teams should be on the PPV for some reason. Personally I think it’s a daft decision by creative, but as I’m not on the team, I have no say in the matter. But I do have to pick who I think will win this match. Sadly this match has very little bearing on anything, so it really doesn’t matter who wins it. As MCMG have been getting more of a push than Lethal Consequences, I think I will go with them. As long as they’re both back in the ring on Impact in the near future, I’ll be happy. Winners – MCMG

Wrestling’s Best vs. Wrestling’s Future – Kurt Angle vs. Matt Morgan

This match brings me back a couple months to the first big PPV match between DX and Legacy. While most people felt DX should job to Legacy, many didn’t think the egos of HHH and HBK would allow that. Impressively Cody and Ted managed to take out DX by first removing HHH from the equation and then destroying HBK who finally tapped out to a double submission. Those in the know thought it was great that HHH and HBK were willing to take the fall for these up and coming second generation superstars. But then, at HIAC, DX destroyed Legacy. Bringing everything back to status quo. This match has the exact same feel as that first PPV match between DX and Legacy. While Matt Morgan should easily go over Angle and take his place as the rising superstar he is, I’m really not sure Angle can get over his ego and allow Morgan the win at TNA’s biggest PPV of the year. So while I’d love to give this match to Morgan, I think Angle will throw his weight around backstage and win this match to keep some honor in MEM. Winner – Kurt Angle

MMA vs. TNA: Submission Match – Bobby Lashley vs. Samoa Joe

*Sigh* This is just the continuation of a daft feud that seems to be screwing Joe at every turn. Not only did Joe lose his X-Division Championship in a screwy way due to this feud, but now he’s almost guaranteed to lose at BFG! Lashley has been booked to be unbeatable since joining TNA and I don’t see as that will change in this match. I really dislike seeing a fabulous wrestler like Joe get screwed in this way, but it seems to be how it’s going to go. TNA creative seems to think they have to book Lashley as unstoppable because of his MMA career, or possibly it’s written into his contract – we’ll never know. All I know is that Joe is being made to look weak in his feud against Lashley. Winner – Lashley

Monster’s Ball: Hardcore Extreme – Mick Foley vs. Abyss

I have said week after week that this would have been a great feud if Foley had been in his prime. Instead we’re being forced to watch Foley, past his prime, trying to keep up with a man 8 years his junior. I don’t think there’s any way TNA could book this match for Foley to win, but they have booked some rather ‘creative’ endings in the past – so who knows! Honestly, I think Abyss should win in a passing of the torch type thing as has been going on with Sting and AJ Styles, but (as with Angle) I’m not sure Foley’s ego is ready for that. So while Abyss should win this match, I don’t think he will. Unless, for some reason Dr. Stevie turns on Foley or someone extremely unexpected shows up out of the blue to help Abyss, I think the odds are too stacked against Abyss on this night. Winner – Mick Foley

TNA Knockouts Tag Team Championship – Taylor Wilde & Sarita vs. The Beautiful People

This is actually the easiest match on the card to predict, in my opinion. Taylor Wilde and Sarita are a very strong tag team and TBP have had a lot of issues the past couple months. Also, it’s only been a month since Wilde and Sarita won the newly created TNA Knockout TTC’s, therefore too early for them to lose them. The only way TBP could win is if Lacey caused havoc from outside the ring. I’m sure she will become involved somehow, but I doubt enough to sway the match to the side of TBP. While I don’t expect a top notch match, it will be better than if Lacey Von Erich was actually slated to be in the ring. Winners – Taylor Wilde & Sarita

Ultimate X Match for the X Division Championship – Amazing Red (c) vs. Suicide vs. D’Angelo Dinero vs. Daniels vs. Homicide

This should be a breathtaking match! They’re great wrestlers and in the ultimate match for X-Division wrestlers. I know, too corny, but it’s true! While any of them could win this match and all of them except The Pope have been X-Division Champion, only one man can win this. I wasn’t thrilled with how Amazing Red won the X-Division Championship from Joe, but I do think Amazing Red is a tremendous wrestler and deserves to be Champion. I think with the addition of Don West as Amazing Red’s ‘cheerleader’ that Amazing Red will retain the Championship. They’re really giving Amazing Red a push and I don’t see it ending here. Winner – Amazing Red

Full Metal Mayhem for the TNA & IWGP Tag Team Championships – Scott Steiner & Booker T (c) vs. Team 3D vs. Beer Money vs. British Invasion (c)

Well, there’s so much going on with so many of these wrestlers and these titles that this match is bound to be the talk of the week. On top of all the talk about Booker T wanting to go back to WWE and Scott Steiner being unhappy in TNA and wanting to leave, I just read that NJPW is dissatisfied with TNA’s treatment of the IWGP Tag Team Championship. If you remember NJPW at first refused to recognize TBI as the new IWGP TTC’s. A month later NJPW put out a press release accepting TBI as the TTC’s, but with no word as to why they changed their minds. Well, Richard reported (Friday 10/16/09) that NJPW does not want TBI to hold the IWGP TTC’s because TBI is not over in Japan the way wrestlers like Kurt Angle and Team 3D are. The only reason NJPW agreed to have the IWGP TTC’s on TNA is for popularity. Richard reported that most fans in Japan still think Team 3D hold the IWGP TTC’s and it might play a factor in booking this match. I think it’s more than a ‘might’ in this case. Because of all that’s going on with the wrestlers and these titles, I see both of them changing hands. I’ll be absolutely shocked if they don’t, even with Russo and Ferrera at the creative helm. While I’m not thrilled about the convoluted match, I think it will be made interesting because of who’s involved. BMI and Team 3D are always creative when in the ring together and TBI seem to complement them well. Because of NJPW’s feeling and the Japanese fans, I see Team 3D recapturing the IWGP TTC’s from TBI. And because of Booker T and Scott Steiner possibly leaving, I see them dropping the TNA TTC’s. As to who should win them? I think BMI makes most sense. First of all, I don’t see TBI dropping one set of titles only to pick up the other. Secondly, it would be very interesting to see BMI and Team 3D each with a set of titles. It would continue their feuding/friendship in the vein they’ve been going the past couple months. And no, I don’t see one team winning both sets of titles. Winners – Team 3D / IWGP & BMI / TNA

TNA Legends Championship Match – Kevin Nash (c) vs. Hernandez vs. Eric Young

Kevin Nash really shouldn’t be in the ring and most everyone who’s followed wrestling for years would agree with that, but I think he’s going to be the spice needed to make this match interesting. When EY offered Nash $30,00 to join this match and put his title up, I really didn’t see the possibilities. I just thought that EY was covering his bum so he wouldn’t have to face Hernandez one on one. But after watching further episodes of Impact and seeing EY declaring victory in the war over MEM, I see something a lot more interesting going down in this match. EY is so high on his horse and power hungry that I see him letting Nash and Hernandez beating the heck out of each other and then pinning one of them to steal Nash’s Legends Championship – the one he promised Nash wouldn’t be in any danger. The longer EY’s a heel, the more maniacal and interesting he becomes! Winner – Eric Young

TNA Knockouts Championship Match – ODB (c) vs. Awesome Kong vs. Tara

I have gone round and round with this match. There’s so many ways it could go down that would work. The only thing that really wouldn’t work is ODB retaining the Knockout Championship. I know she’s had it for a very short time, but she’s really not representing it as well as so many other Knockouts could. Actually, I want to see Flash or Hamada in the championship race as they’re both mind-blowing wrestlers, but I guess we have to just enjoy their feud while it lasts. Of the three in this match it makes most sense for Kong to win. She’s by far the most dominant of the three but I don’t think she’ll win this one. I think Tara will eek it out somehow. If Tara were to win she’d have both Kong and ODB on her tail and it could make for some interesting matches in the future. Winner – Tara

TNA Championship Match – AJ Styles (c) vs. Sting

My boyfriend and I have been ‘discussing’ this match for the past couple days. He seems to think one way about the match and I see it going down completely differently. He thinks Sting will continue his BFG winning streak and then go on to retire before too much longer. I, on the other hand, feel that AJ hasn’t been Champion long enough and I don’t see as TNA would take the strap off him this soon – even for Sting. But I also don’t see Sting losing at BFG and retiring immediately. Personally I see some sort of flummox happening in this match and it not coming to a clean ending. Possibly someone unexpected showing up and getting involved (so many possibilities there!), some sort of double count out or other screwy ending that leaves neither winning or losing – no contest of some sort. That way Styles won’t lose his WHC and Sting won’t lose and retire. Winner – N/A

Honestly there’s a lot of really great matches on this card. Yes, a few sleepers, but the majority of these matches have the possibility to be awe inspiring. If the booking goes along with the ability of the wrestlers in the matches, then most of them will be of main even quality. Basically if Russo and Ferrera can keep their egos in check, this BFG could be the best ever and rival a number of WM’s! Or it could all go down the tubes with ‘creative’ endings and interference. The talent is there for it to be amazing, it all comes down to the booking.

I hope Carter can keep the creative team in check to give us the PPV that Bound For Glory should rightfully be. She’s no Vince McMahon, but hopefully she can reign them in so they don’t do anything horrible to mess up TNA’s PPV of the year.

KB

Okay, now that I got that out of my system I can focus on the world of wrestling at large. I also want to send out my heartfelt regards to the family and friends of Captain Lou Albano. I know how hard it is to lose someone and that it’s hard to deal with. I have always been such a huge Albano fan that I wanted to send out my own personal regards. I’ve been watching Albano lately on UWF and he makes me smile every time he’s on the screen. He had such talent and such an amazingly long career. The list of talent he managed can barely be rivaled. I’m hugely impressed with the outpouring of love for Albano’s passing. Shows me what a big heart so many wrestlers have. Matt Morgan, Daniels, Taz, Borash, Kong, and Creed have all put out comments this week, and that’s just TNA wrestlers. I think it’s very cool how the younger wrestlers honor those who come before them, whether they personally knew them or not.

I have been rather shocked and impressed with the number of questions Richard’s been asked and has answered about TNA this past week. Questions about Booker are to be expected after the comments he’s made and we’ll just have to wait and see what happens there. Then there was the question about Kurt Angle that caught my attention. Someone asked about Angle’s weight loss. I, personally, had thought Angle had been looking much thinner for a couple of years, even before he left WWE. It was in early 2006 when Angle was on SD! and held the WWE WHC that he seemed to be getting thinner. It’s true that he was having some serious issues with injuries and pain meds, but that’s when the weight loss started. His arms seemed to get very thin and spindly. When he went to TNA his weight seemed to level out for a couple years. Then this past summer Angle seemed to lose even more weight. Now he’s looking scary thin and not much like the powerful wrestler he used to be. None of us (fans) really know what it is that’s causing Angle’s weight loss, but I know I’m concerned. I have always been a fan of Angle as a wrestler, but I worry about his long term injuries and drugs taking a toll on his body and his brain.

It’s official, Ed Ferrera has been added to the TNA creative team. This move was expected ever since he was brought in to TNA. This is also the other question that caught my attention in Ask WNW today and is something that’s been bothering me. I do not understand why TNA would bring in Ferrera to work with Russo. We’ve been talking here for the past year about Russo and how so much of what he does has been horrible storylines that didn’t do well in WCW and are doing even worse in TNA. I think putting Ferrera and Russo together without having a strong personality like Vince McMahon to run roughshod over them is going to be a huge step back for TNA. While much of what TNA has been putting on TV lately is better than it was six months ago, it’s still nowhere near up to par to be a threat to WWE. I, like Richard, am shocked that Carter would put them together after knowing the schlock they put out in WCW. Many people in TNA were in WCW during those fateful days, but yet these two are back together? Honestly, I’m mortified to think of the direction TNA could take under their creative tutelage, yet if people keep watching and the ratings persevere, Carter will have no reason to not leave them in creative control. I guess all we can do right now is watch and wait to see what TNA will produce.

Main Event Mafia was created almost a year ago. It was October 23rd of last year, at their Las Vegas Impact, that MEM was created by and of a group of champions. Now it looks like two of those champions want out of not just MEM, but out of TNA. The rumors have been flying, but it really seems as though both Booker T and Scott Steiner might be leaving TNA before too very long. Possibly as soon as right after Bound For Glory. While I’m not a fan of either of them in the ring, I am really bummed about Steiner. He’s so great on mic, with rare comedic timing. But it seems as though with Jeff Jarrett not at the top of the totem pole, Steiner is not happy either. When MEM formed it was an interesting group that grew stale very quickly. Many of us have been waiting for MEM to crumble in a spectacular way, but it might just fade away into oblivion.

Now for one little piece of gossip. I say gossip because it has not been reported on WNW, therefore take it with a huge grain of salt. But I have to at least make a little comment about it because it made me giggle. This goes back to a couple of my previous blogs, but mainly last week’s rant about Lacey Von Erich’s lack of in ring ability, but unparalleled knack for running her mouth. Well, the rumor is that she’s already acquired a rather unflattering pet name in the locker room. I saw that Lacey’s been referred to as ‘Rhaka Blonde’ as the only positive industry quality she exhibits is ornamental. It’s also been claimed she’s ‘another Kerry Von Erich’ mentally because she has no common sense. Please remember, this is all rumor, none of this has been verified!

Show Starts

Video

Setting up for Bound For Glory and this three hour show preparing for it, with many video clips from all the major feuds.

In Ring Segment

MEM in the ring to heat. Angle said he’s dressed for battle. He says he usually preaches in a suit and tie about the wonders of MEM. But tonight is a very special night. Tonight he faces the TNA WHC, AJ Styles. He’s not there to talk about that. He’s there to talk about the one year anniversary of MEM. At BFG is their one year. BFG is the biggest PPV of all. He wants to make sure his warriors are ready. He didn’t come out for the fans, he came out for them. Nash is the Legends Champ. Why? He’s a legend! Not EY, not Hernandez. And he’ll kick their asses all over the ring at BFG. Samoa Joe needs to bring his nation of violence to the great MMA fighter of Lashley. Steiner, Booker T, what can he say more about them? They’ve held more titles, tag and singles than anyone else combined. So at BFG they need to win! The fans are giving huge heat. As the Godfather of MEM he’ll hold up his end of the bargain by taking Morgan down and defeating him. When he does he’ll get his shot at his TNA WHC. This is their time. And the time is now! But then out comes AJ, Morgan, Hernandez, Lashley, BMI and Team 3D. Ray says he’s curious if everyone’s as sick and tired of listening to them as he is. He then announces our TNA WHC, AJ Styles. The fans are LOUD! AJ said he wasn’t sure if he heard Angle right in saying this was make or break for MEM? The biggest PPV, BFG! It’s break for MEM! They’re three days away from MEM ceasing to exist. Morgan grabbed the mic and said he ain’t waiting. Morgan rushed the ring, Lashley right on his tail and the rest followed suit. The ring was full of fighting. Security rushed the ring to stop it all. Joe, Angle, Nash, all of MEM backed up the ramp. AJ broke free and went up to get into it. They were broken up. Then Lashley and Joe got into it before the show broke for commercial.
8/10 – That was very quick and set up the show wonderfully. They didn’t drag out what could have been a horribly long MEM segment with Angle going on and on. They also didn’t drag out the fighting before breaking it up and going to commercial. I’m very impressed with how this show started!

Announce Segment

Taz was actually in a suit and looking dapper. Video of the fighting that started the show and then they talked about Angle facing off with AJ tonight.

Match #1

TBP out to the ring, all in pink and black. Rayne and Velvet Sky matched outfits, but Lacey’s looked like an after thought. Tara has Poison in hand looking very tough. Kong out, wearing a lot more makeup than she normally does, with Saeed in tow. ODB rounded out their team in her normal bawdy way. Video of Tara protecting Poison last week but then losing to ODB. Kong attacked her two partners from behind and then started to back up the ramp. TBP attacked ODB in the ring – Lacey held her while the other two attacked. Kong came back to send Tara into the barrier. Rayne and Velvet Sky tagged in and out keeping control over ODB. Tara tagged in and took apart Rayne and Sky in the ring and knocked Lacey down on the apron. Slapped Tara’s ass in a tag as she climbed. They argued and Tara hit a superkick on ODB. Velvet Sky pinned ODB for three. TBP celebrated in the ring.
3/10 – The booking of that match made no sense! If they wanted to show us good Knockout wrestling they would not have teamed Kong, Tara and ODB together! The whole thing was just a mess. The best thing I can say for it is at least we didn’t have to watch Lacey try to wrestle!

Backstage Segment

Lauren with The Pope. He did a Stacker 2 mini-commercial before she could talk to him. She asked about him in his first Ultimate X Match. He wonders why she questions him. He says Daniels will be nothing more than a pothole on his road to glory. He asks if her hands are clean and then puts her right hand on his heart. He says in his chest is the heart of a lion. He’s a Champion who cannot be contained. More on Stacker 2 and he says everyone in the X-Division needs to bow down to him.
6/10 – Everyone knows I haven’t been impressed with The Pope so far, but I thought that was much better! I really am looking forward to more of him and watching him grow on mic. He wasn’t fabulous, but was so much better than any of the other promos we’ve seen from him since he joined TNA.

Backstage Segment

Lauren asked Lashley about facing Rhino in a Stretcher Match just before facing Joe in a Submission Match at BFG. She asks how he stays so cool? He says he is cool. He laughed that off and said it’s all business. Then Rhino gored Lashley to the floor and said there won’t be a BFG for Lashley after tonight.
5/10 – I would like to give Lashley a lowed rating, but Rhino’s attack actually made that segment worth something. It set up for their match and showed how tough Rhino is. Lashley looked like an absolutely arrogant git right there. Reminded me of Goldberg.

Video

Ultimate X 17… Video about the Ultimate X Matches of the past and setting up for BFG. Basically the video was a spotfest.

Match #2

Suicide out via the ramp! Amazing Red out with Don West in tow! Video from Amazing Red beating Joe last week after Joe invited Lashley into the ring. Taz asked why West was ringside while Amazing Red and Suicide really went at it with some beautiful chain wrestling! My DISH feed keep blacking out for split seconds, but Amazing Red looked beautiful with arm drags and then a great dropkick on Suicide. Suicide started to fight back, but it didn’t last and West is being a great cheerleader. Amazing Red off the top but Suicide caught him in the air. Amazing Red got free and gained control again. Suicide got Amazing Red up on his shoulder and then rolled through followed with a leg drop off the top rope, but it wasn’t enough. Suicide up but The Pope rushed down and interfered in the match. The ref called for the bell as The Pope continued to beat the heck out of Suicide. The Pope set up for his finisher but Amazing Red cut The Pope off with a dropkick as The Pope ran at Suicide.
8/10 – It this match had gone to a natural ending it probably would have rated a 9.5, but that interference screwed that up. There was some beautiful wrestling between Kaz and Amazing Red in that match. Those two men were leaving it all out there and it was inspired. I understand wanting to set up for the PPV, but not at the expense of a match as hot as that one! TNA should trust their roster to give the fans what they want and not screw up almost every ending! Second match and second screwed up ending!

Backstage Segment

Borash with West and Amazing Red. West said he’s always been the biggest Amazing Red fan. Amazing Red went to him to be his official promoter. West went into his sales pitch for the Ultimate X Match and Amazing Red in this match. West announced that the match isn’t for a title shot, but now for the X-Division Championship.
8/10 – The perfect role for West, they found it! He’s such a pitchman and he did a great job with it. He’s always so pumped up and ready to sell. Well, he sold me on that match and Amazing Red – even though I’d been sold on both already.

Match #3

EY came out dressed in his suit, but seemed to have a slight limp. Part way to the ring he stopped and gave a strange look to someone in the audience, then got his composure back and went to announce. He said to Tenay that the war is over and WE won. Hernandez headed out, but headed right for EY. EY stood up to stare. Hernandez said out of respect for Tenay and Taz he wouldn’t do anything then, but wait for BFG. Hernandez to the ring and EY said Hernandez knew when to walk away because EY was about to knock him out. TBI out to the stage for the Gauntlet Match. Doug Williams out first but Hernandez just tossed him around the ring like a rag! Williams was finally able to fight back and get a two count. Williams had the upper hand for a bit, but Hernandez used power and got the three. Hernandez got ready for Magnus who headed for the ring, but Williams attacked Hernandez from behind and landed him face first on the mat. Magnus kept the upper hand Williams developed, but could only get a two count. Hernandez tried to power back in, but a backdrop from Magnus kept the control. Hernandez finally came back with his over the top shoulder block. The shirt came off and Hernandez used it to fling Magnus across the ring. EY said his plan was working perfectly. Border toss on Magnus for three. Terry snuck in and clotheslined Hernandez to the mat. Terry kept powering Hernandez with slams and punches, but then Terry ate a powebomb for three and it was over. EY snuck from announce, grabbed a kendo stick and attacked Hernandez from behind. Shot to the head and neck. Magnus and Williams got in on it and all four posed over Hernandez.
6/10 – While there was a clean ending there, it was over booked after the bell! Can we please just have a clean match? Also, I’d love to give Hernandez and Williams a better rating, but I can’t because of Magnus, Terry and EY. Magnus isn’t wonderful and Terry just sucks! It’s nice to see Hernandez power through other wrestlers, but it would be better if they were actually good wrestlers! TNA, heck WE has wrestlers who are so much better than Magnus and Terry! Bashir, Kiyoshi, and EY wrestle circles around those two. Again, another badly booked match, but I do have to say I’m very happy to see so much actual wrestling compared to all the talking we could be enduring! Three matches in one hour is a glorious thing from TNA.

Video

Earlier interview conducted by Tenay. The four team captains were over Tenay’s shoulder on four separate monitors where the tron usually is. He asked Ray how he reacts to TNA saying it will be the final battle between these four teams and after what happened at the contract signing it will be under Full Metal Mayhem Rules. Ray said from a Ladder Match to FMM. He and Devon are not strangers to this, everything allowed. They’re going to recapture the two sets of titles they’ve been screwed out of. Tenay asked Roode if BMI and 3D can work together at BFG, as it would be to their advantage. Roode said that of course it would be to their advantage, but it’s every team for themselves. They can walk in and capture these titles. He and James are more prepared than ever and are coming in to win them all. Tenay then addressed Booker about being at war with TBI. Booker said he should have had the first question as he’s ½ of the TNA Tag Team Champs. BMI are rookies who they’ve beaten over and over. 3D are title hungry and can’t handle not being champions. Ray flapped his hand indicating that Booker’s just flapping his gums. Then there’s those British guys who will be wasted by MEM. Magnus goes off on Booker, but Booker talked right over him and I really couldn’t get what either of them said. Tenay cut them off to tell them that their partners were in a brawl. Tenay said there was a camera there, but all the guys looked concerned and were taking off their mics. Devon slammed Steiner onto a table while Storm and Williams fought. The other four got in on the fight. Ray slammed Steiner with a ladder and then threw it, but it went over Booker’s head. TBI had Storm down on a table choking him. The brawl was just going round and round.
6/10 – An interesting way of doing things and it didn’t run too long, but it also didn’t hold my attention very well either. I’m not saying I have a better idea for setting up more interest in this match at BFG, just that I don’t think Russo and Ferrera did a fabulous job with what they did do.

Backstage Segment

Lauren with AJ in the locker room. She said his most important match is at BFG, but tonight faces Angle. Shouldn’t he have waited to face Angle? Angle wouldn’t have taken no for an answer. Besides, he’s a fighting Champion. Sting’s the Icon and Angle’s considered the best in the business today, where does that leave him? He’s TNA WHC! Between tonight and BFG, he can’t leave any doubts hanging over his head. Between Angle and him, they need to know who’s best. Could it effect his match with Sting? Yes, but only if Angle’s right and he doesn’t see that happening.
8/10 – And AJ’s back on! I don’t understand how some weeks he so good and some weeks he’s so blah! The thing I really take exception to in that segment is AJ saying that Angle’s the best in the business today. I really don’t think Angle is the best in the business right now. That could go to Daniels, Joe, Danielson, or even Styles himself. Angle’s just much too old, stiffer and injured to be the best today.

Match #4

The Pope out to the ring in all his regalia. Video of Homicide attacking Urbina last week. The Pope in the ring raised his arms and then money fell from the rafters. Daniels out to the ring and ready to fight. They went back and forth in the ring. Thumb to Daniels’ eye and The Pope in control. The Pope looked really strong in the ring throwing solid moves. Daniels sold every one of them. The Pope was about to use his blindfold on Daniels but Slick took it. So The Pope used tape from his wrist to choke Daniels. Daniels was able to fight back and gain control. The Pope off a corner, but Daniels caught him in the air and slammed him down. Then The Pope grabbed Daniels’ ankle so he couldn’t climb. More back and forth fighting and they bridged up together. Angel slam from Daniels for three. Suicide’s music and out he comes. The Pope on a corner begging off, but then Suicide attacks Daniels and really beats him down. Off comes the mask and it’s actually Homicide. He smiles at the camera but then runs as security rushed the ring.
8/10 – I haven’t been the biggest The Pope fan, but that match was really good! I’m blown away by how good The Pope looked in the ring with Daniels. That match was tight, but then they had to over book the end of that match to screw it up. Four matches and four creative blunders!

Backstage

Foley headed for the ring with a clear bucket of popcorn in hand.

In Ring Segment

Foley heads out with the popcorn still in hand, mic in the other hand. On his head is a mask made out of a brown paper bag. There’s a red barcalounger in the ring. He pulled the mask down and talked about how scary it was. He said he wore a mask like this for about three years, but then they were mass marketed and anyone with a few dollars could buy one and pretend to be Foley. Anybody, including Chris Parks. Foley got comfortable in his chair and removed the mask. He said on the eve of BFG, facing the Monster Abyss in a Monsters Ball with Stevie as the Guest Ref. Abyss might be an imitation Mick Foley, but he’s a good imitation Mick Foley. In celebration of that imitation goodness he wants us to sit back, relax and watch while we recap his greatest hits. Video of Abyss as Foley goes on and on about Abyss being an imitation and about him wearing the mask. Clip number two showed Abyss dumping out tacks in a ring, not since Foley invented it in Japan in 1995. Clip three, blazing ripoff, engulfed in flames. The match Edge had with Foley in 2006. Clip number four… Abyss’ music cut Foley off. Abyss out in his flannel with barbie in hand. Foley never moved from his chair. Abyss got in the ring and used two hands on barbie and plowed it right into Foley’s chest/throat area. The barcalounger flipped back and Abyss followed Foley to the mat. Foley told Abyss to look at the screen. Abyss to his feet. A blonde is tied to a chair crying – but it looked like a wig and sounded more like Daffney. Dr. Stevie is there with her. Foley kept telling Abyss to run to her. Stevie kept telling Abyss to find him as the crying continued. Abyss fled the ring. Foley sat up, held barbie on end and ate popcorn from the floor looking all the world like a five year old boy missing his two front teeth watching the most entertaining movie ever.
7/10 – That was actually pretty good. I don’t want to see Foley in the ring, but he’s still good at the sadistic side of things. This storyline, Abyss and Stevie, has been the best in TNA this year. I wish the feud was continuing more between them, but I have to say I am enjoying the darker side of the story and how it just continues to unravel over time. The toying with Abyss continues and it’s been the most creative storyline on the show since Stevie arrived. I wasn’t sure how they’d continue it and keep it fresh, but they’re still managing.

Backstage Segment

Borash started a mobile mini-commercial, but Homicide in Suicide gear cut through the screen. He cut back and took Borash’s mic. He said he’s not getting sent home. He attacked Suicide and stole his colors. At Ultimate X Homicide will be representing. Oh, and Suicide is one ugly sucker! But he knows who Suicide is now. Actually he knew all along, but now he’s going to hold it over him. Security showed up and grabbed him.
6/10 – Not the best on mic, but he sure made it interesting! I have to say I hope this is the beginning of the end for Suicide. I’d so much rather have Kaz in the ring without this horrible costume. The Suicide character has to go. Or maybe in blackmailing Suicide Homicide will turn Suicide heel. So many different ways they can take this one. I like it!

Match #5

Falls Count Anywhere Match with a ten minute time limit! Hamada out, but before she even left the stage Flash attacked her from behind. Hamada removed her coat and they started up there. Back body drop on Hamada onto the top of the ramp. Flash worked over Hamada all the way down the ramp. Flash pinned for two. Flash pulled out a table and leaned it against the ring post. “Tables” chants. Hamada reversed it before eating the table and kicked Flash in the face. Hamada pulled off the apron to hit her face. Flash crossed Hamada’s ankles and pulled her arms back in a submission hold while the fans chanted, “Pull her hair, pull her hair!” I don’t understand that one! Flash pinned again for two. Tenay said ODB was Knockout Champion, but Flash and Hamada wanted to be considered among the elite with people like ODB and Tara. Sorry, but these women are so much better than the likes of ODB and Tara! Forearms to Hamada’s face up the ramp. Hamada sent her own forearms to Flash. Flash on the edge of the ramp. Hamada sent Flash flying off the ramp, but she landed on her feet and rolled. Hamada ran off the ramp and flipped/flew onto Flash. They both executed the move perfectly. Hamada pinned for two. Hamada went to the ring and set up the table outside. Hamada grabbed Flash by the hair and brought her to the table. Flash avoided eating the table, but then ate a spin kick form Hamada. Flash set on the table and Hamada climbed. Flash cut Hamada off. Flash set up to suplex Hamada through the table but Hamada reversed it into a jumping DDT on the apron. Hamada put Flash back on the table and climbed. Hamada hit her moonsault sending Flash through the table and pinned Flash for three.
9/10 – That was out of this world! I have been saying for weeks now that I’ve been itching for this feud to start, to see these two in the ring. Wow, was it worth the wait. Even me, who really doesn’t like gimmicky matches, loved that. Only thing that could have made it better would have been if it was longer. Other than that, those women are amazing and I can’t wait to see more! I have to say that watching that almost made up for all the screwed up endings of every other match so far on this show, almost. Thank you Anderson and Hamada!

Backstage Segment

Borash in MEM’s locker room with Angle. He said it’s the most anticipated match up in Impact history, but he has to ask if facing AJ has shaken his focus from Morgan? Angle said not at all. He’ll beat AJ and soar into BFG. Breaking down the facts – AJ is no Angle. Morgan is no Angle. They’re good, but not the best. Tonight he’ll show that AJ can’t hold Angle’s title. At BFG Morgan will learn that you don’t cross the Godfather.
6/10 – It was good, but we’ve heard so much of Angle lately that I’m just too burnt out! Actually, that was quite good compared to what we’ve sen from Angle the past couple months, but I’m just too sick of hearing him rant or whine in numerous segments every week that I can’t stomach him any longer. Every time Angle speaks I think of Super Cena coming back from the brink in every match. It’s too over done and none of us want to see it any longer.

Backstage

Ambulance backing in for the Stretcher Match between Lashley and Rhino.

Match #6

Rhino out to the ring. Video of Rhino’s attack on Lashley earlier. Lashley out with his ribs taped. Wow, is his pyro pathetic! One little bright flash, and that’s it. Rhino right on Lashley and sent him off the apron into the barrier ribs first. In the ring Rhino kept on Lashley’s ribs. Numerous kicks to Lashley’s ribs. Taz, as Joe’s mentor, loves Rhino’s abuse on Lashley so close to BFG. Dueling chants for the two men, but neither were very loud. Suddenly Super Cena, I mean Lashley took over and worked over Rhino in the ring and then back out. Lashley reversed a move so Rhino hit the barrier back first. Rhino onto the stretcher and with one hand Lashley pulled Rhino along the side of the ramp. Rhino bounced off the stretcher as if he was never hurt and attacked. Into the corner of the stage and ramp. Rhino went for a gore but Lashley side stepped and Rhino hit and slightly broke the wooden front of the stage. Rhino on the stretcher and pulled to the door, but he again bounced up not selling his injuries. Rhino slammed the stretcher into Lashley’s ribs, but Lashley kicked Rhino and slammed him on a length of crowd barrier on an angle. The section bent quite easily under Rhino’s weight. Rhino back on the stretcher and Lashley loaded him into the ambulance to win the match.
3/10 – It felt like a cross between Goldberg in WCW and recent John Cena matches. The whole thing was too obvious and contrived. Rhino only sold the injuries momentarily on the stretcher and then was right back at it. Lashley’s ribs only bothered him when he remembered they were supposed to be injured. Sadly they looked like two rank amateurs, not men who have worked for the largest wrestling company in the USA. Not cool.

Backstage Segment

Abyss rushing around everywhere screaming for Lauren.

Backstage Segment

West talked about the exciting things going on during BFG weekend, including the PPV.

Backstage Segment

SoCal Val with Lashley who’s hobbling along a hallway finally selling his injuries. She asked for final words for Joe before this Sunday? He looked at the camera and asked, “Are you ready? Are you ready to tap out?” Suddenly Joe was there, put his choke on Lashley and left him in a heap.
5/10 – When Lashley asked, “Are you ready?” I was wondering if he had joined DX without telling anyone. I’m wondering if Vince, HHH or HBK are going to get pissy about that one. Other than Joe’s passion, there was very little good there.

Announce Segment

Tenay and Taz run through the matches slated for BFG.

Backstage segment

Abyss rushed up on the blonde tied to the chair, calling Lauren’s name. She bounced up, turned around and whipped off the wig. Of course it was Daffney laughing in Abyss’ face. Then, of course, Stevie attacked Abyss from behind. Abyss started to fight back on Stevie, but then Foley was there using barbie on Abyss. Foley said that Abyss thought Daffney was Lauren, but she was only a copy. Foley hit Abyss over and over with barbie as he tied the imitation storyline in, as if we didn’t understand what was going on.
6/10 – Just felt too obvious and contrived. It was obvious that the blonde hair was a wig and the crying was Daffney. I know it was meant to show that Abyss is ruled by his emotions and is still very childlike in many ways, but it didn’t feel real enough. I think this is the first segment of this continuing storyline – other than Foley and Abyss in the ring – that I haven’t completely enjoyed. Hopefully this isn’t the beginning of the end.

Backstage

Split screen – Angle and AJ headed for the ring. Can we please have some originality and stop stealing every little thing from WWE?

Match #7

Angle out to the ring. If they’re showing this match now, how are they planning on ending this three hour show? AJ out to face him. “Let’s go AJ!” chants and he calls for more before the start of the match. “Angle sucks!” chants. Some chain wrestling and Angle’s arms looked really scrawny compared to AJ’s. AJ’s not a big guy, but his arms are obviously bigger than Angle’s. They ran the ropes and AJ hit a textbook dropkick on Angle. Angle left the ring to regroup. Taz said he’s wrestled Angle man times and it makes for a long night. A couple of upper cuts from Angle, but AJ fought back and a scoop slam. AJ got a pin attempt, but Angle got free and fled the ring again to slow the match down. Angle put a hand up for a test of strength. AJ joined Angle with both hands. AJ to one knee with Angle in control, but then AJ came back. Angle kicked AJ to get free. AJ sent over the top but stayed on the apron. Angle tried to fight but AJ bounced over the top and hit a sick clothesline on Angle. And again Angle fled. AJ made to fly but Angle back into the ring under him. AJ landed on the apron and tried to springboard off the top, but Angle cut him off. AJ fell to the floor and Hebner started counting. AJ up on the apron and Angle knocked him to the floor. Suddenly Angle did something I don’t remember him ever doing before – Angle flew out over the top onto AJ! Angle flipped/flew over the top rope. He didn’t catch AJ square and took a lot of the fall, but he blew me away with that. AJ back first into a ring post, then back in the ring Angle pinned for two. Angle in complete control of AJ at this point. AJ in obvious pain tried to fight back ,but Angle hit a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. A suplex on AJ for two near falls. AJ and Angle fought back and forth until Angle whipped AJ but then ran into a big boot. Belly to belly release suplex on AJ that made me cringe. AJ choked in the ropes. Back suplex on AJ for two and Angle looked slightly out of control in the ring. A lot of these moves looked like they were hit just slightly off by Angle. This is why I have been worried about someone getting injured being in the ring with Angle. Then Tenay and Taz started talk about how Angle’s work in the ring was science, textbook. Taz said he loved it. This is one of the reasons he came to TNA, that where he was before, he didn’t get to see a lot of this. In other words Taz made a monstrous dig on WWE, the biggest I’ve heard since coming to TNA. Side headlock on AJ and they talked about how effective such a simple move from Angle is. AJ got free but Angle slipped right back into the hold. AJ elevated Angle and slammed him down to get free. A couple of big clotheslines to Angle and then a phenomenal springboard forearm from AJ for two. AJ set up his clash, but took too long and was catapulted into the corner. Release German on AJ for two. AJ got out of an Angle slam and hit pele for a long two. AJ looked a little out of it, but then climbed. He took too long and Angle ran up to meet him. Angle hit a sideways belly to belly suplex on AJ, but could only pin for two. AJ countered the Angle slam with an arm drag and then another big clothesline for two. Both of them were dragging! AJ first to his feet. AJ set up for his clash but Angle rolled through and into the ankle lock. AJ rolled Angle through and pinned for two. Angle hit his three Germans, the last one a release. Angle covered, barely, for two. The straps came down and Angle was ready. AJ rolled through the slam and hit the clash but somehow Angle kicked out! Wow! Angle down and AJ crawled to the ropes and climbed. A kick to AJ as he flew and Angle hit his slam, but AJ kicked out. Angle climbed and went for a moonsault, but AJ moved and Angle at the mat. AJ hit his springboard 450 splash. Somehow Angle kicked out. “This is awesome!” chants. Angle up top. AJ up but Angle fought him off. AJ set up Angle for a piledriver, but Angle reversed it. Then AJ reversed it to the side. Angle crawled free and locked on the ankle lock. Angle locked his whole body into it. The bell rang and everyone’s confused. Angle thought he won, but the time limit ran out and Hebner called it a draw. Angle was pissed and pushed Hebner to the mat. Sting came out and climbed in the ring. AJ wanted no part of Sting who was out there to talk to him.
9.99/10 – The only thing that kept that from being perfect is some of Angle’s moves looked sloppy and dangerous. I know people will say I’m being a total bitch and nitpicking, and I’m sorry if anyone feels that way. I sat at the edge of my seat in total awe through that whole match, except when I was cringing. I wasn’t cringing for reasons that would make the casual fan tweak. It was because I could see how Angle was not being as careful as he should have been in that ring. Other than that, I am more blown away than I have been by a TNA match since they came to Spike. That is what I have been begging for for so long. Thank you to AJ and Angle for going to the limit and giving us their all. It made staying up way past my bedtime worth it. Better than most PPV matches I have seen from TNA!

Announce Segment

Tenay said they’re going to get comments from both Angle and AJ, but first they showed video highlights of the match.

Video

About Lashley being a hybrid athlete who fights in the MMA and wrestles in TNA. He talked about making an impact in TNA and then about how he beat Sapp in his last MMA match. It went on to Joe talking about their match at BFG. Taz talked about Lashley being good but thinks Joe will get the upset victory after the great year Joe’s had. The narrator went on to talk about Lashley being a family man. They showed his tiny little Miles and his little girl Tyra. Joe the said he hasn’t begun to hit Lashley yet. Lashley said it all depends on the other person, how hard he fights. Joe said there’s no training for what he’s going to do to Lashley. Lashley said Joe is one of the best in wrestling and one of the tougher guys he’s faced.
5/10 – Not a bad video, but took up too much time from the show and quite a let down after such an amazing match.

Video

Abyss talking about Foley’s career and injuries. Video of Abyss rescuing Foley from Nash. Foley talked about always wanting to be a hardcore wrestler and Abyss was the same way. Then the video continued from their friendship and into their feud. Abyss said it’s not enough to beat Foley, he has a thirst for destruction. Foley said it’s the biggest PPV of the year and probably the biggest match of Abyss’ career. Abyss told Foley he wants to leave it all in the ring. Foley said they’re carbon copies with the goals to tear the house down. Abyss said there will be carnage, anger, destruction.
3/10 – And why did we need that? These videos are such a letdown after that mind blowing match. Arg!

Video

Angle and Morgan’s feud. Angle said he’s wrestling better than any other time in his career. Angle said he’s never won at BFG. To be the greatest wrestler he needs to win at the greatest PPV of all time. Morgan said there’s not a better wrestler than Angle. Angle said he always leaves everything in the ring, every time he’s there. Angle said Morgan is going to be the best someday. Carter said this match is the best against the future. Morgan said this match is the most important thing to him in his life. Tenay said if Morgan wins he can move up on an equal level with Angle. Angle said he wants his best match ever. Morgan said he has to beat Angle in a convincing way for him to go slightly home happy.
4/10 – I have to say that Angle’s eyes looked really spaced out in that video. Morgan looked very on his game and impressive. But we really don’t need all this video coverage! If they gave us an extra hour of Impact just for this, I’m not impressed.

Backstage Segment

Borash with Angle in the MEM locker room. Borash said one of the most incredible matches in Impact history. Does Angle think if it had gone on a couple more seconds that AJ would have tapped out? Angle said he won that match, tapping is a technicality. Angle knows he won, AJ knows it, everyone knows it. Borash said he’s never seen Angle this confident. Angle said he beat AJ and is going to beat Morgan. Then he’ll go on to become WHC. It’s real. It’s damn real.
6/10 – Interesting take on the whole thing and really played up Angle cockiness. It worked for what it was. I think that would have gone over much better had we not had to sit through those three long videos.

Video

And now AJ and Sting’s promo video for BFG. Sting said it wasn’t wrestling that just about destroyed him, it was him who just about destroyed him. He almost lost his family and everything else that matters. It’s not as glamorous as it all seems and it can wear on you. Many videos and stills of Sting’s early career. Sting said that the crowds are hard to say goodbye to. He had four years out of the ring and he’s glad to have it all back. Taz said Sting is the Icon, a living legend. 2006, 2007, 2008 – every October Sting won the WHC. Then there’s AJ who’s the only Grand Slam Champion in TNA history. AJ said he has to be on top of Sting to get through this match, not just physically, but mentally. Taz said he thinks AJ is going to beat Sting. Sting’s the one who brought AJ back from leaving the industry. AJ said knowing that Sting won at every BFG, he is worried. Sting said he can’t lie, it does matter. AJ said this is the biggest match of his career. It’s the Icon, the man who never gives up. Tenay said he hopes it’s not Sting’s last match. Just the reaction when Sting comes out, but we’ll have to wait. Sting said he knows that time is coming and he doesn’t want to get to the point of embarrassing himself. Carter said Sting kept saying one more year, but she thinks this is it.
6/10 – While it was a better than the other videos, we still didn’t need to have our time wasted with them.

Backstage Segment

Borash with AJ. Borash said it’s a somber mood in that locker room. He said it feels as though AJ’s taking it as a loss. AJ was about beside himself and could barely talk. He was emotional taking the match with Angle, but what’s he doing wasting his time on Angle when he needs to focus on Sting? He didn’t lose that match, but he didn’t win it. The only thing he can do is learn from it.
9/10 – He was so on! That was the Phenomenal AJ Styles at his promo best.

Video

They all talk about BFG and what a huge PPV it is. It’s wonderful, it’s great, it’s the best thing ever… Then they went on to talk about how TNA is evolving and how great it is to have BFG in California.
3/10 – More boring video that we didn’t need to see. They showed a lot of clips of Jeff Jarrett at past BFG PPVs, but he’s not scheduled to appear this year. Very strange.

Post Show

While parts of that show were off the hook fabulous, they really didn’t show more matches, in numbers, than they normally do on a two hour show. They could have cut out all of those boring, time consuming videos and the show would have been damn good. Much of the booking was exactly as cruddy, if not worse than usual. Interference, over booked endings and just lame matches dominated the show.

Then there were two matches that made the whole time consuming mess worth while. While Flash and Hamada might not have been in the ring at all, their match was solid and they hit moves that really blew my mind. The more I see of them, the more I want to see of them. And then the main event between AJ and Angle was the best thing I have seen on Impact. AJ is the best in the industry today and I can say that easily after that match. Twenty solid minutes of wrestling that was well timed, well crafted, well booked and most of all, well wrestled. Yes, a few of Angle’s moves were off enough that I worried about injury. But on the other hand I was shocked to see him doing things I don’t remember him doing in recent history. Angle did leave it all in the ring the way he hasn’t in along time, no matter what he claims. And AJ deserves to be TNA WHC like no one else in the company. That match was truly awesome.

While I might bitch and moan, the show wasn’t horrible. It wasn’t as good as the last pre-PPV Impact in most ways, but those two matches were stronger than any TNA wrestling we ever get to see. I just don’t agree with TNA making this a two hour show. They filled it up with worthless videos that they’re going to show in part again at BFG and piss off everyone who actually pays money to see the show. Basically Russo could have booked this as a one hour show and fans would not be hating him as much. As it is, I think his name is mud right now.

KB

Okay, I have no clue what I’m doing here! I missed the first Global Impact but if everything I’ve heard is correct, this one’s going to be amazing!

Global Impact is a one hour show that’s an international showdown between TNA and NJPW. It took place in the Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, Japan.

After Impact last night I lightly skimmed Global Impact, on very fast forward, before going to bed and I was very impressed with what I saw. Sitting here I’m really looking forward to this show. Eeeee!

Show Starts

Video

Small recap of last year’s Global Impact and how they’re doing it all over again. They referred to TNA wrestlers as ‘Superstars’ which is thought was something only WWE did.

Video

Everyone meeting out front for the pre-show pictures and then with media for a press conference. Angle spoke, then Nash spoke about culture. Shelley said something in Japanese and spoke about wrestlers and football. Ray got into a war of words with Togi Makabe and Toru Yano. One of them pushed Ray and Devon pushed back. Interesting that all of the Japanese wrestlers were in suits, but of the TNA wrestlers, only Angle and Nash were dressed professionally. MCMG and 3D were in casual street clothes. Guess it shows the difference in how both cultures view wrestling. Also, the press conference had the feel of a prize fight boxing press event. Competitors on each side talking nicely and then degrading into talking smack. Just so different from how wrestling is handled in the USA.

- Commercial

Video

Angle and Nash arrived at the Tokyo Dome and talked about how some of the best wrestlers are in Japan and they plan on beating them to show that they’re the best in the world. The video went on to the MCMG who will be facing No Limit for the IWGP Junior Tag Team Titles. They want to cap off their hard work by winning in Japan. They pride themselves in being versatile and well traveled, so where better to win that Tokyo.

IWGP JUNIOR HEAVYWEIGHT TAG TEAM TITLE MATCH –
The Motor City Machineguns (TNA) vs. Yujiro and Tetsuya Naito (NEW JAPAN)

Shelley and Sabin out to the ring. Tenay, west and Borash were on announce. No Limit, Yujiro and Naito came out to face them. Tenay said No Limit won the IWGP Junior Tag Team Titles in 2008 and held them for four months. That means this was taped quite a while ago. Yujiro and Sabin went to work and threw some serious chain wrestling right off the bat. The fans were extremely quiet until the wrestlers broke apart after a bit of wrestling. Then they cheered. I knew the fans in Japan treated wrestling quite differently, but it’s so different to not hear copious amounts of cheering during matches. Shelley tagged in and they double teamed for quite a long bit without the ref stopping them. Yujiro was pinned for two. Naito tagged in and they double teamed for quite a bit. West talked about how respectful fans in Japan are. Shelley up on the ropes, pushing the second rope down and pulling up the top one for Sabin to dive through and land on Naito. Shelley posed for the fans.

- Commercial

Shelley and Sabin still double teaming Naito. Shelley’s bleeding quite a bit from the mouth. Tenay said the Junior Division in NJPW is very similar to the X-Division in TNA. Sabin tagged in and they posed for the fans again, trying to get more reaction. Double team on Naito. A very interesting submission hold on Naito that involved both arms and Sabin being wrapped around Naito’s back. Shelley came in to guard the hold so Yujiro couldn’t make a save. The ref had no problem with this at all. Shelley tagged in to double team yet again, but Naito sent Sabin flying over the top to the floor. A back elbow to Shelley and Naito hit a slingshot crossbody and then a dropkick! Yujiro tagged in. A snap slam on Sabin and then a powerslam on Shelley for two. Shelley kicked out, but Yujiro kept his arms around Shelley, picked him up and slammed him down again in one fluid motion. A leg drop to Shelley and then a clothesline to a sitting Shelley for two. Shelley reversed a move and rolled up Yujiro for two. Kicks to Yujiro but then Yujiro reversed it into a belly to belly. Though I have to say it wasn’t a very strong move and Shelley took most of the move to the top of his head! Did not look comfortable! The blood just gushing from Shelley’s nose! Shelley fought back but then ate a clothesline. Both down and then tagged out. They exchanged blows until Naito slammed Sabin down hard. Yujiro came in to make sure Shelley didn’t get involved by hitting a baseball slide. They double team Sabin. Sabin whipped, back slammed and then Yujiro on his hands and knees as a spring board for Naito, ala Hardy’s. Naito used his partner to hit a sick dropkick on Sabin in a corner and then climbed to hit a flying dropkick! Bridging German on Sabin for two. They’re still double teaming Sabin and the ref lets it continue! They both get Sabin high in the air, but Shelley back in kicked Yujiro in the gut to stop the move. Neckbreaker to Naito but then Yujiro took Shelley down. Sabin came off the corner into a DDT on Yujiro. Naito was swung into the ropes but seemed to explode out onto Sabin with a forearm. That man got some serious air with that move! Sabin ended up about on his head. Scoop slam to Shelley and then Naito climbed. Shelley cut Naito off before he could moonsault and Naito ended up hanging upside-down in the corner. Shelley shook his finger at Naito, which I thought was a serious insult over there. Yujiro grabbed Shelley before he could do anything to Naito. Shelley backed Yujiro into a corner and Sabin hit his hesitation dropkick onto Naito in the corner. Sabin unhooked Naito from the tree of woe. Naito and Sabin reversed holds. Shelley accidentally clotheslined Sabin and about turned him inside-out! Shelley taken down hard and rolled from the ring. Yujiro and Naito were finally able to get Sabin back up into the air and hit what I imagine is their double team finisher on him. Naito pinned but Shelley managed to break it up. Shelley flung out. Scoop slam to Sabin and Naito climbed. Twisting moonsault but Sabin rolled out of the way. Yujiro rushed Sabin but ate turnbuckle. Bulldog to Yujiro from Sabin. Sabin set up Naito, but Shelley rushed in and they both kicked Naito in the face. Sabin pinned for a very long two. The fans were getting louder over all as the match went on. MCMG set Naito up in a corner. Shelly hit sliced bread the same time Sabin hit a powerbomb. Wow! Sabin pinned for three and the win!
9.5/10 – That was bloody amazing! TNA’s creative needs to watch that match and see what the MCMG are really capable of! It was unparalleled to anything I have ever seen in the six sided ring. They’re obviously capable, TNA just needs to let them show it. That was a very long match, but the pacing worked. It started off slow with pauses and high points, then built and built to a crescendo of artistry. Those men left it all in the ring in a way we never see in this country – on TNA or WWE TV. Winners – MCMG

Video

Post match Shelley, still covered in crusted blood, spoke about winning the IWGP Junior Tag Team Titles. He said they’re taking them home and defending them there. This was also set up in a press conference way. Obviously where wrestlers go after the match is done to discuss how it went and talk smack. Seems very organized and as if the flow is the same every time.

MAIN EVENT MAFIA VS. NEW JAPAN MAIN EVENT:
Kurt Angle, Kevin Nash, Masahiro Chono, Riki Choshu vs. Giant Bernard, Takashi Iizuka, Tomohiro Ishii and Karl Anderson

Angle out and greeted Masahiro Chono at the bottom of the ramp. Nash came out in red and the three of them came to the ring to meet up with Riki Choshu already in the ring. Giant Bernard, Takashi Iizuka, Tomohiro Ishii and Karl Anderson were already in the ring. Giant Bernard, for those who remember when Trish Stratus started out in WWE, she was with T&A. That was Test and Albert, otherwise known as Prince Albert. Giant Bernard is Prince Albert, but nicely shaved and no longer looking like a bear skin rug, but many more tattoos. Giant Bernard and Nash started this match. They exchanged blows. A couple of shoulder blocked from BG didn’t drop Nash and Nash gained the upper hand. Nash choked Giant Bernard in a corner with his foot. Giant Bernard splashed Nash in a corner and then Iizuka tagged himself in but Nash’s size and power took Iizuka down in a side slam. Masahiro Chono tagged in and kicked Iizuka in the face. Chono climbed and flew in a shoulder slam for two. Chono got a cheap shot knee to the back from someone on the apron and then Iizuka stomped Chono into their corner. The ref tried to back Iizuka off from choking Chono with his foot, but Iizuka started pushing the ref back out of his way. Iizuka tagged in Ishii. Chono backed Ishii into their corner and tagged in Riki who worked over Ishii in the corner. Snap mare and chinlock on Ishii, but they got too close to the opposite corner and Karl managed to tag in. Karl slammed Riki around but then Riki fought back with a heel trip and kept hold of Karl’s foot. Riki reached out to Nash who didn’t seem to see the hand, but then Chono reached out and tagged Riki on the shoulder. Karl’s in pain but then got an inverted atomic drop and a headbutt from Chono for two. Angle tagged in and the fans got loud for this. Double team shoulder block on Karl. Angle suplexed Karl for two. Headlock on Karl but he got to the ropes. Punches to Karl in a corner, then stomps. Angle got a front facelock on Karl and backed himself into his corner so Riki could tag in. Riki got a facelock on on Karl, but Karl quickly pushed Riki back into Karl’s corner. Iizuka grabbed Riki’s head while Giant Bernard tagged in. Shoulder blocks to Riki in their corner, then a headbutt to Riki. Ishii in to stomp Riki, without tagging, then quickly out again. Giant Bernard climbed to the second rope and splashed Riki for two. Ishii tagged in and stomped the heck out of Riki. Karl tagged and rushed across the ring with a cheap shot to Chono. Iizuka rushed across with a cheap shot on Angle and then Nash. Giant Bernard splashes Riki in a corner, then Ishii with a back elbow to Chono in the corner and Iizuka with a clothesline to him in the corner! Karl motioned and then rushed in to Riki, but he was ready for Karl with a kick. Riki hits his famous Lariat clothesline on Karl for two. Giant Bernard broke up the pin attempt. Nash rushed in and clotheslined Giant Bernard from the ring. Giant Bernard grabbed Nash’s foot and dragged him from the ring. They fought outside. Angle came in and clotheslined Karl to the mat, twice and then a German to Iizuka. Then a German to Ishii. Angle’s straps come down. Karl tries to grab Angle from behind but Angle rolls through and into an ankle lock on Karl. Riki lacked a sharpshooter on Iizuka and Chono got a submission hold on Ishii. I guess Giant Bernard and Nash were still fighting outside. Karl tapped out when Angle got his whole body into the ankle lock. Winners – Angle, Nash, Masahiro Chono & Riki Choshu

- Commercial

Video

Team 3D. Ray talked about how other than MSG, there’s no other place in the world that an accomplished wrestler would want to perform than the Tokyo Dome. Devon said they’re the greatest tag team in the world and in the Tokyo Dome they’re going to prove that. Ray said they’re not going to guarantee anything because their competitors are tough, but Team 3D’s undefeated in Japan for 12 years. Winning the IWGP Tag Team Championships would be the last set of prestigious belts that have eluded them. It would be Awesome to bring those belts back to the Impact Zone. This will be a Hardcore Match and they (Makabe and Yano) haven’t beaten 3D in a Hardcore match. Ray said he’d bet, if he was a betting man, they’re coming home champions.

IWGP TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH: Team 3D (TNA) vs. Togi Makabe and Toru Yano (NEW JAPAN)

Team 3D out to the ring. Toru Yano with a chair in hand and Togi Makabe with a chain around his neck and middle finger in the air, out to the ring. The back of Togi Makabe’s vest was blurred out as it said ‘fuck you’ and American TV can’t let that be seen! Toru and Devon started out locking up. Devon backed Toru into a corner and gave a clean break. Lock up and Devon’s backed into a corner. Toru rubbed Devon’s bald head before breaking. Devon wasn’t impressed. Back body hold on Devon and he reverses it to send Toru into a corner and clean break. Shoulder block to Toru for two. Toru raked Devon’s eyes and then tried for a suplex but couldn’t get it off. Togi came in and they double teamed suplex on Devon. Togi pinned Devon for two, but he hadn’t tagged in and wasn’t the legal man, so I don’t know why the ref counted. Devon came back off the ropes with an upper cut on Togi for two. Ray got the tag and they double shoulder blocked Togi. Side headlock on Togi in the center of the ring. Shoulder block to Togi who got up and right into Ray’s face. They exchanged blows. A middle finger to Ray and then a release German on Togi that made me cringe. Clothesline on Ray for two.

- Commercial

Both Togi and Toru in the ring. Ray managed a double clothesline to drop them both to the mat. Devon in and they both lift Yano and slam him to the mat. Ray pinned Toru for two. Ray and Devon hit 3D on Togi and Ray pinned for two. I guess tagging and legal men don’t matter much in Hardcore Matches in Japan. Togi ducked a double team bu 3D and then speared Devon to the mat. Toru pinned Ray for two and Togi tried to pin Devon but he immediately kicked out. They showed video of during the break – Togi got Devon up outside, Toru grabbed Devon’s ankle from the apron to help stabilize and then Togi hit a piledriver on Devon onto the chair that was carried to the ring earlier. I guess that busted Devon open, but I haven’t seen any blood yet. In the ring Ray hit Togi over the head with a trash can lid. Scoop slam to Togi and then Ray held his ankles for ‘what’s up!’ “Devon. Get the tables!” Ray then got the fan chanting “tables” for the first chant I have heard from these fans, but it wasn’t loud and didn’t last. Devon slid in two very small, narrow and low tables to Ray. Ray tried to set up one up but Togi and Toru attacked from behind. They finished setting up that tiny table. In one of the funniest things I have seen, they put Ray through this table. He made a big thing of it, but the table was so little that I bet he hardly even felt it! Ray played it off that it was a big thing and then Togi pinned for two. When Ray rolled off it showed that there was a huge hold in the table where Ray had gone through. Ray sold the move completely. Toru threw the destroyed table out of the ring. It was mangled! Togi and Toru set up the second table in the ring. The back of Ray’s upper right arm showed a number of scratches and welts. Devon took Toru down with a forearm, but Togi took Devon down the same way. Togi pinned Devon for two. Devon was bleeding and ended up laid out on the table by Togi. Togi started to climb but Ray stopped him. Devon up and moved the table a little. Ray powerbombed Togi through the table. Ray then splashed Togi for a long two. Ray moved the second destroyed table out of the way for him and Devon to double team Togi, but Toru grabbed Ray’s leg from outside and Devon ran right into a scoop slam from Togi. Togi pinned Devon for two while Toru hit a couple of punches on Ray. Toru then into the ring and grabbed the chain on his way. Togi took the chain and wrapped it around his arm. Toru tried to wing Devon around but Devon reversed it sending Toru into Togi’s chain wrapped clothesline. Togi scratched his head looking at his team mate and Devon rolled him up in a schoolboy for two. The arena announcer stated that this match had gone on for 15 minutes already. Togi then punched Devon in the face with his chain wrapped fist. Devon went down hard and Togi pinned him for two. Togi gave another single finger salute to the world and re-wrapped the chain. Devon wasn’t only bleeding from the head, it looked as though his bottom lip was coated in blood too. Another bird from Togi, this one for Devon. Togi then ran at Devon trying to clothesline him with the chain wrapped arm. Devon ducked and then Devon and Ray hit 3D on Togi. Ray pinned Togi for three. The announcer said the match went on for 15 minutes and 12 seconds. Togi and Toru were left laying outside the ring. The ref raised Ray and Devon’s arms in victory. Winners – Team 3D

Post Show

That was quite possibly some of the best matches I have seen TNA workers in. This just proves that it’s TNA’s booking and not the lack of talented wrestlers in the company. I’ve always known that the MCMG were a great tag team, but I honestly didn’t know they were capable of what they showed in that match. They were awe inspiring. The pacing of that match was superb and shows that not all matches have to be go, go, go. They started off slowly and built layers upon layers of wrestling until they finished off with the fans on the edge of their seats. That match beautifully explained what Brat Hart talks about much of the time, telling a story in the ring. MCMG and No Limit told a story and left me satisfied like I never thought possible.

Nash and Angle were the least of their match, even though the fans loved them. Chono, Riki, Iizuka and Ishii are fabulous Japanese wrestlers. Giant Bernard and Karl Anderson fit into their style beautifully. They all threw it out there hard. I was very impressed with how Matthew Jason Bloom has grown from his Albert days. Giant Bernard is a big strong man who has become very creative and interesting in the ring. Anderson also impressed me with his ring work with Angle. That whole match came together in a beautiful way with Angle, Riki and Chono locking on submission holds. It was a great scene captured by the camera.

I was surprised when Togi came out with profanities written across his ring gear and flipping the bird. I know Japanese fans love the hardcore wrestling, but I thought with their more refined ways and the way the fans show respect, that they wouldn’t have much of that. Boy, was I mistaken! Togi spent the match throwing more birds than Austin! And while the match wasn’t anywhere near as hardcore as I expected, it was very enjoyable to watch. Togi and Toru are fabulous in the ring. Their abilities meld wonderfully with Team 3D to produce an exciting match. The chain wrapped around Togi’s arm was a nice change of pace, but those little tables about had me on the floor laughing. The tables normally used in the USA for hardcore matches break fairly easily, but have some sturdiness to them. Those tiny little tables were almost a joke. But the rest of the match was great.

That was the best hour wrestling show I have ever seen. If that how it usually is in Japan, TNA needs to import that feel! I think it would go over wonderfully in the USA and the fans would love it. That was so different feeling and really focused on the ring work rather than the over blown stories. It wouldn’t be too hard to incorporate stories into a show like that, but still keep the long running creative matches. It’s not hard to change things up and make them fresh. Those matches were so different, but worked so wonderfully. Actually, those little tables are the ONLY thing I didn’t absolutely love about Global Impact 2. That’s saying something huge, especially to those who read my TNA Blog Zone regularly and know how hard I can be on TNA Impact.

KB

I understand having a problem with someone in your industry. I have issue with a number of people in the couple of industries I’ve worked in, but I don’t openly talk about those people all over my Facebook, MySpace or Twitter pages. No matter the industry it shows pretty bad judgement to badmouth on the web. Yes, I plan on ripping on Lacey Von Erich’s wrestling in my Blog, but in no way am I going to call her names, threaten to hit her if I ever see her, rip on her dead relatives or claim she’s going to do drugs or kill herself. That’s where I think Ms. Sytch has gone too far. While there’s a very real possibility that this is all a work for the wrestling cruise they’re both booked on next summer, Sytch sure did cross the line. Not only did she say some pretty nasty stuff about Lacey Von Erich, but she also spread lies about a TNA Knockout being pregnant. She’s since retracted that statement and claims it’s all because of a particular newz reporter who keeps posting Sytch’s Facebook postings. That it’s so horrible someone posted her comments. If she didn’t want these things reported on, even if it was by someone she thinks is cruddy, why the hell did she post it all in the first place? Three reasons – 1) She’s trying to get noticed again and this is her lame ploy to get her name out there. 2) She really hates Lacey and didn’t know when to shut her mouth and got caught up in the hype and now looks like a total bitch and liar. 3) It’s all a work for the cruise and she still looks like a total jerk. Either way I have to say that it was all very uncool.

Speaking of going too far, Lacey Von Erich has also stepped over the line with her words. While admitting she’s never met Angelina Love face to face, Von Erich proceeded to completely rip Love apart in an interview with the Miami Herald. Then, when there were repercussions to her comments, Von Erich came back talking about rumors, as if she hadn’t said those mean things about Love in the first place. Hello, they were in an interview she did with the Miami Herald! How daft can one get? Does she really think people will believe it’s all just rumor because she said so on Twitter? That everyone will totally disregard her interview with a major news paper, as if it wasn’t her who said all these terrible things in the first place? I’m thinking Von Erich is blonder than just her hair color. (I’m blonde, please don’t come back at me that I’m making ‘derogatory comments’ about blondes!)

Lauren Williams (Angelina Love) has posted her own comments about what’s been said about her. I give her props for standing up for herself by taking the high road and not making nasty comments of her own. I have to say it’s pretty disgusting when someone’s name can be so completely smeared by someone who’s never met them. I’m not saying anything about Williams as a person as I have never met her, but I hadn’t heard anything negative about her backstage behavior before Von Erich started shooting off her mouth.

To me this makes Von Erich look a lot worse than Williams. Everyone knows I’m not a huge fan of Williams because of her mic work, much of her ring work and the fact that she didn’t take care of the legal side of working for TNA without breaking any laws, but I will firmly stand up for her against Von Erich. Within Lacey Von Erich’s first weeks in TNA she’s managed to show everyone that she’s not wonderful on mic, horrible in the ring, possibly injured herself and is cattier than about any other female wrestler we’ve seen in a long time. She had no reason to bad mouth Williams and only proved to make herself look the fool for airing dirty laundry that wasn’t her’s and very possibly might not be true. Looks bad for her and for TNA. Then again, only lasting four months in WWE Developmental with the last name she possesses also looks quite bad for her. And then there’s the Indy wrestling videos of her’s I have been watching. Those make her look horrible. She’s a beautiful young woman, but she sure isn’t a wrestler! She’s also doing quite a number to her family’s name. Yes, the family has had it’s huge share of issues, but Lacey is doing quite the job of making them look that much worse. Not cool.

Lacey Von Erich might have done a great job making herself look like an ass this past week, but I think Sytch might win the cattiness title for the week! In other words I think both of the women have let their mouths run before their brains have engaged. Because of this they both look obnoxious and bitchy.

Last week I wrote about one of my favorite kvetches. Everyone knows (I should hope, as I mention it enough) that I don’t believe anything and will write about things as rumor, unless it comes out of their own mouths (such as the Lacey Von Erich and Tammy Sytch drama) or if WNW reports on it. I just don’t trust anyone but the Grays! Last week I wrote about rumors I’d read that Booker wasn’t happy in TNA and Carter wasn’t thrilled with Booker’s attitude. Well, Richard confirmed it this week. Seems as though while Booker was refusing to wrestle in Zurich, he was also spouting off about his plans to return to WWE when his contract expires next month. Carter met with Booker to try to keep him, but it seems as though his truly negative attitude backstage is making his stay in TNA doubtful. People are not enjoying being around him. Personally, I’d hope Vince wouldn’t take Booker back after how much he bad mouthed WWE and how bad his work has been of late. Booker has done quite a fabulous job destroying his following with heartless matches and unintelligible promos. Whereas Christian improved by leaps and bounds in TNA, Booker has only gotten older and much less desirable during his time at the top of the smaller company. Booker refused to put Morgan over at Tuesday night’s taping, just one more step in Booker looking like a true Diva! Then again, Vince has shown what he feels of wrestlers who leave WWE for TNA and Booker could end up buried in mid-card purgatory on ECW. Too good for him, but a pleasure to watch. Hopefully Booker and Steiner will drop the Tag Team Titles at BFG and then they can go off and do what they need to do for their egos, and hopefully leave TNA in the process. While I’d miss Steiner’s humorous personality, I wouldn’t miss Booker in any way.

Even through all of the cattiness of this week I do have one question that I can’t seem to get answered – why is Lauren Williams still in the United States? From everything I’ve been able to glean about illegally working in the USA and what happens to the person who has broken the laws – they’re sent back to their country of origin without papers. As far as I can tell Lauren Williams is still living in Florida. I don’t understand why she wasn’t sent back to Canada after all of this came to light. There’s talk that she might possibly be confined to Canada for ten years if she’s found guilty, but she’s still living in the USA. This greatly confuses me and I wonder why she’s not been deported as is how things are normally handled under such situations. Any answers to this would be greatly appreciated.

Show Starts

Video

Problems between Abyss and Foley. They’ve escalated their feud to quite an emotional and bloody mess.

In Ring Segment

Abyss was wrapping the ring with barbed wire and then sprinkling glass all over. He grabbed a mic and said he’s making himself at home. He spread out tacks. He said he brought friends from home to feel comfortable. Foley’s wrestled all over the world, wrestled in every state, bled on every continent. But he’s never bled like Abyss will make him bleed at BFG. The fans are mixed on this. He’s there to challenge Foley to a match at BFG. Not just any match, but the Monsters Ball. The fans are a little happier about this, but not all thrilled. Abyss said at BFG Foley’s not going to have a very nice day, because Abyss will beat his ass. Foley’s music and out he came, quite quickly. Foley into the ring with barbie. Foley said Abyss will use his catch phrase against him? Then he wants to challenge Foley? Abyss cut him off saying that last week Foley called him a carbon copy and a cheap knock off. Was it a cheap knock off when he main evented in 2004 at the first Lockdown with AJ Styles and blew the roof off this place. Was he a cheap knock-off in 2005 when he competed with Sabu in the first ever Barbed Wire massacre Match? 122 stitches and earned TNA Match Of The Year? NO! Was he a cheap knock-off in 2007 when he defeated Sting to become the WHC? Abyss said no and shook his head. He said it was him, Chris Park (sic) Abyss! While he was spilling his blood, what was Foley doing? He was off writing children’s books and playing with puppets. Foley’s right, there is a big difference between them. Abyss is hardcore and Foley just used to be. The fans didn’t like that. Abyss called Foley the cheap knock-off. A very quiet “hardcore legend” chant from the fans for Foley. He said Foley’s the cheap knock-off because he’s only half the man he used to be. Foley said he never said Abyss wasn’t hardcore. He admitted last week that Abyss will be a major star in TNA for a long time to come. Form this moment, as executive shareholder, he banned the $50,000 bounty on Abyss. It’s gone. TNA will be his home for a long time to come. As far as Foley being half the man he used to be, at BFG they will find out. In Monsters Ball Abyss best bring his A game because Foley’s sure as hell bringing his. Foley left the ring, then stopped and tweaked the match. He was speaking to a friend of Abyss’ and that friend is worried that Abyss is psychologically addicted to them. Thumbtacks are not allowed in this match. If Foley finds himself laying in thumbtacks, Abyss will lose. And this is a special Monsters Ball and it need a Special Guest Ref. He knows someone very special, especially to Abyss and that’s Dr. Stevie. Dr. Stevie’s music and out he came to join Foley on the ramp, Daffney in tow. Stevie grabbed a mic and said Abyss has managed to alienate everyone again. It’s history repeating itself. Even his idol, Foley has been alienated by him. No one cares about Abyss, even his mother never loved him. He’s nothing more than an annoyance, a cross for her to bear. Then Lauren showed up and took him from the ring. Stevie told Abyss to hide under the skirt of a $20 a night street walker. This made Abyss stop on the apron and stare at Stevie. Abyss got back in the ring and in Stevie’s smiling face. Abyss asked what Stevie said. Stevie repeated it word for word. Abyss said he thought that’s what Stevie said. Abyss grabbed Stevie by the throat and raised him high in the air. Daffney, from behind, dropped down and hit a low blow on Abyss who dropped Stevie. Daffney to her feet and very purposefully straightened her tiny sparkly red top hat. Foley back into the ring with barbie. Stevie held Abyss in the ropes and Foley ground barbie into Abyss’ face. Morgan rushed to the ring to save his former partner.
6/10 – I could go on and on about Daffney’s outfit, but I won’t. I will just say it was again great. What I will go on about was how that segment just dragged on. The fans didn’t seem to be fully involved in what was happening in the ring. They either weren’t impressed or really didn’t care. Many were not thrilled with how Foley treated Abyss, nor how Abyss treated Foley. It’s as if the fans couldn’t care less about this feud. If it had happened in Foley’s heyday, it would have been off the charts, but Foley’s too old for this bunk! I do have to say that I’m thrilled with Morgan saving Abyss. While they’re slated to tag later in the show, I had been thinking Abyss needed someone to have his back in this feud and Morgan is the perfect man. With Morgan leaning back toward the face direction, it makes perfect sense to put them back together.

Backstage Segment

Borash asked EY if the honeymoon between… EY said to not even bother to finish that question. The war is over and he’s there to declare a decisive victory for WE over MEM. How many times did he reach out to Angle and his men in a show of faith? How many times did they pick them up after they fell? How did they pay them back? Disrespect and insolence. EY’s a patient man, a brilliant man, a great man. But last week was the final straw. They showed they were the most dominant in TNA when they snatched Angle and Hernandez and showed them what it’s like to be victimized. They will do it time and time again if they get in their business. Borash said rumor has it that EY and Hernandez will face at BFG. EY said it’s rumor and he doesn’t deal in rumor or hearsay. He deals in fact. Hernandez is dead to him and WE. He thought Hernandez deserved greatness. He’ll never be in the ring with EY one on one. He’s not on EY’s level, not in his league. Rumors will be put to rest and replaced with cold, hard facts. “Welcome to our world.”
8/10 – While slightly robotic sounding, EY was fabulous. That straightforward, succinct way of speaking really works for uber-heel EY. The man keeps getting better and better. Every week I always think he’s reached his peak, then he goes further. So impressive from a man I truly didn’t believe had it in him! EY is still pretty young in the whole scheme of things in the wrestling world. He’s not even 30 (though he will be in about two months) and he’s played both sides of the fence better than most wrestlers twice his age. He’s come a long way since being called Showtime Babaganoosh by Al Snow on Sunday Night Heat.

Backstage Segment

Borash with MEM, specifically Angle. Borash said EY declared victory and said they’re the dominant force in TNA. Angle had Borash repeat himself. Then Angle grabbed Borash’s lapels and said no one’s more dominant than MEM. Angle then took out a $30,000 hit on EY. That’s how they deal with thing Mafia style.
8/10 – That was short, solid and to the point! Angle was really good and Booker didn’t say a word. It worked!

Match #1

Hernandez out to the ring for a Legends Title Match with a ten minutes time limit. Video of WE snatching Hernandez and Angle from the ring to attack them last week. Big Sexy out to face Super Mex. Nash was back in his sexy red leather pants with the black fringe, reminiscent of his days in WCW, possibly the same ones since his weight loss of late. Nash got control early and sent Hernandez out, but Hernandez fought back by sending Nash into a ring post. Taz said Hernandez’s back’s so big you can show a movie on it. Hernandez came over the top in his big shoulder block on Nash, but then EY rushed the ring. Chop block on Hernandez and Slick called for the bell. EY stomped the hell out of Hernandez, then got Hernandez up and hit a sit down piledriver on Hernandez! Holy shit! Hernandez laid out and EY grabbed Nash’s belt. EY walked up to Nash and off mic told Nash that he owed EY one for this. “Fire Eric” chants from the crowd.
5/10 – Very short match with the only good moves being Hernandez’s over the top shoulder block and EY’s piledriver after the bell. I can’t say I would have enjoyed watching Nash and Hernandez fight for any length of time, so that probably made the whole thing better. Interesting twist that EY rushed in and then told Nash he owed him for it. Also, that was a sick piledriver. It’s not normal to see a smaller guy give a much bigger guy a sit down piledriver on TV. Indy’s, it happens more, but the bigger companies seem to avoid the danger. Very cool to see TNA take the step to stay ahead and cutting edge.

Backstage Segment

Morgan dashed through the halls with Abyss hot on his tail. Abyss stopped morgna and they were nose to nose. Abyss thanked Morgan, but wanted to make one thing perfectly clear. He didn’t want this match as much as Morgan did. Can he trust Morgan, for one night. Morgan said for one night only, they will be a tag team. It won’t lead to a road they know so well to tagging, friendship and hanging out. Morgan takes care of Angle and Abyss takes care of Foley. Abyss got sidetracked by Foley’s name. Morgan pulled him back. Morgan told Abyss he had his back and called him buddy. They laughed together as if they were back to being good friends. They walked off together laughing and smiling.
8/10 – Yay! I know what they said, but it’s pretty obvious that they’re going to be on the same page, at least for a while. That was a lot of fun, very cool and also cute to see both of them run the gamut of emotions with each other.

Backstage Segment

Nash came up on EY and asked what that about out there. After what happened last week, is it a good idea to be near him? EY said it is because he knows what makes Nash tick, money and info. The info is that Angle put a hit on EY’s head, $30,000. Nash asked what stops him from snapping EY’s neck and taking the money. EY said money, the money he has to offer. He’s going to double it and Nash returns the favor. EY faces Hernandez at BFG. EY wants it Three Way for the Legends Title. TNA would love this. They stick together and take Hernandez out and Nash keeps his belt. What does Nash say? EY puts out his hand. Nash shook and told EY he looked good in the suit.

Backstage Segment

Lauren said that EY’s attack looked to damage Hernandez’s surgically repaired… Hernandez cut her off, got to his feet and addressed EY while looking straight into the camera. It’s not the first time EY screwed him out of a title, but it will be the last. Then he spoke in Spanish.
8/10 – Very short and forceful. Also very impressive. Hernandez’s best on mic when there’s serous emotion involved and he showed it there.

Match #2

Samoa Joe out to defend his X-Division Title. Amazing Red was already in the ring. Poor boy didn’t get his televised entrance. Amazing Red with kicks to Joe’s leg, but missed a crossbody. Joe kicked him in the back and then dropped a knee to Amazing Red’s face. Lashley out to the ring, watching closely. Dropkick off the top from Amazing Red. Amazing Red misses a spinning kick, but the second one got him. Amazing Red ran up the front of Joe with a kick at the top while Joe stood in a corner. The second time Amazing Red ran to Joe, Joe countered with a yurinagi. Amazing Red into a corner and Joe attacked with punches and kicks. Joe then yelled at Lashley, Amazing Red on the mat. Hebner got between Joe and the side of the ring. Taz asked why Hebner didn’t throw Lashley out. Tenay said reading Joe’s lips, he said Joe wanted Lashley to stay. Hebner motioned for Lashley to get in the ring. Joe told him to take his best shot. Lashley all over Joe with punches and then slammed him to the mat. Amazing Red up and hit…. Holy shit! Then a standing moonsault on Joe for three. Lashley backed up the ramp grinning as Amazing Red celebrated and Joe looked shocked.
7/10 – Amazing Red and Joe in the ring together were amazing, sucked that they let Lashley get involved. Though, I have to say I’m thrilled Amazing Red is X-Division Champion. I said last week that I really didn’t see it happening (I don’t read the spoilers for weeks ahead of time and rarely pay much attention to the spoilers for each show when I do read them), but I’m ecstatic that it did. This will really bring one of the most thrilling wrestlers, Amazing Red, to the forefront of TNA and give the X-Division the new spice it needed. And that move Amazing Red threw off the corner, the one I cussed about… If anyone can tell me what it is and how that little man manages it, I will forever be in your debt!

Backstage Segment

Lauren said she’s waiting for Amazing Red who just won the X-Division… Joe slammed through the interview area, knocked into Lauren and ripped the mic out of Lauren’s hand. He cussed a number of times and then screamed, “Lashley! Bobby!” He went on to say if Lashley wanted to come after him, come after the mob, then he got what he wanted. He’s in Joe’s sight. He’s got a war! And Lashley won’t survive. His days times, his days, everything he’s got are numbered. By the end of tonight he’ll leave just a little bit for Joe to execute at BFG. The war is on!
4/10 – I’m sorry, but that wasn’t impressive to me. While passion in a promo is usually a good thing, screaming at the top of one’s lungs is not. When I have to rewind 4-5 times to understand all he said, it loses much of it’s punch. It would have meant more to me if he’d stormed in and then been scary quiet in his addressing Lashley. Also, it makes very little sense to me. Yes, he lost his title, but he’s the one who invited Lashley into the ring to brawl. If anything Joe should hole himself up and be pissed at himself.

Match #3

Daniels and Suicide to the ring. Homicide and The Pope were already in the ring. The Pope and Homicide attacked as the bell rang. Tenay said some of the Spanish trash talking from Homicide of late was far from PG13 and he’s been fined for what he said. When the match finally turned into a tag match it was Suicide and Homicide. The Pope tagged in briefly then Homicide back in. They cut off the ring on Suicide. Daniels was not happy. Suicide fought back with a double clothesline, The Pope in the ring and Homicide on the apron. He was able to tag in Daniels. Daniels took The Pope apart and went for the ring, but Homicide broke the count. Homicide left the ring and went to Spanish announce. Homicide attacked Urbina. Hector seemed at a loss about what to do. Then Suicide was there to make the save. Suicide got Homicide away and toward the ring. In the ring Daniels was about to hit the BME, but instead grabbed Homicide on the apron and hung him up top. Outside Suicide went back to work on Homicide. With Daniels’ back turned, and in a corner, The Pope was able to hit his finisher and pin Daniels for three.
6.5/10 – I’m rating TNA harder than I did six months ago because the show has improved so much. This match had some great talent in it, but they didn’t show their talent to the best of their ability. They looked fine, but not fabulous! Kaz is really good, Daniels is one of the best, Homicide is so strong and The Pope is growing on me. They should have been able to leave my jaw on the floor and drool running under the sofa. They didn’t do that.

Backstage Segment

Angle stood over Nash and demanded an explanation while Borash stood back and held the mic. He wanted to know why EY was still walking. Nash said he offered twice the money. Angle whined that it was about family about MEM. He didn’t have to offer money, but he did. Nash said EY offered double and he’s not even family! What would Angle do? Angle said he had to go talk to Foley about their match. No outside deals! Angle walked off. Nash said that he could have at least offered triple.
7/10 – Again, that worked because it wasn’t drawn out. They could have forced that into a much longer segment, but they didn’t Angle was whiny and upset – a new side to his character – and Nash was very deadpan. They played beautifully off each other and it felt right. It worked.

In Ring Segment

Tenay with the mic talked about the four team in the ring will face off at BFG for the TNA and IWGP Tag Team Titles. Hebner walked around and had the contract signed while Tenay explained how the match would take place. It’s a ladder match with one of each belts above the ring. Tenay asked for final words and of course Booker grabbed a mic and said what will be final is… Who knows. Something about whooping ass. Storm said, “Sorry about your damn luck!” and attacked Booker. All heck broke loose. Storm outside working over Steiner. Ray working over Magnus. Ray and Devon pulled out a table. Roode pulled it into the ring but Magnus and Williams attacked 3D. Roode punched the heck out of Booker, laying him out on the table. Sharmell still on the ring. She laid on Booker but Terry rushed in and pushed Roode and the ladder over. Devon in and attacked Terry until Steiner in to attacked Devon from behind. Booker up and in on the attack. They put Devon through the table. MEM music played but then TBI in and were attacked by Steiner and Booker. Terry attacked Steiner from behind. TBI gained control and held all the belts high. A punch dropped Ray who jumped up on the apron.
5/10 – Typical contract signing in that it broke down into a mess of fighting. While I’m so over contract signings, I am looking forward to this match. Yes even though there’s so many teams and it’s a gimmick match, I’m really itching to see it.

Backstage Segment

Velvet Sky and Rayne headed for the ring.

Match #4

TNA Knockout Elimination Match. Flash, Velvet Sky, Rayne – all in black and red – and Traci came out together. Hemme, Hamada, Sarita – all in blue – and Wilde came out together. Tenay said they’re the UN of Knockouts. Traci and Hamada start. Traci ducked Hamada’s flying, but then ate a sick kick for two. Hemme tagged in and locked on a very strange move. It was as if she used her leg as a nutcracker on Traci’s head while Traci stood and then did a roll through move. Interesting, but Hemme’s not muscular enough to really make it work. Traci hit a jawbreaker and pinned Hemme for three. Hemme’s out. Wilde in and hit a single leg dropkick on Traci for two. Flash grabbed Wilde’s ankle from outside which distracted her enough to give Traci the upper hand. Flash tagged in and really worked Wilde over. Great back cracker on Flash and Hamada tagged in. Flash and Hamada exchanged stiff blows and ended up fighting to the outside. It turned into a catfight. Flash and Hamada counted out. Sarita and Velvet Sky in. She really worked over Velvet Sky and then tagged in Wilde. Her bridging suplex didn’t keep Velvet Sky down. Velvet Sky hit a very nice DDT on Wilde for three. One of the best moves I’ve seen Velvet Sky hit. Sarita in and alone. Sarita hit a belly to belly on Traci for three. TBP in and attacked Sarita. Velvet Sky got two on Sarita. Rayne tagged in and they double teamed but didn’t get far. Sarita got the upper hand on both and was able to pin Velvet Sky for three! That left Sarita with Rayne to finish the match. Rayne tried for a suplex but Sarita reversed into a small package for two. Then another pin attempt for two. Flash back out and wanted in the match. The ref with Flash outside when Sarita hit a double underhook on Rayne for what would have been three but Lacey Von Erich snuck out and hit a chokeslam on Sarita. Rayne pinned for three. Lacey crawled in to Rayne, Velvet Sky also in. Flash grinned from the ramp.
6/10 – There were a couple of really great parts to that match, but much of it wasn’t thrilling. Many of those women are fabulous! Actually, I think Hemme, Traci and Rayne were the weakest in that match. What I want to know is Rayne going to gain the confidence she needs to be a solid competitor if she’s not given a chance to even throw moves? People say she’s good, but I haven’t seen it! And I think that’s the best I have ever seen Velvet Sky look in the ring. That DDT was the best move I’ve seen her throw. Wilde’s really coming into her own with much more confidence since tagging with Sarita. Sarita, Flash and Hamada are some of the best I have ever seen and it bummed me out that Hamada and Flash ended up leaving the ring to fight so we couldn’t watch them. I really want this feud to start so we can watch their excellence in the ring. I won’t even go into Lacey other than to wonder how she injured herself right there. Word is that she somehow injured herself in that little bit of ring time. I’d like to know how!

Backstage Segment

Angle in Foley’s office talking about it being a long night and he’s at the end of his rope. He has business to attend to with Morgan. He doesn’t want any games. Foley repeated the word games over and over as Angle said he wanted no ‘have a nice day’, no ‘thumbs up’, no ‘bang, bang’, no socks, no ‘cheap pops’. Foley asked if it looked like he was playing games two weeks ago when he left Abyss laying in a pool of his own blood? Unless the game was the 100 meter Olympic plasma medley. He knows Morgan and Abyss have worked together while they’ve never seen eye to eye. The significance of their first time teaming isn’t lost on him. He’s not in the mood to play games while some two bit, second rate facsimile tries to take over his blood sweat and tears. No games! No games! Angle tells him to keep that attitude.
6/10 – Wasn’t thrilling to me. It just didn’t seem to work. Angle had been so on all night, but fell flat here. Foley was decent, but his bouncing from one persona to another wasn’t as seamless as he normally is. Just didn’t feel believable to me.

Backstage

Sting headed for the ring.

Backstage Segment

In a locker room Morgan did pushups while Abyss sat in a corner cross-legged. I didn’t know a man that big, wearing leather/pleather pants could wind his legs up that tightly! Impressive. Morgan yelled back to ask Abyss if he was ready. He said he was. Morgan asked what they get. Abyss said pain. Morgan asked again louder. Abyss said pain much louder. Morgan to his feet, kicked a locker and asked a third time and Abyss joined him to yell pain one more time. Abyss started saying Foley over and over as he clapped his hands in a childlike way. Abyss headed from the locker room. Morgan said that this just might work.
7.5/10 – Everyone knows I adore Abyss and I have to say that was well done. He and Morgan have this beautiful chemistry that I had forgotten about. They’re a natural teaming in such an unnatural way. On paper it shouldn’t work, but in reality their personalities meld in such an organic way. This is the chemistry that the best teams are built on.

In Ring Segment

Sting out to the ring in jeans, a Sting T-shirt, sunglasses and no makeup. Sting said after he and AJ had that interview with Tenay a few weeks ago, he stuck around and thought about a lot of things that AJ said. He said that there’s a very fine line between passing the torch and just not wanting it anymore. Which side of the line does Sting stand on? Then he reminded Sting of how many times he reminded AJ that it’s not worth lacing up your boots if you don’t believe you’re the best, that you can get the job done. Sting said those things because he believed those things. Doesn’t matter if you’re 20 years old or 50 years old. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first match or 10,000th match. When you step through the ropes, you want to bring your best. For the past 23 year when he stepped through those ropes and into the ring, he brought his best. He knows sometimes his best wasn’t good enough, but he brought it. He was taken aback when AJ issued that challenge about the WHC. It took him by surprise, but his knee jerk reaction was to say yes and take him up on the challenge. Why? It’s because it’s in his veins, it’s in his blood, it’s what he does, it’s who he is, all he knows. He still has the will to win! At BFG, in California, he’ll lace his boot up one more time and bring his best believing he can still get the job done. If the question is answered with anything less than his expectations at BFG, then it will be show time for the last time. Sting left the ring, but Angle came out and stopped him. He asked what Sting was going to say? Retire? Sting should say it. Maybe he should have retired before NS before he and AJ pulled off that scam. “You suck” chants from the fans. Angles said that Morgan screwed Angle, Sting handed AJ the WHC and AJ, in return gives Sting a title shot. They way Sting and AJ have gotten along, maybe they should change this show from TNA Impact to The View. So Sting and AJ can kiss each other’s asses for the entire two hours. Angle wants his rematch, his title shot. AJ has never questioned his integrity before, but gives his buddy a title shot at the biggest PPV of the year. AJ thinks Angle will go away. Angle’s going to stay right there. Sting knows this, to be the very best of all time, you have to beat Angle, one on one. Sting knows that, Angle knows that, AJ Styles knows that and the whole damn world knows that. Sting should do us all a favor and retire before BFG so a real Champion can step up to the main event instead of a washed up has-been. “You suck” chants. Sting asks Angle if he wants him to retire? If Angle wants him to retire, why doesn’t Sting retire him right now? Put the old man out of his misery! Sting double hand pushed Angle’s shoulders hard. Angle unbuttoned his jacket, but security was right there to between them. “One more time” chants. Sting started to leave and Angle attacked Sting from behind. Ankle lock on Sting. Security tried to pry Angle off but nothing until AJ ran to the ring. Angle fled and AJ helped Sting to his feet. Angle, from the ramp, told AJ he wanted his shot. At BFG his schedule’s full that night, but he has an opening next week on Impact. If AJ thinks he’s the man, prove it! AJ said if Angle wants him, he’s got him. They’ll settle it one way or another. Angle backed up the ramp very happy. AJ in the ring pissed.
7.5/10 – While it was longer than I’d have liked, it worked very well. Sting has been teasing retirement a lot lately, but I hope he and Angle have one more match before he’s done. Though it looks like if he doesn’t win at BFG, then he is done. We’ll have to wait and see what happens there. Lots of emotion and it all worked. That’s the type of passion that works well, some yelling, but more heart than just volume. Also, I thought it was to be the man you have to beat the man – not have to beat Angle! Must be nice to have such an ego that you always believe you’re the man in a company with men such as Sting, Morgan, AJ, Joe, etc.

Backstage Segment

Lauren asked AJ about facing Angle on Super Impact, so close to BFG? AJ said it’s not wise, but necessary. He’s not thrilled at how he won Angle’s title at NS. People say Sting gave it to him on a silver platter and he knows that. He has a lot to prove to Angle, the fans and himself.
8.5/10 – Another segment that was all heart and worked. He didn’t yell his head off, but he did give us his all. I find it interesting how some weeks AJ is so on, and some weeks he’s so off. This was a great week for him.

Announce Segment

Taz and Tenay went through the matches slated for BFG.

Backstage

Samoa Joe walking along yelling and kicking things.

Stage Segment

MCMG on the stage. Sabin said they’ve listened to the fans and Foley. Just now they listened to their entrance music and puked a little in their mouths. Shelley actually broke up laughing a little at this. Sabin said right here, right now they’re going to start doing things Machine Guns style. Shelley said they have it on good authority that their music is what made Creed puke in the ring last week. Sabin nodded. Shelley told everyone to feast their eyes and ears on their new music video. It was cut off by Joe attacking them from behind. A forearm to Shelley’s upper back sent him rolling down the ramp and then Joe threw Sabin off the side of the ramp. Joe down to the ring and tripped up the steps. He grabbed a mic and started screaming for Lashley. he said Lashley wanted to start a war, well it’s waiting for him. He told Lashley to get down there so he can kick his ass all over the Zone. Lashley came out to the stage. They met on the ramp and punches flew. Joe walked off a bit and then grabbed a chair to slam into Lashley’s gut. Hector and Willie fled and they ended up fighting up at Spanish announce a low blow to Lashley and he’s laid out on the table. Blows to Lashley’s head. Joe climbed the scaffolding. He pushed the banner aside and then flew. An elbow to Lashley and they went through the table. The table broke and fell, Lashley went with it. Lashley was left on the floor while Joe got to his feet, holding his elbow and grimacing, and walked off.
8.5/10 – While Joe only jumped from four feet, at the absolute most, and six feet back, at most, it was impressive. It wasn’t anything like Jeff Hardy flying off the scaffolding onto Orton a few years ago – even though that was staged and Hardy never landed on Orton – it was much higher. Heck, this was nothing compared to most of Hardy’s high flying, but for Joe it impressed the heck out of me. It was one of those high spots that makes your jaw drop. Joe isn’t a high flyer the way Hardy is, he’s not built for it. But he still jumped and landed on a man who could take it. Lashley sure took it like a trooper. I’m very impressed. Also, can’t forget MCMG. They might have only been on the stage for a short time, but they were really funny. Shelley breaking up at Sabin was cool and saying it was their music that made Creed barf last week. That they made such light of Creed’s vomit after I’m sure Creed was harassed mercilessly backstage for barfing in the ring.

Ringside Segment

Lashley tried to stagger to his feet, then back to commercial. Then more video, over and over again, different angles of Joe flying through Lashley. Then backstage Lashley was laid out on a bench in a locker room. They’re checking Lashley out to make sure he’s okay.

Match #5

It’s been so long since we’ve had a match that when Tara came out I had to check back to see what number match this is. The previous match was the Knockout Elimination match – that’s how far back! ODB with new pyro, came out. Tara knocked the flask out of ODB’s hand. ODB hit back. Chop to ODB’s chest and the match really got going. Rolling pin attempts around the ring and then ODB tried for a delayed vertical, but Tara reversed and got ODB up for the same length of time, but that was reversed. ODB struggled to get Tara up for a fallaway slam. Kong came out with a sledge over he shoulder. Kong grabbed SoCal Val and threatened her. Kong made SoCal Val pick up Poison’s box and put it on the floor. Kong raised the sledge but Tara grabbed it and then knocked Kong away. That distraction gave ODB the chance she needed to finish Tara and win. Kong stared into the ring.
5/10 – The delayed vertical almost-suplexes were the best part of that match. Showed nice strength. But then it was ruined with ODB looking weak getting Tara up for the slam and then Kong coming out. Two Knockout Matches and both had major interference. Interference is for matches where the company doesn’t trust the wrestlers to give a good enough match to the fans. All of these Knockouts can give good enough matches, TNA’s just going back to that rut they feel so comfortable in.

Backstage Segment

Angle warming up for his match and Foley came by. Foley asked if Angle was ready. He said he was. Angle asked if Foley was ready. Foley said, “We’re ready,” and walked off. Angle asked what Foley meant by ‘we’ and took off after Foley.
7/10 – That was actually really well done. I’m figuring Foley meant barbie, but who knows. Worked very well.

Main Event

Foley out to the ring with Dr. Stevie and Daffney in tow. Daffney’s still in those thigh highs and tiny top hat. Dr. Stevie was in his zebra shirt, but Slick threw them both out from ringside. Then Angle out to the ring. Abyss came out to the stage in his newest incarnation of ring gear. Then Morgan out to round out the match. Abyss and Foley in, but Foley immediately tagged out rather than fight at all. Angle hard on Abyss’s head but clotheslines dropped Angle. Angle got out of a chokeslam and rolled through into an ankle lock, but then Abyss rolled and kicked Angle away. Foley hit Abyss from outside with barbie and then Angle took Abyss’ knee out. Foley in and got chants as he worked over Abyss! Foley got a bit tired looking from working over Abyss and tagged in Angle. Angle went for the Angle slam, but Abyss reversed it and hit a shock treatment backbreaker. Both down. Morgan tagged in and really worked over Angle! Foley attacked Morgan but a huge clothesline dropped Foley hard. Morgan pinned Foley who somehow kicked out. Abyss clotheslined Angle from the ring. Morgan grabbed Foley for the chokeslam but Foley got free. Abyss in with barbie but Foley had pulled out Socko and Abyss stopped dead before hitting Foley with the bat. Carbon footprint on Foley for three. They posed over Foley while Abyss held barbie. Angle backed up the ramp, Foley rolled from the ring and Abyss stared up at barbie in awe as he walked around with her.
6.5/10 – That was not a great match. Angle and Abyss looked solid and Morgan was really good, but Foley was old Foley. He just doesn’t have what it takes any longer. I have always loved him, but he needs to be on that list with Nash, Steiner and Booker. He shouldn’t be in the ring. Certain wrestlers know when it’s time to hang up their boots. Others just can’t seem to see the handwriting on the walls. Foley’s one of them. It doesn’t help when the fans are chanting for Foley, even though he’s on the more heelish side right now. The fans love him and I don’t see him hanging them up, even though he should. I do have to say that Morgan and Abyss looked just as great together as ever and I hope TNA continues to put them together in the ring.

Post Show

Okay, that show wasn’t too bad. Yes, I wish there was more wrestling and less interference, but it is what it is! I really didn’t think Amazing Red would beat Joe for the X-Division, but I’m thrilled he did. Not thrilled about how it came about, but in the long run, it’s the right thing for the Championship. Also, it doesn’t make sense for Joe to be feuding with Lashley while holding the X-Division Championship. Amazing Red could bring a fresh edge to the X-Division and I’m looking forward to see where TNA’s going to go from here. Now, speaking of Joe, that extreme move was sick! I really didn’t expect something like that from him. I knew he was fabulous in the ring, but didn’t know he could pull off a move like that. Joe’s earned new respect from me!

Much of the mic segments – though there were way too many of them – were very good. EY, Sting, AJ, MCMG, Abyss, Morgan, Nash and even Angle were really good verbally. The thing TNA just doesn’t seem to realize is that they can forward their storylines just as well in the ring as they can with all this talking! It is possible, look at ROH.

Now, I have to address all this interference! There were six matches on this show and four of them had major interference. As I said earlier, interference is for wrestlers who can’t carry or end a match in a creative way. None of the matches tonight needed interference. Only one of them even made real sense! EY getting involved in the Legends Match made wonderful sense and it all worked out beautifully. But the rest of the match were sent haywire because creative seemed to feel they had to get too creative. The problem is that run ins are not at all creative. Russo, get out of the interference rut!

KB