Anyway, rather than watching Cannibal Women In The Avocado Jungle Of Death with Adrienne Barbeau, I threw in HBK’s DVD. I fully enjoyed the first DVD of the set. The matches were fabulous, the interview segments between Cole and HBK aren’t the best, but not bad either. Stacy and I laughed at some of the fans, all of the hair styles and ring gear. Couldn’t miss giggling at Vince McMahon on announce and how over dramatic everything was back then. It’s was the HBK versus Mankind Match that really caught my attention. Rick Rude, Hunter Hearst Helmsley and Chyna came out to the ring as insurance for HBK, but DX hadn’t actually become what we think about today. But what really caught our attention was how into everything the fans were and how overly dramatic everything was. HBK would get clotheslined and flop all over the mat. The fans were wild, jumping all over and screeching for those they loved and screaming obscenities at those they hated. I am going somewhere with this, bear with me.

The costumes, the hair, the ref, the announcers and the fans were so over the top that every show, every match was extreme excitement. Where has that gone? Has wrestling gone so far down the tubes that we don’t remember how exciting it really can be? There was a grit to the matches, but it’s gone and long forgotten. Where has all the grit gone? Why can’t we have it back? Remember the days of not knowing what was going to happen next? Bischoff was the king of the swerve, but hasn’t done any of that since coming to TNA. Lately all wrestling shows have seemed hollow and missing some sort of flavor that it’s almost impossible to put your finger on. There’s no spark and everything is so over-choreographed that it doesn’t look at all real. Yes, we all know it’s scripted, but there was a time that it felt realistic. Now it’s so contrived and polished that it’s easy to pick out every tiny mistake on mic and in the ring.

I just want to shake those in charge at TNA and tell them to shake things up! There’s so much they could do to make TNA different from WWE, but they keep trying to be their clone – all the while verbally condemning them. There’s so much TNA could do, but they’re staying safe and running with the big names. I want the grit, the interest, the swerves and questions that I know Bischoff can give us! Tear it all down and give us something interesting!

I also want to comment on last week’s Impact ratings. I’m sure the 1.0 they earned last Monday was much lower than they expected, but I’m also sure the 1.0 on Thursday shocked them too. While I understand why TNA is discontinuing their Thursday night Impact replay, I think they’re going to hurt themselves with it short term. Fans who do not follow wrestling online (or aren’t as avid as a lot of us) might not realize that Impact won’t be replayed this coming Thursday and might possibly miss a week or two until they get their DVR’s programmed for Monday nights. Heck, I still have to get my DVR scheduled to copy NXT as I forget until the show has already started. It’s not always at the top of people’s lists. Honestly, I don’t know why they bothered replaying it last week, but that’s just me. I will be very interested in seeing what TNA manages for ratings going against Stone Cold Steve Austin and the WM Rewind Matches. I think more people will be setting their DVR to Impact and watching RAW. I know I will be watching RAW, but that’s pretty much a given as I do the RAW play-by-play on WNW.

Oh, my goodness! I’m so sorry about this being so late! I’m not yet in the habit of Impact being on Monday nights and totally blanked on the fact that I had the Blog to write! I’m still in the mindset of Monday and Thursday nights that I completely blanked on this! I’m so sorry to everyone!

Show Starts

Video

Recap of Impact’s first regular Monday night and the big main event that started the show until Sting got involved. The whole video revolved around the three old guys – Hogan, Flair and Sting. Yes, they’re big names, but there’s so much more to TNA!

Backstage

A beautiful bronze colored Hummer pulled up. Hogan climbed from the passenger seat, Abyss from behind the wheel, Jeff Hardy and RVD from the back seat. Jeff Hardy’s face already painted up the way he’s known to do. Seeing the forming of a faction? One can hope!

Music & Pyro

In Ring Segment

Flair and AJ to the ring. Have to love the heat these two incite. AJ cut on Abyss for being scary looking, but stupid for thinking some magical ring will help him beat AJ. They had classic battles in the past, they took each other to their limits. The result has always been the same. AJ up, Abyss down. AJ doesn’t believe in the Easter Bunny, Santa Clause or magical rings. He believes he’s the best wrestler in the world. He’s a gift from God. Flair took the mic and burst into true Flair spaz. Off came the jacket, then the bandage and he busted himself wide open again. Blood just gushed! He verbally went after Abyss and Jeff Hardy. Hardy’s music hit and out he stalked as if without a worry in the world. AJ demanded to know what Hardy’s doing there. Jeff just stood there as if AJ was screaming in his face and Flair wasn’t wiping his face and flicking blood at him! AJ challenged Jeff to a match and really started channeling Flair’s spaz. “Hardy” chants and Jeff just pointed at the fans. Jeff said facing AJ would be a breeze. Flair started ranted and Jeff lost a little of his relaxed state. He said he’d be flying high on his creatures of the night. Down went the lights and everything was lit blue.
6/10 – When AJ said himself up and Abyss down, I immediately thought of Evolution when Orton won the title. All of the thumbs up and thumbs down going on during that time. Not sure how TNA meant it, but I thought it was poorly worded. I do have say that these guys are so over as heels! They’re as over as anyone right now. Matching AJ with Flair was genius! There’s no way AJ could have gotten over as a heel the way he has without him. I’m so shocked at how Jeff can act and move as if his world isn’t crashing down around him. What a pro. I still don’t understand why TNA signed him in the middle of all his legal troubles, but I’m not the one paying the piper.

Backstage Segment

Foley and Bisch got into it, again! Bisch was pissed about Foley’s reffing job last week. Bisch was still intent on cleaning Foley up by shaving Foley’s head and beard in the ring.
6/10 – Anyone who spends any time in WNW already knows what happens with this segment. I don’t know how it comes about, but I sure look forward to seeing how Bisch ends up half bald! To me it shows how committed Bisch is to TNA.

Earlier Segment

Jesse Neal was at a lunch truck and was attacked. First by Jimmy Hart, then by The Nasty Boys. Guess it doesn’t pay to be friends with Team 3D right now. Only thing I wish is that Jimmy Hart was aligned with someone else. He’s one of my favorites from back in the day of flamboyant managers and he’s one I’m thrilled to see back, but that’s because he’s not in the ring trying to wrestled day in and day out. He’s also still in better shape than most of the older wrestlers trying to relive their prime since their friend Hogan came into TNA.

Match #1

I just said Jimmy’s not trying to wrestle and he’s in a tag match! WTF is TNA doing?!?! Ray came out and said they found a partner and out came Spike! Or is he Runt? Ugh! They pitted Runt, that’s so Nasty! (Pun intended.) Jimmy in the ring was hysterical! If TNA feels they need a little comedy, Jimmy’s a great way to do it. Jimmy did his job beautifully by distracting the ref so Knobbs could nail Ray with the helmet. Even funnier that Jimmy made the pin! Jesse Neal came out to make the save as Jimmy tripped over Devon and fell on his ass. Saggs then ate a 3D through a table.
5/10 – At least they didn’t try to make this match look too serious. I’m up for as much fun as the next fan, but they need to keep it in small doses and not jam it down our throats. I personally find Jimmy Hart hysterical when he really gets going. So much better than the PG comedy that WWE has jammed down our throats with the leprechaun. (Don’t get me wrong, I like Hornswoggle, but he was much better when working with Finlay than DX.)

Backstage Segment

Hemme with Angelina Love. Love is pissed that TBP won the Knockout Tag Team Championships. Love issued an open challenge to any of TBP.
7/10 – Love was really good there! Short, sweet and to the point. My only negative comment is very girly – Her lipstick was way outside the lines of her lips and it made her look like a clown.

Backstage Segment

Borash with The Band. Waltman said they’ve been thrown out of better places than this. Hall said they’ll get it done. Nash and EY walked up and commented on Waltman getting his ass kicked last week. If Hall can last five minutes in the ring with Nash he gets $25,000.
5/10 – Other than the way they kept hugging on Borash, it wasn’t as bad as it could have been. Honestly, Hall sounded much less drunk than normal. He wasn’t slurring his words, but he sure looked like he was stoned or something. His eyes were really off. I also have to say I’m thrilled TNA decided to keep the old guys in the ring to five minutes or less. More than I’d give them, but at least it’s not an Iron Man Match!

Match #2

Anderson and Wolfe out to the ring. Video of the abuse Anderson took last week. Angle out with The Pope in tow. The Pope was playing up his limp quite a bit. Angle hung his medal on the ring post. That thing has been passed back and forth so many times that I’d forgotten that Angle had it back! Wolfe and Angle were working well and Anderson refused the tag, but then took a cheap shot on Angle. The Pope also worked wonderfully in this match with both Anderson and Wolfe. All four in the ring, but The Pope rolled Wolfe up in a small package for three. Of course Wolfe attacked The Pope after the bell, Anderson did the same. Anderson stole the medal again and went after Angle’s head with it again. Anderson called for his mic and got right in Angle’s face. Angle was gushing, leaving quite the ‘splat on the mat’ as Anderson ranted in his face. More punches to Angle’s head with the mic before it was over.
7/10 – Second match and second time there was more abuse after the match than during! They have a ring bell for a reason, but it doesn’t seem to mean much in TNA lately. I do have to say that Wolfe and Angle are great competitors in the ring. They can put on both a technical match and throw sick moves with each other. I know they wanted to shake things up a bit, but those two in the ring are gold and I’m glad that was the majority of the short match.

Backstage Segment

TBP discussed who was going to be stuck facing Love. Rayne and Velvet Sky decided it should be Lacey. Please, someone save us from Lacey’s crappy ring skills!

Backstage Segment

Hogan told Jeff to take care of AJ, he’s sending out Abyss as a special enforcer. RVD knows what to do. Bisch came in after they left. Bisch loves surprises, but he feels he should have been in on bringing in Hardy and RVD. Hogan said Bisch has had a lot going on with JJ and Foley. Bisch decided certain people need to know who’s in charge.
6/10 – Bisch and Hogan are obviously not on the same page and this could lead to a lot more fun in TNA – if they do it right. If Hogan ends up jumping ship and becoming a heel, it will be WCW all over again. But if they play it out to the brutal end and make it really ugly, it could get very interesting. They need to get the fans invested and controversy does that. Just as Eric Bischoff!

Match #3

Angelina Love out to the ring. All three of TBP out to the ring, actually all in matching colors for once. Velvet Sky announces for one night only an honorary member. Daffney in behind Love and attacked. Daffney really wrenched Love back hard and worked her over! From under the ring came a tool box. She disregarded vice grip and pliers to grab the hammer. Love started to gain control, but TBP interfered from outside and it was over. Again, a lot more abuse after the bell rang. The four of them on Love, but Tara from the crowd and broke it up. Tara wanted Daffney who seethed on the ramp.
3/10 – Third match and third time there was more abuse after the match ended. Once, maybe twice on one show is one thing, but this is getting ridiculous! The only good thing about this one match is that TNA might actually add a Knockout Match to Destination X!

Video

Reminding us, again, that Sting turned heel last week upon his return. Then he faced RVD in one of the most disappointing matches of the year so far.

In ring Segment

Hogan to the ring. He might be Mr. Ego, but he sure can work the fans into a frenzy every time he’s out there. He’s pissed about what happened last week. The one thing he can’t let go of was when Abyss was asking Sting why? Hogan demanded Sting get out there and explain why? Why did he stab TNA in the back? Hogan said Sting was afraid to face Hogan. Sting was up in the rafters – shocker! RVD attacked Sting as he headed down the ramp. When RVD was done with Sting he slid the bat and Sting into Hogan, but Bisch had to break it up. Bisch screamed at Hogan that he’s not a wrestler now and that part of his life is over! Sting was all smiles as he was escorted from the ring. They’re there to lead TNA, not wrestle! He needs to be done with it. The camera on Brooke and Jennifer who were both in tears. Bisch stomped off leaving Hogan in the ring. Hogan hugged Brooke ringside.
7.5/10 – Sting took so much time to get down from the rafters that the whole segment really lost its momentum. And while there was a major beat down, it wasn’t during a match! We want more wrestling, but that means actual matches! The reason I gave this segment such a high rating is because it set up interest. It created strife. It made the fans wonder what’s going to happen between Hogan and Bisch. It also further set up the feud between RVD and Sting. While I’d rather an actual match, this was interesting.

Backstage Segment

Hernandez told JJ he wanted to join with JJ to get it done against BMI. Bisch stepped in and verbally abused JJ about trying to make matches. Bisch put Hernandez into a match against BMI and JJ will be the ref. He’d better call it right down the middle.
5/10 – This feud between Bisch and JJ is getting boring. Bisch is fighting with both JJ and Foley, but for no obvious reasons other than early WCW history! People who are newer to wrestling don’t have a clue why there’s (on air) issues between Bisch and these men. Even I wasn’t watching a lot back then and only know about much of it from my research. It’s just pulling history from too far back to feel realistic to me.

Match #4

Nash out to the ring with a huge wad of cash in hand. Hall already out there in street clothes. Nash handed the cash over to the ref who just stood there holding it! Hall really sold the kidney shots from Nash, but that’s not saying much. And then Hall’s little girl slaps to the back of Nash’s head, what was that about? Waltman rushed in and hit a chop block on Nash’s surgically repaired knee. Handcuffs and Nash was stuck. Of course EY to the rescue! But numbers took over.
3/10 – Four matches that continued after the bell. Oy! It’s like TNA decides to run with one type of match every week and this week every match had to end the same because there’s a PPV on Sunday and they need to build strife! This really isn’t working for me! Bisch is a better creative mind than this! What the hell is going on? And I have to say that Waltman’s humping of EY’s face was really not cool!

Backstage Segment

Borash with BMI. Roode called him Seacrest which really went over well with Borash. He said they just wanted an opportunity because they’ve been pushed aside since Hogan and Bisch came in. Storm said Bisch gave them an opportunity, it just so happened to be JJ. This week it’s Hernandez. They’re sick and tired of finishing last.
8/10 – They were in full on heel mode and gave a great promo. While there not quite over yet as heels, it shouldn’t take much. They’re just that good and deserve to be in great matches.

Match #5

JJ out without music or pyro, in a zebra shirt. BMI out to the ring. Hernandez out to face them, but they attacked just as he got in the ring. Morgan started out to the ring, but then stopped and headed back. He then went to announce. Morgan talked down to Tenay that he should be honored to have Morgan there at announce. Morgan blamed Hernandez for getting himself in this match with another partner. Hernandez got himself into this mess when Morgan wanted a warm up match before Destination X. Morgan sounded to be in full on heel mode. Hernandez held his own well, but the numbers were against him. BMI demanded and physically pushed JJ around until he raised their arms in victory. JJ went to check on Hernandez while Morgan headed to the locker room. Of course BMI continued to beat down Hernandez and pushed JJ down. JJ removed his shirt and attacked. Hernandez hit his slingshot over the top in a double clothesline before BMI fled.
6/10 – It wasn’t a bad match, but it continued on the formula of the night. They just couldn’t leave well enough alone. But I have to say having Morgan turning heel right before our eyes has been beautiful. It’s been a slow change, but also very obvious. Very interested in see what happens when they have to defend their TNA Tag Team Championships at Destination X.

Backstage

Bisch walked along with electric clippers in hand and a smile on his face. He’s just such a fabulous heel!

In Ring Segment

Bisch told JJ that his ass belongs to Bisch next week, but now it’s Foley. Bisch demanded Foley come out and sit in the barber’s chair. If they’re going to do this why don’t they have Hogan’s good friend Brutus ‘The Barber’ Beefcake on hand? The fans were not happy about Foley losing his hair and chanted for him. Bisch went after Foley’s hair, but Mr. Socko came out! Tenay called him Mr. Socko, something they hadn’t done before in TNA. He choked Bisch out until he was flopped in the chair. Foley had a blast buzzing off Bisch’s hair. Big long stripes off the top and then he slapped Easy E awake and showed Bisch his hair. Bisch grabbed the hair off the mat and tried to put it back on his shaved head.
7/10 – Now, I have to admit that if this was done on live TV I would have at least given it a nine. But TNA has decided that they can’t go live every Monday, so everyone knew Bisch’s head would be shave and had already seen the pictures of it. This is the type of fun swerve that makes wrestling shows fun to watch, but not when it’s taped a week ahead of time and we already know what’s going to happen. Three steps forward, two steps back.

Video

Foley turned the tables on Bisch and shaved his head. Yes, we just saw this, we know it happened.

Backstage Segment

Hemme with Shannon Moore. He represents the tattooed, the brood and the screwed. He guaranteed his freaks he’d become X Division Champion. Welcome to glam rock.
5/10 – I’ve been a huge Shannon Moore fan for years. I have always thought he’s received the short end of the stick every time he started moving above mid-card purgatory. He just never seems to get far before being screwed over in some way. Between being stuck in in one of the worst groups ever formed in wrestling, Three Count, to trying to be Matt Hardy V2, Moore has had the worst gimmicks! Finally he’s coming into TNA and being a little grander version of himself; something we all knows works better than almost anything else. The problem with that promo is that he looked like he was either wearing way too much bronzer or went way overboard with the fake tan. And then there’s all the catchphrases he threw out! I don’t remember anyone of them because he threw out more than the Rock could in one promo. The problem is that this is the first time Moore has spoken and it made him look like he was trying way too hard.

In Ring Segment

The Ultimate X was set up. MCMG in the ring talking about how great Destination X will be. The return of the Ultimate X Match and the beginning of the rise of the MCMG. Starts with Generation Me. They can’t compete with the likes of the MCMG. What have they done to deserve this match? Jeremy and Max came out to the ring. Max said Generation Me beat the MCMG on their debut. Shelley said it was all luck. They’re good, but not great. MCMG are great! MCMG are their Xbox to Generation Me’s Atari. Shelley said something about the night they spent with Generation Me’s girlfriends. That sealed it and Jeremy bitch slapped Shelley. The fight broke out and half the X Division ended up in the fight – Kendrick, Amazing Red, Daniels and Kaz with a ladder came out one by one. The fight just went round and round. Max and Jeremy climbed part way up the scaffolding and then flew onto MCMG. The last left standing were Kaz and Amazing Red. Max and Jeremy in and the set up a ladder. Amazing Red climbed to the top and flew!
8/10 – While not a match, that segment made me itch to see what will happen at Destination X! TNA decided to show more fighting outside of matches tonight, but this was the one segment that worked. The X Division is known for flying all over and getting into each other’s faces, so it worked beautifully. Those high spots hit by Generation Me were sick, but nothing compared to the flying Amazing Red did! I still believe Amazing Red is one of the best small wrestlers I’ve ever seen and he shouldn’t have lost to Williams, but that’s my own personal feeling. The X Division wrestlers are amazing and it’s nice to see Hogan and Bisch finally giving them time on Impact.

Backstage Segment

Borash with Abyss who was still enthralled with his ring. He knows why Flair and AJ are after his ring. For the first time someone’s jealous of him. He’s going to take AJ’s title. And if Flair get involved tonight, Abyss will take care of him. Whatcha gonna do when the monster runs wild and crazy on you?
7/10 – Still not exactly the scary monster we wanted, but much better than the scared child Abyss had turned into. He’s just channeling Hogan too much. I’m glad he’s getting this huge push, but he’s too much like Hogan now. It’s like we’re still seeing Hogan and Flair feuding, but they’re in Abyss and AJ’s bodies. These men deserve these pushes, but as themselves and not as little clones of these old men who can no longer go.

Backstage

Jeff Hardy getting ready to face AJ.

Main Event

Abyss first out to the ring to be the Special Enforcer. AJ out looking like a Flair clone with the Nature Boy in tow. Jeff Hardy out covered in paint with than shorter hair. Commercial. They returned just as the bell rang, finally not acting as if it was a live show. AJ and Hardy went at it hard in the ring. Hardy was sent out and Flair started, but Abyss stopped him before he got going. AJ ran to fly, but stopped as to not give the fans the thrill. Brooke was in the front row, on her feet and yelling at Hardy to get up. She seemed really into the match. Dueling “Let’s go AJ” and “Let’s Hardy” chants, but Hardy’s were much louder. No matter what Hardy did, AJ seemed to have a counter for it. Pins back and forth between the two. AJ flew and took out both Hardy and Slick. With the ref down Abyss had to stop AJ from using a chair. Tenay talked about how Hardy’s moonsault was one fluid motion directly onto AJ, but it actually barely touched AJ. Dueling “Let’s go Hardy” and “Let’s go AJ” chants that were actually equally loud. AJ springboard was one of his most beautiful, but he missed. Hardy, on the other hand, hit a great swanton for three. Abyss counted the three as Slick was still ‘out’. After the bell, of course, Flair came in with a chair and attacked Hardy and then Abyss. Out on the ramp Abyss ‘Hulked up’ as Flair hit him over and over with the chair. Abyss did the Hogan point and then choke slammed Flair through the ramp!
8.5/10 – That was a really solid match between AJ and Hardy. Hardy did have a little ring rust going on there, but not enough to matter. It will really suck if Hardy is convicted and has to leave the ring, but I don’t know enough about the charges to say anything more. I fully admit I cussed loudly in front of one of my teenagers when Flair went through the ramp. My boy had just asked me who ‘the old guy’ was and why the other guy didn’t ‘beat him down’. I told him to wait a moment, but then cussed really loudly as Flair went through the ramp. I have to say that was the best ending to an Impact I’ve seen in a long time. Definitely the best pre-PPV ending I remember see from TNA.

Post Show

I have to comment on something that’s more Spike than TNA. I just don’t understand why they have to show so many Enzyte commercials during Impact! It seems during every commercial break they show at least one if not two of them in a row. Do they think that all men who watch wrestling have winky problems? That’s pretty degrading if you ask me.

Now that I got that out of my system! Did TNA spin a wheel and it came up with post-match attacks, so every match had to end that way? Just insane! Only thing that could have made this all worse would have been a Russo BS On A Pole Match!

Okay, the show wasn’t THAT bad, there were a lot of great points. The problem was that every match came to the same conclusion. They just couldn’t let any matches end with the bell. Actually, I’d be willing to be we saw as much fighting outside of the matches as in between the bells. For me that’s a serious issue. While saying that, I do think that the RVD/Sting segment worked well, Foley shaving Bischoff’s head was great, the X Division segment was fabulous and the end of Impact with Flair going through the stage was just a wonderfully shocking way to end the show. So while there were a lot of issues with this Impact, they seem to be turning a corner. They kept me interested and entertained me much of the time and that’s damn good compared to a lot of what they’ve given us recently. I hope they continue on this path, getting better and better.

KB

It’s interesting to see how people in the industry are reacting to TNA’s move to Monday nights. Vince McMahon is openly ignoring TNA and continues to go about business as usual, but I have to believe that there’s a little part in the back of his brain that’s worried about what might possibly happen. That he’s had a few nights where he’s woken up with a start and wondered if TNA with Bischoff and Hogan could move in on him and give him a run for his money. It also seems as though the boys on the WWE roster have been told not to speak a word about TNA or those involved, the complete opposite of the tactic that TNA seems to be going with. The boys on the TNA roster have been Tweeting, talking on FaceBook and posting YouTube videos. Personally I think giving Scott Hall a camera and expecting anything other than a train wreck is totally daft. Everything he says comes out like a drunken slur and the shakiness of the video made me more nauseated than a whole bottle of Captain Morgan’s, which is most likely what Hall downed before picking up the camera!

Hogan has sure been making the rounds, pushing TNA’s move, something TNA’s really needed. Having Hogan as their front man can only help TNA, and has. People are tuning in to see Hogan, Flair, Bischoff and are getting lucky enough to discover some of TNA’s great young roster. Sadly we’re also getting stuck watching old guys who are way past their prime trying to relive their glory days. I really hope the egos involved are not the downfall of TNA. Hogan himself has said he shouldn’t be in the ring. That he didn’t want to wrestle, but the fans were chanting for him and he couldn’t say no. He claims he painted himself into a corner, but no one is forcing him in the ring! Just because the fans are chanting his name doesn’t mean he has to lace up his boots. People chant a lot of things that Hogan’s been ignoring (that they don’t want to see Orlando Jordan or The Nasty Boys), but his ego won’t let him pass up another match in front of the fans he seems to need to survive. I will agree that Hogan and Flair in the ring are a HUGE draw and something TNA probably needs for their first night in their timeslot, but it will be an absolute train wreck.

So while TNA didn’t set up for an exciting night during their final Thursday night Impact, they have since worked online to push their Monday move. Between the Borash video about the first five minutes of the show, Hogan’s interviews and radio appearances, Hall and Waltman’s video, the wrestlers’ Tweets and Bischoff’s FaceBook page – they’ve done a lot to ready for TNA appearing live on Monday, going head to head with RAW. I don’t see TNA doing great in the ratings right off the bat, especially with Wrestlmania coming up, but maybe in a month or so TNA’s ratings might make a jump. Because of this I think TNA planned their move to Monday at the perfect time.

The one thing I have to say TNA has failed horribly with is keeping quiet who might be appearing on their first regularly scheduled Monday night Impact. There have been names flying around all weekend. I’ve heard Shannon Moore, Rob Van Dam, Sting, Jeff Hardy and a few others. Either TNA should have pushed these big names appearing, or they should have worked harder to keep things under wraps. Either way I think TNA has dropped the ball on setting up and advertising the big move.

I want to add a quick note about the WNW Live Blog for start of the Monday Night War. I thought it went wonderfully and have to send out huge props to my boyfriend, Stacy. I was writing the RAW play-by-play and he was on the Live Blog as me, posting my comments, polls, etc. He was such a huge help moving into this new wrestling era and I wouldn’t be able to do it all without him!
Show Starts

Music & Pyro

TNA’s new opening is fabulous! They really look as though they’re taking steps to be more professional and really step up their game to run with the big boys (WWE). My only negative is that a lot of the wrestlers shown haven’t been on Impact at all lately. They showed Lethal and Suicide, both of which haven’t been seen recently. Actually, I thought they were done with the Suicide character since they debuted Kaz. But it’s still a fabulous way to start their first regular Monday night show.

Match #1

TNA started the night with their main event; great way to hook the fans away from RAW. Hogan and Abyss out to a hot crowd, but I have to comment on Abyss’ new ring gear. It looks as though a five year old took scissors and a serger to an already poorly made nylon shirt. It reminds me too much of what Foley wore as Mankind. But I do love his new logo on the back of the shirt, that’s kick ass. I don’t understand why Hogan felt he had to dampen the fans down by running through all that happened leading up to this match, but he does like to hear himself talk! Then Flair and AJ out in their matching floofy bathrobes. Flair took his customary back body drop that made me cringe as it had for about the past ten years, then the whole match devolved to higgledy-piggledy. Lights down and when they came up, of course it was Sting. He did a damn good job of making it look like he was face before going after Hogan and Abyss, but then it was all over and the faces were toast. Last week it was Flair who was busted open, so of course it was Hogan’s turn to gush. After security broke it up Hogan had to make a No DQ Match for later in the show, as if Hogan hasn’t bled enough.
7/10 – While not a good match, it was an entertaining way to start the show. TNA wanted to come out of the gate hard and fast – exactly what they did. While I don’t think turning Sting heel the way they did was the best, it sure did throw a swerve into the show right from the start. And starting the show with color when WWE is doing everything possible to avoid it shows what they’re willing to do to be different. I do have to say that Flair is one man who should never be seen without a shirt. My daughter and I have always called Flair the Rubberman for the way his skin on his torso flexes and moves as he works the ring. The loss of muscle tone and all those years of tanning have left his torso in kind of a gross condition and it’s only become worse since the last time we saw him in the ring. Watching all that loose skin slide around makes me slightly nauseated.

Video

Replay of what happened in the ring after Sting came in and made his heel turn.

Backstage Segment

Sting stomped through and then backed Dixie into a wall with his hand to her throat. He claimed he owed her nothing. I guess if you’re going to go heel, what better way to prove it than attack the pretty lady who’s the financial backer of the company.

On Stage Segment

AJ claimed there’s no do-overs in wrestling. Flair balled his fists to show off Abyss and Hogan’s blood. They’re going to finish the job on Hogan and Abyss.
7/10 – AJ was shaking there as badly as Flair! I have to say he’s not just following in Flair’s footsteps, he seems to be channeling Flair!

Backstage Segment

Abyss walking along with a towel to mop up the blood, screaming about Sting and why?
6/10 – Wow, they’re bouncing from one short segment to another very quickly. While I know I complain about too long segment, but these are so short and fast that it’s hard to keep track of what’s going on. You just realize what’s going on and they move onto the next. I think TNA needs to find a happy medium in how they pace their shows.

Backstage Segment

Jennifer (Hogan’s girlfriend) tried to console Brooke who was totally freaked out about Hogan’s safety and how he’ll hide his pain, but he’s not okay.
6/10 – While I don’t think Brooke is great on mic, I think putting them on camera was a very smart move. Two beautiful blonde women with great racks always go over well in the wrestling industry. It is the way it is.

In Ring Segment

Kaz said almost two years ago he chose to walk away from TNA. Now he can safely say his doubt it gone. He’s back to re-ignite the flame of the X Division. If TNA’s going to war, let the warriors of the X Division lead into battle. Daniels out and said he’s leading the X Division into battle. He’s going to carry the X Division to the highest of heights. Then Doug Williams out and called them geezers trying to save the X Division. Huge “USA” chants. He claimed the X Division is alive and well because he’s Champion. Kaz asked where was Williams seven years ago? He and Daniels got into it but were cut off by Bisch! Bisch said that he was so pumped about TNA was because of the X Division. It’s the heart and adrenaline of TNA. He wants it to run bigger, faster and stronger. Kaz’s title shot will be tonight. Daniels will be in it as it’s a Triple Threat Match, right now.
7/10 – They really went at each other fast, the way the X Division should be. Kaz can really cut a promo! He’s the man to watch in the X Division right now. And we all know Daniels is fabulous on mic, it was Williams who was the weakest link in that segment, and he wasn’t that bad. Williams is no Wolfe on mic, but he is getting better.

Match #2

They really jumped on each other fast as soon as the match was announced! Kaz’s double pin on Williams and Daniels was sick! And then when he flew out onto both Williams and Daniels, also sick! Kaz hit moves that I’ve never seen before! Then there was the roll through and suplex Williams used to win the match – wow! After it was all over Shannon Moore rushed in and attacked Williams. After Moore’s beat down on Williams, Bisch announced that Moore will face Williams for the X Division Championship at Destination X – surprise!
9.5/10 – What a beautiful introduction to the X Division for the newest TNA fans. If those in power wanted to show those newly tuning into TNA just what the X Division is all about, that match showed it beautifully. Those men worked hard! Yes, some might say it was a spot-fest, but it was also wonderfully wrestled between those high spots. All three men put it on the line and the biggest winner was the people watching. I’m not sure how I feel about Moore getting a shot at the X Division Title at Destination X since he’s not been in a TNA ring since March 18, 2006.

Backstage Segment

Borash with Dixie who looked pissed. She’s thrilled Sting signed his contract, but if he wants to mix it up, he has a match. Borash wanted to know with who, but she wouldn’t say.
5/10 – I do have to admit that Dixie pulled off shaky and pissed off really well. But we all know who Sting will be facing! Even as Dixie said everyone would have to wait to find out, we all knew. Hogan really screwed up by letting it slip that RVD would be coming to TNA.

Backstage

TNA came back from commercial for all of 30 seconds to show off TBP’s asses as they stretched out. I still find it interesting that while Lacey wears colors to match Velvet Sky and Madison Rayne, she’s not in matching ring gear. Velvet Sky and Rayne are always in almost identical ring gear, but Lacey’s the odd man out. Wonder what exactly is behind that.

Match #3

Taylor Wilde and Sarita out to the ring. Tenay said that since Hamada and Kong didn’t defend their Knockout Tag Team Championships within thirty days, they’ve been stripped of the titles. This is a Triple Threat to crown new TTCs. TBP out next with Lacey in tow. Rayne just doesn’t seem as comfortable showing off her assets the way Velvet Sky and Lacey von Erich are. Angelina Love and Tara out together with Poison in hand. Of course TBP fought dirty, but that’s just who they are. But then Daffney came in (wearing the exact corset I’ve been pining after for about five years now) and nailed Tara in the back with her own strap giving Rayne the opportunity to pin her for three.
5/10 – Definitely a low point in the show. Not much actual wrestling even though the six Knockouts in the ring have proven they’re good wrestlers. And while I understand why they strapped TBP, it still gets my hackles up as there’s so many wrestlers who are so much better than them. Handing them the belts feels very WWE to me. I do have to admit that the interference there didn’t bother me in the least as it’s furthering the feud between Tara and Daffney, hopefully setting up for a kick ass match at Destination X.

Backstage Segment

Hemme with The Pope. Hemme said he’s getting his title shot but it’s not until Lockdown in April? I thought he was getting his shot at the next PPV, Destination X. Why are they waiting so long to give him the match he earned? Very odd. He talked about facing Wolfe, but then Wolfe suddenly attacked from behind, onto The Pope’s already injurer ankle. Wolfe set The Pope’s ankle on the step and slammed a chain down on it.
5/10 – It was just okay. I was really looking forward to The Pope on mic. To cut off one of your best talkers that way on such a huge show is not cool. I do have to admit the chain was a nice touch. It wasn’t the normal chair or lead pipe that so many wrestlers use as their customary weapon of choice.

Backstage

Sting climbed down some steps from the rafters. Taz asked, “What were your doing at 4:20 this afternoon?” And for anyone who had been living under a rock for the past week, there’s the biggest tell of all the RVD would be facing Sting!

Backstage Segment

Borash with TBP who are all excited about their Knockout Tag Team Championship win. Lacey wanted to know if she’s a Champion too. Rayne said she is. Velvet Sky said they couldn’t have done it without her. The bubbly arrived. Obviously what they had didn’t taste very good because of the face Lacey made after her first chug. She cringed a bit. I have to admit Velvet Sky did a great job popping the cork. Better than most men I’ve seen! Then, of course, Borash was doused in the bubbly and threw a glassful onto Velvet Sky chest.
6/10 – Fun to watch, especially for the guys. I know most men love watching TBP and seeing them covered in bubbly has to make it that much better for them. And while they were playing with the bubbles they weren’t talking and that makes me happy!

Announce Segment

Tenay and Taz talked about Sting and how he’s turned heel. Taz was shocked. I was more shocked at how much gray Taz suddenly has in his beard! They showed video of Sting turning heel and then talked about him attacking Dixie. Tenay said Dixie vowed she’d never get involved in making matches (when?), but she’s made an exception to that rule.
6/10 – Maybe I missed something somewhere, but I don’t remember Dixie saying she wouldn’t be involved in making matches. It does make sense as she brought Hogan and Bisch in to do such things. Behind the scenes is a totally different story, but she has always claimed to be a businesswoman and doesn’t know a lot about wrestling.

Match #4

Sting out to the ring to face his mystery opponent. Wonder who it might be? TNA hasn’t dropped any hints at all and kept it so quiet leading up to their first regular Monday night Impact. The fans still popped for Sting in a big way, even though he’s supposed to be heel now. He’s just been face so much in his career that the fans don’t seem to believe the swerve. But the fans were chanting loudly for RVD well before his music hit. Sting looked all shocked when RVD’s music hit. Through the fans and in the ring behind Sting. Off the top with a kick and then rolling thunder and RVD pinned Sting for three. After it was over Sting attacked a celebrating RVD with the baseball bat. Sting worked RVD over, longer than the actual match – by far. Sting acted like he was leaving, but came back to abuse RVD more. Hogan, badly cut up, came out to get in Sting’s face, but Bubba The Love Sponge was able to stop him? Hogan is obviously in bad shape, but he made a poor display of trying to get through security and into the ring. One shot from the bat to Hogan’s gut and he’s done.
3/10 – I was wrong, this was the low point of the night. What a horrible way to introduce RVD to TNA. Two moves and Sting was done? Made him look weak. Then RVD wasn’t able to fight back after the match? Made RVD look weak. Two shots to Hogan and he’s done? Made Hogan look old and weak – but of course he is. Yes, beating the heck out of RVD, Hogan and some refs with a bat made Sting’s heel turn complete in the eyes of the fans, but it could have been done so much better. I feel really bad for RVD. He comes back to the ring after so long and is booked so poorly. And that right there proved that Hogan should not be in the ring for any reason. The man is old!

In Ring Segment

Nash’s music and he came out with Eric Young. They came out to address their issues with Scott Hall and Sean Waltman, because that’s how you deal with thugs. Nash said he had a contract for a one time only match at Destination X for Hall and Waltman to face Nash and EY. Commercial. Hall and Waltman skulked in a door backstage. Commercial. They still stood in the ring waiting, nothing going on. The fans started dueling chants of “Hall is wasted” and “Waltman sucks”. As much heat as Hall gets, the fans still pop for him when he says, “Hey yo”. It boggles my mind. Hall, in his drunken slur ripped on Nash and then Hogan. Hall admitted that he and Waltman aren’t too smart, but they have lawyers. They want fat money contracts from Dixie. Hall called Easy E in on all this. Bisch told them to accept. If they win, they get their fat contracts. If they don’t get it done, they’re completely gone. The drunks agreed to that. Nash said he’d see them at Destination X. Hall said he’ll be the one who looks like Elvis. Of course Waltman bitch slapped EY and EY attacked. Bisch said he’s sick of paying for all the security and set up a match for EY to slap Waltman upside his bitch ass!
4/10 – TNA went from moving through the show too quickly to leaving Nash and EY standing in the ring through two sets of commercials waiting for Hall and Waltman. They just can’t seem to get the pacing right. But at least we won’t have to suffer through Hall and Nash in the ring!

Match #5

Before all the security had left the ring, EY was on Syxx-Pac and had taken him down hard! EY took it to Syxx-Pac all over the ring. EY managed a piledriver and it was over for Syxx-Pac.
7.5/10 – While very short, there were a lot of good moves in that match. In WWE, the only person allowed to hit piledrivers is Taker. Yes, they can be dangerous – Austin’s neck was broken taking a piledriver from Owen Hart & in Hogan‘s book he said he jammed his neck badly taking a piledriver from Taker onto a chair (doesn’t blame Taker, he was sweaty and slipped a little) – but the sure do add a lot to a match when done right. Both EY and Waltman looked strong in the ring, so at least they can carry the match at Destination X!

Backstage

A military vehicle pulled up. Five men in BDUs got out and headed off.

In Ring Segment

Suddenly there’s a lot more than the five men in BDUs. About twenty military men line both sides of the ramp, facing in. Angle’s music and he came up through the stage in a dapper suit. They surrounded the ring after Angle went through – very cool. Angle said they’re some of his closest friends. He said these are the men and women who fight for our country, but I only saw men. It’s his duty to protect these soldiers when bitches like Anderson degrade them. He’s learned that you don’t mess with an American soldier. At Destination X he’ll kick Anderson’s ass up and down the Impact Zone. Anderson on the tron, talking into his famous drop down mic from backstage. He called the soldiers high school dropouts. Anderson held up the medal on his neck, but by then Angle was there and attacked. Into the ring Anderson got the upper hand hitting Angle with the medal. Four of the military men stopped Anderson from leaving. Out one side and they beat him down, out the other side for the other guys to beat on him, then out the third side so absolutely everyone got a shot in. Angle took off his jacket for the Angle slam and he was just soaked with sweat! Then Angle with the American flag and the guys raised Angle on their shoulders.
–/10 – I can’t give it a great rating because it was so over the top corny! But I can’t give it a bad rating because then I won’t be patriotic and against the troops. So I’m not giving this a rating, but it was truly one of the most over the top, patriotic bits I have ever seen in wrestling. That made Sgt. Slaughter in in the 80’s, when he was facing off against The Iron Sheik, look barely sincere!

Backstage Segment

Bubba The Love Sponge with Hogan. He really ripped on Hogan and that he has to stop this. Hogan said it’s the last one, biggest night in TNA’s history. He didn’t want to go out there, but the fans! Earl Hebner in and needed a second chance. Hogan said there was too much going on but Bubba The Love Sponge ripped on Hogan about second chances. Hogan visibly had trouble getting up out of his chair. He told Bubba The Love Sponge to back off. He told Hebner to stop the match if it gets out of control.
3/10 – That was so obviously scripted and way over the top! Yes, we all know it’s scripted, but this came off as stilted and painfully bad. While Bubba The Love Sponge said all the right things, I still don’t like him and don’t think he has a place in TNA. I do have to say it’s nice to see Hebner back, but wonder if he’ll turn heel on Hogan when they’re out there (this is my first time seeing this and honestly have no clue what happened in the main event match).

Announce Segment

Tenay and Taz went through the matches slated for Destination X.

Backstage Segment

JJ talked to Storm. JJ ripped in him for volunteering for this match. Storm ripped back and JJ attacked. Roode jumped in until Foley told them to take it to the ring.
4/10 – I have no idea what that was about and I’m a die hard TNA fan, never missing any shows, no matter what! I’m sure first time watchers were even more lost.

Promo Video

TNA showed a promo video for their post Impact show online. So Cal Val was all sprayed down with water looking hot. But then they did the same to Borash and he spooned/danced with So Cal Val and put on a come-hither expression. It was just weird, and slightly creepy.

Match #6

The match between JJ and BMI was already in progress when Impact came back from commercial. BMI beat on JJ outside while Foley stood in the ring looking lost. He was assigned as special guest ref by Bisch. Of course Foley had to be in his new suit that Bisch decided he had to have. Finally in the ring, Foley had the bell rung to actually start the match. Off came Foley’s suit jacket to show his famous painted ref shirt. JJ didn’t have a chance against BMI in this handicap match. Storm up in Foley’s face which prompted Foley to pull out Barbie and hand it to JJ. Bisch couldn’t hand that and sent in Slick. Of course BMI got the three.
5/10 – I know it’s all about the ratings, but I’m still shocked at the abuse JJ is willing to take all this abuse in the company that was once his. And why is TNA turning so many great faces into heels? Pretty soon TNA will only have four faces left (as was commented on in the Live Blog last night) – Hogan, Abyss, Foley and Angle! Too many heels and the show falls out of balance. I know BMI teeter back and forth, but they’ve been so over as faces lately that I don’t understand their heel turn. Just more changes for the sake of change rather than changes that actually make sense.

Backstage Segment

Abyss tried to convince Hogan to let him start the match, get back at them for Hogan. Brooke in to see her father, all tears and blubbering. “To everyone else you’re the Hulkster, but to me, you’re like my Dad.” Hogan’s ‘like’ her dad? What’s that about? Something we don’t know about her paternity? I’m just picking on her poor wording, there’s never been any question about Hogan being her father, but I couldn’t pass up going after he being such a blubbering mess.
3/10 – I guess I understand why they brought her in for this show, but she’s so not good when she has to follow a script! She’s a beautiful girl and a lot of fun to watch on the stage (she came to a small amusement park in Maine to perform – my family owns the food concessions in that park, so I saw her perform), but she’s not an actress!

Backstage

AJ and Flair laughing and joking before heading out for their rematch against Abyss and Hogan. Flair ranted about them taking them down because they’re the best. Even in a short bit like that, Flair is gold on mic. But TNA came from commercial, gave us less than a minute and went back to commercial. Impact keeps getting slower and slower.

Main Event

Flair and AJ are first out for this “continued main event”. If AJ uses any more spray tan he’ll be mistaken for an orange. He is in Florida! Then Hogan and Abyss came out to Hogan’s modified nWo music. Hogan ripped his shirt off as soon as he got in the ring, but couldn’t climb the corner to pose the way he used to. Commercial and Tenay said after this they’ll stay with the match until there’s a winner. But of course during these commercials there’s ANOTHER long promo for Final Fantasy XIII! Hogan and Flair in the ring is geriatric wrestling. When Hogan reversed Flair’s Irish whip, they looked like little old men in a nursing home on dance exercise afternoon. They couldn’t seem to get their feet moving fast enough to make it look at all realistic. Then, of course, the obligatory back body drop on Flair! Can’t have a Flair match without at least one of those. I really was worried about Hogan when he carefully got down on the mat to roll out and go after Flair. I was afraid his knees would let out. Brooke said something to her father which got the camera off Flair long enough to blade. Flair was on the floor and then came up suddenly covered with blood, but there wasn’t any way he could have been busted open – to me that screams blading! Flair was just coated in blood, in a way only Flair can pull off. Of course Flair had to hit the low blow, he is the dirtiest playing in the game. Every time Hogan was down on the mat I wondered how he was going to get up again. It took so much physical effort for him to get his feet under him again. Then Flair climbed only to be caught by Hogan and sent flying. Has Flair ever successfully completed that move? And then Flair had to hit his famous Flair flop after being splashed in a corner by Abyss. Hogan and Abyss Hulk up at the same time? That’s a little much, even for me! Though that was a beautiful black hole slam on AJ to end it all. But Wolfe appeared from nowhere to attack Abyss with a chair. Then The Pope out to help, but was unable to do much. It took Jeff Hardy to take all the heels down, but Spike cut Impact off just before Jeff hit his swanton on AJ (just guessing as Jeff climbed and AJ was in the right position).
5/10 – I know TNA really felt they needed to have this match to bring in fans for their move to Monday nights. The problem is that Hogan and Flair are not ring ready any longer and TNA needs more than legendary names to keep the fans coming back. And blood for the sake of blood is not a good idea. I get that TNA wants to be nothing like the WWE’s PG programming, but all that gushing blood was more obvious than different. Color only goes so far. So while it wasn’t a great wrestling match, other than that beautiful black hole slam, it was entertaining.

Post Show

I have to agree with Richard that much of TNA’s first regular Monday night Impact was too fast paced. Anyone tuning into TNA for the first time would be totally lost. They bounced around from one spot to the next at a pace that I’d never seen before. Normally Impact is so slow that I want to hit the fast forward button, but this show was the exact opposite. I wanted things to slow down, just a tad. I think anyone new to the show might have been a bit overwhelmed by how quickly everything was thrown at them. It was as if TNA was trying to throw absolutely everything possible into two hours of show time when they could have dropped the pace a tad and given an absolutely fabulous Monday night debut.

I have to admit that TNA gave us something we’ve all been begging for – a fabulous X Division match. TNA did not cut the match short, throw in all sorts of strange gimmicks or try to change things halfway through. Instead Kaz, Daniels and Williams were able to get in the ring and wrestle an honest X Division Match and give their all for the fans. I was completely blown away by all of their work rates, but especially Kaz’s. That man is a star on mic and in the ring. Seeing just how good he was makes me that much madder that he was stuck in that Suicide costume/character for so long. He deserves a push and looks like he’ll be getting one.

The other solid match of the night, while extremely short, was EY versus Syxx-Pac. I really wasn’t expecting much from Waltman, even though he’s looked much better than Hall, but he worked hard in that ring with EY. They’re of a size and seem to work really well together. Because of this I have more faith that their tag match at Destination X won’t blow as badly as I thought it might. I still don’t think Hall or Nash should be wrestling any longer and they’re just two out of quite a handful of too old wrestlers in TNA.

Toward the end of the show Spike kept putting on longer and longer commercials/promos promoting the new Final Fantasy XIII game that was due out at midnight. I understand that Spike is using TNA’s big move as a platform, but it seemed to cut into TNA more than just being actual commercials. They got longer and longer the later into Impact it got. Personally I found it horribly distracting from what was going on in the actual show.

I just don’t understand why Hogan and Bischoff feel they need to put all these old guys in the ring. Yes, they will draw numbers, but that’s short term. People will tune in just to see these guys, they don’t actually have to wrestle! Once the fans are tuned in, then TNA needs to throw in more matches like the X Division three way dance that was so great. That’s what will keep the fans coming back. These old and broken down wrestlers will only hold the attention of the name seeking fans for so long, then they need to back it up with great wrestling. One great match and a couple lackluster matches do not make for the best show. Yes, it was worlds better than the past couple Thursdays, but TNA needs to keep giving us more and more of those great matches to keep the butts in the seats and the fingers off the recall button.

KB

Hogan has been making the rounds this week pushing TNA. For so long a number of us at WNW had been kvetching that one of TNA’s biggest problems was their lack of marketing. They just were not pushing TNA well enough and because of that not enough people knew it existed. I have to say that Hogan has really turned that around. People are talking about TNA and their numbers are growing. I think Hogan and Bischoff are exactly what TNA needed to build their name and become a viable force in the industry. Their pushing and marketing has brought TNA their highest ratings ever and are now bringing TNA to Monday night. If they’re going to make it big, they have to go to Mondays and with Hogan’s backing they convinced Spike it was the right thing to do.

The only problems I have is the direction the shows have been taking. So many fans tuned in that first Monday night to see the likes of Hogan, Bischoff, Flair and some other big names that have rarely been seen since WCW, but the ratings have been dwindling week after week. Again TNA is stacking the deck for their big move to Monday nights, but what will happen after that big night? Many people will be tuning in to see Hogan and Flair in the ring again, but after their geriatric match, what will the fans be left with? Will the fans continue to tune in on Monday nights or will they DVR TNA and watch WWE? Can TNA keep the ball rolling with all these old names and is that what the fans really want? From what I’ve been reading online and the chants of the fans, it seems the last things most of the fans want are The Nasty Boys, Orlando Jordan and Bubba The Love Sponge. There’s only so much of this fat old team (The Nasty Boys) that fans can stomach. Bubba The Love Sponge has cost TNA their hardest hitting and biggest drawing Knockout who will likely be running to the WWE ASAP. And fans don’t want to watch Orlando Jordan, even though Bischoff thinks his character and storyline are fabulous. It’s not heat that Jordan gets in the ring, the fans straight out do not want to see him, but Bischoff is so high on him he just isn’t noticing.

I’m not saying all of my ideas about where TNA should go are right, just that TNA should actually listen to the fans for once. Hogan and Bischoff say that they’re there for the fans, but they’re very quickly booking Impact to look too much like the WWE and that’s not a good thing. I fear that Hogan and Bischoff are losing perspective of what they’d planned for TNA. They’ve only really been a driving force in TNA for about three months, but it seems as though things are crumbling around the edges slightly. It was Hogan who fully admitted this week that he shouldn’t be wrestling, but he heard the fans and is doing what they want. I personally think Hogan needs to resist his ego and be a leader that the boys need. Sadly it seems that his need to be one of the boys has over-ridden his drive toward the overall betterment of TNA.

Show Starts

Video

Flair and AJ’s reign of terror leading up to Hogan and Abyss banding together to fight back.

“Never Say Never”

In Ring Segment

AJ, Flair and their bimbos to the ring. Flair said they’ve had a week to talk about what happened with Hogan. He called Hogan out to apologize and give him a gift. They want to give back to Hogan and TNA. Hogan and Abyss came out together. Flair asked if he can assume this will be peaceful? “Hogan” chants. He doesn’t want to be beaten up. He wants to tell Hogan that as a result of their bad judgment and conduct they’re setting them up with any or all four of the girls. Hogan said he’s not there for a drink or a hit of Viagra. He’s there to talk about the most important thing to him. When he came in he promised Dixie, his family and the boys to work, but not lace up his boots – he’s taking TNA to the mountain top. After what they did to him in the ring, everything’s changed. In four days, Monday night, in front of the world, they’re taking Flair and AJ to school. There’s just one question to ask… What are you gonna do? Abyss took the mic and said when Hulk Hogan and Abyssamania go wild on you! Flair said he retired and went out on a high note, but if Hogan wants him there in four days, he’ll be there to do the best thing he’s ever done, hurt Hogan. AJ asked to put on the breaks. When Hogan wrestled he was wrestling, he was king. Now AJ is the champ. Is Hogan going to risk it all live against the Phenomenal AJ Styles? AJ wanted to get out of there with the ladies… Flair said in four days, Nature Boy way. See you Monday. Bischoff out and said not so fast. They can’t leave because AJ has business tonight. He’s in a Four Corners Match against Abyss, The Pope, and Desmond Wolfe. Flair about had a hemorrhage and Bisch left smiling.
4/10 – A whole heck of a lot of nothing to set up the main event and push Monday night’s show. Yes, it’s important to push moving to Monday night, but telling us over and over and over again is not the way to do it. They need to get creative and not give us these long chunks of people talking on and on about the same things again and again.

Backstage Segment

Borash with Wolfe and Chelsea. Wolfe cut on Borash then said it’s serendipity. But when a door’s closed in his face he kicks it down. He’ll do whatever it takes to win a match. With the TNA WHC on the line, he has even more motivation. AJ might be a model Champion, but Flair says to be the man, you need to beat the man. But he could beat Abyss or The Poop. Chelsea said she likes Abyss’ ring and deserves it. That they both should get gold tonight. Wolfe said what Chelsea wants, Chelsea gets.
4/10 – I love Wolfe on mic most of the time, but that wasn’t very good. He rushed through too any colloquialisms too quickly and it didn’t flow well. And whoever thought they should have Chelsea talk needs to find a new job, she was horrid!

Backstage Segment

Bisch on his cell said to start a football company to go against the NFL? Only an idiot would do that! That the person has had a lot of great ideas and to keep trying. JJ came in. Bisch called him the chef. JJ said some of the best burgers were served in catering last week. Bisch said he has a thick skin? JJ said he’s not going anywhere. He’s glad to see JJ showing what he can go and doing what needs to be done. JJ wanted to get back to business. Bisch said things are clogged, stopped up. In the men’s room it hit him like a freight train, JJ’s name flashed in his head like 1,000 neon lights. Things are so clogged up it will take a real pro, no matter how tough or demeaning it might be to take care of business. JJ is the TNA janitor in charge and make things flow a little better. JJ said he’s been there since day one and saw all the janitors, but he’s the best. Bisch said to bring it on.
7/10 – I have to say I’m starting to love Bisch’s little cell phone comments! Yes, they are very WCW when he was taunting Vince, but they’re so beautifully done that they work. And I have to give JJ credit for this storyline. It does take a thick skin to be willing to run with this the way he’s been doing.

Match #1

MCMG out to the ring with their new tougher look they’ve had recently. Generation Me out to the ring. BMI out to the ring. Lastly out came Morgan and Hernandez. Generation Me and MCMG worked the first part of the match hard, both teams looking great. Generation Me really took it to MCMG for quite a bit, but then Hernandez came in and Max was in deep. Hernandez was about to springboard over the top and Morgan stole the tag. More little problems there! Morgan with Max in one hand and Jeremy in the other, he commented to Hernandez about how to do it and choke slammed them both to the mat. BMI tagged in. Super kick from Storm and Roode rolled Morgan up for three. Morgan was pissed at himself, though possibly not more pissed than Hernandez.
7/10 – That match started out so beautifully and then ended so abruptly. It could have been great! All those fabulous wrestlers out there and half of them each got one move in before it was over. I see a serious issue with that! These men are wrestlers, let them wrestle!

Backstage Segment

Bisch with Morley and a ref named John. Bisch said he’s putting JJ in a match, but he forgot to tell him. Falls Count Anywhere against Sean Morley. Find JJ in the men’s room. The ref’s to call it down the middle, Morley’s to get the job done.
5/10 – Short and to the point, but nothing fantastic.

Backstage

JJ was slopping out the men’s room.

Backstage Segment

Angle in to see Hogan with a problem. He wants to take care of AJ this Monday. Angle said Hogan’s done more for TNA in the past couple months than anyone in the past seven years. Hogan said they laid the groundwork. Angle said to let him take care of it in the ring while Hogan takes care of back here. Hogan said he has to earn this respect and prove this to the boys and himself.
6/10 – Just what I said, Hogan’s ego won’t let him stay out of the ring. He just can’t help himself! He said he just has to do this one thing. I’m willing to be that next month it will be another one thing, then the next month another one thing, but at a PPV. When does it end for these guys? They keep claiming their in no shape to do this, yet they keep climbing in the ring! What’s it going to take to stop them?

Video

Foley’s Etiquette School. Started with him helping her with her coat. Then they went onto walking and then his clothes and hair. He has surprisingly gently eyes and if the hair’s gone the secret might get out. Foley had and answer for everything.
5/10 – It was cute, but I almost always think Foley is cute when he’s acting like that. I guess I’m just glad it was short because it sure didn’t work as well as it should have. That could have been a rolling on the floor segment, but it was just ho-hum.

Match #2

Outside the men’s room Morley demanded the ref ring the bell. John moved his arm as if ringing a bell over his head and said ding, ding, ding as he did so. Morley charged in, said Jeff’s name and then attacked him. Face first off the stall door a couple times. Punches to the head. JJ thrown in the shower. Morley pinned for two. JJ asked what was up and John told him the match. JJ’s arm in the door and Morley slammed it on his arm and kicked the door a number of times. Morley pinned JJ for three. The ref announced the winner very loudly.
2/10 – Wow, that sucked! It sucked the first dozen times I saw bathroom matches in the WWE, WCW and ECW too. I understand the storyline is to humble JJ, but to have someone like Morley – who we haven’t seen in a couple week – suddenly there and the golden boy for Bisch, doing his bidding, but that was not even interesting. I’d go as far as saying it was craptacular.

Backstage Segment

Hemme talked about The Pope winning the 8 Card Stud, but then Flair and AJ attacked and injured him. He says he always ends up on top. They tried to take The Pope out, but he’ll let them know he’s arrived. The Pope’s doctor isn’t happy he’s there though. The Pope didn’t know about the match for later and said he’s digging the Hulk, brother. He said he’s leaving the Impact Zone TNA WHC. If that big nosed, horse toothed banana nosed Flair gets involved he’ll reach back into the 80’s with a pimp slap for him.
7/10 – Yes, he’s damn great on mic! That man can turn a phrase so beautifully. Honestly, I now believe he could be one of the top talkers of his era. He’s not Rock, Austin or Flair, but he’s still young. Give him time and he really could be the top of TNA.

Video

The problem within TBI.

Match #3

Doug Williams out to the ring. Rob Terry stomped out to face him. Terry got Williams up high above his head and slammed him to the mat. A bear hug then a really bad leg lariat to Williams. A back elbow and then a move Tenay called a chokeslam but wasn’t and the match was done. Magnus rushed the ring and attacked Terry. William held Terry while Magnus hit the big boot.
2/10 – Should we call him Super Terry now? He managed five whole moves, even though most of them left a lot to be desired. Now, I understand he has a look, but that match proved just how little ability he really has in the ring. And that they strapped the man really blows my mind!

Backstage Segment

JJ back with a trainer, telling him how to move his arm and where it hurt. Bisch in and made the trainer leave. Bisch wrenched JJ’s arm. JJ screamed and yelled about what Bisch’s up to. Bisch said JJ wanted a match, he got a match. Bisch said if he wants a match in a ring, he’s got one. He hopes Juju’s a fast healer because it’s tonight. Bisch left and JJ called him a prick.
5/10 – Personally I think they’re spending too much time on this storyline. They need to spend time building up for Monday night. Not talking about moving to Monday night, but building the show so the fans are itching to tune in and might actually change the channel from the WWE to see what’s going on in TNA. This just isn’t building the interest for me.

Backstage

Anderson in shadows heading for the ring dressed to look like Angle.

Video

More of Foley’s Etiquette School. He had a book on his head. She called him Frankenstein. She’s very into his buttoning and unbutton his jacket and when. She had to help him up from his chair. She wanted him to help her with her chair, but she had to help him up. Then they went on to the table setup. The napkin goes in the lap. He said he has his own and pulled out Socko. Then onto eating soup and rhymes to remember. He liked ‘To do it quick, eat like Mick!’
6/10 – Okay, that one was much funnier. It was fairly quick and fast moving, but not so fast that you couldn’t catch it all. They had to have had a riotous time taping these videos. I don’t know how she managed a straight face through it all.

Video

Anderson and Angle’s feud and all the horrible things Anderson’s done to Angle recently.

In Ring Segment

Anderson comes out as Angle with a cookie sheet hanging around his neck with the word loser on it. He also has a mouth guard in and is making an even funnier face than need be with it. Also the fake gold medal, bald cap, etc. He said he’s the greatest wrestler in the world today. It’s real, it’s damn real. He’s also the most injury prone wrestler in the world today. Owie, owie, owie. He thinks he broke his neck for the 17th time. He once broke it while tying his shoe, another time while walking his dog. Once he was taking a dump and broke his neck. And one time while drinking a YooHoo and one time in band camp. The fans are all up in his business! But they have some serious stuff to talk about. Mr. Anderson you SOB, you carved up his forehead with this piece of crap around his neck. He could care less about the troops, it’s just a ploy for sympathy. Make everyone think he’s a real swell guy. Out to the ring stomped Angle sans tie and jacket. A couple clotheslines and Anderson fled the ring. Angle followed but Anderson threw a cup of liquid in Angle’s face. Back in the ring the straps came down and Anderson hit the Angle slam – BADLY! Off came the skull cap and Anderson right down in Angle’s face. Anderson took the medal from around Angle’s neck. Anderson ripped off his fake Olympic medal and put Angle’s medal on.
7.5/10 – I give it such a high rating because of the heat Anderson got. I’m blown away at the heat! That was impressive! I’ve rarely heard the Zone that pissed at someone. Anderson did a pretty decent job with the whole segment, except the Angle slam. That slam was poorly executed and made me cringe.

Backstage Segment

Abyss talking to Hogan, just needed a few minutes. He said he’s not proud of this. He didn’t have a very good childhood, wasn’t raised very well… Hogan said they don’t have to go there. Abyss said he had to. He wasn’t allowed to watch TV, but he snuck up to watch that little black and white to see Hogan. He begged his mom to take him to see Hogan. The only thing she ever did was buy him a ticket and take him. The place was jamming because of Hogan. Hogan said he knew Abyss was watching him. Abyss said he always has Hogan’s back. Last week, in the ring, the blood flowing. Hogan gave him this ring that encompasses all Hulkamaniacs all over the world. He has Hogan’s power and can do it on his own. He can take care of Flair and AJ himself. Hogan asks if he’d ever leave him, push him aside? Abyss said never. Hogan said they have the same blood running through their veins. They’re family. He gave everything he loves to Abyss. It’s okay because Abyss has the power, aligned with Hulkamania, he’ll protect Hogan. He had to take this match. He knew it would be okay. All those kids now believe in Abyss. They’re safe because of all of Abyss’ kindness, Hogan’s protected. This Monday night, when they come at him, when AJ tries to destroy his leg that he’s barely standing on, Abyss will protect him. They’re safe and doing it together. They hug and tell each other they love each other.
5/10 – Cough, sputter, choke… Sorry, *sniff* they got to me man. Yeah, right! That was so over the top it made me want to gag! They could have chopped that in half and made it work. Instead they drew it out, said the same thing a dozen times and left me feeling like I’d been watching a bad chick flick!

Announce Segment

Tenay and Taz went through what’s coming up on Monday night, but there’s only one match on the card so far so it wasn’t much.

Video

The dissension in the ranks in TBP now that Love is back. More of the feud that’s been percolating there. Then they showed Love get attacked by the other three during a photo shoot. They were whipping Love and Lacey said it was enough. Velvet Sky said it’s not enough until she said it’s enough.
2/10 – I wish they’d actually do something with this rather than sneaking up on it a bit and then dropping the whole story for a few weeks, then maybe coming back to it a little bit. Either do it or don’t but stop toying with it.

In Ring Segment

Angelina Love out to the ring and called out Velvet Sky and called her something that had to be bleeped. Love said she wasn’t leaving until Velvet Sky got out there. Velvet Sky out with a big smile on her face and that belt in hand. Taz said the belt looked like it had spikes on it, but it was just a woven belt with two rows of grommets the length of it. Love out of the ring and after Velvet Sky. She caught Velvet Sky and tossed her into the ramp and then the barrier, back and forth. Big boot to Velvet Sky face and he’s down. The camera zooms in on Love’s side and a supposed bruise there. Love grabbed the belt but the other two came out. Rayne was hit with the belt but Lacey used the ugly stick on Love and they gained control. Lacey and Rayne held Love down while Velvet Sky beat her with the strap. There were some welts on Love’s back, but that’s to be expected.
3/10 – I wish it had been an actual match, but of course not. These women can actually wrestle given the chance, but they’re not given the chance. TNA’s Knockout Division is turning into a joke, a bad copy of the WWE Divas! These are tough women who know how to wrestle and should be allowed to do so for the betterment of the Division and company. I know Scott D’Amore left TNA, but they need to do something to get the Knockouts going again! The worst part of the whole thing is that Velvet Sky spent much of the time picking her wedge and screaming rather than wrestling.

Backstage Segment

Bubba The Love Sponge ripped on Hogan for lacing up his boots. He then said Hogan’s a liar. Hogan said the one thing that never left him is this business. He has to do this. Bubba The Love Sponge said he has Nick, Brooke, Jennifer, him. He’s going to be in a wheelchair. Fix it with his mind. Don’t be a mark for himself. He promised he wouldn’t work again, so don’t. Don’t be a cripple.
2/10 – Putting that man in front of a TNA camera really turns my stomach. He has no place in TNA and is only there because of his close friend Hogan. He’s bringing the whole show down and bad scandal to the company at a crucial time. Hogan’s just daft putting him in the show. And then there’s Hogan’s ego getting in the ring. How many people are going to tell Hogan not to wrestle during this one episode? We all know he will. We all know it will draw numbers. We all know it will suck.

Video

More of Foley’s Etiquette Class. She went on about shaking hands and accenting Bisch’s name to make it sound French. She asked how men say goodbye to a lady. Foley said most of the ones he know just sneak out in the morning. He hugged her, but it wasn’t what she had in mind.
5/10 – Really short which is good, but it wasn’t great. The segment fell flat for me, especially after the previous Foley segment.

Video

Nash’s feud with Hall and Waltman. This Monday they’ll be live to explain themselves.

Match #4

Tomko out to the ring looking rather chubby. JJ out without music, pyro or his guitar. He’s also rotating that shoulder that was supposedly hurt in his earlier ‘match’ with Morley. Tomko easily overpowered JJ. JJ hurt his arm but was able to fight back a bit, but that didn’t last long. “Let’s go Jarrett” chants. JJ managed to get a lucky roll up on Tomko and it was over. Backstage Bisch was not happy watching the monitor.
6/10 – While it wasn’t horrible, it wasn’t wonderful either. Tomko looks really out of shape! His gut was heaving after a very short time in the ring. He looked out of breath after very little physical activity. He still has the power in the ring, but surely no stamina

Backstage Segment

Bisch was talking to Hogan about getting in the ring. Hogan’s brand is what’s making TNA. There’s too much at risk, he should rethink it. Hogan said they came into TNA together. They’re going all the way to the top or bottom together. They take two concepts, put them together and make it work. He was called out and he has to make this right or they won’t have anything. He gave Abyss everything and they punked them out. Bisch said he’d always be behind him. Bisch said he would be behind Hogan. Hogan said he can’t take any more discussions about this. Bisch said Hogan wouldn’t hear anything from him.
5/10 – Yet another person trying to talk Hogan out of getting in the ring, making a big deal over this match, building it to epic proportions as if they hadn’t just faced off over and over again in Australia recently. Spending too much time on this one thing and not enough time everywhere else. Could hurt them in the long run.

Main Event

Desmond Wolfe out with Chelsea. The Pope out to the ring. Video of Flair and AJ attacking The Pope and working over his ankle with a chair. Abyss out to the ring showing off the ring on his finger. AJ out in a very Flair feathered and sequined robe with Flair in tow. AJ and The Pope start the match. The Pope’s limp is obvious, but he holds his own well. It’s AJ who doesn’t want to hold his own and tagged in Wolfe when Abyss tagged in. Wolfe and AJ had to work together to try to get an upper hand on Abyss, but it didn’t work. Commercial. All four fought outside briefly, then back to Commercial! Tenay said this is the type of match you expect Samoa Joe to be in, but it’s been two weeks since he was abducted. Taz said he’s not been able to get in touch with Joe at all since then. AJ got the figure four on The Pope. The Pope wouldn’t tap out and the ref made a judgment call and rang the bell giving it to AJ. After the bell Wolfe, Flair and AJ worked over The Pope. Abyss regained his senses and went after them all. Flair under the ring pulled out Barbie. Flair hit Abyss in the back with Barbie, from there they all worked on Abyss. Hogan came out and into the ring. Flair went after Hogan with Barbie, but was easily stopped. Hogan used Barbie to Flair’s head and he started gushing as only Flair can. Hogan again nailed Flair in the head with Barbie and then punches in a corner. Hogan then took out all security that tried to stop him. Abyss then in to help. People in the ring in street clothes trying to talk Hogan down.
6.5/10 – While it might have been the main even, it sure was not a main event caliber match. Those for could have torn that place up, but they really didn’t. Then having the match end with the ref calling a stop to it just was not the way to go. A dirty ending would have been better than a non-ending. Another match just handed to AJ because he’s the champ and that leaves a bad taste in my mouth. Of course it was almost a given that Hogan would come out to make a save of some sort. When Naitch is out there there’s bound to be some sort of dirty dealings, as there were.

In ring Segment

Hogan yelled about four days from now. That’s just an example of what will happen on Monday. Blood with fly. Flair and AJ will be history. Four days and the party’s on. The Pope got on mic and told them to get back to the ring right now. AJ and Wolfe headed for the ring, Abyss and The Pope were ready but security got in the way.
5/10 – Nothing fabulous, but of course Hogan had to get the last word at the end of the show. It looked like a WCW ending to me with bodies everywhere and Flair bleeding all over the place. Please, can we move forward with creative ideas and not just rehash the same old poop?

Post Show

Yet again not much wrestling on this wrestling show. Actually, I’m kind of at a loss about what really happened during this Impact. All the episode have had the same feel and flow the past couple weeks and I’m not sure I could really tell you one from another. All we’ve had is the older guys monopolizing the shows, a couple of wrestling matches that could have been good if they’ve been booked to last more than three minutes and tons of videos of things that have happened, but they’re not going to do anything about on the show.

Again TNA set up for a couple of really great matches but dropped the ball with the booking. These are great wrestlers who are not given the chance to prove it in the ring. Something just feels missing to me. As if things are not going just right backstage and it’s overflowing onto the show. That they’re not trying anything new, just copying WWE and hoping that will get them through to the top. Like the wrestlers are phoning it in a lot because they’re not really having good matches anyway, so why bother? And the rating have been proving this by dropping week after week since their first live Monday night show.

All of the build for this coming Monday night is around the Flair and AJ versus Hogan and Abyss match. Two of the men in this match should not be lacing up the boot while the other two are fabulous. The problem is that they’re putting all the weight on Hogan and Flair’s shoulders for this match and they’ll barely be in the ring. Not just that but they’re setting up this whole live show around this one match and nothing else has been mentioned. This should would have been the perfect opportunity to set up a couple of fabulous matches that make the fans want to tune in this Monday. TNA needs people to change the channel and they haven’t given me any reason to do so as of yet.

KB

He did say that he’s having more fun in TNA than he’s had in the wrestling business in a very long time. The problem is that the fans are the ones suffering for his fun and he’s going to end up driving TNA into bankruptcy. And then to further prove his ego and nepotism over who can actually work he said, “Scott Hall has the potential to the be one of the greatest minds in the business and still has a gift in the ring. Juvetude… I’d rather take an ice pick to my thigh.” This was after Bischoff said he’d never bring the Juice in because he’s “a world class screw up” and someone confronted him with Hall. I’m completely floored that he’d actually believe Scott Hall still even has a functioning mind after all the drugs and booze he’s dumped into his system. And if Bisch truly believes Hall can go in the ring after what we’ve seen from him, then Bisch is the one with the addled brain. Yes, we all know that Juvetude’s ego is one of the largest in the industry and he shouldn’t be brought into TNA, but the man can still go in the ring. Comparing Juice and Hall in the ring and saying Hall can still go over Juice just makes me facepalm!

He continued to try to keep TNA in people’s thoughts on Twitter in stating that he’s getting along quite well with Russo, Ferrera and Conway, going to Waffle House with them. That he’s back in the business. After all the lawsuits and bad blood there, I don’t believe it. Yes, people grow and change through the years, but Bischoff has been proving to us every week with every Impact that he hasn’t grown and changed as much as many of us had hoped he would. If he had grown we wouldn’t be complaining week in and week out about how the great young wrestlers are getting screwed for the likes of men we’re afraid will break climbing through the ropes and giving us more of their faces talking than the young guys throwing down hard in the ring.

I will give Bisch credit for one thing, he’s keeping TNA on people’s lips. They might mostly be bitching and shaking their heads at Bisch’s cheap comments, but at least TNA’s being talked about. Any publicity is good publicity?

And talking about any publicity being good publicity, TMZ is in the thick of it with the Awesome Kong / Bubba The Love Sponge debacle. I honestly have no clue what really happened there, but I will say I’m always happy when someone stands up for themselves for something they truly feel is wrong, like the start of all this. Not that Kia (Kong) was right in punching Bubba The Love Sponge in the face, but I give her credit for not taking any crap from a man who’s well known for running his mouth and causing problems by being an ass. He didn’t earn the moniker ‘shock jock’ for nothing. Heck, even Howard Stern has calmed down and grown a level of consciousness! I’m just really upset that Hogan brought this man and all his crap to TNA.

Show Starts

Backstage Segment

Abyss talked to a bunch of the boys and Borash about getting the ring from Hogan. He thought it would be the worst day ever, but it was the best day of his life and he laughed (slightly) maniacally.
8/10 – As long as Abyss stops acting like such a baby and is more of a balanced character with a huge push, I’ll be thrilled. He was very good there.

Video

Bischoff going crazy on Foley and Abyss about being brutal and pandering to him. Hogan rescued Abyss in the ring last week and gave him his HOF ring.

Title

Rage Over The Ring

In Ring Segment

AJ on the way to the ring with Flair. Video of them beating down The Pope. AJ started cutting on The Pope and how he said last week he’d be the champion of the people. AJ thinks it’s cute that The Pope wants to be the golden boy. He wants to step up and take what’s rightfully his? It won’t happen. The Pope’s a man, but AJ’s The man! Flair said it and it’s true, to be the man, you have to beat the man. So the next time The Pope wants to walk all over the champ, he’d better think again. Looks like he won’t be walking for a long, long time. Flair on mic said something happened last week that has him very mad. Last week Hogan gave his HOF ring to the Abyss! Hogan has his own Hall of fame, no one else is in it and Hogan won’t be in Flair’s. Hogan’s never been Flair and will never be Flair. He then called The Abyss out. He came out to new music that’s a take off on Hogan’s old music. He held his fist high. Flair demands to know why he came out to that music. He then called Abyss pathetic. This disgraces. Flair’s a real Hall of famer. Abyss makes him want to puke, makes them all look bad. He might have superhuman strength, but he’s no Hall of famer. Flair ranted in Abyss’ face about how Abyss makes him sick. The only thing Abyss is good for is shining AJ’s boots. He’s a clown. Abyss said Flair’s right he can’t shine his shoes because he’s not a shoe shine boy! He’d be more than happy to remove AJ’s boots and stick them straight up Flair’s ass! Flair turned bright red and said he’s not just in the HOF, he’s a god. AJ then backed Flair off and took care of things by calling Abyss a pathetic piece of crap. Did the fans come out to see him? The fans cheered. No, they came out to see AJ Styles! The fans booed. He cut on what Abyss was wearing and called him a disgrace. AJ demanded Abyss take the ring off. Flair told Abyss to put it on AJ’s finger. They both screamed at him over and over until Abyss gave AJ the Hogan point. Hogan’s music and out he came. Hogan asked AJ what he knows about having a good name? Just because he kisses Flair’s butt and acting just like him, that doesn’t give him a good name. Cutting Abyss down in front of everyone is just weak. Does AJ want to be thought of as the weakest Champion of all times? Flair cut Hogan off and said he knew this would happen. He came to TNA because everything Hogan touches turns to gold, but Hogan will never tell Flair what to do. Hogan told Flair to back off. Flair wanted to know why he gave away his ring? “Hogan” chants. Off came Flair’s jacket, then AJ’s. Flair was ready to go. Off came Abyss’ flannel and Hogan got ready. Flair and AJ fled. Outside the ring Flair said they bought time tonight, but before the night’s over that ring will be on AJ’s finger.
6.5/10 – So they want to beat WWE in the ratings, that’s fine. But they’re glorifying WWE with the HOF ring! I understand it gives Hogan and Abyss a connection and it’s a great little physical item to be held up, fought over, complained about and really give Abyss a backbone, but it’s all about the WWE and that’s what TNA keeps claiming they’re trying to beat and be different from. It’s just a little weird that at this point in TNA’s push to become the best they’re using a key item from the WWE. Just feels cheap to me.

Backstage

Foley came skulking in a back door.

Announce Segment

Anderson and Terry will face off. Abyss faces Wolfe.

Match #1

The Nasty Boys to the ring with Jimmy Hart leading the way. Video from AAO when Hart caused Team 3D the match against The Nasty Boys. Team 3D out to face them. The match was all over the place. Knobbs tried to pull out a table and couldn’t even get it up to use. Taz said Knobbs is usually fleet footed but is in so much pain he can barely run. BS! The man is so fat and out of shape he can barely walk! Sags got the what’s up and then Ray called for the tables. The fans hot and wild for the table. This gave The Nasty Boys a chance to recover, but it was so obviously set up that it looked horrid! Ray up top and Hart got involved. Jesse Neal ran out and grabbed the helmet from Hart. He tossed it into the ring and that gave 3D the equalizer to put Sags through the table and get the win. After it was all over they celebrated, but Ray was obviously in a lot of pain from something.
4/10 – Not because it was a gimmick match but because The Nasty Boys can barely hold their own walking down the street never mind in the ring. They’re a disgrace to tag teams and a disgrace to wrestling! Those two men should not be wrestling for any reason. When Ray and Devon have to carry their opponents that heavily, there’s a serious issue. Nepotism only goes so far, but I guess Hogan hasn’t figured that out yet.

Backstage Segment

Foley in Bisch’s office accusing him of setting up the whole thing. He wanted Foley out of the building so he could set his goons after Abyss. Bisch said he doesn’t understand Foley’s paranoia. Bisch said to focus on the end result. Abyss has Hulkamania in the palm of his hand. Foley said Bisch is taking credit for all of this? Bisch said it’s what he did to get Hogan to see Abyss. Why is this all about Foley? Foley said it’s about Abyss who’s very happy now, as is Borash. Bisch said he lived up to his end of the bargain, what about Foley? Bisch then asked where the suit is? Foley said it’s at the hotel. Bisch talked him into going back and putting it on.
6.5/10 – Foley seemed to get all turned around and lost in that conversation. Bisch got the upper hand and made Foley look the dunce. The problem is that Foley is a heck of a lot smarter than that and we all know it. That segment fell flat because we know Foley’s no idiot and he was made out to be there.

Match #2

ODB out in a pink dress with her ass hanging out. Daffney out looking zombie hot with a sparkly red tiny top hat to go with her outfit. Video of her attack on Tara last week. ODB tossed Daffney around a bit to start it off. Split screen of Hemme interviewing Tara. Tara called Daffney a psycho, crazy, ruthless, dangerous and extremely violent. Hemme said Daffney has her sights on the title. Tara said she’ll be ready for Daffney next time and hasn’t heard the last from Tara. This whole time the match was going on in the ring and it might have been good, but was virtually impossible to see up in the corner with the interview in the forefront. Daffney gained control over ODB and started slamming a level of the stairs into ODB’s leg. Then she went to work with a broomstick on ODB’s leg. The ref called for the bell and awarded the match to ODB via DQ. Stevie had to come out and manhandle Daffney who screamed and yelled the whole time.
5/10 – I’d love to give this match a better rating and probably would if I’d actually seen the match and not been so distracted by that interview! It’s not bad enough that TNA can’t seem to fill their wrestling show with actual matches, but now they’re cutting into the few matches they do have with interviews? Do they not care about their talent? Daffney’s one of my favorite Knockouts and she was just totally screwed out of her match with ODB. I’m just so blown away by the idiocy of it all!

Backstage Segment

Borash with Morgan and Hernandez. He asked about them facing off in the Tournament. Hernandez said he and Morgan are cool and not Borash is stirring the pot? Morgan said it’s what he does. Morgan said he didn’t do anything Hernandez wouldn’t have done in that spot. They both said they would do whatever it take to win. It’s over now. Morgan told Borash to nod and say, yes sir. Borash did just that. Morgan said they’ll take on all competitors for the titles. Hernandez agreed.
8.5/10 – That segment was wonderfully done! Fast paced and left us with more questions than we started with. Is Morgan turning heel on us? Is there dissension in the ranks? Are they really getting along? So many questions after such a short segment. That’s what a promo should be!

Backstage

Outside somewhere Hall and Waltman were playing around like five year olds without supervision. Or would that be drunks without a friend who cares?

Backstage

BMI headed for the ring.

In Ring Segment

Roode said almost two years ago he and Storm decided to form a little tag team we might have heard of called BMI! They promised each other that every time they stepped in the ring they’d be the best they could be, every minute. They’ve built a reputation that can be summed up in one word – pride. All they wanted to be was the best. And here they are the greatest tag team in TNA and all professional wrestling. Storm grabbed a mic to say they’re not here for a war of words with Hogan or Bisch. They’ve been here from day one and are the young guys who carried this company. Numbers don’t lie, they’ve made a lot of money for TNA. BMI merchandise make more money than everyone, but they’ve been sidelined and that’s not good. Roode needs his money and Storm needs his money to buy his beer. TNA is higher than it’s ever been, but if they’re going to need some BMI to go further. If not, sorry about your damn luck. Hernandez came out and said they don’t have to prove anything to anyone. They know how good BMI really are. Just like BMI, Hernandez and Morgan want to be the best. He’s going to Hogan’s office and ask for a title shot for BMI. He asked what they say. Roode said simple, the answer is yes. Hernandez started talking but someone was too quick on the button and BMI’s music cut off what he said.
8/10 – Another really fast moving promo that pushed storylines forward without wasting 20 minutes. Roode and Storm were both fabulous on mic, as per usual. That Hernandez came out by himself just adds to the questions about the Tag Team Champions. Very cool.

Backstage Segment

Borash with EY and Nash who both looked pissed. Borash said Hall and Waltman are not under contract, so that could be a problem. Nash said they don’t need a ring or a ref. they just want to bust them up, crack some skulls, break some bones. EY said they asked for a little TV time and it will probably be the highest rated segment. They just want to do what so many people have wanted, bust them up. Nash said he’s done everything he could for Hall and Waltman and they jumped him. Physical pain fades, what they did sticks with you.
7/10 – Another short segment that worked pretty well. Not saying I want to see Hall, Waltman and Nash all battling together at their ages or abilities, but it didn’t draw out and bore me.

Backstage Segment

JJ stomped into Bisch’s office and asked if that’s all he’s got? Just because JJ didn’t play by his rules he took six thugs on him? It will take more than six thugs to push him from his company. He’s had to fight for everything he’s got. Bisch better up his game because it will take more than six thugs. Bisch apologized. JJ knew it was BS. Said he’s worked to long to let this happen week after week after week. Bisch said it’s been as hard for Bisch to adjust as JJ. Bisch asked to be heard out. He knows he’s wrong about JJ. It took serious stones to stand up to Bisch and throw the bat down, but he did the right thing and Bisch respects that. He said in the ring tonight he owes him more and Bisch will give it to him in the ring, the opportunity he really deserves. Bisch needs JJ to trust him to build a bridge between them. JJ asked, Jarrett trust Bischoff? Bisch asked if JJ would be there. He said he would.
7/10 – And again a fast moving short segment that moved things in a direction. I do wish they weren’t all strung together one after another, but at least they were entertaining! Now we need a couple wrestling matches, one right after another, and not quick short matches either. Oh well, can’t get everything right off the bat!

Video

The problems between Bisch and JJ, right up to JJ standing up to Bisch last week. As if we didn’t know about all of this because of the segment we just watched before the commercial break!

In Ring Segment

Bischoff to the ring, all smug and smiles. Huge heat for him which he gladly accepted. He said he loves them all very much. One of the things he prides himself on is the fact that he’s man enough to admit his mistakes and he’s made quite a few of them in his life. That’s the great thing about getting older is looking back at your mistakes and learn from them. Much heat from the fans. He said he was wrong about JJ and wants JJ to come out, music and all. They wouldn’t be there if not for him. JJ came out to his music, pyro and applause from Bisch. JJ into the ring. Bisch said he knows it’s been tough between them the past few weeks, but he can put it all behind him. He asked for something from his office. Out came a woman with Barbie in hand. Bisch said he’s not sure it was right to ask one person to use this on another. When JJ refused, he did the right thing. In almost every respect he did the right thing. The problem is, JJ didn’t do the right thing by Bisch. Bisch dropped Barbie to the mat. That’s why they have the problem they have. JJ isn’t capable of doing what Bisch wants. He has one more chance to do the right thing. So he wants JJ to head back to catering to flip a few burgers for the fine people in TNA. Bisch handed a spatula. Then, due to health codes, the hairnet went on JJ’s head. Bisch asked if JJ had anything to say, he could just quit and make it easy on both of them. JJ just glared. Bisch left and JJ peeled off the hairnet and stared at the spatula.
6/10 – Too long, but Bisch pulled off the swerve we all knew he’d hand JJ. I know I’m a strange girl, but after many years working in an amusement park, I love flipping burgers! It might be that my family owns the company that I have a different look at things, but I have always completely loved scooping ice cream, flipping burgers, slinging pizza. Hey, you all know I’m a bit odd!

Backstage Segment

Morgan up in Hernandez’s business about the offer he put to BMI without Morgan. Hernandez asked what’s the problem? Morgan wanted to start with Generation Me or MCMG. He said that (about taking on anyone, anytime) because it sounded cool. Before Hernandez puts their titles on the line, they have to be in agreement. Hernandez said they don’t shy from anybody. Morgan said BMI are the best, other than them. If they’re going to hold the gold, they have to talk out of the ring too.
6.5/10 – Not as good as earlier, but still nicely paced and not too long. It again showed the problems possibly brewing between the two and that maybe one will turn on the other at some point. Beautiful storytelling by guys who know how to talk.

Match #3

The Brian Kendrick out to the ring looking smug. Kaz out next to face him. Tenay said Kaz has been out a year and a half but still looks great in the ring. I’m just impressed with how different he seems to move as Suicide and as himself. Dueling “Let’s go Kaz!” and “Brian Kendrick” chants, but only like three guys were chanting for Kendrick. In the ring they went back and forth very hard. Split screen to show Samoa Joe’s abduction last week. Taz said he’s heard nothing from Joe all week. Brian up top. Kaz climbed and hit some sort of sick flying move on Brian that dropped our jaws.
8.5/10 – While not a fast match, it was kick ass! I like my high flying as well as the rest of them, but I truly love watching guys like Benoit and Malenko who could work the mat and holds as well as run the ring really well. Both aspects together in the same match just adds extra flavor, but there‘s so few of those matches. Sometimes there’s just a move that leaves you feeling blown away. That’s what Kaz did to end that match with Kendrick. I don’t know if that move is something he’s planning on using much, but I hope not. I would hate to see that grow stale. Also, I’m more impressed with Kendrick who seemed to lose his spark in the WWE. He seems to be coming back to his former delight.

Backstage

EY and Nash were taping up to deal with Hall and Waltman.

Backstage Segment

Borash with Abyss. Abyss said anyone who wants that ring, bring a chainsaw, bring a see-saw, whatever you think you need. Hogan gave him this ring. With great power comes great responsibility. He has more power than he thought he could have. Now he’s the monster of the rings.
7.5/10 – Short, well spoken and really good. So nice to see a solid Abyss coming back. I like him childlike sometimes, but he was really too much of a wimp and getting very annoying. I don’t like that it took Hogan’s HOF ring to do it, but at least his character is solid again and he’s getting the push he deserves.

Video

How Rob Terry beat EY for the Global Title, blah, blah, blah.

Backstage Segment

Hemme with Anderson who will face Terry for his title. Anderson tapped the mic then called for his mic to do his own bit. He told her to stand there and look purty, don’t want to smoke the joint out. Who’s been unstoppable, left the best in a pool of his own blood, referred to as ‘The One’. Who’s bringing hope and change to TNA? For those in zombie land watching on the DVR, fast forward for the answer, then rewind to watch again and again. Tonight he gets his first taste of TNA gold. That first step to when he walks out TNA WHC. It won’t be easy, Terry is big, fast, strong. He’s like six gorillas. He’s been in the ring with bigger, stronger, faster. He’s been in the ring with six gorillas and beat them. By DQ. Stop the DVR here. Then he went on to Anderson twice and disgust Hemme.
5/10 – While Anderson is great on mic, that segment was a little off. He just seemed to miss it by the tiniest bit. The thing I do think is funny is that he said Terry was big, fast and strong, but didn’t say anything about his wrestling ability. I guess Anderson didn’t want to stretch the truth too far after the gorilla comment – at least that’s more plausible than saying Terry’s a good wrestler.

Backstage

Angle in a dapper suit headed for ringside.

Commercial

Hogan was in a Rent-A-Center commercial. I’m sure that’s exactly the image TNA wants.

Backstage Segment

Terry getting ready for his match and Magnus came up on him. He said Doug and he carried him for a year. You don’t bite the hand that feeds you. He’ll find out he was much better with them as friends than enemies. The minute Terry put his hands on him, they were finished. Terry will answer to him. Magnus poked him in the chest. Terry squished the finger and told Magnus to piss off.
4/10 – Not great, just like Terry’s wrestling. At least he looks the part, even if he can’t talk and can’t wrestle? Trying to think positive.

Match #4

Rob Terry out to the ring. Anderson out to the stage and called for his mic. Anderson announced himself. He’s supposed to feel sorry for spitting on something given to Angle by the widow or mother of a fallen soldier? He’s supposed to feel sorry? Suddenly Angle’s right behind him with a chair. Anderson said he’s not coming. He holds up a tag and said it was given to him by the widow of a fallen soldier. But they happen to be Vietnamese. That’s okay, right? “Angle” chants. Anderson said the fans should be ashamed of themselves. Angle nailed Anderson with the chair. Anderson hit the floor. Angle motioned for Terry to come get him. Angle put his metal back around him neck. Terry put Anderson over his shoulder and carried him to the ring. Anderson was unceremoniously dumped in the ring. The ref called for the starting bell. Running power slam and Terry pinned for three. Terry posed with his strap.
6.5/10 – Not because it was a great match, because it wasn’t a match at all. I gave it that good of a rating for Angle and Anderson’s acting. Angle didn’t say a word and didn’t have to. Anderson knew the chair was coming and played it off beautifully. Heck, even Terry proved he can actually throw one move in the ring! Four more and he’ll be as good as Super Cena and we all know how great he is!

Backstage

JJ flipping burgers on a tiny grill. There was only room for nine burgers there!

Backstage

Foley walked in with his head hung low. He had on a very Dusty looking dark trench.

Video

All the crap Hall and Waltman have pulled since Hogan and Bisch came into TNA. Then that great speech Nash gave last week, then Hall couldn’t even get into the fray.

Backstage Segment

Nash and EY went after Hall and Waltman. Off camera Hall got Nash in the knee with a pipe. EY had control of Waltman until Hall came in. Hall said it’s nothing personal and to stay out of it. A great spinning back kick to EY. Waltman sprayed ‘4 Life’ on the back of EY’s t-shirt. They walked away leaving EY on his face and Nash holding his knee.
2.2/10 – Haven’t we all seen this all before? Wasn’t this exactly what we were hoping would not happen to TNA? Why haven’t they leaned that this is old, tired and overdone? Why am I continually shocked at how low they’re taking TNA? Just so disgusted!

Backstage Segment

Abyss with his ring talking about how he can feel all the enthusiasm of all the Hulkamaniacs.

Backstage

JJ badly chopping onions and making sure he didn’t slice himself open. Either he’s never chopped onions or he’s doing a great job of looking like he’s never chopped onions.

Backstage Segment

Bisch on his cell saying no over and over again. They’re not using celebrity guests on the show each week, it the dumbest idea he’s ever heard. Keep trying, he’s sure (that person) will come up with something. Foley came in, but Bisch wanted to see what’s under the trench. Foley took it off to show a great suit, but with a huge smudge of mustard on the lapel. He did a spit take at catering when he saw JJ there. Does it mess with the overall look? Bisch said it clashes, fashion faux pas. They want to take it to the next level. He wants Foley to talk to Bisch’s assistant to find an etiquette coach to bring some dignity to him. Foley said after everything, Bisch wants to invest that type of money in him? Bisch said it’s all behind him and Foley can be an asset to this community. Foley needs to look better for meetings. Foley said he’s been confused about the forks anyway. Foley headed off and Bisch said it will be great. After Foley left Bisch had a great laugh.
6/10 – That was funny and the etiquette segment will be hysterical! Foley is just who he is and can conduct any meetings as himself. Watching those two play off each other is getting more and more interesting. I just hope they don’t invest too much time into it, I’d rather see stories that actually have matches involved.

Match #5

Wolfe out the ring with Chelsea. Abyss out to his new music. Wolfe on top right from the start. Wolfe wasn’t able to suplex Abyss. Back elbow and he tried again, but Abyss fought back. Wolfe tried to gain control, but a black hole slam later and it was over.
6/10 – Squash match, that’s what it was. But it worked in Abyss’ push. He needs to come back as a solid mother who is unstoppable and the way to do that is to have him plow through people he shouldn’t be able to plow through. So while I’d have loved to have seen a great match between the two of them, but I understand why they did what they did. It was booking to further his push and that’s sometimes needed. I just hope there’s not too many of these matches before something interesting happens in the ring with Abyss. Interesting does not mean Hogan and Abyss tagging against at and Flair!

In Ring Segment

Right after the match AJ and Flair to the ring to try to take the ring. Wolfe up and grabbed a chair. A number of chair shots and Abyss was still going. Only when Flair chop blocked Abyss’ knee did they gain control of him. The three of them on Abyss and Wolfe cuffed Abyss to a rope. Hogan walked out to the ring, none of them saw him until Flair turned into a right. Hogan on top until another chop block on Hogan. The three worked over Hogan while Abyss watched. They took off Hogan’s shirt and all chopped and hit him. AJ laughed at Abyss and grabbed his WHC strap. AJ hit Hogan in the head with the strap. Abyss’ eyes about bugged out of his head. Hogan’s busted open. Abyss broke the cuffs and rushed to Hogan’s rescue. He held Hogan’s head as Hogan blubbered and Tenay talked about all that blood!
5/10 – So predictable. Yes, there was color, but it was Hogan! This man shouldn’t be wrestling on a regular basis and he’s the one giving us color?

Video

The set up on Hogan and Abyss that happened before the break.

In Ring Segment

Hogan stopped Flair from leaving and said if Flair wants to be involved in matches, then on March 8th, when they go live every Monday from then, Flair is coming out of retirement and will be in the ring. Flair screamed that he’s not coming out of retirement, Hogan can’t make him… Hogan had Flair’s mic shut off. Hogan said AJ will be tagging with Flair. They’re going against Abyss and his partner. Abyss has the green light to run them from pillar to post. AJ screamed that Abyss has nobody to partner with. The fans screamed for Hogan and he nodded. So on the 8th Flair and AJ will be facing Abyss and Hogan. Abyss hugged and clung to Hogan. They then shook hands as AJ and Flair left all pissed off.
4/10 – Shocker! Hogan’s getting in the ring on the 8th with Flair. Shocker! Flair’s coming out of retirement. Shocker! Flair was retired for about 3.2 seconds! So much for the promise Flair made Vince about not wrestling again in the USA. Ugh! The worst part about it all is that it will bring in good numbers, even though it’s going to be a travesty to have to watch. If it’s anything like the matches they put on in Australia, then it will be short and bad.

Post Show

I honestly felt like I’ve been a total bitch about everything that’s been going on in TNA recently, but then I realized just exactly how they’re screwing over the long standing TNA roster for people who are in no condition to be in the ring. I look as shows like this one that had five matches in two hours. WWECW had been putting at least four solid matches in every one hour of their Tuesday night shows and TNA can’t be bothered to give us even that? I don’t know the numbers, but I will highly doubt there was even 20 minutes of wrestling on this Impact. And two of those matches were thrown to split screen to show something more important that was happening backstage! I just don’t know what they’re thinking.

I will give TNA credit for a couple of things. They are getting TNA’s name on people’s lips, getting people talking about TNA, letting people know it exists. That’s something huge that TNA was seriously lacking on. Also their long and drawn out mic segments were boring me to tears recently, but this Impact gave us some wonderfully flowing short promos that were both well acted and pushed everything forward quickly. Some of the best storytelling that we’ve seen since the turn of the year. But still not a wrestling show.

To me the worst thing was the backstage fight between The Band and Nash/EY. Waltman looked decent, but as usual Hall looked like he just staggered out of a bar and was looking for an alley to fall asleep in. Contrary to what Bischoff said this week, Hall is not able to go in the ring and shouldn’t even be trying. To end that fight with them spray painting EY in a cheap imitation of the old nWo just weakens everything they did in the past and all they’re trying to do now.

But the biggest disappointment on this episode of Impact was the wrestling. To me a wrestling show should have wrestling and this one didn’t.

KB

Speaking of Orlando Jordan, by now we’ve all heard about the turn his character has taken. I remember before he left the WWE that they were planning on running with such a storyline, but then Jordan crossed some lines bringing his significant other places he shouldn’t have and was released. I didn’t care about the storyline then and care even less now. I have never been a fan of Orlando Jordan and his time in TNA has not raised my view of him. It’s obvious, from the chants, that I’m not the only one who feels this way. The fans don’t want him in TNA and have been quite vocal. Sadly Bischoff is high on Jordan and loves the controversy of this storyline, so Hogan’s friend will be getting pushed no matter what the fans want. Honestly, it blows how little they’re listening to the fans right now, but we expected this. The storyline doesn’t bother me at all, even though I know there are some who are up in arms over it. I think it’s time people get over their sexuality issues, but I doubt this storyline will help. I just hope it’s done tastefully. But I will give Hogan and Bischoff credit for making a stir in the industry, even if it is with a stolen storyline!

I want to make one little note about someone in the WWE. I know this is a TNA Blog, but this is something Richard has openly said he knows nothing about, so I’m going to stick my two cents in. Most people are shocked by this as I look rather punk, but I listen to a lot of country music. I listened to Mickie James’ song a couple times when it came out on Tuesday and have to say it’s an over produced fluff song. There was so much done on that song in post production that it’s hard to know if Mickie actually has any singing talent at all. I have been rooting for Mickie since day one (and especially through that terrible Piggy storyline that she should not have put up with) and was thrilled for her when it came out that she was also pursuing a music career, but now I’m not so sure. I think that was a really bad song to start with and truly hope the rest of her album is a heck of a lot better than that. If the entire CD sounds like that, she’s not even going to get a chance to a be a one hit wonder.

Time for our EAX PPV scores! Due to some early errors in in the 8 Card Stud Tournament, we really didn’t do that well. Before AAO, I had 6 right and 3 wrong. Chris had 7 right and 2 wrong. Turns out for AAO I got one more correct than Chris! That leaves us tied. We both are at 9 correct and 9 wrong right now. Can’t get more middle of the road than that!

Show Starts

Backstage Segment

Bisch climbed out of a limo and talked on his cell about signing someone and getting him out of the cesspool he’s in now. No, he doesn’t have to come back, Bisch can handle things. He hung up and said to let the games begin.

Video

Recap of Against All Odds, the PPV that I completely screwed up predicting! And then the big announce on Monday where they told us TNA’s moving to Monday nights. Shocker! Like we didn’t see THAT coming.

In Ring Segment

The Pope to the ring all smiles. He asked if there’s a party tonight in Orlando. Pope is pimpin’. At AAO he overcame the odds and is number one contender to the TNA WHC. The only thing standing between The Pope and his biggest fling is one not so honest Arthur Jackson and Dick Flair. He asked if he said Dick Flair? That’s okay because Ric is a dick! As the challenger and Arthur is left crawling, The Pope will be the new WHC! Of course Flair’s music starts (a bastardized version) and they came out with a small slew of bimbos. Flair and AJ held the ropes for the girls, then Flair held them for AJ. Flair asked The Pope if he can read and write? He showed his Armani label. The fans started in and Flair ripped on them. He said his name, his name is Ric Flair, has been and always will be. When he was 6 years old and praying at night to be just like him. He was bling before there was bling. Flair’s almost exhausted from being with AJ and his legion since Sunday. AJ’s the greatest wrestling machine he’s ever seen (even though he‘s in a butt ugly tie). Flair said AJ’s champ which makes him the greatest athlete alive. The Pope says his name might be Ric, he’s still a dick. No matter how you dress it up, at the end of the day he’s still a piece of crap. Flair thinks they have a failure to communicate. Flair says The Pope’s a street thug. AJ has more invested in that suit than The Pope’s parents have in green stamps. The Pope says they ladies are tired from being with him. That pissed off AJ who finally grabbed a mic. The Pope said he was on AJ like white on rice, and he was until Flair got involved and they worked over The Pope hard. The fans were pissed. Flair stomped low, then hit a low blow. Of course the time keeper started ringing the bell over and over like that’s going to stop two heels from beating this guy down. Flair back in with a chair. Set up on The Pope’s ankle and Flair stomped the heck out of it. Then AJ, with his horrid newly highlighted hair, locked on the figure four and kept slamming back on the mat to make the pain that much worse.
5/10 – The Pope was kick ass on mic. I have fully admitted I was wrong about that man and I have quickly grown to adore him on mic and in the ring. Sadly when Flair and AJ came out I felt like I’d seen it all before. I know Flair is known for who he is, but I want more! AJ is so good on mic, but all we’re getting is the same old Flair catch phrases. This is TNA and I want to see the young guys shine! They (Hogan and Bisch) keep telling us they’re there to push the young talent, but all we’re hearing is Flair and not AJ. I understand he’s ‘mentoring’ AJ, but I want the young guys to shine, not the ‘retired’ wrestlers.

Video

Recap of what just happened to The Pope in the ring.

Announce Segment

Taz and Tenay talked about Monday’s announcement and how huge it is. Hello! We know this.

Match #1

Daffney out to the ring in one of her hot goth ring outfits with a tiny top hat on her head. Tara out with a t-shirt over her ring gear, strap around her waist, Poison in hand and toque on her head. A smattering of “Tara” chants. Taz started to talk about Daffney’s pantyhose and it was Tenay who said it was fishnet. Tara removed her t-shirt and threw it into the crowd, but in doing so brought her ring gear up around her neck. She had to pull her little tank down over her bra before continuing. Second wardrobe malfunction. They fought to the outside where Daffney slammed at toolbox onto Tara. The ref called for the bell. I think Tara won via DQ. But Daffney kept beating Tara with the toolbox. Daffney beat the heck out of Tara and knocked a piece of the barrier onto Tara. Daffney then beat the barrier down on Tara with a chair until Stevie scooped a screaming Daffney up and carrier her away.
6/10 – While that might not have been a highly technical match, I love it when the Knockouts prove they can run with the big boys and go hardcore! Daffney has been very high on my favorites list since she debuted in WCW as a whacked out fan in love with David Flair! She’s extremely underrated and tougher than nails. I love to see her being used on TNA and this over the edge direction they’re going with her character is great! I can’t wait to see what they’ll do next. So much better than her in suits and playing Palin.

Backstage Segment

Foley into Bisch’s office. They’re tailors in there waiting. Foley said he was sorry about AAO, he kept trying to use the bat, but was unable to. Bisch said he did the best he could do. Foley put in the best he could. He knows he put in 100%. Hogan knows he could be a big asset to the company. These people here are to take measurements and see what they could do. Foley said they covered that. Bisch said they’re taking it up a notch, giving Foley a fashion makeover – going shopping. Foley said he has a sport coat from his wedding. Bisch said it was out of style 20 years ago when he bought it. Let’s just go with this. They’ll work together on this. Foley asked if this was custom stuff? Bisch said it is and all on TNA’s dime. Bisch tells them to go shopping and not hurry back. He’ll see Foley in the next couple days. Foley left. Bisch got on his cell and said to get Abyss in his office now. Bisch smirked.
7/10 – Foley was completely adorable there! That was a lot of fun, but my boyfriend’s first words when Foley left was he thought Foley was smarter than that. That’s the problem with what happened, Foley is smarter than that. So while it was beautifully acted, it was beyond belief that Foley, the man who couldn’t care less about clothes and how he looks, would go off shopping when the shit was hitting the fan in TNA. He knew the bat wasn’t used and he knows Bisch’s character is a total douche!

Match #2

Some guy and a chick walked out hand in hand. They split apart and out came Orlando Jordan. They followed him to the ring while Taz and Tenay hinted at the relationship the whole time. Samoa Joe’s music, but no Joe. Flash to backstage and Bisch was berating Joe about losing to AJ. That he’d better impress in this match. Joe to the ring. The match started with Joe on Jordan hard. Jordan started fighting back and gained control over Joe. Joe came back with clotheslines and a nice back body drop that showed Joe’s strength and speed. One sick chop up top sounded like he wasn’t pulling his punches! But Jordan came back with that tornado back stabber. Joe was left holding his head in his hands.
6/10 – Joe looked damn good in the ring, as he always does. Jordan looked like he was trying to be a young Booker T with a Sharmell wannabe and a metro sexual hanger on. And the internet has been making a HUGE deal over Jordan kissing a woman and a man before his match, this huge thing the fans have been shouting about and waiting to see, and they cut it from the show! Did Spike decide that the network is too guy oriented and couldn’t handle it? Or did Hogan and Bisch wimp out in the end? Either way it’s total BS in my book. On top of it all, what did Jordan do to his hair?

Backstage Segment

Abyss was freaking out about having to face Bisch. He stopped Borash and asked if he knew what it was about. Borash had no clue.
6/10 – We all know what it’s about! Anyone with two brain cells to rub together and have paid any attention to the storyline know what it’s about. I know Abyss is supposed to be childlike, but this is pathetic!

Backstage Segment

MCMG talked about someone. They thought it might be Petey. They looked a little more punked out than usual. Don’t get me started on the Petey thing!

Backstage Segment

Abyss in Bisch’s office. He jumped at every move. Bisch said he told him what he’d do and he’ll do it. If that bat wasn’t used at AAO, he told him what he would do. Abyss tried to talk his way out of it. Abyss said he used the tacks, gave him brutality. Bisch asked if he was to use tacks or bat? Bisch yelled at Abyss. Abyss said bat. Bisch said Foley’s out shopping and Hogan left him in charge. The mask comes off. Abyss said the mask is who he is. Bisch said he’s a whole new level of ugly and the building is on lockdown, he won’t get out. Abyss fled screaming he had to get away.
5/10 – Well acted, but they’re taking the Abyss being a child way too far. He has two sides to his character and should have snapped at being pushed so far. Abyss is also a monster who won’t put up with this stuff when his child side is in danger. I just don’t believe it.

Backstage Segment

Hemme with EY. She said we just saw Nash arrive and he doesn’t look in a good mood. EY said he’s spoken to him and Nash will speak in the ring. He said he hopes Syxx-Pac and Hall find their way in so Nash can tell them in person.
5/10 – I don’t remember seeing Nash arrive. I either missed something (very possible) or there editing has become worse than ever (also possible). I do have to say it’s good to see more of EY on Impact and hope he and Nash stick close to each other so Nash has someone who’s damn good in the ring to cover him from here on out.

Video

Dixie and Hogan making the announcement about going to Monday nights, live every other week.

Backstage Segment

Bisch walked in on JJ, Barbie in hand. JJ wanted to know what he’s going to do with the bat. Bisch said it was supposed to be used at AAO. So JJ needs to use it tonight on Abyss. So rather than sitting in his doublewide thinking about the good old days. If he does it Bisch might get him a velvet Elvis for his wall. JJ agreed to use the bat on Abyss.
4/10 – That was really boring. These segments are usually short and exciting or long and boring. This was short and boring. Barely even a chuckle for the velvet Elvis comment. It just wasn’t a good bit.

Match #3

Doug Williams, Brian Kendrick and MCMG out to the ring as a team. As I said, MCMG have more leather and stud, more punk to their looks and I really like it! They look a little different from everyone else and are finally set apart by more than their fabulous wrestling. Generation Me and Amazing Red out to the ring together. The last person out was Kaz! So nice to have Kaz back as Kaz the newly married man, rather than as Suicide! “You’re all awesome!” chants from the crowd. Kaz and Doug started, but it wasn’t until Brian tagged in that I heard a bell. Generation Me tagged in together. But only Max stayed in when Shelley tagged in. Max and Sabin worked really well together! Blind tag from Amazing Red who is always impressive! Kaz back in on Williams and they worked fast together. Generation Me in to help out and bodies flew in all directions. MCMG tried to double team but Amazing Red really worked them over with two flying moves! “TNA!” chants. Kaz came over the top in a slingshot DDT on Williams for three.
9/10 – The only thing that could have made it better is if it had been longer. Kaz moves so much better in his own skin rather than as Suicide. I don’t know if it’s visibility issues or how he wanted to play the character, but he is back in a big way! They all worked damn hard in that match and gave it their all. MCMG looked as good as ever. Amazing Red completely blew me away in the way he’s able to move and work the ring with whoever he’s in there with. Generation Me again gave their all and looked fabulous. Kendrick kept in character and worked well. Even Williams who is the heaviest and slowest of the eight gave his everything and looked as though he fit in with these high flying X Division boys. That was just spectacular! Tell me the fans don’t want to see some serious X Division after the chants that started and continued through that match.

Backstage Segment

Abyss rushed around back there freaked out. He got to a door that was locked. Slick stopped him and told him he couldn’t leave. He had to get to the ring for a match. Abyss asked with who? Slick said he didn’t know, but Abyss better get to the ring.
3/10 – Again, Abyss should be a monster at this point, not freaking out. The whole thing feels really wrong for the character and I’m one who loves the childlike side of Abyss! They keep trying to slip Slick in there as a character and it keeps not working. They need to leave him as a ref until/unless they find a real story for him.

Backstage

JJ in his ring gear sitting there staring at Barbie in his hand, poking at it, contemplating it.

Video

Again they showed the video of Dixie and Hogan announcing TNA on Monday nights. Ugh, how many times are they going to show this? I guess I should be glad they finally stopped showing the video of Hogan joining TNA!

Match #5

Abyss to the ring. JJ was announced and Abyss looked shocked. JJ out without music, lights or pyro. But he had the bat in hand. He spoke to Abyss, off mic, before getting in the ring. Abyss’ brow was furrowed as he paced before the bell rang. The bell and Abyss kept watch Barbie sitting in a corner. Shoulder block on JJ and Abyss went back to staring at Barbie. Abyss kept muscling through JJ. JJ hit a beautiful enziguri on Abyss. JJ took two clotheslines to send Abyss over the top. The problem is that Abyss set up for it long before JJ hit the second clothesline. It was so obvious what was happening that it looked bad. They fought outside and the match picked up again. Finally Abyss came to be the monster we love when he swiped at a cameraman to get away. But then Abyss moved Barbie out of the way and it was like a creepy spider he was afraid of. “Let’s go Jarrett” chants, but then a double clothesline and both down. Bisch walked out to the stage, scowl on his face and arms crossed. JJ pointed at the bat and Bisch smiled and nodded. Commercial. Side slam on JJ. Bisch slowly walked down the ramp. JJ hit the stroke on Abyss. Then he hit the stroke face first into a chair set into a corner. JJ grabbed Barbie. Bisch smiles. Abyss looked up and pleaded with his eyes. JJ turned to look at Bisch, then threw Barbie away. Bisch grabbed a mic and said he knew he couldn’t trust him to get the job done. Guys, it’s time! Out to the ring ran Homicide, Tomko, Raven and Rhino. Wolfe also came out to the ring. They took out Abyss then stomped the heck out of JJ. Then they went back to stomp Abyss. “Foley!” chant. They all held Abyss while Bisch went to the ring. He said Abyss that he told him what he’d do. He didn’t believe him, did he. Bisch grabbed the mask and yelled about seeing this. Hogan’s music played and Taz yelled that Bisch got caught with his hand in the cookie jar! Bisch looked worried and had the guys let Abyss go. Hogan strutted out to the ring in his own Vinnie-Mac way. he stopped to cross his arms and stare, then he got in the ring. Hogan pulled the mic out of Bisch’s hand and said he’s got this one. Abyss on his knees pleaded. Hogan told him to get his ass back to Hogan’s office. Hogan then stared around the ring at all the heels. Hogan dropped the mic and walked out. They all demanded answers from Bisch who didn’t have any.
7/10 & 5/10 – The seven is for the actual match. They worked well in the ring together and looked decent. These two have worked together so long in TNA that they know how to work together despite their size difference. Normally I don’t like such mismatches, but this one works. The beat down on Abyss is what garnered the five from me. It was obvious that this would happen and it looked the same as all of Bisch’s WCW heel attacks. It wasn’t at all fresh and new.

Video

Recap of what just happened in the ring. As if we didn’t just watch that!

Backstage

Abyss was walked to Hogan’s office by four guys from security.

Match #6

TBI – Rob Terry and Brutus Magnus, out to the ring. They went to stills of Terry winning the Global Championship in England on their last tour. BMI out to face them. Much obvious animosity between the two teams. Magnus and Storm worked well until Terry clotheslined from outside and they double teamed. Terry tagged in to work over Storm and Magnus demanded the tag so he could get the pin, but only got two so tagged out again. But back in Magnus was worked over by Roode and they double teamed Terry. Terry was double clotheslined from the ring and looked as though he was going to dislocate his shoulder because he did it wrong. Then Roode sent Storm flying out onto Terry who fumbled the catch! DWI on Magnus and it was over. Terry climbed back into the ring pissed off. He grabbed a mic and Magnus ripped it out of his hand. Magnus told him he can’t do anything right and is a disgrace! Magnus said he’s Terry’s superior and then bitch slaps him. He took the strap and said it should belong to him and told Terry to leave. Terry clotheslined him and posed over Magnus’ body with the strap held high.
7/10 – That was a decent match. It wasn’t the best, but it was decent. Honestly that match was more about what’s going on in TBI than a match between two teams. BMI deserves so much more than that.

Backstage

Nash pacing, thinking.

Backstage Segment

Abyss freaked out. Hogan said he’s sick of this crap and sit down. Bisch tried to come in and Hogan threw him out. Then Hogan told Abyss to stand, he blubbered the whole time. Hogan said he’s sick of watch him shake and chase his tail and be afraid of his shadow. It ends now! Hogan asked Abyss if he knows who Superman is? Yes. Hogan said he has a cape that makes him powerful. Popeye has his spinach. Hogan asks if he’s really a monster? Abyss said he is. Hogan really pumped him up and said he won’t cower, shake or backup again. Hogan pulled off his HOF ring. Hogan said this is his life, the only thing that never left him, was always with him, always loved him. He destroyed his body for 30 years selling out venues to earn this ring. He’s so crippled up he can barely get out of bed in the morning. This is Hogan’s life. Abyss yelled that he understands it encompasses Hulkamania and the world. Hogan gave it to him and said it will make him the strongest mortal man on this earth. This will protect him, love him guide him. He’ll be ten times the man, ten times the wrestler, ten times stronger than Hulk Hogan. That is his destiny! That is his mission! He will be who Hogan could never be. Does he feel the power? Abyss feels it. He said he won’t let Hulk down. Hogan left and Abyss put the ring on. He said it stands for every Hulkamaniac in the world ever and now it stands for the Monster Abyss.
6/10 – I know it was cliché and corny, but it was also cute. I’m sure I’m sounding very girly here, but I actually like that segment. It was the passing of the torch, showed they do have faith in Abyss and he should do well from here on out. Also, it should bring back the Monster that he needs to be. We have all been so sick of the cowering! I have a friend who calls me weekly to see if he should watch his DVR or skip over the Abyss segments because he’s so disgusted with this side of him. As long as they don’t remove his mask, though Bisch will try, I think he’s going to do very well from here on out. Also, it will be fun to watch Bisch trying to take Abyss down, get the mask off, all the while Hogan and Abyss fight back. Nice swerve, if a bit mushy.

Match #7

Daniels out to the ring. Haven’t seen him much recently! He looked out at the fans with disdain, but I wonder how much of it is his pissed about not being used much on Impact recently. Angle out to face him. Still from Anderson raking the tags across Angle’s face at AAO. The match started and Slick had to work hard to back Daniels off Angle. Angle reversed a sunset flip into an ankle lock and Daniels tapped out.
3/10 – That was shorter than short! Super Cena wouldn’t have been able to even get two of his moves in that length of time! I have no idea why they did that! I was so thrilled to finally see Daniels in the ring and they made him look so weak. I’ve honestly been wondering why Daniels has been hanging around and not trying to get released because the way they’ve been treating him, not putting him on TV other than to look so bad, is not cool.

In Ring Segment

Angle grabbed a mic and talked to Anderson. He’s man enough to admit when he’s been beat and Anderson beat him. That’s not what pissed him off. What pissed him off is what he did with Angle’s tag. In the military it’s a little smaller. Angle explained what a dog tag is for. “USA” chants grew loud. Angle said this means so much to him because he’s had a hard year and a half. He had a hard divorce. He shamed his kids by getting arrested and falsely accused of things he didn’t do, but none the less he was arrested. Angle broke into tears talking about the arrest and his kids. Huge “Angle” chants. He thanked them and said he needed that. He sat in a jail cell and didn’t know why this was happening. He prayed about it. After he got out he had an appearance at an Army base in Fort Hood, Texas. He met family members of soldiers who died in battle. One soldier came up to him and said he saw the news and he believed in Angle. He gave Angle the tag to remind him who he is. There’s an inscription on it that he read. “USA” chants. When Anderson cut him with this, he didn’t make Angle bleed, he made soldiers bleed. He made citizens who believe in this country bleed. When the match was over Anderson dropped it on his chest and spit on it. Anderson didn’t spit on Angle, he spit on those soldiers. He spit on the USA. For that Anderson, he’ll suffer. Angle will make him bleed every last drop out of his body. When you go down that road with Angle, there’s no going back. Anderson, Angle will see you in hell. Anderson’s music started. He came out. Commercial. Anderson fakes crying on his mic. He said he’s touched and moved. He’s amazed at Angle’s abilities, not just in the ring, but to suck up to each and every one of these people. He just wants a little pat on the back for being so sensitive and caring. That little hunk of garbage as nothing more than a utensil to carve him up. He made Angle bleed. Sometimes he likes to make people bleed. If he has a problem with that, why not come up there and getcha some? Angle came up the ramp as Anderson taunted him. Angle started with the upper hand, but Anderson went after the open wound. Anderson used his mic to Angle’s head and he crumpled. Anderson got down next to Angle and said welcome to Total Nonstop Anderson. Anderson.
6/10 – Now, I don’t want to come off as unpatriotic and unfeeling, but Angle took that way too far. It was too much and felt really fake. If it had been half as long it would have been more real and meant more. I just felt that Angle milked it for all it was worth. He might truly believe all that, but it felt like he was putting on too much there. I’m sorry if I offend anyone with that, it wasn’t my intention.

Backstage Segment

Borash with Joe as he left the arena. Borash tried to get answers from Joe, but Joe didn’t say a word. Borash turned back and a white Van pulled up. Three guys in black (much the way Tomko looked before his big reveal) jumped out, threw Joe in the back and took off.
-/10 – How do you rate an abduction?

In Ring Segment

Nash and EY headed to the ring in black leather jackets. Nash looked into the camera in a fairly tight close up. He said he doesn’t remember where or when, was 17, 18 years ago, for some unknown reason he picked Scott Hall and Sean Waltman to be his friends. He stopped for a pause. He also bought a black suit about 10 years ago because he knew they’d be putting one of them in the dirt real soon. Nash stopped for a moment and stared into the camera lens to let that sink in. He doesn’t know what’s worse in this business, broken bones or broken hearts. The tears in tendons or the tears in relationships. For three weeks, Scott Hall and Sean Waltman found their way into this building. He’s done everything he could in his career to keep them employed. He’s carried their asses on his back for the last time! This got Nash some serious cheers from the fans! He then said they’ve been able to find their way into this building, why don’t they find their way to him. This business chews up people and spits them out; he’s still standing! Nash was seething, lips quivering. He said he’ll be waiting. He’s the big gray haired son of a bitch standing in the middle of the ring. Nash then yelled up to them that it’s nice to see those two *bleeps* could make it. Hall and Waltman came to outside the ring while Nash stared out. EY slid out and got into it with Waltman. Hall into the ring. He threw his Razor Ramon toothpick at Nash and Nash punched Hall to the mat. One punch. Security held Nash back and Hall got to his feet. Security stayed between them as Taz yelled for them to let them go at it. Hall and Nash fought security to get to each other, same thing outside the ring. Nash was held back, but no one really stopped Hall, he just stood there. Hogan came out to the stage and crossed his arms. Nash looked up at Hogan, lips trembling, nostrils flaring. Nash said son of a bitch next week, next week it’s on!
8/10 – And all of that is for Nash’s little speech. He was perfectly timed, said all the things we know and said them with enough heart to make them stick. It honestly would not surprise me if he did buy a black suit ten years ago. I sometimes wonder how Hall is still alive. Most of us know someone, possibly someone very close, who has drunk themselves to death and Nash put all of that emotion into his words. It worked. What didn’t work for me was the constant trying to get to each other part at the end. We’ve seen just too much of it.

Post Show

Nash’s ending of the show really worked for me. He was on! The problem it there wasn’t much actual wrestling on the show. The best match, by far, was the Eight Man Tag Match. Those men were awesome, all of them. Only thing that could have made it better was if the match was longer, but I know I say that a lot about TNA’s matches.

I’d been waiting and hoping we’d see the match where Rob Terry beat EY for the Global Championship, but we were only told about it. Rob Terry who couldn’t wrestle his way out of a wet and shredded paper bag in a hail storm with a professionally drawn map and the best Sherpa on the planet, beat EY for his title. Let that soak in a little bit. Rob Terry, the big idiot who cannot wrestle and has not wrestled a stitch since coming to TNA, has somehow beaten EY – one of TNA’s best – for his Global Championship! Someone people explain this one to me! (I wrote this up when I found out about him winning the GC and still feel the same way.)

Do I believe that was Hogan’s real HOF ring? Heck no! will it burn Vinnie-Mac’s ass to see that segment? You know it will! He might keep saying that TNA isn’t even a blip on his radar, but with Hogan using the bisexual storyline and handing over his HOF ring, you know Vince is missing some sleep at night. No matter what he says, he is worried about TNA now that Hogan and Bischoff are involved and pushing hard to go against WWE.

I truly believe if they tweaked TNA in a couple of ways that they could give Vince a run for the ratings. They need to back off from pushing these older wrestlers and Hogan’s friends down our throats. They need to push they fabulous wrestlers who have been with TNA all along and carried it in the early days. These are damn good wrestlers and who most of the fans want to see. Lastly they have to fill the show with well booked wrestling and not all this talking! Storylines can be pushed along without filling ¾ of the show with backstage segments. They have this huge roster just sitting there, put them in the ring and use them!

KB

Now, on to TNA and everything that’s happened this week, which is not much. But there’s a couple things I’d like to comment on. First off is Bobby Lashley. He was ‘fired’ by Bischoff on TV and then went to have his MMA fight. I must say I’m very impressed with his win and how well he’s been progressing in MMA fighting. What does not impress me is how he handled himself in the press this week. He was removed from the TNA website, as one would expect after he was ‘fired’ by Bisch. But when he was asked about it, Lashley made a public comment that his “profile was removed from the TNA site for storyline purposes.” He also said he will take some time off to train, but is still with TNA. Later this week he posted a comment on his site, ‘”Alot of fans are asking me about my future in wrestling. I will address everything at a later date. Thank you for the support.” – Bobby’ I have to say I’m completely blown away by Lashley’s daftness! When you’re in the industry it’s all about the storyline and you don’t screw that up for any reason. He’s been a wrestler for long enough to know how all this works. I’m really starting to think Kristal is the brains of that operation, not just the beautiful mouthpiece!

A Foley interview came out this week and a few of the things he said really shocked me. Okay, one thing in particular shocked me, another thing only surprised me. The shocking part was what he said about his in ring work. Foley mentioned that he hadn’t planned to wrestle this past year as much as he did, but really didn’t think he was putting out stinkers after working a couple matches in a row with Angle. While I completely adore Foley and he might always be one of my top five favorite wrestlers from when I was a young wrestling fan (Taker, Nash, HBK and Benoit being the others), I cannot agree that Foley’s matches haven’t been stinkers this past year. I will always defend Foley’s writing, his mic work and the wrestling he did as Cactus Jack and Mankind, but I cannot agree with him about his matches in TNA. Foley, like many of the other aging wrestlers, need to keep their bums out of the ring and stick to managing, training, shaping the younger wrestlers, announcing and mic work. It’s a travesty to see these men who used to be so grand be reduced to looking like fools in the same ring that was their whole world. The place they used to showcase their amazing talents have turned on them and now make them look old and sad. It hurts my heart to see these men reduced to the mere shadows of the fabulous wrestlers they used to be, but yet can’t see how laughable they’ve become. It’s time for a number of men to hang up their boots permanently and many others to seriously reduce what they do in the ring. I hate to say it, but it’s dangerous and is a slap in the face to the industry they so love when they continue to act like they’re twenty years younger than they are and look the fool in the ring. It’s downright depressing for the fans to watch over and over. I will admit there’s certain times that it works, but more than a couple times a year and it crosses that line into heartbreaking. I’m sure we can all list at least a dozen wrestlers who fall into that category. So I’m sorry Foley, your matches are stinking up the place.

Show Starts

Video

Bisch and Foley’s issues as they continue. Foley faced Nash to help his friends Abyss and Borash keep their jobs. Foley hesitated and didn’t hit Nash with one of Borash’s drawings of Foley and Abyss. Hall and Waltman came through the crowd and ended up attacking and beating down Nash.

Hulk’s Moment Of Truth

This week’s title and the show started with him headed to the ring in all black with at least three crosses hanging around his neck. The fans are not really hot for him here until he prompts them in the ring. Hogan welcomed the fans and said he made the right decision coming to TNA. He has his swagger on as he hears everyone talking about TNA. Even his brothers up north (those in the WWE) are talking about TNA. The fans have made TNA the place to be. He feels like he’s cool again – Sorry Hogan, never happen! He does know of a few guys who are not cool. There’s security all over the place, if you have to go, hold it, you’re not getting out. Syxx-Pac and Hall are not getting in. They might be his brothers, but they crossed that line. Sometimes you have to get even or take someone out, but the way Hall and Syxx-Pac did that last week wasn’t cool. They’re on lockdown and if Hall and Syxx-Pac get in, they’ll have to deal with him. If he has to gear up in the red and yellow, he will. EY’s music and out to the ring he came with a leather jacket and a smirk. “Over rated” chants. EY said Hogan doesn’t know him real well, but he’s tight with Nash. Hogan’s been around long enough to know good friends are hard to find. He needs Hogan to let Hall and Syxx-Pac in to he can take care of them. EY said Hogan doesn’t know him, but he’s not afraid of getting his hands dirty. Hogan asked if it was his turn yet. Just because he just got there doesn’t mean he doesn’t have a clue. He knows about Team Canada, leader of W/E. He knows who EY is, where he’s going and what he’s about. It was EY and a hand full of guys who have the talent to take this where it should be. He should know who he’s talking to when he’s talking to Hogan. EY nodded. Hogan said ‘The Band’ is locked out. EY said that there’s few people he has respect for, but Hogan’s one of the reasons he’s standing there. Out of that deep respect that he’ll tell Hogan to his face, that if he won’t let them in then he’ll have to do what Kevin and these people would do, go to them. Hogan said not to do it on Hogan’s time. Take them off the property and bust them up real bad. A handshake and Hogan left the ring.
7/10 – I’m really hoping the ‘over rated’ chant was going after EY being a heel and not really about his work as he’s one of the best young guys TNA has on the roster and has more than proven himself from day one. EY impressed me when I started watching TNA and continues to impress me more and more as he grows into himself and becomes more seasoned in the ring and on mic. TNA would do well to full utilize EY as well as a number of other wrestlers who have been brushed aside since the turn of the year. As to what happened in the ring, I smell set up. Hogan in all black and telling EY to take it off site. Yes storyline, but total set up. Maybe something interesting will actually start happening? I can hope, but not holding my breath.

Backstage

Foley walked in the back and asked if Bisch was there. The woman told him that Bisch was in his office.

Backstage Segment

Hall and Syxx-Pac skulking along outside somewhere, trying to get in.
1/10 – I say lock them out and don’t let a camera follow them! They’re old, uninteresting, and most probably drunk (to say the least)!

Match #1

Orlando Jordan out to the ring in a really ugly Flair wanna-be robe and really crappy music! Video of Jordan taking out The Pope in the ring last month. Then The Pope out to the ring to face him! Video of The Pope stealing a win from a pompous AJ last week. “Let’s go Pope” chants. The fans loved it when The Pope got the upper hand on Jordan. Jordan really didn’t sell The Pope’s moves at all. Then there was “Pope is Pimpin’” chants that brought a smile to his face, but the chant that brought a smile to my face was the “You still suck!” chants for Jordan. The Pope fought back with an inverted atomic drop and flying forearm that made me think I was watching a reincarnation of HBK. But then Jordan fought back and I cringed. “Let’s go Pope” chants. The Pope hit his finisher and Jordan was done. The Pope advanced in the Tournament.
6/10 – In the ring Jordan just came off as a bully who rediscovered his schoolyard. While he didn’t look horrible in the ring, he sure is not up to par with the young wrestlers who have been with TNA since before Hogan came in. He’s just not needed in TNA and obviously not wanted by the fans’ reactions. I have to say that chant was clear and solid from the fans, more so than I’ve heard in a long time. Jordan is only 38, but he’s sure coming off as an older and crappier wrestler that the fans just don’t want to see. I hope Hogan and Bisch actually listen to the fans and quietly let Jordan go back to the oblivion they pulled him out of. That match would have been fabulous if The Pope had been in the ring with someone of substance.

Backstage Segment

JJ walked into Bisch’s office. Some small talk and JJ called him on what he’s doing in TNA. He hadn’t been in the ring in 7-8 months and then in the main even with Anderson, he hoped he delivered. Bisch said he enjoyed that match more than any in a long time. He was impressed with JJ’s ring psychology. Between them, he thinks he miscalculated how valuable JJ is to TNA. He’s reconsidered his spot in TNA. JJ is a world class athlete. JJ wanted to come in and build trust. He’d love a slot in the Tournament. Bisch asked if he’s read and JJ said he is. Bisch said he’s so valuable to the company, he’s not sure he’s ready. Being number one contender doesn’t sound like starting at the bottom and working his way up. He needs to work hard and be that exemplary employee he knows JJ can be. JJ saw the writing on the wall, thanked Bisch and left disheartened.
8/10 – If nothing else, Bisch is so good at being so bad. While I might not be thrilled with all he and Hogan are doing with TNA, I’m thrilled with Bisch on air. He’s such a dirty little shit that he makes me feel like I need a shower after watching a segment like that. He makes greasy used car salesmen seem honest and believable in comparison! Bisch is just so damn good at being so disgustingly bad.

Match #2

Suicide out to the ring. Matt Morgan out to face him. “Let’s go Morgan” chants right from the start of the match. Suicide tried, but Morgan was too strong and on his game. More chants for Morgan as the match continued. But then Suicide moved out of a corner and used that to take it to Morgan briefly. It didn’t take Morgan long to hit his big boot and it was over.
7.5/10 – Morgan looked great in the ring. I’m not sure if this was taped before or after Morgan found out about his father’s tumor, but it was around the time of this taping. I have to say I’ve been worried about him and his family since it came out about his father’s health issues and how life might effect his ring work. Morgan has become one of my favorites and it’s for matches like this one. He’s always on his game, no matter who he’s in the ring with. He sells moves even if they look impossible and works so well with anyone, no matter their size. Just impressive all around, only thing I wish was the match was longer. On the other hand, I’ve really been hoping they’d ditch the Suicide character and create something better for him.

Backstage Segment

Foley knocked on Bisch’s door and went in. Foley called him Mr. Bischoff. He talked about Bisch alluding to having Abyss’ and Borash’s careers in his hand. He’ll do what he needs to guarantee their jobs. Bisch said he’s shocked Foley’s back and Foley said it took a lot for him to come back. He’s thrilled Foley’s come to this decision, he can be a real asset to the company. Bisch said he’s a man of his word, Abyss and Borash are fine. As far as Abyss goes, two spots are left in the Tournament and he has one. He has someone good for him to face, perfect. Abyss will face Foley at Against All Odds. Foley, totally debasing himself to Bisch said he’d start to go get ready. Bisch stopped him with two more things. Bisch wants the Cactus Jack flannel to go, it’s so 70’s. Foley said it’s 80’s – 90’s. Foley asked what the other thing was. Bisch said if there’s any shenanigans, then Abyss’ mask will come off at the next Impact, the world will see what he looks like. Hope Abyss can deal with that and Foley better not cross him. Foley thanked Bisch and left with his head held low. Bisch then basked in his own brilliance.
7/10 – That was different. So rare to see Foley cowed in such a way. Only Vinnie-Mac has done that in the past and it wasn’t as much fun as this. Vince’s ‘Kiss My Ass Club’ just turned my stomach, but Bisch’s taking things from Foley like possibly his friends’ jobs, his flannel, Abyss’ mask, this makes it more interesting to watch. I don’t really want to see Foley in the ring against Abyss, but at least this match has an interesting set up and means more than just nothing.

Backstage

EY pacing, thinking.

Backstage Segment

Hemme with Anderson and Angle backstage. Tonight they will tag against Wolfe and Hernandez. At AAO they will be facing off, how will they tag tonight. Anderson said he’s had to carry so many people in the ring he’s broken his back five times, five surgeries. He’ll be winning at AAO and be the next TNA WHC, Champion. Angle glared then said he didn’t know Anderson’s intentions, but he’ll have eyes in the back of his head. If Anderson screws him the way Hogan screwed him, he’s going to snap Anderson’s ankle faster than that ridiculous mic can fall from the ceiling. Does Anderson understand? Angle walked off and Anderson just stared. Angle walked back into the shot, put two fists together in Anderson’s face, moved as if breaking a bone and simply said, “Snap” before walking away again. Anderson made a couple faces, then held his hand out. A mic fell into his hand and he said, “Mr. Anderson!” then with an arm around the back of Hemme’s head and his breath in her bangs, “Anderson.” She didn’t look impressed, at all.
9/10 – All three of them were fantastic. If we could have short and concise promos like that one, by men who are great on mic like them, TNA would be giving Vince a run for his money. Sadly these are few and far between.

Backstage Segment

Angle walked up to EY who was still pacing. Angle told him he appreciates what EY wants to do, but this is a fight he can’t win. For all EY knows, Hogan could be lurking in the dark. He’d do anything to be the center of attention. EY said that means Angle’s coming with him. Angle said no, he’s going alone and EY will stay back and worry about his career. EY said Angle saw what they did to Kevin. Angle yelled at EY that he did see what they did to Kevin and that’s why he’s going alone and EY’s staying there. Angle left and EY punched a locker.
8/10 – Another damn great promo! What is TNA doing? They trying to lull me into a false sense of security? I’m nervous! The only problem with that segment (for me) is I didn’t realize Angle and Nash were still on good terms and why would Angle risk his chances to run for the title again at AAO by going out and confronting two drunken bullies. So while the promo was really good, it made little sense over all.

Match #3

Amazing Red to the ring. Doug Williams out to defend his newly won gold. Video of Magnus demanding Rob Terry turn over his briefcase to Williams to cash in. “USA” chants started the match and Amazing Red on Williams hard. But then Williams noticeably screwed up. Amazing Red kicked Williams in the head and Williams was supposed to go over the top rope to the outside, but didn’t get enough of a jump off and sort of flailed in the air. Then Williams dropped to the mat and rolled out which made no sense, but put him in choreographed position to continue the match. It just looked really bad on his part. Back in the ring and several near falls, very quickly. Then Williams slammed Amazing Red face first to the mat three times. The problem being is that the move didn’t look crisp. It was obvious that Amazing Red was throwing his arms down and his head didn’t come anywhere near impacting the mat. While the move might look good in person, on TV it looked extremely fake and crappy. A nice taunt and flying back elbow from Williams helped some, but not enough. Figure four head scissors on Amazing Red, something I haven’t seen in quite a while! “Let’s go Red!” chants. Amazing Red flew out in a twisting corkscrew, but Williams almost completely dropped him. “That was amazing!” chants and Taz said that move won’t be seen on any wrestling TV in this country. Amazing Red stayed on Williams fast and hard with some beautiful high flying moves, but they don’t feel over done coming from him. A rolling German and Williams got the three.
7/10 – That was a very enjoyable match, even with all the obvious problems. While Williams obviously has the move set to be great in the ring, he just doesn’t have the speed or polish that most of the X Division has. Not saying Williams is a bad wrestler, not at all. In fact I’ve become quite fond of Williams and his wrestling as of late, I just don’t think he has the speed needed to be running with the X Division and definitely not enough of the spunk that makes for an X Division Champion. So while it was nice to see a decent match on TNA that lasted more than five moves and held my attention, I’m not sure Williams is the right fit for the X Division Champion at this point. It’s almost as if TNA has lost sight of what the X Division is supposed to be all about.

Backstage

TBP headed for the ring.

Video

Tara and Love had a huge feud last year, but now they need to fight side by side against TBP. Can they work together? Honestly, I don’t remember a huge feud between the two of them last year. Either it wasn’t that big, or it wasn’t that memorable.

Backstage Segment

Hemme with Love and Tara. She asked about them teaming up tonight. Love said when Tara came to TNA, she didn’t like Tara and pounced. But last week they had a great match but TBP had to stick their noses in. Tara said welcome to her world. Last week Tara had her back and she had Tara’s this week will be no different. Hemme asked about strategy. Tara said the plan is simple, it’s going to get ugly. Love pulled the mic and said, real ugly.
6/10 – That was so much better than some of those old and horrible TBP segment that Love led back when. She’s so much better on mic now and I think it’s the change in character. I said all along that if she was out of that role she could be very impressive, hopefully now we’ll see that.

Match #4

TBP to the ring. Rayne in blue, Velvet Sky in pink, but identical outfits. Lacey was in black boy shorts and numerous layered bras, not at all looking part of the team. Love out to the ring looking hotter than ever and I will admit that now that she’s not coming off the way she used to. Tara out with Poison in hand. Tara in the ring and Velvet Sky showed off her wiggle in Tara’s face. Tara immediately tagged Love in and Velvet Sky fled. Lacey got nailed outside from Love, but Rayne and Velvet Sky double teamed Love and she was toast. “You can’t wrestle” chants, but only from a small group of people and I’m not sure who they were chanting at. Velvet Sky choked Love with her own hair, interesting. Then one lone voice from the crowd yelled, “Tag in Lacey!” Tara tagged in and used Rayne’s body to roll/flip into the ring, but Tara seemed to slide down Rayne’s back and land harder on the mat than she should have. TBP regrouped outside, but Love and Tara both hit baseball slides into them together. Commercial, but rather than coming right back to the match they showed a video for the ‘Best of 2009’ DVD! Lacey tagged in, climbed to the second ropes, moonsaulted to the mat, then dropped an elbow in one beautiful motion, but she gave nothing more before tagging out. Love hit a beautiful kick on Velvet Sky, but Lacey and her ugly stick got the upper hand and TBP won. After the match Tara came back in with the ugly stick, but the three of them overpowered her and took her down.
6.5/10 – That was actually better than expected. Tara and Love looked solid in the ring together and Rayne and Velvet Sky did well fighting against them. If there wasn’t so much of TBP acting like little girls, it could have been a great match. So while it wasn’t fabulous, it wasn’t bad by any stretch of the imagination. And when it comes to Lacey – one good move does not a great wrestler make.

Backstage Segment

Hemme with Wolfe. She asked about him tagging with Hernandez against Angle and Anderson. Wolfe got into comparing it all the matches and wrestlers to poker to try to give the Tournament some sort of meaning when it has none. Then he said he’s already destroyed Angle and should put him on the shelf for good. Super Maxipad can go back south of the border, Hemme giggled at this. And the guy who has everyone talking, Mrrrrrrrr Hemme interrupted and he told her to wait and went back to his rrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. and finished with Wolfe. He then commented about some guy who talks to much. He said they’ll all be lucky to make it to AAO. Any cheap shots, he’ll injure. Team up against him, he’ll injure. He hope they understand, if they don’t, he’ll injure. Sunglasses back on and a little air kiss at Hemme. She giggled.
8/10 – I really like Wolfe’s “I’ll injure” comment. I can see that really taking off if used right. It seems as though he’s settling into his character and it’s feeling more natural than it did in the beginning. It feels more real and right to me than it did when he first came to TNA. Very cool.

Main Event

Wolfe out to the ring, but by himself without his little chippie. Taz and Tenay wondered where she was hiding. Hernandez out looking more heel than he has of late. Wolfe said something to Hernandez and then extended a hand, but the camera didn’t stay long enough to show if they shook. Anderson on the stage and on his favorite mic. He ripped on the fans, then said his name twice. I still catch myself expecting Kennedy! It just rolls off the tongue better somehow. Then Angle out through the stage with pyro. Hernandez and Anderson start and Hernandez goes through his normal match moves, including using his shirt to fling Anderson. Wolfe and Angle in the ring together working as beautifully as ever and Hernandez hit some nice moves with Angle! Ankle lock on Wolfe, but Anderson distracted the ref who never saw it. Bodies flying everywhere. Wolfe’s hammerlock slam should have taken Angle out, but he kicked out. Angle took Wolfe down, but then Anderson stole the tag and the three.
9/10 – That was really a kick ass match! It is possible, but for some reason we’re not getting enough of those. I’m really impressed by how they all worked together, but the most impressive for me was Hernandez and Angle. We’ve seen Angle and Wolfe in the ring together, but Hernandez was a different flavor. I was not thrilled when the match started as it was the same move set Hernandez starts every match with, but with Angle it developed a whole lot more. That man is so talented in the ring and it’s nice to see him moving up to main event status. As long as he doesn’t let his move set become boring, he could really rule the roost in TNA before too long.

Backstage

Joe headed for the ring.

In Ring Segment

Joe out to the ring. He said he’s out there for one reason and that’s to talk to someone. He called out AJ for a little chat. AJ came out in a beautifully cut suit, badly matched tie and Flair in tow. Flair made the cameraman back off and grabbed a mic for AJ. Joe said AJ absolutely disgusts him. AJ said it’s because he’s the champ. He’s known AJ for a long time and they were tight. They didn’t rest on their laurels and gave everything they had to the fans. When it comes to the most epic clashes in that ring they were between AJ and Joe. He’s disgusted because AJ gave it all up. He used to be a Champion, a warrior, gave his all and earned what he got. When Angle came out to compete, AJ took a shortcut and threw it all away. Flair took the mic and said he wasn’t going to talk, but they’re going to establish one thing before AJ goes to work on him. AJ is the champ, he is the WHC, he is the flagship. Joe is right, it came out of his mouth. Joe and the fans will learn the word respect. Joe said to come over here and come strutting into the ring to teach him respect, but he will be limping his way to the hospital afterward. Flair and AJ laughed at this. Joe said AJ was the last pure thing for the fans, the boys in the back and everyone to believe in. He cheated the fans. AJ said Joe’s turned more coats than the dry cleaners. He’s been with the Front Line, then MEM and then the Nation of Violence. AJ asked how that’s going now that MEM’s money’s died up. Why doesn’t Joe go hang with Taz. Taz better take a rain check as Joe will turn on him too. Who is he to question AJ Styles. Joe said he knows his transgressions and will bear his crosses. But every time some newcomer came in here offering to shake TNA up, Joe stood up in his face. AJ dropped to his knees, puckered up and kissed the ring of his new sugar daddy. Down went the mic and belt, off came the glasses and jacket and tie. Flair tried to stop AJ, but AJ didn’t listen and Joe started to hand AJ’s ass to him. But Flair rushed in and hit a low blow just before Joe could hit his muscle buster. AJ and Flair on Joe and someone starts ringing the bell over and over as if they’d stop at the sound of the bell getting annoying. Finally some refs in to get them off Joe. Flair grabbed the mic and told a ref to shut up. He then asked Joe if he understood now, tough guy! Outside the ring on the ramp, Flair gave Joe a famous ‘Whoooooo!’
5/10 – I hate to say it, but they should have ended with the main event match. That was the highest point of the night and really would have left the fans wanting more. This end segment just left me annoyed and feeling like I was watching WWE. Maybe it’s a step up from feeling like an old WCW show, maybe not.

Backstage Segment

Oh goodness, there’s more! AJ on his cell heading out the back, but Bisch stopped him. Bisch asked if AJ was proud of himself, have fun out there. Bisch asked if he’s living large. AJ said all day, everyday. Bisch said he knew Flair had a limo full of ladies waiting, but Hogan and he’d been talking and this is an important match with the title on the line. Given AJ’s recent history, the ending of the Angle match, they decided on a special guest ref. AJ demanded to know who he has. Bisch said it will be him. Bisch told AJ to go tell Flair that Bisch will be reffing this match and calling it right down the middle. See ya champ! AJ freaked out, grabbed his cell and yelled that they had a problem.
6/10 – Nice little twist to add right before the PPV. With the ‘heat’ between Flair and Hogan, of course Bisch will be biased against Flair. Very interesting, very interesting indeed!

Announce Segment

Taz and Tenay went through the Tournament and matches slated for Against All Odds.

Backstage Segment

Angle stomping his way out the back and Hogan stepped in his way. Hogan said it won’t happen this way. Angle said he knew all along Hogan was involved. He knew when Hogan came to TNA that he didn’t have good intentions. He told Dixie she couldn’t trust Hogan, didn’t know what she was getting herself into and this is exactly what he was talking about. Hogan said if he’s so hell bent on getting his ass beat, he’s making sure of one thing, it’s going to happen in his house so that maybe someone will come save his dumb ass when they’re beating him down. Hogan threw a door open and said he knows ‘The Band’ and they’ll be in real soon. Angle said that Hogan’s the boss and he’s sure he’ll see all three of them out there.
3/10 – Oy, I guess I should have paid more attention to what time it was. I stop the show and am always a little behind when it’s really aired, just to make sure I catch everything important. I was off on the time and really thought the show was over. Heck, the show SHOULD have been over after that tag match. All this extra crap brought the show down and made me less and less interested in AAO.

In ring Segment

Angle in the ring yelling for Hall and Syxx-Pac. He’s not leaving until the show. Syxx-Pac rushed through the crowd and into the ring. Angle on him hard. Drunken Hall was well behind. Angle locked an ankle lock on Hall. Of course this gave Syxx-Pac time to recuperate and pull out his brass knucks. A horribly faked shot to Angle’s neck/head and ‘The Band’ was in control. Syxx-Pac handed the knucks over to a staggering Hall who struggled to put them on while Syxx-Pac stomped and the fans chanted for Angle. They continued to work over Angle in the ring until Hogan’s music hit. He came out smiling and nodding. He acted all happy to see Hall and Syxx-Pac. Hall and Syxx-Pac posed pointing at Hogan. Hogan took off his sunglasses and watch before entering the ring. Wolfpack signs between all three off them. Hall pulled out the knucks and Hogan pointed with a smile. Hogan took them, put them on. They pulled Angle to his feet and Hall held Angle. Hogan nailed Hall in the head with the knucks, then grabbed Syxx-Pac and held him freaking before hitting him with the knucks. Angle struggled to look up at Hogan while Hogan looked annoyed and dropped the knucks to the mat.
2/10 – How obvious could they be? My boyfriend is new to wrestling. He’s only been watching for about two years, he asked which of them Hogan would be hitting first. Even though they tried to put out hints that Hogan was going heel, it was so obviously not going to happen then, if anytime in the near future. It just didn’t work.

Post Show

I really thought Impact had built to a decent crescendo with that tag match, but then the show was shot in the foot and seemed to take two weeks as it staggered around making a big show of things before it finally died, bleeding and alone in a back alley with only Hall‘s empty bottle for comfort! This episode of Impact could have been really solid if it had been edited differently and ended on the high note I thought it had ended on. Each match seem to get better and the promos were really solid there at some points, but then the show crashed and burned in an abhorrent mess.

I know their ratings jumped up when Hogan, Bisch, Flair and the others came into TNA, but they reached a certain point and have been dropping. I hope Hogan, Bisch and Dixie realize this and do something about it. I know it’s harder to deal with things like this when the shows are taped so far ahead of time and maybe it’s time they change that too. I know there’s been different ideas popping around about Impact going live every other week on Mondays, then that didn’t seem to be happening and now no one seems to know what’s going on. I think if TNA’s every going to give the fans what they want, they can’t tape so far ahead of time and really need to listen to the fans and not just run with what they want. They should honestly look at WWE and do what they claim they’re doing, give the fans what they want, not just what they want to experiment with this week to try to put the squeeze on Vince. This needs to be about great shows and even better wrestling, not about how badly they can hurt Vince McMahon, but I don’t think any of the three of them really understand this.

I truly hope someone realizes what needs to be done before it’s too late for these fabulous young wrestlers. There’s so much potential in TNA, it just needs to be tapped in the right way. I still fear that Hogan and Bisch are not the right people at the right time. Again, only time will tell.

KB

Then there’s the comments, both on Bubba The Love Sponge and on Twitter that make me wonder just how shoddily everything is being run backstage. There’s Homicide being disgruntled about the direction of the show; Scott D’Amore leaving TNA; Hogan being out of sorts on the State of TNA Address. All of these things are huge negatives, in my opinion. When key wrestlers are openly saying they’re not happy with the company, then either people need to batten down on what’s being said or something needs to be done about the issues being voiced. I have no idea what the complete story is behind D’Amore leaving TNA. He’s stated that he will be involved in the merging of Border City Wrestling with BSE Pro Wrestling. With that creating a large independent promotion. But that he left TNA without giving notice and was the agent for some of the highest rated segments for TNA in the past year, I have to wonder if there’s more to his leaving than just wanting to create this large promotion. The whole thing just leaves a huge question in my mind.

The last thing on that list, about Hogan being out of sorts, woogy, disinterested or possibly drunk at the State of TNA Address, upsets me the most. He’s trying to act like he’s running things at TNA, he’s really doing all he can to make TNA into a viable hindrance to WWE and Vince McMahon, but then he can’t be bothered to care during this big radio show? To me that just reeks of someone with a serious issue of some sort. I can’t say what that issue might be as there’s so many possibilities, but it seems like there might be something there worth worrying about. I say it was a damn good thing Bischoff was there and actually put together so he could answer most of the questions and make sure at least one of them sounded semi-intelligent! I’m baffled that Hogan would go into something like that and that Bisch would let him. They’re trying to build up TNA, not make it look like it’s being led by a raging idiot!

Speaking of raging, that’s what I was doing when I saw that TNA actually earned a 1.4 last Thursday. What the heck is that all about? I know Hogan and Bischoff can bring in fans, they did that on January 1st, but that people are tuning in more and more really makes me wonder where people’s heads are! I watch TNA every Thursday as it’s my obligation (that I love doing because I love writing about wrestling in any way, shape or form), but I’m only one person out of thousands who have been tuning in more and more to watch TNA. I do not understand why people are tuning in as they are. It makes no sense at all! The shows have been sucking in a huge way, the storylines have only become worse, there seems to be even less decent ring work and then the fricken ‘Orlando Screw Job’! It’s one thing to mention WWE, but to blatantly steal one of the biggest controversies in wrestling history and make a joke out of it the way they are is total BS. There’s been so much animosity and hate between people for twelve years and it’s finally being ironed out and Hogan and Bisch need to rub it in their faces. It makes me gag! But I’m truly at a loss as to why so many fans are tuning in the way they are. There’s too many of them to just be rubber-neckers, or old WCW fans looking for a thrill. I’m just very confused about who all these new viewers are. I’m also disgusted that by tuning in they’re making Hogan and Bisch think they’re doing the right thing and a good job when that’s so far from the truth it’s not even funny. The whole thing just makes me ill to think about for too long.

Show Starts

Video

Hogan called out Foley and made him work things out with Bisch. They talked in the office. Bisch threatened Borash’s and Abyss’ jobs. Angle was pissed about the ‘Orlando Screw Job’. Hebner said he was paid off. Angle and Hogan shook on it, but Angle told Hogan he’s accountable for everything that happens in TNA. Angle was attacked by Waltman and Hall after Hogan left. JJ had to face Anderson in the main event. A low blow and Anderson won.

’The Breaking Of The Band‘

This is what TNA has entitled this week’s Impact. Gee, I wonder what THAT’S all about?

Match #1

Qualifying Match and Brutus Magnus out to the ring. Mr. Anderson out to face him. The mic comes down high on the ramp and Anderson does his own announcing, as per usual. A solid “You suck” chant from the fans, but they also talked along with him stating where he’s from. Anderson kept talking about the four sided ring. Anderson talking about the four sided ring got the most heat of that mic promo! He claimed that he’s not the one who said he’s the future, Hogan said he’s the future and if Hogan said it, it must be true. Hogan also said (in his book) that there’s no such thing as a ‘roid rage, so that must be true too! “An-Der-Son!” chants from a decent sized group. I think they’re very confused about Anderson and not sure if they should root for him or not. Doesn’t help that he’s in there with another heel! Anderson held all the control through the first part of the match. Magnus managed to turn it around and actually make it look decent, but sadly the fans were very quiet through most of it and that effected the match in a huge way. Anderson hit the mic check and it was all over for Magnus. Anderson then announced himself the winner. Anderson… “You suck!” chants.
5/10 – Sad that Anderson on the mic was the best part of that match. It just wasn’t good and didn’t hold my attention. Putting Anderson – who isn’t getting the best of reactions and not the best matches so far in TNA – in the ring with Magnus – who’s known for not being that good in the ring (but has improved) since the day he came into TNA – TNA was guaranteeing that their first match of the night would not grab and hold the fans’ attention. Not the smartest way to start the show!

Backstage

Foley rolled up in an economy rental car.

Backstage Segment

Angle with Hemme. She brings up Tomko, but Angle wanted to talk about Waltman and Hall. Hemme asked if Angle thought Hogan had them attack Angle. Angle said this is who Hogan is and what he’s about. He’s going to find Hogan and he’s in a really bad mood.
8/10 – Interesting! This could be a lot of fun! Very well put together promo, well spoken and added huge interest to the show. Very cool!

In Ring Segment

Bisch sullenly headed for the ring. He looked like a kid heading for the principals office, but when he got there he was all smiles. He said last week Hogan made it clear to Foley that he had to get on Bisch’s page. Foley didn’t agree and that will cost Foley dearly. Foley’s music and out he came looking rather pissed. “Foley” chants. Foley said his reputation in the industry is that there’s something wrong in his head. Not because he was willing to put his body out there or do anything to pay the price, but because he got along with about everyone. People tried to get him to say bad things about people, luminaries like Marcus (Buff) Bagwell, Paul Heyman, Jim Helwig (The Warrior). The truth is that deep down he doesn’t dislike anybody. But Bisch is the exception that proves the rule because he hates Bisch’s guts. Foley called him a ‘slick little hustler’! he’s the polar opposite of what Foley is, the antithesis of everything that he believes in. He loves this business, would have done anything to be part of it and basically did. Bisch came in from the outside, a salesman and an announcer and the worst one at that. Taz said that obviously Foley hasn’t heard of Mike Adamle! Bisch was an executive that pushed his way into power just because he didn’t embody old school wrestling. Perhaps Foley’s not old school, maybe he went to the school that burnt down before they built the old school because he can’t stand Bisch. Bisch says Foley might not be able to stand him, but this is about Foley’s decision. Foley said this is about them and his decision. You can mess with Foley’s life. He loves being part of TNA, but he’s always prepared himself for worst case scenario. That’s why he was saving every dime when he was 22 and the other wrestlers couldn’t see the future. He was sleeping on a cot at the Red Roof when he was the WWE Champion. He drives a piece of crap minivan and loves it because he doesn’t want to answer to idiots like Bisch and he won’t! Foley demanded to be heard out because he marked down to words on his hand, two names. J.B. and Abyss. Who the hell is Bisch to screw around with other people? Bisch thinks he’s just a funny guy with buggy eyes? Does Bisch know how many hats Borash wears backstage? The Zone would shut down if not for Borash! The fact that Bisch doesn’t know this, or care to know this, shows how little interest he has in knowing how TNA really ticks. Bisch says what makes him tick is the power. He’s listened to Foley babble on out there, so he can listen to Bisch. He doesn’t want to be on Bisch’s page? That’s fine, it’s his choice and he respects that. But what’s unfortunate, since Foley won’t get on the same page with him, he’s going to have to turn that page… He’ll appreciate this. He’s also a New York Times best selling author and he’s about to write the next chapter in the Foley story. Foley said that something he wrote in his book about Bisch is power should be limited to those not in love with it. Which Bisch hasn’t’ learned a thing since his failures in WCW. Foley’s been running this show and recognized around the world while Bisch was making reality shows with Chachi. This is the deal Eric. He’s always told his wife that his first real love, and she knows this, and there was a day that it might find love with someone else, but he’ll be damned if he watches Bisch have his way with the woman Foley loves. Bisch stops Foley to ask about those names on his hand, Abyss and J.B. Bisch still has their futures in the palm of his hand. Since he’s about to write the new Foley chapter, tonight Foley will face Nash in the ring. He has history with Nash. He jumped Nash in the Zone. It’s time for Nash to get some revenge. Then Bisch started chanting ‘titty-tatty’ over and over again. Bisch smiles that sickening authoritative smile he has.
4/10 – That made no sense! They rehashed a number of things, nothing was accomplished and even though Foley said he’s out of TNA, he now has a match? No sense at all! Then we’re supposed to believe that Bisch is playing heel to Hogan’s face and Hogan’s not seeing any of Bisch’s heel-ness, even though it happened in the ring and on camera? So much stupidity in that whole segment and we’re supposed to take it and act like nothing was out of sorts? So not cool!

Backstage Segment

Abyss was watching a monitor and freaked out. Borash was there too. Abyss asked if he’d be okay. Borash said he was just there to get his last check. He worked for Bisch ten years ago and nothing’s changed. when Bisch is around, nobody’s okay. Abyss really freaked out then.
6/10 – Everyone knows I’m a huge fan of Abyss when he’s acting childlike. Well, that wasn’t childlike, that was just whiny and annoying! It was Borash that saved that segment. His straight up honesty really came through. Might have been scripted words, but I’m wondering how close to reality they’re really ringing.

Backstage Segment

Hemme with Tara. Tara’s facing Love and there’s history there. Love tortured the heck out of Tara when she came in. She seems to have changed. Last week she earned her respect, but Love has the eye on the prize. Love better be ready for Tara, because Tara’s ready for her.
6/10 – Not great but not horrid. Luckily it was short and to the point. Wasn’t Tara’s best promo, but I do expect a lot in her match against Love.

Match #2

Team 3D out to the ring. Hernandez and Morgan out to face them. The match started out with Ray getting the upper hand on Hernandez! But then Hernandez leaves Devon and tags out, this gave Devon chance to recover. Taz made a big thing of this ‘mistake’. Up top Devon gnawed on Hernandez’s head and then he hit a flying head butt halfway across the ring. Devon and Ray really had the upper hand over these two young huge guys – not believable! The Nasty Boys got involved to knock Ray off the top, but then Ray ate a carbon footprint from Morgan for three. After the match was over Knobbs went in with a chair and Sags was directing, but Hernandez and Morgan ran back to rescue Ray. It almost became confrontational in the ring until Morgan and Hernandez explained that they’re there out of respect and to help. Fist bumps and all is good.
6.5/10 – For me this just wasn’t believable. The moves were there and they all looked good, but I just cannot believe that either Ray or Devon could get over fresh Morgan or Hernandez. These men are young, big and talented. No offense to Ray and Devon – two men who I have loved for many years (face or heel) – but they’re not as young as they used to be and they don’t go like they used to. I just did not believe the match, even though they worked hard to make it believable. Sorry.

Backstage

The Pope got ready for his match.

Match #3

Jesse Neal out to the ring with his new look – so much better that his old look! Samoa Joe out to face him. Joe really took it to Neal HARD! Many “Joe” chants. Neal raked Joe’s eyes and then climbed. Joe casually walked away as Neal flew. the look on Joe’s face was fabulous as he conveyed what an idiot Neal is. Muscle buster and Neal was done.
7/10 – While I can only barely give that match a seven, it was so much better than everything else we’ve seen in the ring so far on this show. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a bad Joe match (one that went the distance and was an actual match), but this wasn’t one of his best. I don’t know who thought it was a bright idea to put him in the ring with Neal, but whoever it was really needs to go back and watch some of Joe’s PPV main event matches! I don’t see as anyone could watch Joe’s matches and not KNOW he’s a main eventer!

Backstage Segment

Hemme stopped Hogan and asked about what Angle said. Hemme had to tall Hogan what Angle said, that Hogan put the hit out on him. Hogan said he’s there and not hard to find. Hemme said Angle’s coming after Hogan. Hogan said he’s there for Angle to come find him.
5.5/10 – At least it was short! Hogan seemed not really caring in that segment. Like he was blowing the whole thing off and not really caring about any of it. He wasn’t at all animated or into what he was doing the way Hogan is known to be. It didn’t suck, but was close!

Match #4

The Pope to the ring. AJ out with Flair in tow. Early in the match AJ chopped The Pope and turned to show off to Flair and this gave The Pope the time to get the upper hand. Commercial. Halfway through the commercials TNA came back to show AJ had regained control. AJ worked over The Pope, but also taunted and acted like a hot shot through it all. Back and forth between the two of them and they really made it look good! The Pope had some convincing moves and pins, as did AJ. Flair taunted The Pope from outside. AJ grabbed The Pope, but The Pope reversed the small package and got the three on AJ! AJ and Flair immediately started beating down The Pope. Joe’s music hit and he ran out. Joe hard on AJ. Joe went after Flair who fell on his rump on the mat. AJ attacked Joe from behind but in the end Joe and The Pope got the upper hand. Security broke it all up.
7.5/10 – I really would love to give this match a higher rating! I truly would, but all that crap at the end brought it down. I understand they wanted to set up for another feud and show that people are pissed off at AJ for turning heel, but Joe could have been introduced in a smoother way. This was out of the blue and strange. The work in the ring between AJ and The Pope was solid. AJ’s really falling into being Flair’s protégé beautifully. It worked well, but the end killed it for me.

In Ring Segment

Flair flung all sorts of threats at Samoa Joe for getting involved in their business when they were beating down The Pope. He taunted Joe from the ramp. Flair said this is the new TNA and he’ll get his ass beat. Flair also taunted The Pope. Joe grabbed a mic and told Flair to shut his mouth or he might just decide to wrestle the ‘nature’ out of his ass! Joe then called AJ an unrepentant scumbag. Joe doesn’t care, AJ was always a warrior, a man and a champion. Then he sold it all out for a couple suits and for Flair’s cheap hookers. At Against All Odds Joe is cashing in his title shot. AJ looked about to cry. Joe told AJ to go to bed and wake up knowing he has to face the inevitable. Joe then told The Pope that they should go beat them both down.
8/10 – That was fabulous! Joe was great on mic and really sold it. AJ’s facial expressions were priceless! AJ didn’t have to say a word but was able to convey every feeling. Flair, as usual, wore every bit of it on his face and added to it all. Just a great way to end an over used security break up segment. I’m impressed!

Backstage Segment

Hemme asked Love if TBP would be involved. Love said most likely. She taught them everything they know, but not everything she knows. She would have never replaced Love. Not working out to well. She’s facing Tara tonight and success is the best revenge and she’s awesome at revenge.
5/10 – Nothing really special, but much better then when she was so extremely self absorbed in TBP. She doesn’t annoy me and make me want to turn the volume down the way she used to. That’s a huge step up in my book.

Backstage Segment

Nash and EY talking and Bisch walked in. Bisch had no clue who EY was. EY introduced himself, said he was the leader of W/E, Global Champion and a three year contract holder at TNA’s happy little family. Handshake and slap on the shoulder between them. Bisch remembered but then threw him out. After he left Bisch said it’s another name he probably won’t remember in the morning. Bisch needed a favor. He needed Nash to destroy Foley in a No DQ Match, mop the floor with him. Nash brought up that Waltman and Hall don’t have contracts. Bisch said they won’t play by rules. It is what it is. If he likes it that way he can play that way, or he can destroy Foley for Bisch.
7/10 – Heel Bisch is out in full force on this episode! I don’t understand how Hogan and Bisch are not fans of EY. He’s great on mic as well as in the ring. But we’ve seen a number of long time TNA wrestlers getting brushed aside recently. They’re getting swept under the carpet only to get a couple seconds of mic time, or nothing at all.

Video

Replay of Bisch telling Foley he would face Nash later in the night.

Backstage Segment

Hemme asks Foley if he’s going to fall in line for his friends? Foley said he was told to fall in line or lace them up, he got new athletic shoes for Christmas, so he’ll lace them up. He’d cooled about Nash, but thinking about it he’s been getting hotter again. Abyss in and freaked out about not having a job. Foley said he’ll be in the ring so Abyss will have a job. Because “whatever I touch, starts to melt in my clutch, I’m too much.” Then Foley sings the last couple beats of the Heat Miser song. Foley makes Abyss promise not to go to the ring, no matter what. Abyss promised. Abyss left and Foley said to Hemme that Abyss is too much.
6/10 – It was cute, but still not the best of Foley or Abyss. Foley wasn’t really relaxed and Abyss wasn’t really in his childlike character. It seems as though everything is just a little off on this show and it just isn’t going well for anyone.

Match #5

Tomko out to the ring looking a little chubby. Angle out to face him. Angle in control until Tomko hit a freaking fast scoop slam on Angle. It was really impressive! Angle started to fight back, but Tomko picked Angle up with both hands to Angle’s throat and slammed him down hard. Angle came back but only was able to hit two of his Germans before Tomko overpowered him. Angle was able to fight back and hit all three Germans and then lock on the ankle lock. Tomko tapped when Angle put his whole body into the hold.
6/10 – A number of those moves made me wonder if Angle was going to get up again. If this hadn’t been taped, I’d have been seriously worried about Angle’s body. I was so worried about someone getting hurt that I couldn’t really enjoy it. Tomko looked a little loose cannon in his moves, as well as fat and out of shape. WWE did the right thing by letting him go once they saw how his body has deteriorated. I’m really wondering why TNA brought him back. I know he was supposed to feud with AJ, but since Hogan and Bisch came in that was obviously scrapped. He’s dead weight on the roster in my opinion.

Backstage

Split screen showed Tara and Love heading for the ring.

Video

From TNA’s European Tour – all done in stills. An interesting way of doing it and very different from WWE. I’m impressed.

Video

Early in Hogan coming in Nash sent Foley on a wild goose chase. Nash did it all to screw with Foley. Nash kept saying that Hogan wasn’t coming alone. That, of course, meant Bisch.

Backstage Segment

Nash in to talk to Hogan about facing Foley. Nash then begged for another chance for Waltman and Hall. Hogan said Nash has a sweet deal here and he needs to look out for himself. Hogan said they’ve done all they can for them and Nash can’t screw up his own spot here. Nash kept going back to bringing Hall and Waltman in.
5/10 – So hard to believe something like that when Nash has publicly backed off from Hall and said he’s done all he can for his friend. There’s been a distancing by Nash from all the really wild times and I just don’t believe him begging Hogan to bring them back. Feels really fake to me and seemed like it tasted bad in Nash’s mouth when he said it.

Video

Love had to leave TNA and that broke up TBP. After she left they brought in Lacey von Erich. Love came back and they’ve been fighting ever since.

Match #6

Angelina Love to the ring. Tara out to face her. Love actually seems more serious and determined than I’ve seen her. Commercial. Tara’s top is blurred out, so there must have been some nip slippage. Back and forth work between the two. Love countered the widows peak, but Tara was still able to roll her up and get the three. Tara extended her hand and pulled Love to her feet. TBP rushed the ring and attacked Love. Took a moment but then Tara got into it and they got the upper hand. TBP ended up fleeing. Tara’s still being blurred out as her right nip was still visible.
6.5/10 – Not the best Knockout Match we’ve ever seen, but they both worked really hard during this short match. I have to admit I’m very impressed with Love’s work. She wasn’t so worried about her looks and being uber hot, so she actually worked the match. I’ve been saying all along that she’d be great if she wasn’t stuck in TBP and she proved it there. She actually held her own with Tara and that’s saying something compared to how she had been wrestling.

Backstage

Outside Hall and Waltman were skulking around.

Backstage Segment

Angle stomped into Hogan’s office. He demanded that Hogan explain how he shook his hand and then had his boys attack him. Hogan said he’s not giving them contracts and now he’s being accused of this? It’s Angle’s bad temper. Hogan had heard before he came in that Angle’s temper had cost him opportunities and they don’t need that now. Angle said he doesn’t care about lost opportunities, he doesn’t trust Hogan as far as he can throw him. He’s heard the horror stories about the people Hogan’s done business with. He’s not going to be screwed with like them. Hogan told Angle to do himself a favor and get out of his office, please. Angle slammed his hands down and left.
5/10 – I expected so much more from that! That was typical Angle being a hot head and Hogan coming off as slightly stoned and not really into it all. He was reserved and didn’t seem to really be taking it all in. he stood up at the end and tried to look all pissed, but it didn’t work.

Main Event

Foley out to the ring with Barbie in hand. Nash out pushing a shopping cart full of weapons. Nash didn’t look like he knew what to do with weapons. Nash held a trash can as protection from Barbie and really looked uncomfortable in there. A hockey stick to take Foley down and Nash grabbed Barbie. Barbie to Foley’s face. Foley got it away from his face and mule kicked Nash to get free. Forearm to Nash’s head and he sold it very well slamming himself back on the mat in a way I didn’t think he was capable to doing! Foley grabbed a picture frame, but then hesitated. This gave Nash a chance to hit the big boot and get the three. The picture was Abyss and Foley drawn by Borash. Hall and Waltman in through the crowd. Hall attacked Nash. Nash down and the two of them beat down on Nash. Hall and Waltman posed in the ring, Waltman throwing ‘wolfpack’ signs. Outside the ring Hall and Waltman pose right in front of a camera.
4/10 – You put two old guys in a No DQ Match and that’s what you get! As if anyone expected anything different. That match was really bad. Yes, I was impressed with how Nash sold that one move, but that’s all that impressed me. Foley looked old and didn’t move well. Nash looked very old and didn’t move well. Hall looked old and drunk and didn’t move well. Waltman looked decent, but also afraid he’d hurt Nash if he did anything major to him. So basically it all sucked and wasn’t worth anyone’s time.

Post Show

What happened to the days that we tuned into TNA to watch some of the best wrestling matches available? The days that TNA showed off their X Division in matches that left us fans with our jaws in our laps? I was actually really excited when it was announced that Hogan and Bisch would be heading to TNA. I thought that they could be really good for TNA. They have a lot to prove and makeup for after WCW and I thought they would add a lot to the company and the show. I did have some worries, as did everyone. Sadly all of my worries and more have come to fruition and we’re being fed some of the worst schlock wrestling TV has seen since the downfall of WCW!

We had seven matches on this episode and all of them were very short. The first match gave us Magnus and Anderson, neither of which have given us a decent single’s match in TNA. Then we had 3D against Hernandez and Morgan. This was a very one sided match and just didn’t work for me. And then the powers that be thought we’d enjoy Neal against Joe. I don’t know who was smoking crack when they put that together, but Joe obviously was not impressed either. I have to admit that The Pope and AJ did put on a decent match, not the best, but the best of the night. But then we went right back to an overweight and out of shape Tomko facing Angle. I really feared for Angle with every move he took from Tomko as they looked really rough and not well executed. Love and Tara gave us a decent little match, but it was so short! Then we had that laughable main event. That’s a lineup of matches that I’m just shocked at. I spent a week in the hospital on serious pain killers recently and I could have come up with a better lineup than we were stuck with tonight.

To say I was disappointed with this episode is putting it mildly. I had a long week and really wanted to sit down and enjoy wrestling tonight, but instead I’ve been left with a bad taste in my mouth. I hope this week’s ratings actually reflects the content of the show, unlike last week. I really hope TNA turns things around and fast. If they go to Monday night with shows like this, they’re going to be out of business within six months.

KB

I’m also trying to figure out what the heck is going on with Borash. He’s still on TNA’s roster page, but it does not appear he’s at all working with TNA since he was ‘fired’ on air. I find Borash not being with TNA upsetting for many reasons. First of all he did so much for TNA, most of which we never saw on Impact. For me the TNA house show I saw was made by Borash’s presence. I know house shows will probably go the way of the dodo for a while, but that’s not Borash’s only strength. He added so much interest to the back – in a way no skirt can do – and was a character unto himself. I truly believe Hogan, Bisch, Dixie and TNA screwed up hugely in removing Borash from TV.

Then there’s the question of if Awesome Kong is still with TNA. There’s been word that she has not be granted her release because those high up in TNA know that WWE wants Kong and TNA doesn’t want to just hand her over to them, even though she attacked one of Hogan’s best friends. There’s question as to whether she attacked Bubba The Love Sponge just for that reason. I’m not sure I blame her for going after him from everything I’ve heard about how things have changing backstage at TNA. I’m just surprised no one else has asked for their release or done things to get fired.

Show starts

Video

Foley pissed off at all he lost. He confronted Bisch, then Bisch staggered out covered in blood and fired Foley. Then on to Flair and AJ. AJ is now upset he’s not getting his due, but Flair is taking AJ under his wing. Angle gets another shot because of Flair. But then there’s an ‘Orlando Screw Job’! Angle got pissed and spit in Hogan’s face.

In Ring Segment

Hogan and Bisch came out to the stage all smiles. Pyro and then they proceed to the ring. Tenay said Hogan’s been investigating what happened in the main event last week. “Hogan” chants, as if Bisch isn’t the brains of it all. Hogan said there’s so much business going on, they need Foley out there to work things out. ‘Bang, bang’ and out comes Foley. Hogan is more on than I’ve seen him in years. He wants to work out the problems between Foley and Bisch. Bisch said Foley half beat him half to death and he fired him, there is no problem. Hogan said he’s never had a chance to work with Foley, but sees a lot of good things. But certain things need to be dialed in. He might be an asset. Bisch said Foley could have put him in the hospital. Foley said he wanted to put his hands on him, but looking at those few stitches, there’s no way he touched Bisch. Bisch argued. Foley said Bisch would have been carried out. Hogan said that it’s not that he doesn’t believe Bisch, but… Foley needs to work it out or walk out. The problem is that they started playing Hogan’s music before he started speaking. It threw him off his train of thought. The camera zoomed in on Foley and Bisch glaring at each other.
5/10 – That was so boring and lame. They could have done that backstage in half the time. And I said last week that it was obvious BS when I saw Bisch staggering out with the fake blood dripping.

Backstage Segment

JJ and Bubba The Love Sponge talking about what’s been going on. Bubba asks JJ to talk to him (Hogan). Bubba pulled his friend card. So they’re going to talk to him without lawyers.
3/10 – Anything to do with Bubba The Love Sponge is going to get a crappy rating right now. I’m sorry for those of you who are fans of his, but I see him being there only because he’s close with Hogan and he’s hurting people in TNA left and right. That’s not cool and he’s wreaked too much havoc for me to be at all happy with the man.

Backstage Segment

Hemme with Ken Anderson. Anderson talks about how they’re buddies and tight. He tells her his name is Mr. Anderson. He took the mic from her. He said he has to do it all himself. He’s not wrestling tonight, so he has to book himself. He issues an open challenge to Sting, MCMG, BMI, Samoa Joe, the cameraman, or even Hemme. But he’s praying it’s Abyss. But it doesn’t matter as no matter who he faces, the only one people will remember is Mr. Anderson. He leaves and then pops back in to give his name again.
7/10 – He’s damn good on mic. No matter what anyone says about his ring work, he’s golden on mic.

Match #1

The first of qualifying matches. Wolfe out to the ring with his chick. Taz said her name is Chelsea. (The lighting grid is still six sided, but as this was taped just after the ring change was made, I’m not shocked Hogan hasn’t gathered the extra dough to make the change yet.) Morley out to the ring in his towel. Taz talks up Morley in a big way. I do have to admit I’m glad Morley has dropped the lilac boots he wore for way too long. They worked back and forth, but it was obvious that Wolfe is much better able to work the ring than Morley is these days. Wolfe finally got the three over Morley and took the time to show off as a heel in the ring.
6/10 – I would love to give Wolfe’s match a better rating, but it just wasn’t that thrilling. It wasn’t the best match we’ve seen Wolfe in. Coming off PPV matches with Angle and The Pope, facing Morley is a huge let down for Wolfe fans.

Backstage Segment

JJ walked into Hogan’s office, Bisch was there. Bisch taunted JJ about the lawyer. JJ said he wanted to talk face to face. Bubba has talked to him a lot recently. JJ wants to start new. Hogan said if this is the old JJ that he started with so many years ago. JJ said he is. He’s willing to work the ring, but needs time to get ready. Hogan says they need some immediate help. JJ said he’s there. Bisch said they have an issue. Anderson needs someone to face. JJ can work off his ring rust in a great match in the main event. JJ said he hasn’t wrestled in seven months. Hogan said this is the best for TNA. Bisch wished JJ good luck.
7/10 – I have to say Bisch is so good at playing dirty even when he’s acting like he’s trying to help out. The man is a salesman and actor through and through. Any show who wouldn’t want Bisch – as a face man – is insane!

Video

The ending of last week’s main event when Angle was screwed. Angle was livid and spit in Hogan’s face. Angle then started trashing anything he could get his hands on.

Backstage Segment

Flair and AJ talking about AJ’s new suits. Some blonde in there partying with them. They’re going on vacation for a month.

Match #2

Daniels first out to the ring. Hernandez out to face him. Daniels attacked before the bell to get the upper hand, but it didn’t last long. Long delayed vertical suplex from Hernandez. Daniels had to rake the eyes to get any direction in the match. Some of the people in the front row were not at all paying attention to the moves in the ring. They looked not at all impressed with these fabulous wrestlers and were extremely distracting from what was actually going on in the ring. I love watching Super Mex do his over the top shoulder block, but it’s become so predictable. He’s a fabulous wrestler, but when he does that every match it makes me think of Cena and his five moves – not a good thing. Hernandez flew but Daniels moved out of the way. I thought Daniels had it, but a power move from Hernandez – not his border toss – and it was over.
7/10 – These two really worked hard. Back and forth between them using their greatest skills in the ring. Daniels flew around and moved fast while Hernandez used his skill and strength. These are two of the best in TNA and it was nice to see them in the ring together. I’d much rather watch that than all the backstage crap and so much talking we have to deal with during every TNA Impact.

Backstage

The Nasty Boys and Team 3D – split screen – headed for the ring.

Backstage

TBP stretching out for their later match. They’re all in light pink and black, how sweet!

In Ring Segment

Tenay in the ring talking about The Nasty Boys. They head to the ring. They’re as gross as ever. Team 3D come out to the ring after Tenay talks them up beautifully. 3D was kept from entering the ring by security. The Nasty Boys thought this was great and taunt 3D. Ray said they waited until they were in Japan to destroy their locker room then attacked from behind like punks. Last week they wrapped chairs around The Nasty Boys’ heads. Everyone wants to know where they’ve been for the past ten years! Ray tried to get in the ring but security stopped them while Knobbs and Sags cowered on the other side of the ring. Sags grabbed a mic and called Ray ‘Fat Boy’! Pot? Hello, this is kettle! They’ve been Nasty and will always be Nasty. Unlike you two bozos. Devon said they’ve been on their asses for ten years while they’ve been winning world tag team titles. Starting with ECW, WWE, All Japan, New Japan and for five years in TNA! “TNA” chants. Devon said no other tag team has come close to accomplishing what they’ve done, especially not The Nasty Boys. Knobbs starts rattling off names – Road Warriors, Steiner Brothers, Hart Foundation, Hall & Nash, Harlem Heat – the list goes on and on about legendary tag teams who have felt the wrath of The Nasty Boys. Now 3D is on their chopping block. Valentines Day they won’t get flowers or chocolates. They’ll knock their stinking teeth down their throats. Ray called them Knobbs and Skanks! Then he corrected himself. They can take jabs all day long, but people want to see them kick the crap out of each other. Knobbs cut him off but Ray told him to shut his blob ass! Ray then got the crowd chanting “Team 3D.”
4/10 – I never realized just how eloquent Ray can be until he was speaking up against Knobbs and Sags! Those boys are so fat and out of shape that they can barely get out two sentences without breathing heavy and gasping. Interesting that they brought up Hall and Nash as they had some serious trouble with them in WCW in 1997. It was right after their problems with Nash in the ring that they roughed up Hall in retaliation, then they were gone from WCW and wrestling as a whole. The Nasty Boys completely disappeared from wrestling for ten years when they suddenly showed up in the XWF. Knobbs was a trainer on CCW – the celebrity wrestling show that Hogan, Bisch and Hervey put together almost two years ago. Then they went on Hogan’s tour and we’re so lucky to get them in TNA. Honestly, I have no clue why they’re here other than I remember Knobbs being good friends with Hogan – a serious problem in Hogan’s marriage to Linda – and on ‘Hogan Knows Best’ a number of times.

Backstage Segment

Hemme with TBP who are preening themselves and each other. She talks about how they’re facing Tara, Hamada and Kong tonight, but then Hemme asks about Love being back. Velvet Sky cut on Love being back and attacking them. Rayne then said they’ve moved on to bigger and better things. Rayne does the common motion all wrestlers do for gold, but Lacey said they want gold in their bellies? Velvet Sky told Rayne to pet her as she’s too far away. They then explained around their waists. She thought that was better.
5/10 – I don’t want to like Lacey. Heck, I don’t like Lacey as she’s a joke to her family name, but that was really funny. Not as funny as when I read she graduated from high school class valedictorian. I’d hate to see the rest of her class if her grades were the best as she’s proven – out of character – that she’s not the brightest bulb in the chandelier.

Backstage

JJ paced in the locker room, very worried about his match.

Backstage Segment

Lashley in to talk to Bisch. Bisch talked down to him. He said he spoke to Hogan. Hogan agrees it took a lot of guts for Lashley to come in, but he’s fired. Bisch then got belligerent at Lashley. Security was there to grab Lashley and haul him out. After he was gone Bisch smiled and said “taking out the trash” as he sat back down.
8/10 – I am loving this! This is the second person in two weeks that Bisch has fired behind Hogan’s back! I can’t wait to see this one erupt! I said Bisch is one of the best heels there is and he’s proving it week after week. On camera he’s the best, I’m still not sure how I feel about him having his hand back in the cookie jar.

Match #3

TBP out the stage, showing their bums and then did the same when they got to the ring. Kong and Hamada out to the ring. Tara out to join them with Poison in hand. Hamada started working very well with Rayne! Hamada up, walked the ropes and hit her beautiful arm drag and Rayne sold it all better than expected. But then we had to deal with Lacey in – briefly – with Hamada. Rayne back in and looked really good again! Tara in and hit her standing moonsault. “We want Kong” chants! Rayne fought back and pinned for two! Velvet Sky tagged in and seemed to focus on her screaming more than anything else even though she’s good in the ring. Tara and Velvet Sky both slammed each other to the mat by their hair, but then Kong in – briefly! Hamada tagged in and really worked over all TBP. Hamada hit her moonsault and had the three, but the ref was distracted. They used the ugly stick on Hamada and Rayne pinned for three. After the match they went to work on Tara in the ring too, but Love broke it up and took them out. Love hugged Tara after it was all said and done.
6.5/10 – I never thought I’d give a TBP match such a high score, but they’re finally showing that they can wrestle and sell moves! Rayne impressed the heck out of me in this match! She showed that she can work in the ring with the big girls (no, I’m not making a derogatory comment about Kong!). She’s shown me that she’s better than who she hangs with, as is Velvet Sky! They both need to drop the dumb weight and show how good they actually can be in the ring. As to Love hugging Tara, they could be quite the tag team! Love has proven to be a decent wrestler when not worried about being too pretty for everyone else.

Backstage Segment

Hebner in Hogan’s office. Hogan demands to know why Hebner called for the bell. Hebner said Angle’s hand came down in a tap. Hogan said that’s BS. It wasn’t time to ring the bell. There’s a pattern! Twelve years ago in Montreal and now here! He has too many other troubles going on, so why now Hebner would he do this to him. Hogan wanted an answer. Hebner said he screwed Bret and he screwed Angle! He did it for the money. He got a big check from Flair and needed it! Hogan said he doesn’t know what to say to Hebner as his friend. But he’s suspended. He needs to pack his crap and get out of Hogan’s sight. It’s totally unacceptable.
6/10 – I really don’t like them playing on the Montreal Screw Job, especially after the wonderful and not rehearsed segment (that unexpected hug) between Bret and HBK after so long. They had no reason to bring this back now and it feels dirty. Bad wrestling TV the first time around, this time it’s not even worth our time! The only reason I gave it that score is because of how well Hogan is playing his role opposite Bisch’s behind closed doors heel.

Backstage

A pissed off Angle headed for the ring.

Backstage Segment

Flair and AJ shooting the bull. Some hot women came in to join them. Flair’s jaw dropped at the hotties. Flair got his pick and then AJ took the other three women. Flair started whoooooooo-ing.
5/10 – Flair seemed to fall into some sort of sexy women induced senility. I think dementia is setting in!

Backstage Segment

Now Foley’s talking to Bubba The Love Sponge! Bubba told Foley that Bisch is calling him in tonight and it doesn’t look good. Foley said Bubba’s a glass half empty guy, but Foley’s a glass half full guy. Bubba asked if it didn’t go well. Foley said he drives a 2002 minivan, doesn’t own anybody a dime and does owe anybody anything. No matter how you look at it the glass is still half full.
6/10 – When Foley’s like that he’s so good. He’s so good when he’s so real. He does drive crap cars and is more of a penny pincher than JR when on the road and at home! I guess he’s most real when he’s being himself and he was there. I like a more heightened version of himself, but the quiet dad and husband is cool shit too.

In Ring Segment

Angle out to the ring to huge pop. Angle said their match at Genesis is one he’ll never forget, the greatest of his life. That’s why he’s confused, disappointed and most of all pissed off. They agreed that that match would decide it all. It could have been the best ever. AJ disappointed him, the boys in the back, but most of all the great TNA wrestling fans. AJ went from a hero that everyone looked up to, to a punk ass bitch in one night. Then their rematch, the Earl Hebner screw job. Angle didn’t see that coming. But does AJ really think Flair cares? He doesn’t. Flair’s the dirtiest player in the game. Does that how AJ want to be remembered. Angle’s in the Tournament and when Angle wins AJ will have to face him. This time AJ won’t get by the greatest wrestler there ever was. Then Hogan came out to his modified nWo music. Hogan said when Angle came into his office he accused Hogan of something he wasn’t guilty of. Hogan then got to the bottom of it. If it had been twenty years ago without lawyers and lawsuits, things could have been different brother. But that was then, this is now. As the leader of TNA, he functions on a whole other level. After Angle spit in his face, that’s unacceptable. If Angle ever crosses that line again, Angle can consider himself unemployed. Does Angle understand? Angle apologized for that. Hogan came to TNA and is leading TNA. That means everything that happens in the ring falls on Hogan’s head. He apologized as he was wrong. They shook hands and Hogan left. Then, from behind Angle, Syxx-Pac attacked Angle! Hall slowly got in the ring and helped with the attack. Waltman did all the work and Hall stood there swaying back and forth, looking as drunk as ever!
7/10 – I would have rated that as an eight for Angle’s work and one particular line, but then it looked too set up that Angle stayed in the ring, waited around for no obvious reason – the attack. That one line was Angle telling Hogan that he’s responsible for everything that happens in that ring now.

Video

Little bit of the talk between Hogan and Angle, but then Angle was attacked by Hall and Waltman.

Backstage Segment

Hall and Waltman were thrown out of the Impact Zone. They said they did what they’d come to do and were leaving. Hall’s parting shot was that they’d see them again next week.
2/10 – NOOOOOOOOOO! I knew we hadn’t seen the last of them, but this is so early nWo that it makes my stomach turn! Hall and Nash coming through the crowd to attack someone or do something nefarious. Here they are again, only it’s Hall and Waltman and there’s no question if Hall is drunk this time!

Match #4

The Brian Kendrick out to the ring without much of a change to his character since WWE. MCMG out to join him, this could be interesting! Generation Me out to the ring. Amazing Red out to round out their team. Kendrick savagely attacked Amazing Red before the bell rang. Amazing Red fought back and somehow ran up Kendrick’s back in a corner and proceeded to stomp on Kendrick’s head, even though Amazing Red was sideways and defying gravity! MCMG both tagged in and really double teamed Amazing Red. But Amazing Red managed to tag out and both Jeremy and Max came in! That was very odd. The MCMG are heels but the fans chanted for them. Shelley and Sabin double teamed Amazing Red who tagged in. They took out Generation Me on the apron, but Kendrick stole the tag! The MCMG set up Amazing Red for a move, but Kendrick who was legal kicked Amazing Red in the head and stole the win.
8.5/10 – While a bit confused as to why there were teams tagged in at the same time, I was more than impressed with the work in that ring. The match was much too short for my liking, but that’s a common problem in TNA. Seems like the best wrestlers get the shortest matches. I have been saying all along that MCMG and Amazing Red are some of the best wrestlers in TNA. Amazing Red is like a young (8 years younger) Rey Mysterio and could really take off if given the chance. MCMG are usually fabulous, except when their attitudes get in their way. Generation Me and Kendrick seem to be just as good! I’ve not been a Kendrick fan of late, but honestly, much of that was WWE’s booking. That match would have left my jaw hanging open if it had only been twice as long.

Match #5

Immediately after the end of match #4, TBI’s music hit and all three of them came stalking out to the ring and started stomping the heck out of Amazing Red. The bell was ring over and over as Terry slammed Amazing Red down. Terry looked like he was going to cash in his briefcase but Magnus stopped him and seemed to tell him to give Williams the case. Commercial. Williams and Amazing Red for the X Division Championship. A rolling suplex and it was over for Amazing Red. Terry glared into the ring while Magnus and Williams celebrated in the ring.
2/10 – The only good part of that is there might be some disdain in TBI because Williams took Terry’s case when Magnus told Terry to hand it over. At least it was the one man out of the three of them who can actually wrestle a decent match who won the title. I’m just disgusted at how it happened. I’m not disgusted that they played such dirty heels; I am disgusted that they stole the same playbook as most winners of WWE’s MITBLM winners!

Backstage

JJ stretched and got ready to face Anderson. Interesting that he wasn’t planning on wrestling but had all his ring gear there and ready to go.

Backstage Segment

Foley was in talking to Bisch. He admires Bisch’s gumption. Did Bisch pay someone to open him up or was it self mutilation. Bisch said they have to work it out, the past is the past, let it go. Foley wanted one more stroll down memory lame. About six years ago, his son was three. A child’s birthday party, but not his. Dewey ended up ‘dropping a duce’ in the tunnel at Chuck E Cheese. Bisch didn’t know what a ‘duce’ was. Foley said a duce, a number 2, a stool, a log, a piece of poop. All the other children fled that duce. One brave soul in an industrial slicker and a bucket of sanitizer went into that tunnel and cleaned up that duce. Bisch asked what Foley’s point was. Foley said his point is that he’d rather be that guy, in that tunnel, cleaning that duce, than working in this company for a guy like Bisch. Bisch smiled and laughed. Bisch said he understood and respected it. In a way he’s kinda sorry to hear that. While Foley may not want to work for Bisch, two people who are close to Foley do – Abyss and Borash. Bisch has their careers in the palm of his hand. Foley said Bisch wouldn’t. Bisch said he would and Foley knows he would. Foley needs to think about that and reconsider and have a nice day. Bisch then started walking out and told the cameraman to follow him as that’s what he’s paid to do. There’s singing up ahead of where Bisch is headed. Sounded like AJ, Flair and the girls. They were dancing for the girls when Bisch walked in. All laughter and Flair said they’re off fir thirty days. Bisch asked if he could go too? Bisch then congratulated Flair and said he and Hogan are stuck with him because he has a great attorney. Flair said he knows! Bisch said Flair’s contract was signed, sealed and delivered before he and Hogan got there. Very smart of Flair. The bad news is that this is the Hogan/Bischoff regime and while he thought he had thirty days off, he has some news for them. Under this regime everyone has to be ready 24/7. So they should rethink their travel plans. AJ told the ladies not to worry, they’re with the champ.
7.5/10 – All for Foley’s duce story and how he told it. Also have to give it to the uber heel that is Bisch! He holds Abyss and Borash over Foley’s head and then threatens Flair and AJ not to go on vacation. All of this is out of Hogan’s earshot. On camera, yes, but out of Hogan’s earshot so the damage is done.

Backstage

JJ got ready to head to the ring.

Main Event

Anderson out to the ring and his mic dropped from above. Someone yelled something Nasty to him that was partially bleeped. Then he got HUGE heat from the fans! Anderson then announced himself. JJ out to face him. He has the fans behind him again and is suddenly face again. JJ out without any music? Lower than someone with canned utility music! Tenay said Bisch had JJ’s music pulled. “TNA” chants for JJ. Taz said when you come out to your own ring music it gets you pumped up and ready to go. Lots of pop for JJ, but when Anderson up on the corner he got huge heat. They locked up and pushed each other around the ring. JJ backed into a corner and Anderson tried to give a cheap shot but JJ ducked out of the corner. JJ got a little bit of an upper hand on Anderson. They jockeyed for position and JJ got shoulder blocks on Anderson. JJ pulled back for a punch and Anderson landed on his bum on the mat to avoid it! The fans big time behind JJ – as Taz said. Anderson then started to gain some control and talked smack the whole time he worked JJ. A couple of high hip tosses from JJ, but then a dropkick that Anderson ran too fast into a dropkick and it looked sloppy. Clothesline took Anderson to the floor and JJ hit his strut in the ring. Commercial. JJ shoulder first into the ring post as Anderson ran him along the apron. Anderson kept working that hand, arm and shoulder by slamming it down on the stairs. Hammerlock slam on JJ (exact same move I saw DH Smith perform on Matt Hardy a couple hours ago on WWE Superstars). Anderson then locked onto the shoulder. Anderson just kept on JJ and that shoulder while the fan chanted for JJ. Another arm lock on JJ. JJ fought out but ran into a shoulder block by Anderson for two. Anderson set JJ up and climbed. A beautiful swanton, or would have if JJ hadn’t rolled out of the way. The fans hot and behind JJ, he was about to come back some. As JJ was about to go for the stroke Anderson hit a mule kick and got the three on him. The screen split to show Bisch at Hogan’s desk watching the match. He commented that it was great. Anderson announced himself the winner, but then attacked JJ outside the ring. Anderson rolled JJ back into the ring and set him up. JJ slowly to his feet, used the ropes to get there. Anderson hit a mic check and then posed for the fans booing him. The mic came down and he said he name again in JJ’s face. Bisch said to the screen and JJ that it will be a long hard climb to the top of his mountain.
7/10 – That was actually a pretty decent main event, but for the ring rust. JJ looked better than I expected him to after all this time and Anderson looked better than he did in his PPV premier against Abyss. He’s still not gold in the ring, but better than I remembered him in between his injuries in WWE. Hey, Anderson’s had two whole matches without an injury! Is that a record? Sorry, I actually am an Anderson fan and am happy he’s in TNA, but you have to razz the heels when they’re so good.

Post Show

There were a couple decent matches on this Impact! Hernandez and Daniels more than held my attention and showcased two of the best in the company. The one Knockouts proved that she’s more than just one of TBP! Rayne shocked and impressed me tonight in how she held her own and sold well with Hamada and Tara. Then there’s Generation Me and Amazing Red when they faced off with Kendrick and MCMG. I’m thinking Kendrick might actually have his groove back and could possibly hold his own in TNA. Actually, TNA was built for guys like Kendrick. Let’s just hope Hogan and Bisch don’t change that part of TNA!

Going back to Angle’s line that everything that happens in the ring is on Hogan’s head. I think we’re all resting everything in TNA on Hogan’s head since he came in. Whether it’s all Hogan’s fault or not, a lot of TNA and Impact has been suffering since Hogan came in. I wonder how things would be different if it was just Hogan or just Bischoff in TNA. Is it the two of them trying to prove things from WCW, even though they claim this has nothing to do with then. They both have something to settle from the destruction of WCW and are trying to right things from then by using TNA. The problem is that they’re not at all doing what they keep saying they want to do and plan to do. It’s as if the right hand doesn’t know what the left hand is doing and is afraid to ask. I fear that TNA will go down the drain because of these two, not in spite of them.

KB

The first huge calamity was when the wrestlers showed up at the Impact Zone to discover the traditional four sided ring. No one had been told that TNA’s famous six sides would be gone. First of all that’s a really crappy way to treat the wrestlers! It’s very different to wrestle in a traditional ring than in the six sided ring, but the wrestlers didn’t know about the change until they showed up. In my opinion anything that looked bad in the ring – other than the normal problems each wrestlers has – should be blamed on Hogan for screwing over the wrestlers on the night of a PPV.

Then there’s Bubba The Love Sponge and his asinine comments about Haiti. It would be bad enough for TNA that Bubba is Hogan’s good friend, but he’s being heavily tied to TNA in the media when they blast him for his Tweeted nastiness toward Haiti. So I think Hogan has made another huge mistake in letting Borash go (possibly storyline, possibly not) in favor of his good friend Bubba. Yet again Hogan’s nepotism has jumped up and bit him squarely on his aged ass. * TNA Impact starts in less than two hours and I just read that Awesome Kong has quit TNA. And since Kong is gone, her best friend Melissa is also gone. I had read the rumor, but WNW confirmed it just before my posting. So lovely that Hogan is letting his friends screw over the long time TNA roster. Bubba The Love Sponge alone has destroyed both Borash and Kong in TNA. So not cool!

Speaking of Hogan’s nepotism, what does everyone think of Hall not wrestling at Genesis when scheduled to get back together with Nash? Honestly, is anyone really shocked? Both Chris and I put in our predictions that we didn’t expect Hall to wrestle and he didn’t let us down! He also didn’t let us down by coming staggering out looking as drunk and drugged up, or more so than he had been. Another of Hogan’s huge mistakes since coming in to TNA and leaving us more fallout to follow after Genesis!

And since we’re talking about all of Hogan’s dumb moves at Genesis, what about booking Morley to go over Daniels? Everyone I read and spoke to said this would be Hogan’s chance to show that he was behind they younger names in TNA who have given their all for the company. I figured there was no way Morley would go over Daniels as he’d been main eventing PPV the couple months before, but there it was! I figured if any of the older guys went over it would be Nash and whoever tagged with him, but they just made it look like a fluke that BMI won. But I really think Hogan dropped the ball on the Daniels match and Genesis as a whole.

So while TNA has been getting better ratings since Hogan and Bischoff have come in, it seems as though the numbers are the only things that are good in TNA right now. Last week’s Impact scored a 1.26, the highest rated show since July, before football started. The highest rated segment was TBP against Kong and Hamada with the arrival of Love. JJ and Hogan out back gained viewers, as did AJ and Angle in the ring together. But Team 3D, Lashley’s attack, Morley and Daniels all lost viewers, as did the main event between Tomko and AJ, even with Flair on commentary.

At this moment it appears to me that Hogan and Bischoff are failing horribly. Honestly, at this moment, I put almost all the blame on Hogan as it’s his loud mouth and his friends who are destroying TNA bit by bit. As of now I have skimmed the spoilers and am horribly worried about what the next couple of weeks of Impact will look like.

Show Starts

Video

Bisch talking about change. Little clips of things that have happened since Bisch and Hogan came into control, including AJ’s heel turn with Flair’s help.

Backstage

Limo pulls up. Girls, Flair and AJ climb out all suited up – styling and profiling!

In ring Segment

Flair out to the ring with a blonde on one side and a brunette on the other – both in tiny little dresses and really high heels. Flair said some things in life never change. Whoooo! He thinks he loves TNA. Down to business. There’s three reason’s he came to TNA. #1, he hates Hogan. The lifelong feud won’t end until they finish it in TNA. He will go to his grave before Hogan gets away from him. #2, for the past 20 years people asked who’d be the new Nature Boy. Until 6 months ago he started watching TNA and saw Angle, the greatest technician in TNA. Then he saw Sting, but he’s not Flair. Then he saw a young man in the ring who he’ll be working with until he’s out of the business. He’ll be the next Ric Flair. Everyone wants to know how he got here? He was in Hard Rock. He made a call and then a beautiful southern belle came in. They went to the best room, beautiful meal, everything was wonderful. At midnight all you could hear was this woman yelling ‘whooooo’ then she jumped back and Dixie said Flair, you’re my man. Now to bring out the best Champion in history. AJ styling and profiling Styles! AJ out in a suit with a beautiful brunette on his arm. I notice as AJ gets in the ring that there’s a six inch gap between the ramp and the ring – so dangerous! AJ actually gets heat when on the mic. He asks the fans if they have a problem with what they see in the ring? It doesn’t matter if they have a problem as he sees three beautiful women. He’s been in TNA for almost 8 long years and no matter the level of greatness he’s achieved, it’s never been known as the house AJ built. He’s done it all in TNA. Was one of the first signed with TNA. The only Grand Slam Champion ever! Do they give the credit to AJ? No, they give it to JJ, Joe, Angle, Sting! He’s not taking a back seat any more. He’s a jet flying, limo riding, kiss stealing, wheeling and dealing son of a gun! Whoooo! Out comes Angle, Hogan comes out right after him! On stage, side by side, looking pissed. Hogan said it looks like one big happy family out there – AJ and Flair. He said at Genesis that this was Angle’s last title shot in 2010. But since the alliance and Flair getting involved, he changed his mind. He can do that. They both yelled at Hogan that he couldn’t do that. Angle gets another chance. If Flair gets involved he’ll strip AJ of the title and give it to Angle. Tonight Angle has another title shot. AJ was almost in tears yelling that he beat Angle. Hogan said it’s real, it’s damn real!
6/10 – I’m willing to bet that segment drew some serious numbers. Big names, start of the show, everyone wanting to see what would happen with AJ and Flair. But it’s interesting that Hogan did all the talking on the stage. Angle suddenly struck mute? It’s a miracle! After so many years of Angle’s venting and he suddenly just stares? Very odd and not good for the ratings – in my opinion.

Backstage

Foley walked in with a hangdog look on his face, then started trashing things. Foley then started calling for Bischoff.

Match #1

TBI to the ring. Hernandez and Morgan, new straps around their waists, out to face them. This is TBI’s rematch for the titles. TBI double teamed and worked illegally to gain the upper hand. Didn’t last long! Williams dropped a solid knee on Morgan’s face to gain control again. Magnus in without as much luck. Hernandez tagged in and came over with his famous shoulder block. Hernandez on both Magnus and Williams hard. Terry on his way down with the case in hand. Terry slid the case into Magnus. Magnus swings the case but Hernandez ducks and Williams eats it. Hernandez easily get the three on Williams. They argue outside the ring as if it’s Terry’s fault this happened. Magnus blamed him. Foley rushed the ring with a chair and took out TBI with it. Bang! Bang! Foley then spoke to the camera to Bisch to schedule an appointment as Foley’s coming to see him.
5/10 – Not a great match and the ending was even worse! I, like most, enjoy watching TBI getting their’s but not by Foley for no reason. Just more extended BS that means nothing after a match that wasn’t very good.

Audio

From Bubba The Love Sponge, he called JJ early in the morning. JJ hung up on him. JJ answered again an hour later. He said TNA was doing just fine before Bubba The Love Sponge came in with his friends. They should leave.
–/10 – They really should not be associating with the likes of Bubba The Love Sponge! He’s going to ruin any name that Hogan and Bischoff might have brought to TNA. If they wanted a shock jock, they should have gone with Howard Stern! Bubba The Love Sponge has no class and is only getting TNA in the media in a bad way.

Backstage Segment

Hogan said to Bisch that they need to take care of Foley. Bisch asked about the other thing. Hogan said that’s Hogan’s to take care of and he will. Nash walks in and asks about things he should know about. Hogan said Hall and Waltman are out of control, pulling people out of the crowd, lawsuits galore. Nash asks about working with EY. Hogan said EY’s under contract. Nash said EY’s a friend, these guys are like brothers. Hogan said they’re clowning, not working. He needs to work with EY. Hogan said that he wants these guys more than anybody, but they want to clown around. Hogan said to Bisch that the party’s over. Bisch said it has to be.
2/10 – They say the right things, but I Don’t think anyone believes them right now, except possibly Dixie. Sadly it’s her money going down the drain due to these men!

In Ring

Orlando Jordan out to the ring with quite the swagger going on.

Backstage

Hemme with The Pope. He gives a wonderful promo ripping on Jordan calling him Whoopie and saying he needs to pimp slaps.
7/10 – Short, but really damn good!

Match #2

The Pope out to face Jordan. “Pope!” chants. The Pope’s knee is all taped up and is a target. Jordan hit an arm drag that shocked The Pope. The Pope set up Jordan on the second rope, then landed on Jordan and slid through landing on the barrier with arms around the fans. But then Jordan attacked the knee and it was over. The Pope rolled on the mat in pain after it was over.
5/10 – Some of the moves were good, but then Jordan went over The Pope with one move. Lame! I thought Lashley was the new Booker T with his wife in tow, now I’m not so sure! Jordan with his long braids and over rated in the ring (and on mic), looks to me to be the new Booker T. I was hoping this would be over, but again Hogan put his boy over the one with talent. Hogan is sucking up TNA in a big way!

Backstage Segment

Hemme with Angle talking about his new title shot. Angle said we shouldn’t be seeing this, but this is a new AJ. Then again it makes him sick to see what Flair did to AJ. AJ’s a big boy and Angle will serve some justice tonight.
7/10 – Short and to the point. Great little promo from a serious, but not screaming Angle.

Backstage

Love getting ready for a match.

Audio

Bubba The Love Sponge kept calling JJ. JJ threatened lawyers.
–/10 – This whole thing is stupid. I have no clue when this was taped or why they’re showing this now. It seems like half the crap we’ve heard about going wrong in TNA since Hogan and Bisch took over has to do with Bubba! We’ve had enough of it!

Backstage Segment

EY in to talk to Nash. He wanted to make sure Nash was in with EY. Nash said he came to EY and chose to be with him. He has history with these guys. EY said he understands, but he’s in for making history. Nash said when they get to know EY, they’ll like him and know he’s a pro. They’re in together tonight.
7/10 – While low key, that was well done! Brought back storylines that were working before Hogan shoved his way in and that’s what TNA needs right now.

Video

Talking about Love leaving TNA for contractual reasons. They claimed Love made them into monsters. Lacey came in and skunked up the group. Then Love came back and ripped them apart.

Backstage

Split screen Love and Madison Rayne heading for the ring to face off.

Audio

Bubba The Love Sponge talking about the civil war in TNA. JJ just kept going on and on about all of this. Bubba said his friend asked him to do this for him – Hogan.
–/10 – Willing to bet it’s storyline and a horrible way of doing it. As they showed clips from last week.

Backstage Segment

Lashley talked to Bisch about wanting to wrestle in TNA. Bisch said it takes a hell of a man to admit a mistake. Bisch said the smartest thing he did was not let him allow his wife to rule his work. That he’s there talking to him is big. Bisch wants to talk to Hogan and they’ll have and answer for him next week.
7/10 – Best I’ve ever heard Lashley speak! So he’s only a heel with Kristal around? Interesting!

Match #3

Madison Rayne to the ring. Angelina Love out to face her. Rayne hid in the ropes and then attacked to gain the upper hand, but Love fought back HARD! Super kick to Rayne and it’s over! Love removed one of Rayne’s bras and choked her with it. The other two came out and they beat her down hard. Velvet Sky tried to talk Love down, but then Lacey did the dirty work.
5/10 – The screaming from Love was a bit much, but the wrestling was not as bad as in the past! If we hadn’t so much BS after the match it wouldn’t have bored me, but also wouldn’t have set up for more. Catch 22 in my book. If we see good wrestling come from this, then I won’t be annoyed.

Backstage Segment

Bubba The Love Sponge with Hall and Waltman. He asked what they were thinking at Genesis. Waltman said that’s ratings and that’s who they are. They know that! Hall told ‘Cheech’ to take another hit. Easy E wanted them to prove themselves. They did that at Genesis, so they’re leaving tonight with official contracts.
3/10 – I know they’re trying to not be PG, but Hall telling him to take another hit was over the line! Especially coming from Hall! Those two are deluded on a normal day, but with a script they’re that much worse! I really hope they’re done soon as I don’t want to see them!

Backstage

Hogan and Bisch getting ready to head out to the ring.
–/10 – Why do they keep cutting in on the commercials to show these little things? They’re only taking time away from the actual show! Dumb! Dumb! Dumb!

In ring Segment

Hogan said things are moving quick in TNA. Lots of heat for them as Hogan tried to talk through it. He said a few things right in their face they have to address. He is sick of rock, paper, scissors. They’re there to wrestle and he wants to see it. Out came Hall, Waltman and Nash. Hogan stopped them on their stage. Hogan said he’s sick of it and this party’s over. They don’t work here, so hit the road. They started heading for the ring but security stopped them. Nash even got in their way and talked them down to get them calm and to leave. Foley came around the side of the ramp and was stopped. Bisch yelled at security to get rid of him and they’ll talk backstage.
2/10 – They say it, but I don’t believe it. I’m sure a number of people are seeing Hogan’s numerous crosses around his neck and believes him for that or for his work history, but I don’t believe Hogan. I’d like to believe Bisch, but I’d honestly believe him more without Hogan. Yes, I’m one who is behind Bischoff, but not Hogan at this point. Hogan has already proven he’s not grown up and is not doing what he’s claiming. I feel really bad for TNA right now.

Backstage Segment

Much arguing out back. Hall and Waltman left on Nash’s word that he’d fix it. After they left he looked older and beaten down.
7/10 – The only one of them who I’m liking these days is Nash for not being right there with them as we all expected. Then again I’m biased being a chick who’s always been hot for Nash, so take it with a gain of salt.

Match #4

The Nasty Boys to the ring. Nash and EY out to face them. Why we have four heels in the ring, I’m not sure! I know there’s nWo/The Nasty Boys heat, but that was over ten years ago! Sags and EY in the ring. Sags out muscles EY in a big way, but it looks lame! Big heat from the fans. EY might be a heel, but he’s their heel! Knobbs tags in and they double team. But the Nash in! The old and tall against the old and fat! Nash in control and my boyfriend’s worried Knobbs might have a heart attack in the ring! EY tags in and flies in. Knobbs and Nash battling outside. Sags hit his cup handle slam on EY, without even bending, for the three. Nash left on the floor outside.
2/10 – We’re supposed to believe The Nasty Boys are a team to be worried about? I think they’re old, fat and were never very impressive to begin with! I think BMI could take them apart in one easy match, but they’re Hogan’s buddies, so that won’t happen! That match was a fucking train wreck! Only one of those man should be wrestling at all!

Backstage

During the break 3D attacked The Nasty Boys backstage!

Video

Abyss eating Anderson’s brass knucks at Genesis.

In ring Segment

Mr. Anderson out to the ring in a suit, no tie and tennies. Hand up and it takes a bit for the mic to descend. He said he’s not there because of all their Tweets, emails, etc. he’s there because Hogan called him and said he; believes in Anderson. He also said he’d get opportunity. Opportunity he might not have been given elsewhere. He could run his mouth and say he’s the biggest, baddest, toughest, will do this or that. Bunch of lip service. His father told him actions speak louder than words. Speaking of actions, at Genesis they were really loud! He beat the monster Abyss. Speaking of Abyss who was right behind him. The fans went wild and Abyss motioned for them to be quiet. He’d seen pictures of the guy, but didn’t realize how big he was, he’s tall. He didn’t realize how stupid, dumb, idiotic and moronic he is. He took advantage of that. Actions speak louder than words, however words can be loud. Especially when they came from a man like Mr…. Abyss poked him in the back and then took him down all over the ring. Anderson fled just before the black hold slam!
7/10 – Love the nonverbal acting Abyss did behind Anderson. The hand with the height, shushing the fans, the faces, the hand motions, it was all so well done. He was part child, part monster and all Abyss. It worked beautifully for both of them and got them both over with the fans in a huge way. A heck of a lot better than Anderson’s ring work did at Genesis!

Backstage Segment

Bisch is seething at Abyss. Abyss is sorry for what he did. Bisch said it’s the second time in a week Abyss has screwed up his show (huh?). He asks if Abyss will be okay in TNA? More sorrys for Bisch.
7/10 – Short and sweet segment between the two while Abyss is a child and Bisch is a mean man. Worked beautifully.

Backstage Segment

Bisch walked into his office where four members of security were holding Foley. Bisch called him Foley and Cactus Jack (guess Vince doesn’t own that name). Bisch said Foley looked all bound up. Foley said that there’s things he wants to say to Eric – business person to business person, man to man. Bisch told security to take a break. Foley was shocked Bisch wasn’t afraid of Foley. Bisch said he’s not worried. Foley said he hates what they did to his office and his company. He has his own money tied up in TNA. He’ll stop them by force if necessary. Bisch asks if that’s a threat. Bisch then threw the camera and everyone out. Foley screamed that Bisch had a lot of answering to do. Bisch calmly shut the door.
6/10 – I give it a high rating because I’m in awe of it all. Is this the wormy guy who never was alone with anyone who could injure him in all his years in WCW and WWE? Very interesting.

Main Event

Angle out to the ring. AJ with his new cocky attitude out to the ring. The bell and AJ on Angle hard. Angle came right back at him which shocked AJ in a big way. Angle really worked AJ over in the ring. Commercial. AJ with Flair’s figure four on Angle, but Angle managed to get to the ropes. Three Germans on AJ with the fans behind him. The third left AJ flying to land face down in a corner. The straps down. AJ out of an Angle slam and into a pele. Angle reversed a Styles clash into an ankle lock. They’re in the center of the ring. AJ rolls through and reverses the hold. Hebner calls for the bell and they both flee. This is their version of the screw job. Flair came out and joined the flee. “boring” chants and much heat. Nothing at all like the real Screw Job. Angle left in the ring pissed. Hogan out to the ring. Angle cussed Hogan out for letting this happen. Angle threatened to quit and spit in Hogan’s eye. “Thank you Angle!” chants. “You screwed Kurt!” chants.
7/10 & 2/10 – The seven is for the wrestling, the two is for the replay of the Montreal Screw Job. We’ve just seen the end of the feud between Bret and HBK (in fact I watched it again yesterday and can’t take it off my DVR as it makes me mist up a bit) and there’s no reason to stage a new one. We all know this was staged and not real the way the original was. But it was nice to see Hogan get Angle spit in his eye. Hogan is screwing TNA and deserved a little spit in his eye, even if it was scripted!

Video

During the break Angle kept cussing as he stomped around the ring. Then up the ramp and to announce. He stole Tenay’s chair out from under him and tore up the stage surround a bit.
7/10 – I guess Hogan wanted to change more about the stage than was already changed.

In Ring Segment

Bisch staggered out with a load of fake blood coming down his face. Into the ring with a mic. He addressed Foley and told him he’s fired.
5/10 – The blood really did look fake. And if Foley really does have money tied up in TNA (as is claimed by storyline) then there will be a lot more of Foley in TNA. This isn’t over yet.

Post Show

I can’t think of a match on this show that was worth any wrestling fan’s time! It just sucked! All around this show was not worth our two hours spent in front of the TV. If you haven’t seen it yet, don’t bother! It’s the biggest waste of time TNA has put out since premiering on Spike! Yes, I said it.

TNA has the best roster on TV, but Hogan is screwing them over in a huge way. Some of the characters are changing and getting more interesting, but they’re not giving us good wrestling! This is supposed to be a wrestling show and I can only think of four good moves on the whole show. #1 – Love beating the heck out of Rayne on the mat. #2 – Hernandez coming over the top with his shoulder block. #3 – AJ’s pele on Angle. #4 – AJ’s use of Flair’s figure four.

I implore you, text, call, write, Tweet, do whatever it is that you do to TNA to let them know how bad this show was! Let them know that while you’re a long term fan of TNA, you won’t be if they keep up this schlock any longer! It’s not good! It’s not even as good as WCW when they were sucking! Please, please, TNA, give us some decent wrestling! You have the wrestlers, put them in the ring and let them wrestle as they’re so good at doing!

I must admit I’m very upset about all of this as I’m really a die hard TNA fan and do not want to see it crumble into the Hogan infested craptacular event it’s turned into!

KB

Hogan spent the weeks before January 4th touting that TNA would triple their ratings when they put on their first live Monday Impact. Well, they didn’t quite reach that, but they did do record TNA ratings with their 1.5. In all honesty, TNA and Spike are thrilled with that number. They feel it’s great and there’s a real possibility for Impact to move to. But then they replayed the same show on Thursday, rather than giving us a new (taped) show. They only received a 0.9 rating for the replay, but that’s still not terrible. 0.9 is basically the same rating WWE Superstars earns most weeks.

I’m wondering how much of the roster will feel about a weekly live show. Many of the wrestlers on the TNA roster came in because of the scheduling and few (if any) house shows. TNA’s since added house shows and is talking about a weekly live show to compete with WWE. Will these wrestlers who work for TNA only a couple days a month and spend the rest of their time either traveling to work indy shows or at home with their families be as happy flying to Orlando once a week for a live show, spending long weekends for PPVs and time traveling to house shows? It’s not what they signed on for in the first place. Will the fame and notoriety be enough to make up for the huge changes in their lives?

And then there’s the questions about all these older wrestlers Hogan and Bischoff have brought in with them. I know not all the wrestlers brought in were older – Hardy, Moore – but most of them were. Most people watching saw Hall and Waltman could only think nWo. People saw The Nasty Boys and could only think of WCW and Hogan reliving his party days. Flair makes sense to draw in the numbers and while he claims he’s not going to wrestle – I don’t believe that! And then there’s Sean Morley and Orlando Jordan. I really have no clue what either of them are supposed to add to the show. I’ve always been a huge fan of Val Venis’ work, but he’s been so injured and on the shelf for so long that I wonder how much he could really add to such a wonderful roster. Orlando Jordan makes me wonder the most. Yes, he was on Hogan’s Aussie tour (as was Morley), but he came on Monday’s show acting as if everyone was supposed to know who he is without any introductions. Only because I read Richards comments before I watched that segment of the show did I actually even remember Jordan. Yes, I do remember him from his WWE days, but all I remember is suckage! Not good.

So while Hogan and Bischoff came on TNA TV and said all the right things, I’m not sure how I feel about it. Hogan, Bischoff and Nash (as well as Russo and Ferrera) were at the core of WCW when things went rotten. I don’t know enough about what happened in WCW (still doing a lot of reading and watching before I make my final decision there), but having these same men at the helm make me nervous. While I hope they’ve all grown and learned from their past problems, and we all know Panda does not back TNA financially the way Turner backed WCW, there’s still that niggling worry. So many huge egos and already so much confusion in TNA that I must admit I’m scared that they will fall apart very quickly. They’re working against HUGE obstacles they way they weren’t in WCW – their past, less money, Vince is much more prepared to fight back, etc. On the other hand the fans and the wrestlers would benefit from TNA coming on strong and giving WWE a run for the ratings.

There’s so much good that could come from this if it works out and that’s a big if. So many things could go wrong and they’re working against huge obstacles. Even from the start some of their decisions have been worrisome. Bringing in the old nWo scares fans and I’m sure worries the younger wrestlers who have worked so hard in TNA from day one. Bringing in Bubba The Love Sponge and the huge debacle there. Hiring Jeff Hardy when there’s so many questions about his possible drug use and the legal problems he’s facing. Bringing in has been wrestlers who no one cares to see, just because they’re friends. The huge confusion that’s been reported backstage since Hogan and Bischoff showed up.

Let’s just say that I’m thrilled things appear to be going well so far. Ratings were high enough on Monday to make Hogan, Bischoff, Dixie and Spike want to push for Impact to move to Monday night. I’m all for things going well for everyone in TNA and for some real competition against WWE to make the whole industry better. But right now I’m going to take a step back and watch. I will keep giving my honest opinion every week – no matter what night the show airs – but I will not claim TNA is a huge success until it truly is. I’ll root for them each week, but won’t claim anything that’s not true. I’m as pessimistic as the next fan right now and am really worried where things might go from here if the initial problems are not cleared up. Those problems have been obvious – from the outside – and hopefully the insiders see them too. Again, only time will tell.

One final note, I have to wish Kaz and Traci the absolute best. I was thrilled to hear that the married last Thursday and hope they are enjoying life happily married.

Show Starts

Video

Flair showed up, then Hardy, then Hogan. Hogan gave his big speech, but his nWo buddies showed up. Then Bisch came down and told everyone they have to earn their spot in the company. Then AJ and Angle did that in the match they drew down hard to end the night. Hogan ripped on JJ and looked like a heel. Bischoff ripped up the script and said they’re turning TNA upside-down. They ended it by beating up Foley, Hogan rushed in and looked unhappy.

Match #1

Generation Me (formerly Young Bucks)out to the ring. MCMG out to face them. Sabin in with one of the brothers. Dueling chants of “Motor City” and “Let’s go Young Bucks!” Shelley in and chants of “Young Bucks” took over the crowd. Split screen to show that Hall, Nash and Waltman were showing up backstage. Tenay said one of the boys was Jeremy, but the fans still called them by their former names, no matter how much Taz and Tenay want to push their new names. The brothers really worked together well to destroy Sabin! Shelley managed the tag into a beautiful dropkick off the top. Taz said the other brother’s name is Max. Jeremy with light hair, Max with dark. Sabin and Shelley double teamed Max, but Jeremy made the save. Around and around went the two teams until Jeremy flew and Max got the pin for three.
9/10 – Some might say it was a spot fest, I say that those boys left it all in the ring and proved just how good they can be. If Generation Me are not under contract, they should be! The way those four young men worked in the ring really impressed me. Yes, they might have been putting their bodies on the line (just read that Sabin’s having back problems) but that’s the way it is for the young high fliers. They were wonderful and deserve the chants and elation they got for it!

Backstage Segment

An absolutely disgusting locker room and it’s The Nasty Boys. There was food all over the place and it was totally trashed! Sags came out of the loo and told Brian not to go in there as it’s even worse! Pounding on the door, but they won’t open for Team 3D.
2/10 – They’re old men who are stuck in their party days. I have no idea why they’re even in TNA when TNA has the roster they do.

Video

Hogan talking about rewriting history and how Angle and AJ raised the bar that night. This will be Angle’s last shot at AJ. TNA is attracting top talent. For Genesis they’ve attracted a top talent. He can take the title and will shock everyone by who it is.
7/10 – Crappy video, but he dropped a huge bomb that someone new will be joining TNA at Genesis. He gave us a lot of information.

In Ring Segment

Angle to the ring. Angle said he has to give AJ his due, he proved it was no fluke. AJ proved to everyone that Sting handed AJ nothing. AJ earned it all on his own. Angle gave him everything he had until there was nothing left. AJ was the better man – for that one night. When two great athletes get in the ring, you win some and you lose some. The one who’s determined the Champion is the one with the last big win under his belt. At Genesis that man will be Angle. AJ came out to the ring. “AJ” chants. AJ says he can appreciate Angle taking his loss like a man. Angle came out with no excuses and he appreciates that. Had it been a series of matches they each would have won and lost some, but AJ would have still held the title. Hogan said it – the fans at home and in the Zone want to see it one more time. This is Angle’s last shot in 2010 for this title. Angle said he’ll only need one more shot. Angle extended and AJ shook. Angle left AJ in the ring looking at the strap. But Angle backed up the ramp, not taking his eyes off AJ. The man in black attacked AJ while the camera was on announce. AJ was tossed back in the ring. Finally the mask came down to show it was Tomko.
7/10 – That was a solid segment between Angle and AJ. Both were on during that segment. But then the attack again. I guess I’m glad they showed it was Tomko so it’s over. After Genesis they can start their feud and we won’t have to deal with these attacks. I just wish they’d exposed Tomko differently. That was extremely anti-climactic!

Backstage Segment

Hemme said the band is back together. She said Nash has reunited with Hall and Syxx-Pac. The big question is… but then Bubba The Love Sponge came in and threw Hemme out, said these are a man’s questions. He asked about laying out Foley last week. Nash said the band is back together. Not just greatest hits, but all new material. Hogan and Bisch are in charge. Bubba demands to know where Foley is. Hall told him what happens in the band stays in the band.
3/10 – Felt too nWo for my taste. If Hogan, Bischoff and Russo don’t want people comparing TNA to WCW, then they shouldn’t be giving us so much that looks like WCW!

Match #2

TBP to the ring, all three of them. Angelina Love is ringside and Velvet Sky notices her. Huge hugs for Velvet Sky and Madison Rayne, but a snotty handshake between Love and Lacey. The Knockout Tag Team Champions out to face them. Love just shook her head from the front row. Hamada held her own with TBP, then Kong destroyed them. Sit down powerbomb on Rayne for three. After Kong and Hamada left all of them rushed in to help Rayne, including Love. Then Love attacked Lacey and especially Velvet Sky. Love beat the heck out of Velvet Sky outside the ring and screamed that Velvet Sky didn’t think she’d be back. Backing up the ramp she said she wouldn’t be replaced.
6/10 – Not for the match because that pretty much sucked, but for the interest brought by Angelina Love! Finally something real is going on with TBP! I actually care what’s going on with them now, for the first time! That they’re actually interesting is great!

Backstage Segment

AJ rushed into an office looking for Hogan. Bisch asked if he meant Mr. Hogan. AJ said he was. AJ went off about Tomko. Bisch said he understands and would be livid if he was AJ. But AJ represents TNA, he’s the best of the best. AJ said he wants Tomko tonight. Bisch asked with a title to defend, he’s willing to put himself in the ring just for revenge? AJ said he needs revenge. Bisch said he needs a main event, but it has to mean something. Will AJ put his title on the line? AJ said to book it! They shook on it and AJ stomped out. Bisch said, “Love that kid!”
7/10 – Nice little segment between the two. For the second week in a row those two have worked really well together.

Backstage Segment

BMI hunting for Bisch. Walking along, yelling and looking in offices for him.

Backstage Segment

Bisch on the phone with someone who has a bright future in TNA. Borash in to see him. He said he knows Foley has a temper and was banned. He knows they were provoked and what happened happened. Bisch said it was Borash who let Foley into the building, so what happened because of Borash. Foley put his hands on Bisch and he was taken care of. Borash needs to take responsibility for his actions. He doesn’t know where Foley is and doesn’t care. Borash should try to find him. If Borash ever makes a mistake like that again, compromises Bisch, his show or what he’s try to do in TNA, it will be the last breath he takes in this building. Then BMI stomps in. Roode says they don’t have a problem with them, but they do have a problem with his boys – Hall and Waltman. Bisch asks why they’re his boys? Storm says whatever you want to call them – Easy E, Eric Bischoff or the Puppeteer of TNA whatever he’s called this week. They’re the best tag team today and don’t appreciate being jumped in the company they built. They want Hall and Nash at Genesis. Bisch asked what Storm was drinking, then took the beer and took a drink of it. That seemed to garner some appreciation from BMI. Bisch said he’d get back to them about the match.
4/10 & 7/10 – The first half of that, with Borash, really felt very WCW. Bisch said TNA was his company and it felt very much like Bischoff flinging his ego even though it’s not his company – the way he did back when. I know they were building tension for Borash’s career and where is Foley, but it felt fake. But when BMI came in the whole tone changed. it was more entertaining and enjoyable. When Bisch didn’t return the beer he was again obviously flinging his power and ego around, but in a much subtler and creative way. It felt more realistic and worked better.

Match #3

Lethal Consequences out to the ring together for the second week in a row. They didn’t make it to the ring before Lashley attacked them from behind. Lethal into the stairs and a spinebuster to Creed in the ring. Kristal came down and gave a big smile and nod before entering the ring with a mic. She asked Bisch if they have his attention now. She hasn’t had the meeting she requested with Hogan. Until she does, all of the roster will be eliminated, one by one. Have an exquisite evening. Then out to the ring came Team 3D for their match. Ray had an axe in his hand. A kick to Lethal on their way by. A 3D on Creed and pinned him for three. They wrestled in the Tokyo Dome. After the match the media was all up on them about what happened on Impact live on Monday. The Japanese press had to tell them The Nasty Boys showed up on TNA and destroyed their locker room. The Nasty Boys? Where the hell have they been for the last ten years? Hogan comes to TNA and The Nasty Boys ride his coat tails right in the front door? He doesn’t know how Hogan can walk forward with Knobbs and Sags on his tails. They couldn’t get in their locker room and had to get dressed in the hall like new boys. Say hello to my little friend! Ray held up his axe. They took off to get back in their locker room. The camera followed and Ray chopped through the door. When they got in Devon asked what the hell that smell is, then they were attacked from behind. The Nasty Boys got the upper hand. 3D had to over sell because The Nasty Boys were so off their mark on most everything they threw. “You suck!” chants from the crowd for The Nasty Boys.
5/10 – While it wasn’t a match by any stretch of the imagination, it was interesting. Well, the in ring stuff was interesting. I don’t like Lashley being the newest incarnation of Goldberg, but him as a heel is at least a little more interesting. Not saying I want him to stay around, but at least it’s a little different. Speaking of people I don’t want to stick around TNA – The Nasty Boys! Ray hit it perfectly on the head, exactly what I was thinking from the moment I realized The Nasty Boys might be going to TNA with Hogan. I know friendship goes a long way, but Hogan has to realize that no one wants to see The Nasty Boys any longer! No one wants all of these old guys brought into TNA and taking spots that these young guys have carved out over the past seven years. These young guys are great in the ring, but The Nasty Boys aren’t great anywhere!

Video

Tomko talked about how he helped AJ get to where he is now. They were the greatest tag team ever, but AJ has forgotten all about that.
3/10 – He’s not great on mic and just sounded whiney! Get this man a diaper and a bubbie!

In Ring Segment

Sean Morley out to the ring. Vince owns the Val Venis name, so he’s using his real name. Sean tells the ladies he’s there as he can’t legally use the “hello ladies!” he used in the WWE. He said he and TNA were made for each other. Many of us know he used to make a living with another type of TNA, he had to use a stage name then, but those days are over. He’s gone from doing his thing in front of the camera to becoming a full fledged artist behind the lens. He’s now a director, producer and online distributor of some of the most cultured films ever made. When he walked into TNA last week, things fell into place. He realized TNA was poised to explode, but missing that one crucial element. That one element that would push them into the mainstream. Missing a Film Division. That’s where Sean Morley comes in. His films will be works of art. Not the kind that go direct to video, his films… He’s cut off by Daniels who comes stomping out to the ring. Daniels said he doesn’t want to interrupt him, but be the first to welcome Sean to a new day in TNA. He has a pitch for Morley. First you have this honorable hero type and he encounters this fast talking sleaze. They do some business, have major struggle. His favorite part is in the end when the sleaze bag ends up in the gutter… Daniels then attacks Morley and beats the hell out of him. He says it will be over Daniels’ dead body that he brings art to TNA. He doesn’t know who let Morley in, but he doesn’t deserve to be in TNA. He won’t let someone like him stick up his building with his type of art. Daniels keeps beating on Morley. Daniels said he’ll show Sean how he deals with his type of people, but then Morley fight back and beats up on Daniels. Daniels tossed from the ring and doesn’t return to the fight. Daniels backed away.
5/10 – The best part of that was Daniels’ BME, the rest felt breathy and rushed. Morley spent much of the past couple years appearing to be snake bit in WWE. I know he wasn’t used much and I kept hearing it was due to injury. But now he’s back. Okay, but he’s looking much older and heavier than he was in his prime. He’s not even 39, basically the same age as Daniels, but Morley feels so much older. Maybe they can prove me wrong, but I don’t like Daniels being stuck in a feud with Morley. Right now I’m not impressed.

Video

About the feud between ODB and Tara. Both talking smack about each other and what’s going to happen at Genesis.

Backstage

JJ arrived at the Impact Zone with a suit in tow, most likely a lawyer.

Backstage

Morgan and Hernandez getting ready for their match.

Match #4

Morgan and Hernandez out to the ring together. Morgan was in white ring rear. Same logos on the front and back as the dark ones, just inverted color. BMI out to face them. Storm poured beer down a fan’s throat on his way by. BMI double teamed Hernandez. When BMI got the fans into it Morgan came in as the legal man and double clotheslined them. Didn’t take long for the match to even out again. But then Hernandez got a blind tag and came over the top taking them both down. Hernandez threw Roode across the ring like he weighed nothing and then flew out over the top as if he was a cruiser weight! But then big Rob Terry came out and got involved. The ref called for the bell. Morgan got on Terry and worked him over up the ramp. Slick called for a Double DQ. Waltman, Nash and Hall came down the ramp in their cocky way. They got on BMI and worked them over hard. Three on two, BMI had no chance. Finally tons of refs came out to break it all up. Then Bisch came out to the stage with a mic in hand. He shook his head and smiled widely before the commercial break.
5/10 – This is the best I can give this mess! I’m sorry, but that screamed Russo booking! That man can’t seen to let ANY match end in a natural way. It was so obvious that Morgan and Hernandez left for very little reason and left BMI alone to get destroyed by nWo. It looked like the end of so many episodes of WCW Nitro that I thought I’d lost more than a decade of my life there for a moment. I was hoping we’d get away from the obvious Russo bookings when Hogan and Bisch came in, but now we’re dealing with Russo ending and Bischoff’s nWo all in one show! Please, someone open their eyes!

Video

They showed how everything broke down in the ring between BMI and nWo. Then, on the stage, Bisch told BMI to be really careful what you wish for, because the next round is on him.
–/10 – Interesting that they showed that as a video, then go to “live” show – as if things were actually happening as we watch them. Always a pet peeve of mine for live shows and I don’t see me backing down and starting to like it any time soon.

In Ring Segment

Bisch in the ring with Hall, Nash and Waltman, smiling like the cat that ate the canary. He said he doesn’t know what he’s going to do with them! Hall leaned in and asked for a raise. Bisch said they’d talk about that later. He said last week it was Foley, this week BMI. When’s it going to end? What’s he going to do with them? Bisch tipped the mic to Waltman in a nicely choreographed move, not that Waltman motioned for it. Waltman said he though that was what Bisch wanted. Bisch said no numerous times. That’s not what Bisch said he wanted. What he’s thinking about doing with them – after what he saw and after BMI stormed into his office. So he’s going to make a match… Hall said where he drinks all that guy’s beer. Bisch said no over and over to that too. The fans broke down and cheered at that. But at Genesis is Hall and Nash against BMI. Sting in the rafters staring down at it all.
6/10 – All of that for Bisch because he really is damn good on mic. I just don’t understand how they actually trust Hall to show up for anything. Either they have someone riding roughshod over Hall or they figure they have Waltman as a backup. And why bring Waltman in for all of this if it’s only going to be The Outsiders? I’m confused, but I’m sure they have it all planned out. I just think it’s a shame to stick BMI in a PPV match against the old drunk and the old man who can barely last five minutes in the ring.

Video

Tomko talking more about being home on injury. He tried to support AJ, but AJ wanted nothing to do with him. He decided to remind AJ about his roll in TNA.

Match #5

The Pope was at announce. Wolfe to the ring with his rude hand signals that are allowed on US TV. Samoa Joe out to the ring. Joe really attacked Wolfe with punches and kicks. A splash and another kick and Wolfe was on the mat. Wolfe fought back briefly as The Pope called him Ruffy. Joe moves so fast for a man his size and dropped Wolfe hard! Wolfe went to work on Joe’s left shoulder. “This is wrestling!” chants from the fans as Joe and Wolfe went back and forth hard. Dueling “Let’s go Desmond” and “Let’s go Joe” chant. Joe up top and got a choke on Wolfe up top. But Wolfe hit a tower of London on Joe while Joe hand the choke locked on! Wolfe pinned for three. Wolfe immediately left the ring and had So Cal Val put his jacket and glasses back on for him. Wolfe yelled to The Pope that if he can beat Joe, then he can beat him. At Genesis he’ll destroy The Pope. Everyone knows it. The Pope started yelling back and they bleeping started. Not sure which of them were cussing.
8.5/10 – That was a really solid match between Joe and Wolfe. Damn good work for both of them. Really set up well for Genesis having The Pope on announce. Great job from creative and booking as well as an absolutely amazing job by those fabulous wrestlers in the ring. More of that and TNA could give WWE a run for its money.

Backstage

Flair got out of a ridiculously long limo.

Video

Tomko talks about deciding to wear a mask and beat down AJ that way. He knew the time had come to remove the mask. Now it’s just him and AJ for the TNA WHC.

Backstage Segment

JJ slammed into Hogan and Bisch’s office. JJ said he’s doing the talking, Hogan said no in a very final way. JJ then wiped all the papers off the desk and said he’s doing the talking! Hogan said it better be pretty damn important. JJ said he wanted to talk about his company, the one he founded, the one he carried on his back. Then JJ said this was between him and Hogan, so Bisch should just go take a seat. Bisch laughed, but moved when Hogan put a hand up. JJ said last week Hogan said he and Dixie were going to promote the young guys on the roster. Well, they ain’t worth a damn, never have been and never will be! More papers sent flying off the other side of the desk. There ain’t enough talent in this organization to fill a coffee cup. It’s him! It’s always been him. Then Hogan wants to come in grandstanding after seven years. That’s why his lawyer’s there. He wants him to hear every word fucking that’s said tonight, because he heard every word said last week! Last week Hogan was this close to crossing the line of defamation… Hogan finished with the ‘of character’ part for him. Hogan asked what character Jeff is? JJ said he’s not a character in there. Bisch yelled at JJ to stop. He’s so sick and tired of hearing him talk about the company he started and he founded , of his sweat and his tears and his money. All that gaga gaga gaga! Here’s the facts. Attorneys like facts. The fact is that JJ and his father started this company and it wouldn’t have lasted three weeks if it hadn’t been for Dixie Carter. This company would have been a blip. Dixie Carter came along. She put in the money, she put in the time, she got her family to invest. JJ’s conned her, he’s conned the talent in this company and everyone he’s come in contact with into believing that JJ has the magic potion and knows how to turn this company around. This company will turn around, but because of Hogan and Bischoff, not because of JJ. So take his con, his story and take it down the street. Or, like Hogan said, lace up his boots and compete like everyone one else. JJ asked if Bisch was done, he said he was. JJ then told him to sit down and shut up! JJ asked if Hogan’s going to sit behind his new desk? The desk he so wisely invested his money in, not something JJ had? Is Hogan JJ called him Bozo) going to let Bisch talk to him that way and run this organization? Hogan slammed to his feet and said he’s not going to sit back there. He was hiring to run this company, but there’s nothing in his contract that says he can’t kick JJ’s hillbilly ass. JJ hid behind his lawyer. JJ said they need to talk like real businessmen. Hogan hasn’t heard the last of him, neither has Bischoff. Then JJ was gone and the fans were chanting for Hogan. Bisch said JJ need an attitude adjustment. Hogan said they’ll help him out with that.
6/10 – That dragged on for way too long and didn’t accomplish much. Finally they established JJ as the heel they wanted him to be and failed at last week when he was in the ring. Last week’s segment didn’t go as they wanted it to, but they resolved it this week. All JJ had to do was say all the young guys were nothing and he was everything in TNA. Yes, he was whiney, but I imagine that’s what they’re heading for at this point with him hiding behind his own lawyer.

Announce Segment

Taz and Tenay went through the matches slated for Genesis.

Main Event

Flair out to the ring to the huge pop he deserves. Commercial. Flair headed over to announce. Tomko out to the ring, still looking a little pudgy around the middle, but playing up the cocky heel beautifully. AJ out to face him. Borash was in the ring for the official announcements. Slick reffed this match and got booed upon announcement. Borash started announcing AJ and AJ decided it was time to start the match with an attack on Tomko. AJ in control and Angle came out to watch. Flair said he has huge respect for Angle, that’s why he came out to watch part of the match live from announce last week. Angle headed to announce. Angle and Flair shook hands, said a few words, hugged and shook again. Angle then headed back to watch the match more closely. Tomko got a pin attempt. Flair said everything Hogan touches turns to gold, that’s why he came to TNA. No secret that Carter has the resources to do what she wants in the wrestling business, that’s why he’s here. AJ ran into a big boot for two. Commercial. Tomko keeps choking AJ on the mat and then with his foot in a corner. Tomko’s bleeding from his mouth. An enziguri and then pele and AJ got the three. AJ kept kicking at Tomko, but Slick pulled him back. Tomko got to his feet and backed AJ into a corner with punches. Angle rushed the ring and took it to Tomko who quickly fled the ring. Angle grabbed AJ’s belt and extended it to him. Flair stood and removed his headset, watching it all very closely. AJ took his belt. Angle extended his hand. AJ looked to Flair and left the ring without shaking Angle’s hand. Flair had a smile on his feet. AJ stomped out and Flair’s smile dropped when Angle looked at him.
7/10 – That wasn’t a great match by any stretch of the imagination, but the intrigue between Angle, AJ and Flair drew me in. I want to know what’s going to happen between the three at Genesis. I feel something brewing.

Video

Setting up for the main event at Genesis. Both Angle and AJ spoke about their feelings about the match, what it means to them to face each other, what it means to win. Then the video went to all of Genesis. That it’s a night of returns, of surprises, expect the unexpected.
7/10 – I have to admit that the first part of that video was kick ass. It was heartfelt and honest between two great wrestlers. The rest was decent and really made me interested in watching Genesis. I’ve never ordered a TNA PPV, but I’m really itching to see Genesis.

Post Show

Hogan and Bisch keep claiming TNA is about the young and talented wrestlers, that they want to elevate the best of the best. Then they put their best friends in matches and major storylines. Nepotism is alive and well in TNA. The worst part about this is that TNA had a damn fine roster before they started bringing people in and now it’s so huge that I can’t remember everyone! I had to go through and organize the roster for my tag list and it took me and hour to get everyone in order and I’m still not sure I remember every body. I hope most of these wrestlers who are new to TNA are just passing through. I see no need for Sean Morley, Orlando Jordan (thankfully not on this episode), The Nasty Boys, Hall and Waltman in TNA at this time, or any time for that matter!

While this show didn’t have a lot of great wrestling, the first match of the night gave me faith in TNA wrestling again. Generation Me and MCMG gave wrestling fans everything in that match and it was, by far, the best match of the night! Those four men are so impressive and I hope the powers that be took note of just how great they were. They started the show with a bang, but sadly most of the rest of the matches bombed. In the middle was the impressive wrestling of Joe and Wolfe that brought the show back up again.

So the majority of the wrestling on Impact was sub par, but I’m still looking forward to Genesis! I really want to see this PPV and I haven’t felt that way about any PPVs in a long time (WWE or TNA)! And this episode of Impact excited me even more for Genesis. They hyped so much that is scheduled to happen on the PPV – some interesting matches, unexpected people showing up and intrigue that will blow our minds. So while not all the matches were great, TNA did a great job of hyping Genesis which can only help their buy rate and bring more fans in to watch ever growing TNA!

KB