Spoilers ahead. You are warned.
WWE Summerslam 2011 is officially in the books. The main event match for the Undisputed WWE Championship between John Cena and CM Punk was truly unique. Both men have just as many supporters as haters. It's the tweener line between good guy and bad guy one doesn't see too often in the WWE. Throw in HHH, another person who has those staunch supporters and naysayers, in the mix as the ref/head man in charge and a fan had all the makings for something huge. And huge did happen. No doubt the ending left some people happy, some anger, some excited, and some confused as there are definitely more questions than answers leading into WWE RAW.
To give a basic wrap up: CM Punk wins the grueling battle with Cena. A match where HHH called it mostly right down middle. Punk celebrates alone int he ring when out of nowhere, really out of nowhere (great camera work), Kevin Nash is in the ring. He powerbombs CM Punk and leaves. HHH sees this and seems surprised. Moments later Alberto Del Rio runs down and cashes the Money In the Bank contract in on a groggy Punk. A quick kick to the head and Punk is out. Del Rio covers and is the new WWE Champion.
So is the Punk-Cena story over? No quite. I do think this is a nice cliff hanger ending to this part of their story. However some big questions remain.
Did HHH see Cena's foot on the rope? Well, obviously he did not. But one has to think it becomes part of the story.
Did Alberto Del Rio hire Kevin Nash? It's a possibility. There's no connection between the two other than Del Rio has money and Nash loves money. He could have been hired as Del Rio muscle. Nash has played the role before.
Did HHH hire Kevin Nash? Hunter and Nash are old buddies so I doubt if it would surprise anyone to find out "The Game" had a back up plan to get the title away from whoever won the Cena vs Punk match.
How long does Del Rio hold the title? Hard to say. My gut feeling is a couple of months. He will a have a match with Cena and a match with Punk, then I have to think they'll be busy in there own story. But there are enough contenders with Rey Misterio, The Miz, John Morrison, and even R-Truth to keep him busy until the Royal Rumble should the WWE want to establish him.
What happens with Punk and Cena from here? Your guess is as good as mine.
This what we know for certain. John Cena vs The Rock will happen at next year's Wrestlemania. Grant it, that is a long time away. But one would think Cena goes into the match as champion. Could Punk had a nice long run with the title where he berates his opponents and have entertaining segments and quality matches? Sure. And it would have worked. Except Del Rio has the MIB contract and has to use it before Mania. Why not cash it in sooner than later and see if Del Rio can hold up to the spotlight. The move makes sense.
This could be the first step in a Punk and HHH saga which ends with a match a Wrestlemania, giving Punk his Mania Moment and rehashing an Austin vs MacMahon story from years earlier. Maybe even throw in a little Corporation 2.0 angle with Nash. Hunter could sign Punk's best friend Colt Cabana on the condition he sides with the Corporation and must fight Punk. Perhaps Shawn Michaels gets involved some how. Maybe Punk and Cena join forces to battle this Corporate regime. After all, the enemy of my enemy is my friend.
This is what comes off the top of my head. Again your guess is as good as mine. I'm hoping this ends up being a great trilogy. We just witness the red hot first novel that provided many fans with great enjoyment. The next covers the SummerSlam fallout until the Royal Rumble. The last from the Rumble to Mania.
While the outcome of SummerSlam wasn't all the pleasing in the short term for me; the long term effects could pay off big time for the fans, the workers, and the WWE. The only thing I hope doesn't occur is CM Punk going back to random midcard feuds. That would be a great waste of talent and stories.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Friday, August 5, 2011
Interview with "Unbreakable" Michael Elgin!
“Unbreakable” Michael Elgin is one of the fastest rising talents in Ring of Honor. Originally having debuted for ROH in 2006, Elgin finally got a more committed look in 2010 as a part of The House of Truth faction. Elgin joined Two Spot Monkeys to talk about his run in ROH to date, the future of ROH after their sale to Sinclair Broadcast Group and more!
1. Saturday, May 21st in Chicago Ridge, ROH announced that they had been purchased by Sinclair Broadcast Group. This was the same day as “Supercard of Honor VI.” Can you take us through what was going on at the Frontier Fieldhouse and in the locker room that night? What type of vibe was it – excitement, fear, uncertainty, relief?
I truly think the entire locker room was filled with excitement, I know for sure I was. We all love ROH and feel it's the best wrestling company in the world, we all wanted what was best for the company and SBG was and is a huge step. Now more of the world gets to see what everyone is raving about.
2. Prior to that announcement, was there any buzz that something big was going to go down, either good or bad? What was the vibe in the locker room when the HDNet show came to an end?
There was alot of buzz actually, we all had heard something big was in the works and we were excited. I personally thought since we were in Chicago Oprah was going to pick us up! Ok I'm kidding but I did try to get people to believe it. I was only around for a little bit with HDNET but the feeling I got was now that the company had TV experience we had something to show people to try and get back on TV. I got the feeling that this time it would be easier to land a deal, and that it would be a bigger platform for the company as a whole.
3. Now as ROH begins a new era, with the TV show on network broadcast television, what does that mean to you? What hope does a show with the number of households with access and new markets for ROH to access give to you or others with the company?
ROH being shown in such a big view is very important. We all believe in ROH and now we can do what we love, in a company we love on a much bigger stage. I know I hope that we can get the viewers which shouldn't be a problem with the talent on the roster, and the guys in control know what they are doing. Our product needs to be seen and now it is going to be. I really couldn't be happier for the company, myself or the other talent in ROH.
4. Jim Cornette in a recent blog stated that ROH plans to be light on the live events going into the Fall and then begin running more events come January. There's actually talk of running 2-3 show loops on a regular basis come 2012. What are your thoughts on that? Do you feel that ROH needs to have 3+ months to establish themselves in SBC markets? Is it hard to wait in a situation like that when it is such a good opportunity?
I mean we all would love a ton of work straight out the gate, but you have to be smart about these things. I mean we could look at it and say well we will do good in these markets lets go there before it airs, and the house is not good. I think it's a great plan, after TV debuts we become a commodity, and it will be about supply and demand. I think the better the show does, the better the draw for live events will be. This is good all around for the company and the talent as a whole
5. You re-debuted in ROH in late-2010 (Survival of The Fittest 2010) as part of The House of Truth. How much of that was planned or being in the right place at the right time? Was there anything that really stuck out to you from working pre-show matches in 2006 to being on the main card in 2010?
Well it was more of right place right time. ROH did a camp in OCT of 2010 and I decided to go to it. When the opportunity came about I was asked to do so and jumped right at it. I had a history with Truth Martini and looked forward to the chance that was given. Really from the outside looking in I feel ROH is still the best wrestling out there just like when I was doing pre-shows in 06-08. I am glad it took time, because now I know for sure I am ready to be a part of something so big. Before I was a little younger, and not as well rounded so time was what I needed
6. How has it been working with Roderick Strong, Truth Martini and until recently Christopher Daniels?
Roderick Strong is a former ROH champion and cornerstone of the company, I am a lucky man to be working so close to him. He's a great in-ring talent and so smart outside the ring. I couldn't have asked for a better opportunity.
I truly think the entire locker room was filled with excitement, I know for sure I was. We all love ROH and feel it's the best wrestling company in the world, we all wanted what was best for the company and SBG was and is a huge step. Now more of the world gets to see what everyone is raving about.
2. Prior to that announcement, was there any buzz that something big was going to go down, either good or bad? What was the vibe in the locker room when the HDNet show came to an end?
There was alot of buzz actually, we all had heard something big was in the works and we were excited. I personally thought since we were in Chicago Oprah was going to pick us up! Ok I'm kidding but I did try to get people to believe it. I was only around for a little bit with HDNET but the feeling I got was now that the company had TV experience we had something to show people to try and get back on TV. I got the feeling that this time it would be easier to land a deal, and that it would be a bigger platform for the company as a whole.
3. Now as ROH begins a new era, with the TV show on network broadcast television, what does that mean to you? What hope does a show with the number of households with access and new markets for ROH to access give to you or others with the company?
ROH being shown in such a big view is very important. We all believe in ROH and now we can do what we love, in a company we love on a much bigger stage. I know I hope that we can get the viewers which shouldn't be a problem with the talent on the roster, and the guys in control know what they are doing. Our product needs to be seen and now it is going to be. I really couldn't be happier for the company, myself or the other talent in ROH.
4. Jim Cornette in a recent blog stated that ROH plans to be light on the live events going into the Fall and then begin running more events come January. There's actually talk of running 2-3 show loops on a regular basis come 2012. What are your thoughts on that? Do you feel that ROH needs to have 3+ months to establish themselves in SBC markets? Is it hard to wait in a situation like that when it is such a good opportunity?
I mean we all would love a ton of work straight out the gate, but you have to be smart about these things. I mean we could look at it and say well we will do good in these markets lets go there before it airs, and the house is not good. I think it's a great plan, after TV debuts we become a commodity, and it will be about supply and demand. I think the better the show does, the better the draw for live events will be. This is good all around for the company and the talent as a whole
5. You re-debuted in ROH in late-2010 (Survival of The Fittest 2010) as part of The House of Truth. How much of that was planned or being in the right place at the right time? Was there anything that really stuck out to you from working pre-show matches in 2006 to being on the main card in 2010?
Well it was more of right place right time. ROH did a camp in OCT of 2010 and I decided to go to it. When the opportunity came about I was asked to do so and jumped right at it. I had a history with Truth Martini and looked forward to the chance that was given. Really from the outside looking in I feel ROH is still the best wrestling out there just like when I was doing pre-shows in 06-08. I am glad it took time, because now I know for sure I am ready to be a part of something so big. Before I was a little younger, and not as well rounded so time was what I needed
6. How has it been working with Roderick Strong, Truth Martini and until recently Christopher Daniels?
Roderick Strong is a former ROH champion and cornerstone of the company, I am a lucky man to be working so close to him. He's a great in-ring talent and so smart outside the ring. I couldn't have asked for a better opportunity.
As I mentioned I have a history with Truth, he actually booked me or my first match in 03. I also have to say one of the best minds I have ever been around in wrestling. He gets it, and knows what he is doing. A top notch manager and in my opinion one of the best managers I have seen in a long time.
What can I really say about Daniels that people don't already know? Working with someone with such experience and that is truly amazing, is a godsend. Him, much like Roddy have been great mentors and I respect them both to no end.
7. How do you feel about ROH exploding the iPPV format? Their relationship with Go Fight Live.com and the success they’ve experienced is newsworthy. Does that get the locker room excited? Is the approach to an iPPV event different at all?
IPPV is a great thing to be a part of, now not only are the people in attendance seeing us, thousands more get to see live as well. I think it's great for the company and the talent for so many reasons. The more people who see us, gets the product out there and helps us get out to more places doing what we love. It's hard to say the approach is different, as we all come to ROH knowing we are laying everything on the line every show trying to give the wrestling world something to talk about. I mean the whole locker room gives 110% every show, so maybe on IPPV we give 130%
8. In 2011, you have had what some might call mini-feuds with El Generico and Christopher Daniels. Is there anything you really take away from those series of matches?
First I have to say both of them are truly amazing wrestlers. I feel you learn something every time you step in the ring. With these 2 men though the learning is endless. I think these matches not only helped me grow as a performer but showed the fans I have what it takes to perform at such a high level. These matches made me better, and helped me lay ground work for what I am capable of doing moving forward
9. Based on ROH “Best In The World 2011” it seems like there is a House of Truth vs. Steve Corino & Jimmy Jacobs feud on the horizon? What thoughts do you have on that? How do you approach that with Corino, a very experience vet along with Jacobs, with a lot of experience and someone you may have a good amount of history with from the Michigan scene?
I think the question is how do they approach it with HOT? We have one of if not the best wrestlers in the world Roderick Strong, the smartest man in wrestling today Truth Martini and the strongest man in wrestling myself all in 1 bundle. I think that's a tall order for Steve Corino and Jacobs wouldn't you say?
10. ROH has shared that positive negotiations have been on-going with Pro Wrestling NOAH for more talent exchange in 2012. Is there someone specific you’d really like the opportunity to get in the ring with? What would the opportunity to go to Japan mean to you?
First off I am a huge fan of NOAH, and I think with their history in ROH Go Shiosaki, Morishima, Kenta and Nakijima are all at the front of the list, and for my personal dream match Kenta Kobashi.
Like I said I am a huge fan of Noah and wrestling as a whole in Japan. When I started it was one of my goals to wrestle in Japan, and I haven’t crossed it off yet so I am still actively trying to get there.
11. Back in the States and Canada, who are some wrestlers in ROH you haven’t met that you would like to face?
I have been very fortunate to work with alot of the talent in ROH, at ROH or in other companies so matchups that come to mind for ROH would be Chris Hero, Davey Richards, Adam Cole and Kyle O'Reilly all in singles - Me/Roddy vs. WGTT, Young Bucks (hopefully they come back)
12. Where do you hope to see Michael Elgin in 6 months, 1 year and 5 years?
In 6 months I hope I have spent some time in Japan, 1 Year ROH Champion and 5 Years still ROH Champion.
What can I really say about Daniels that people don't already know? Working with someone with such experience and that is truly amazing, is a godsend. Him, much like Roddy have been great mentors and I respect them both to no end.
7. How do you feel about ROH exploding the iPPV format? Their relationship with Go Fight Live.com and the success they’ve experienced is newsworthy. Does that get the locker room excited? Is the approach to an iPPV event different at all?
IPPV is a great thing to be a part of, now not only are the people in attendance seeing us, thousands more get to see live as well. I think it's great for the company and the talent for so many reasons. The more people who see us, gets the product out there and helps us get out to more places doing what we love. It's hard to say the approach is different, as we all come to ROH knowing we are laying everything on the line every show trying to give the wrestling world something to talk about. I mean the whole locker room gives 110% every show, so maybe on IPPV we give 130%
8. In 2011, you have had what some might call mini-feuds with El Generico and Christopher Daniels. Is there anything you really take away from those series of matches?
First I have to say both of them are truly amazing wrestlers. I feel you learn something every time you step in the ring. With these 2 men though the learning is endless. I think these matches not only helped me grow as a performer but showed the fans I have what it takes to perform at such a high level. These matches made me better, and helped me lay ground work for what I am capable of doing moving forward
9. Based on ROH “Best In The World 2011” it seems like there is a House of Truth vs. Steve Corino & Jimmy Jacobs feud on the horizon? What thoughts do you have on that? How do you approach that with Corino, a very experience vet along with Jacobs, with a lot of experience and someone you may have a good amount of history with from the Michigan scene?
I think the question is how do they approach it with HOT? We have one of if not the best wrestlers in the world Roderick Strong, the smartest man in wrestling today Truth Martini and the strongest man in wrestling myself all in 1 bundle. I think that's a tall order for Steve Corino and Jacobs wouldn't you say?
10. ROH has shared that positive negotiations have been on-going with Pro Wrestling NOAH for more talent exchange in 2012. Is there someone specific you’d really like the opportunity to get in the ring with? What would the opportunity to go to Japan mean to you?
First off I am a huge fan of NOAH, and I think with their history in ROH Go Shiosaki, Morishima, Kenta and Nakijima are all at the front of the list, and for my personal dream match Kenta Kobashi.
Like I said I am a huge fan of Noah and wrestling as a whole in Japan. When I started it was one of my goals to wrestle in Japan, and I haven’t crossed it off yet so I am still actively trying to get there.
11. Back in the States and Canada, who are some wrestlers in ROH you haven’t met that you would like to face?
I have been very fortunate to work with alot of the talent in ROH, at ROH or in other companies so matchups that come to mind for ROH would be Chris Hero, Davey Richards, Adam Cole and Kyle O'Reilly all in singles - Me/Roddy vs. WGTT, Young Bucks (hopefully they come back)
12. Where do you hope to see Michael Elgin in 6 months, 1 year and 5 years?
In 6 months I hope I have spent some time in Japan, 1 Year ROH Champion and 5 Years still ROH Champion.
Two Spot Monkeys would like to thank Michael Elgin for taking time with us to talk about his career! Michael Elgin returns to action for Ring of Honor on August 13th at their big TV Tapings for the debut of their new show on the Sinclair Broadcast Group networks in Chicago Ridge, IL as he takes on former ROH World Champion, Eddie Edwards!
Thanks for reading!
Monday, July 25, 2011
Evolve 9 Preview!
Thought I’d take a look at the Evolve 9 card, which airs this Tuesday on iPPV. If you haven’t already signed up for an account, please do so by clicking here! You’ll be supporting Two Spot Monkeys in the process!
Here’s the card, with my thoughts and predictions, from the bottom to the top, as listed by EvolveWrestling.com!
Opportunity Knocks
Eric Ryan (0-0) vs. Bobby Beverly (0-0)
Eric Ryan (0-0) vs. Bobby Beverly (0-0)
I know absolutely nothing about either Ryan or Beverly, so I went and found a MV that Ryan put together of a match they had with each other back in January. Good stuff, and since they know each other, this should be good. I was more impressed with Beverly, so I’m going to go with him, though obviously, this could go either way. A good showing by one or both of these men would probably lead to more bookings in Evolve…and you never know when DGUSA might come calling as well.
Special Challenge Match #3
Silas Young (2-1) vs. Sugar Dunkerton (0-0)
Silas Young (2-1) vs. Sugar Dunkerton (0-0)
Young is a guy who I think should be a featured player in Evolve, he’s got all the skills. He’s 2-1, winning matches against Drake Younger and Tony Nese, and losing to Brad Allen back on the first show. Dunkerton is a good comedy guy, who also isn’t all that bad on the mat either, he is making his Evolve debut. That being said, I don’t see a comedy guy going too far in Evolve, and again, Young should be in the mix at the top if you ask me. So, Young has to get the win here, unless there is some sort of angle with Larry Dallas and his crew that causes the loss.
Special Challenge Match #2
Tony Nese (0-2) vs. John Silver (0-0)
Nese looked good in his matchup with Young back at Evolve 7. He came up on the short end, and also lost in a Four Way at the Evolve 6 show, losing to AR Fox. Rich Swann & Scott Reed were also in that one. Nese also lost in the first round of the Style Battle Tournament to Jon Davis, but records were not counted at that show. Silver is a newcomer to Evolve who again, I don’t know a thing about, so I went and did some YouTube research and was somewhat impressed with what I saw. Both guys need a win, as you’d think 0-3 for Nese would possibly mean no more room for him in Evolve, and Silver needs to impress. I actually think Silver could get the win here. Hope both guys look good though.
Tony Nese (0-2) vs. John Silver (0-0)
Nese looked good in his matchup with Young back at Evolve 7. He came up on the short end, and also lost in a Four Way at the Evolve 6 show, losing to AR Fox. Rich Swann & Scott Reed were also in that one. Nese also lost in the first round of the Style Battle Tournament to Jon Davis, but records were not counted at that show. Silver is a newcomer to Evolve who again, I don’t know a thing about, so I went and did some YouTube research and was somewhat impressed with what I saw. Both guys need a win, as you’d think 0-3 for Nese would possibly mean no more room for him in Evolve, and Silver needs to impress. I actually think Silver could get the win here. Hope both guys look good though.
Special Challenge Match #1
Shiima Xion (1-0) vs. Pinkie Sanchez (0-0)
Shiima Xion broke on the scene in Evolve with an upset win over Jimmy Jacobs at Evolve 7. Sanchez doesn’t have a win on his record, but did win the Fray match at Evolve 8, to earn this booking. Xion was recently featured on TNA in the 4 way match with Low Ki, Austin Aries and Jack Evans, at the Destination X PPV, in easily the biggest match of his career. Sanchez is part of D.U.F. in DGUSA, so perhaps we’ll see Sami Callihan here? I see more in Xion as a singles competitor than Sanchez, so I’d expect another Xion win here in Evolve, moving to 2-0.
Shiima Xion (1-0) vs. Pinkie Sanchez (0-0)
Shiima Xion broke on the scene in Evolve with an upset win over Jimmy Jacobs at Evolve 7. Sanchez doesn’t have a win on his record, but did win the Fray match at Evolve 8, to earn this booking. Xion was recently featured on TNA in the 4 way match with Low Ki, Austin Aries and Jack Evans, at the Destination X PPV, in easily the biggest match of his career. Sanchez is part of D.U.F. in DGUSA, so perhaps we’ll see Sami Callihan here? I see more in Xion as a singles competitor than Sanchez, so I’d expect another Xion win here in Evolve, moving to 2-0.
Tag Team Challenge Match #2
Player Uno & Player Dos (0-1) vs. Facade & Jason Gory (0-1)
The Super Smash Bros. (Uno & Dos) lost to Cheech & Cloudy back at Evolve 6. I’ve always been a big fan of SSB, and wish they’d get a more prominent role in ROH, Evolve, DGUSA, somewhere! Façade & Gory lost to the Chikara Seigun team of Jigsaw & Frightmare at Evolve 7. So, both teams need a win to stay in contention. I’m a self admitted fan of the Super Smash Brothers, so if it’s me booking, I give them the win and start building them into a feud with whoever emerges from the eventual battle of Up in Smoke and Chikara Seigun for the right to be called the Tag Wins Leaders!
Player Uno & Player Dos (0-1) vs. Facade & Jason Gory (0-1)
The Super Smash Bros. (Uno & Dos) lost to Cheech & Cloudy back at Evolve 6. I’ve always been a big fan of SSB, and wish they’d get a more prominent role in ROH, Evolve, DGUSA, somewhere! Façade & Gory lost to the Chikara Seigun team of Jigsaw & Frightmare at Evolve 7. So, both teams need a win to stay in contention. I’m a self admitted fan of the Super Smash Brothers, so if it’s me booking, I give them the win and start building them into a feud with whoever emerges from the eventual battle of Up in Smoke and Chikara Seigun for the right to be called the Tag Wins Leaders!
Tag Team Challenge Match #1
Cheech & Cloudy (4-0) vs. Larry Dallas' Mystery Tag Team (0-0)
Hard to handicap this one without knowing who Dallas’ mystery team is, but I think whoever they are, Cheech & Cloudy get the win here to take a 2 win lead on Chikara Seigun, showing how important it is to stay healthy and not miss shows. Then Seigun gets a win next show, and at Evolve 11, they meet for the Tag Wins Lead.
Cheech & Cloudy (4-0) vs. Larry Dallas' Mystery Tag Team (0-0)
Hard to handicap this one without knowing who Dallas’ mystery team is, but I think whoever they are, Cheech & Cloudy get the win here to take a 2 win lead on Chikara Seigun, showing how important it is to stay healthy and not miss shows. Then Seigun gets a win next show, and at Evolve 11, they meet for the Tag Wins Lead.
In Need Of A Win
Bobby Fish (1-4) vs. Jon Davis (0-1)
This is one of the matches I am most looking forward to. Fish has been great on every single Evolve show he’s been on. Fish lost his first four matches in Evolve to Kyle O’Reilly, Claudio Castagnoli, Chris Hero & Bryan Danielson. Just the fact that he was booked with such top level competition is a testament to how good this guy is. He finally got his first win by avenging the loss to O’Reilly, and also defeated Austin Aries in the Style Battle Tournament before falling to Sami Callihan in the semifinals. Davis on the other hand is 0-1 in singles competition, losing to Johnny Gargano. He did however also make the semifinals of the Style Battle tournament, defeating Tony Nese in the first round, before falling to the eventual winner, AR Fox in the semis. This should be a great, hard hitting match between two guys that should both be moving up the card in Evolve…can’t wait for this! Pure guess, Fish gets the win.
Bobby Fish (1-4) vs. Jon Davis (0-1)
This is one of the matches I am most looking forward to. Fish has been great on every single Evolve show he’s been on. Fish lost his first four matches in Evolve to Kyle O’Reilly, Claudio Castagnoli, Chris Hero & Bryan Danielson. Just the fact that he was booked with such top level competition is a testament to how good this guy is. He finally got his first win by avenging the loss to O’Reilly, and also defeated Austin Aries in the Style Battle Tournament before falling to Sami Callihan in the semifinals. Davis on the other hand is 0-1 in singles competition, losing to Johnny Gargano. He did however also make the semifinals of the Style Battle tournament, defeating Tony Nese in the first round, before falling to the eventual winner, AR Fox in the semis. This should be a great, hard hitting match between two guys that should both be moving up the card in Evolve…can’t wait for this! Pure guess, Fish gets the win.
Bonus Main Event
Sami Callihan (3-1) vs. Dave Finlay (0-0)
Sami Callihan (3-1) vs. Dave Finlay (0-0)
Callihan has been on fire this year, and is getting pushed hard here in Evolve as well as DGUSA as part of D.U.F. with Arik Cannon and Pinkie Sanchez. He’s 3-1 here, with wins over Adam Cole, Arik Cannon, and Zack Sabre Jr., and his only official loss coming at the hands of Drake Younger. He also went 2-1 in the Style Battle tournament, defeating Brodie Lee and Bobby Fish, before falling to AR Fox in the finals. Callihan hits hard, no doubt about it, and Finlay will take it, and give it right back. I fully expect these two to beat the hell out of each other. Finlay, even for his age, has always been good in the ring, so no worries on that in this case. This should be a very good, hard hitting match that I fully expect Callihan to win.
The Main Event
Johnny Gargano (6-2) vs. Chuck Taylor (5-3)
Johnny Gargano (6-2) vs. Chuck Taylor (5-3)
This is a battle for the wins lead here in Evolve, as Taylor can tie for the lead with a win here. Of course the story here is that Larry Dallas is representing both, and is claiming that this match will not happen. My guess is, they both knock him out and have a great match! Gargano has had a breakout year so far in 2011 and is the current wins leader here. I only count 5 wins, but they have him at six…so not sure if I’m missing something. He has defeated Chris Dickinson, Jimmy Jacobs, Jon Davis & Chuck Taylor, and has a win in a Six Way match, so there is five. He also has a double count out with Ricochet. He has lost to Adam Cole and Jimmy Jacobs. So…kinda confused there. Taylor’s five wins have come over Cheech, Ricochet, Claudio Castagnoli, Jimmy Jacobs & Akira Tozawa, while his 3 losses have come to Gargano, Austin Aries & Mike Quackenbush. I think Taylor gets the win here to further the storyline, as I think this has a lot of legs to it over the next few shows. Should be a great main event to close the show!
And of course, Kevin Steen will be at the show and will be given an open mic! Who knows what Steen will do, but I would bet 1-3 package piledrivers are in Evolve’s future on Tuesday night!
So, what are you most looking forward to on Tuesday night?
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Evolve 9 on iPPV!
Evolve 9 is live on iPPV on Tuesday night! Come back on Monday for a preview of the card! Click the picture above to sign up for an account at WWNLive.com and purchase the show!
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Looking at the Smackdown Money in the Bank Match
Let’s take a look at the Smackdown Money in the Bank Ladder Match scheduled for this Sunday at the Money in the Bank PPV!
First and foremost, I only really see two true possibilities in this match for the winner…but, we’ll go through each just to see if there is any hope for the rest of them!
Sheamus – To me, Sheamus is completely the odds on favorite to win this match. He seems a reasonable next challenger for Orton, and deserves to be in the title picture. He is one of only two men in this match who have held either the WWE Title or World Heavyweight Title, so this could be a match where we see a newcomer get a rocket strapped to them…but, I don’t see that here, I see a return to the top for Sheamus.
Wade Barrett – WWE has been high on Barrett for a while, but they just book him like crap most of the time. He’s absolutely a guy who could make it as a top guy, but only if you stop with the recycled story of a group that doesn’t know if they want to follow him. Just have him out on his own, without any lackeys and let him be the star he can be. I would give him the second best shot of winning Money in the Bank this Sunday on the Smackdown side.
Daniel Bryan – Look, I’d absolutely LOVE to see Bryan win it. I’m a huge fan, and would love to see him get used in a higher position than he is right now, but he’s embroiled in a feud with Cody Rhodes right now (which could elevate both if done right), so I don’t see any hope of him winning this match.
Cody Rhodes – Rhodes to me is the #3 choice to win this match, but he’s a big time dark horse. I think Rhodes could get to the top of the card, but I just don’t think he’s quite there yet, and to jump from a somewhat meaningless feud with Daniel Bryan to the Money in the Bank briefcase holder doesn’t seem to be in the cards for Rhodes this year.
Kane – Always a threat, and you never know. He did win it last year, so much like The Miz, he could become the second guy to win it twice in a row. Kane seems to be in a holding pattern right now, and I don’t see anything other than a good power spot or two out of him here, no chance he wins.
Sin Cara – He’ll fly off something really high, and hopefully not kill himself or anyone else in the process. If he hits it, it’ll be a great spot for highlight videos. If he misses it…well, it will be par for the course unfortunately. Cara has a long way to go.
Heath Slater – Slater could be a future star, but not this year. I do hope he has a good showing though.
Justin Gabriel – See: Slater, Heath. Same thing here.
So, what do you think? Is Sheamus the odds on favorite as I believe? Or someone else?
Monday, July 11, 2011
Looking at the Raw Money in the Bank Match
Hey all, our apologies, the summer is insanely busy for both Tom and myself, so we’ve had to not post as often as we’d like here at Two Spot Monkeys. But, we’re still popping in from time to time, and hope to get back to a more regular schedule in the very near future, and also hope to have another interview in the future, as it seems the Gabe Sapolsky interview was well received!
Today, I want to take a moment and look at the Raw Money in the Bank Ladder Match this Sunday at the Money in the Bank PPV. I will be back later in the week with a look a the Smackdown MiTB matchup. Here’s the look at Raw’s Matchup, and each competitor (in no particular order)!
First things first, before the competitors, this could be a situation where the Money in the Bank winner cashes in on Sunday night. I could absolutely see them have CM Punk win the title from Cena, and then have the Money in the Bank winner cash in and defeat Punk for the belt. Remember, McMahon said if Punk “left with the title” he’d fire Cena. So, you could do the angle where by the winner getting the title, they effectively save Cena’s job, as well as winning the title. Something to think about for sure!
Now on to the competitors!
Alberto Del Rio – Gotta be looked at as one of the three heavy favorites in this match. Everyone expects Del Rio vs. Cena at Summerslam. So…could Del Rio be the one who wins the title after Punk defeats Cena? If he does, will we see Del Rio as Mr. McMahon’s new “chosen one”, since he will have saved the title from leaving WWE? Could be an interesting way to go. One thing is for sure, I won’t be shocked in the least if Del Rio gets the briefcase, as I expect him to be WWE Champion before the year is out.
The Miz – The Miz winning two years in a row, on CM Punk’s last night (the only other guy to win two in a row) would be fitting and would put The Miz back in the main event mix. However, while I would list him as one of the three favorites, I still think his issue with Riley has legs for a while, so I doubt he gets it.
Alex Riley – They obviously like what they’ve seen from Riley, and so do I. Riley could win it next year, but at this point, no chance I see him winning it this year. I could see him getting really close to having it in his possession though, and having The Miz ruin his chances or something.
R-Truth – Truth seems to be the other of the top three favorites to me, but I expect him to be close and have Kingston or someone stop him, leading to him talking more about the conspiracy against him. I do hope they give Truth at least a one to two month run with the title sometime this year though. He’s earned the right.
Kofi Kingston – Kingston is a guy that they really need to get behind, but I don’t see it happening here. He has the skill set needed to be WWE Champion, and he is a really effective promo when he needs to be. Kingston should be in the favorites category if you ask me, but instead, he’s in the “hey, he’s going to do something really cool in the match, but has no shot at winning” category at this point.
Evan Bourne – Another one who will do a cool spot or two off of the ladder, but no way in the world he’s got a shot at winning this match. I just don’t see Bourne as WWE Champion…ever.
Rey Mysterio – Always a dark horse in these things, but he certainly seems to have been downplayed lately and not a completely featured guy, so I don’t expect him to win it here. But, if I was ranking these in order, he’d come in fourth on my “most likely” list behind Del Rio, The Miz, and Truth.
Jack Swagger – Talk about a guy they just totally dropped the ball with. Won Money in the Bank at Wrestlemania over a year ago, had a forgettable title reign (because they booked him like crap), and this year was the “trainer” for Michael Cole at ‘Mania, and lately has been embroiled in a feud with Bourne. I would love to see a return to the top of the card for Swagger, but I just don’t see it anytime soon.
Come back later in the week and check out my thoughts on the Smackdown Money in the Bank match!
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Tough Enough Thoughts
Well, Andy did it. I thought he might, and as the finale went along, I was more and more sure that they'd go with him. Congrats to him, and here's hoping he gets a shot to make his mark in this business somewhere down the road.
I really liked the profiles they did on Andy and Luke at the beginning of the finale. Didn't really see "another side" of them (other than Luke crying) but we saw that what you see is what you get with both guys. I worried about whether Andy's family would be able to handle the grind, but his wife seems to be 100% on board and understands what it will mean. I hope that's true, and wish them nothing but the best in their future.
I was REALLY disappointed that we only got a highlight clip of the matches each had with Bill DeMott. They had built that up so well, and then to just see the highlights was a big let down. They should have cut some time elsewhere and showed the full matches. From what I've read from Richard Trionfo over at our friends at PWInsider.com it sounds like Andy outshined Luke in the matches with DeMott, so maybe that was why they didn't want to show the full ones. But still. Inexcusable if you ask me.
While I didn't see the slap coming, it didn't shock me...and I don't think there was anyone watching that didn't see the stunner coming from a mile away. I hate that they do that...but knew it was coming.
Now the question is, does Andy go to FCW and get some more seasoning, or do they bring him directly on to a roster and see what he can do there?
So, did they get it right? Was Andy the right choice? I think Luke will get a developmental deal as well...how about you?
I really liked the profiles they did on Andy and Luke at the beginning of the finale. Didn't really see "another side" of them (other than Luke crying) but we saw that what you see is what you get with both guys. I worried about whether Andy's family would be able to handle the grind, but his wife seems to be 100% on board and understands what it will mean. I hope that's true, and wish them nothing but the best in their future.
I was REALLY disappointed that we only got a highlight clip of the matches each had with Bill DeMott. They had built that up so well, and then to just see the highlights was a big let down. They should have cut some time elsewhere and showed the full matches. From what I've read from Richard Trionfo over at our friends at PWInsider.com it sounds like Andy outshined Luke in the matches with DeMott, so maybe that was why they didn't want to show the full ones. But still. Inexcusable if you ask me.
While I didn't see the slap coming, it didn't shock me...and I don't think there was anyone watching that didn't see the stunner coming from a mile away. I hate that they do that...but knew it was coming.
Now the question is, does Andy go to FCW and get some more seasoning, or do they bring him directly on to a roster and see what he can do there?
So, did they get it right? Was Andy the right choice? I think Luke will get a developmental deal as well...how about you?
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