The Realisation That Santa's Not Real...

Recently, I was talking with a good friend about wrestling and how knowing too much (backstage/insider knowledge) was a lot like not believing in Santa Claus anymore. My friend works on local (and national shows) as a Ring Announcer, Manager and also trained to become a performer, too. He admits that as a result he is no longer just a fan. He'd like to be, but it's almost impossible. This is unfortunate, but a result of being a part of 'the show'.

I expressed my frustration at this. I keep up with the goings-on around wrestling (mainly WWE). To a point, I enjoy knowing what happens behind the scenes. A bigger part of me just wants to be a fan. I love wrestling because it takes me away to a make-believe place - or at least it used to.

My earliest memories were back in about 1991 when I used to borrow video tapes from a friend. I didn't have Sky TV back then so had to rely on others for my fix. The first matches I remember were The Hart Foundation's Tag Team Championship loss to The Nasty Boys at Wrestlemania VII - a loss that had me DEVASTATED at the time as I was a huge Bret Hart fan. I believed 100% that they had been screwed out of the titles - I was a kid; I believed in Santa.

Video: Hart Foundation promo (Wrestlemania VII)

I went onto watch Summerslam 1991, where Bret Hart would go onto win the Intercontinental Championship from Mr Perfect - again, I was completely into this match and had no knowledge of any predetermining of it. He would then lose it to The Mountie (wrestling while having a high temperature), before reclaiming it from Roddy Piper at Wrestlemania VIII. Throughout this rollercoaster ride, I completely believed everything that I saw. I was a fan.

Even though I'm English, I was routing for him versus British Bulldog in their match at Summerslam 1992 in Wembley Stadium. Again, I was disappointed with the result; a similar feeling I would have when he lost the WWF Title at Wrestlemania IX to Yokozuna (before Hogan came and shit on the finish). This is the time when wrestling simply disappeared in my life. I'm not sure why but I didn't watch again until 1999.

Wrestlemania XV was the first wrestling that I would watch after my hero had lost back in 1993. A lot had changed; I was now 15 and the main wrestlers were Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock. Throughout 1999 I familiarised myself with what had gone on before - Hogan had left in mid-1993; Bret Hart had had several feuds through the years before being screwed in 1997; Shawn Michaels had risen to main event level and had then been severely injured and had to retire; there was no Repo Man anymore?

Like many of a similar age, I loved the 'Attitude Era'. There was a good level of violence, people turned on partners/allies unexpectedly - anything seemed possible. I found some of the so-called 'worse' angles really good - The 'Higher Power'/Vince/Undertaker angle really surprised me; I was excited for the 'Invasion' angle - it was a dream to have WCW/ECW 'invading' - no, not all the 'stars' of WCW were there, but I think what was left worked well and I stick to my opinion of it - ultimately, it ENTERTAINED me and kept me hooked and wondering what was going to happen the following week - isn't that the whole point?

Around this time, thanks to the internet, I started to get wise to what was going on. I started to know that it was a lot more of an act than I ever thought it could be. This probably started around the time of the Owen Hart tragedy.

I remember watching the Owen Hart Tribute Raw (which I still have on tape), and this brought to the surface of how 'real' wrestling was - heels such as newly turned Triple H were crying at the loss of Owen. I was devastated, too, as he was the brother of my hero and a hell of a performer in his own right. It was on this tribute show that I realised that these guys were human, just like me and you.

This would also be the case with the passing of Eddie Guerrero, Curt Hennig and even Chris Benoit. These guys were part of my childhood and teenage years - they had entertained me massively. In a strange way, you feel like you know these guys through watching them week after week - you go through what they go through. It's a really weird feeling to cry when these guys pass away - I'd never met them but I'd been there through the good and the bad via my TV. I respected what a fantastic show they'd put on.
Video: Classic Eddie Guerrero (last match)

As the 2000's went on, I got wiser and wiser to what goes on behind the scenes. This then led to watching a local wrestling organisation - this is where my friend (from the start of this article) became more and more involved. I was also lucky enough to speak with some of the guys involved with it which gave me more knowledge. My friend continues to work in this environment and enjoys it - massive respect to him. In a way I'm really glad that I only went training with them once... anymore than that and I think I would be in his position of not really being a 'fan' anymore.

Sometimes I worry that I know too much and it is starting to bother me that my enjoyment is being damaged as a result. Because I know of the money side of things - which was always going to become apparent to me as I got older - it really angers me that decisions are made just to make as much money as possible. I fully understand that a business' main objective is to survive by making as much money as it can (I feel like I've said this and defended myself on this matter a million times now!), and the WWE/wrestling is no different. It just bothers me that money seems to be more important than things making sense.

I don't see why wrestling can't make sense AND make a tonne of money. I've said this before, and I've read it again today, that when The Rock, Triple H and Undertaker finally give it up and hang up their boots PERMANENTLY, who's going to be trusted to run with the ball? Because the more these guys keep coming back and main eventing Wrestlemanias in the way that they do, the more the younger guys look weak and second-rate - untrusted would be a great way of putting it. Eventually these guys WILL BE the future, but they won't be seen as a big deal. At all.

This is where the line's blurred for me - I just want to be a fan. I just want to watch the hours and hours of programming they put on for us every week, and enjoy it. It really is as simple as that. I want to watch a match and have the same feeling that I did when I watched Bret Hart vs Mr Perfect in 1991. I want to be caught up in a Match of the Year contender and not worry at all that money is going to play a part in the outcome.

At the moment, wrestling results/outcomes don't make sense, but when they do (if they ever do again) I will be a happy fan again. I will be a big kid again! I just worry that now I know the truth about Santa, things will never be the same again...

@jimmosangle

Royal Rumble rant: The 'Future' Continues To Wait

Ok, I've literally just finished watching The Royal Rumble from last night and I'm livid... don't get me wrong; for once I was excited over a pay-per-view; I was very hopeful that the 'obvious' results wouldn't happen... I was then cock-teased and left disappointed.

The 'Future' has to wait and take a back seat to this shit leading up to 'Mania now.

I'll skim over the results; Alberto Del Rio retained after beating Big Show in a Last Man Standing match - this HAD to be the outcome otherwise the first LMS match would have been for nothing?! Kane and Daniel Bryan (quit the crappy team names) retained over Cody and Damien (quit the crappy team names) - I really thought Cody/Damien would finally get their win here. Instead we got a pretty straightforward title defence that really waters down Cody/Damien's threat to the titles - which is even more of a tragedy as they are/were the biggest and only threats to them titles?!

We saw a clip of the US Championship match between Antonio Cesaro and The Miz that had to settle for being on the pre-show. Obviously, they're not going to take the title off him on a PRE-SHOW match - they might have done it to Santino to give him the belt but there's no way they'll take it from him in such a demeaning way.

I was very hopeful about the Rumble match itself. My balls shrank when SuperCena came through with the win.

And to make matters worse, WWE came up with the ultimate tease when Punk got the three-count over The Rock... only for me to realise that there was 8 minutes left of the show... I thought it was too good to be true - I was right. The biggest travesty was that they took the title away from a 434 day reign with a People's Elbow. A FUCKING PEOPLE'S ELBOW.

So, Wrestlemania will be headlined by The Rock vs John Cena - that's right people; the Royal Rumble winner WILL headline this year. Shock. What a disgrace...

But why am I so surprised? This has been predicted for a while now. But now it's actually happened - this shit became real - it's sickening to think that they have gone down the 'big payday' route instead of thinking about the long term future.

The Rock vs John Cena was meant to be 'Once in a Lifetime' and all that crap, right? But we now have that exact same main event but for the title. The only situation that would warrant another meeting. Convenient. And while these two guys headline another Wrestlemania, the stars of the future - the Dolph Zigglers, Daniel Bryans, Wade Barretts, Antonio Cesaros and even CM Punks - will be in meaningless, shitty undercard matches to fill up the show. When you think of Wrestlemania 29, you'll remember The Rock vs John Cena, probably Triple H vs Brock Lesnar, and whoever Undertaker destroyed. Unfortunately, you won't remember the B-listers that are left waiting in the wings... again!

I think the WWE's take on this will be that there were some positives. I mean Ziggler lasted forty-plus minutes. But Cena still won. And Bo Dallas eliminated the Intercontinental Champion. But Cena still won the match and that's the only thing people will remember.

Is it even worth watching the WWE Title match at Elimination Chamber? Whether it's a straight up rematch between Punk and Rock, or a Chamber match; Rock is walking out the champion still... why would I want to pay money to see that kind of predictability?

Dexter: Season 7 review: Episode 4

Episode 4 - 'Run'
Episode 4 of Season 7 focused further on the Ray Speltzer situation, as well as looking further into Isaac Sirko's continued involvement in matters surrounding The Foxhole (strip club) and the Mike Anderson/Viktor Baskov murders.

In the last episode, Deb asked Dexter to move out of her apartment, as well as Ray Speltzer getting away from the maze-type house that he set up to kill his latest victim.

After having a dream about being in a bloodbath, Deb goes onto ask Dexter about Rita's (Dexter's murdered wife) death. Deb realises that she was murdered because of Dexter - because he was tracking Trinity (John Lithgow, season 4) and then got found out, leading to Trinity knowing that Dexter had a family. This, again, leads Deb to question the well being of Harrison. Later, Harrison goes away to stay with his grandparents and Cody/Aster. This is probably for the best seeing that Isaac knows who Dexter is now.

This is because they (Isaac and George Novikov) have files on Dexter now. They know that he's a 'lab geek' at Miami Metro. They also know that Louis worked there, too. This leads Isaac to believe that the whole of the department might be in on Viktor's death as revenge for Mike Anderson's murder. Isaac devises a plan so that the police will stop bothering them - to get an employee to take the fall for the Mike Anderson murder.

They turn to a bartender, named Alex Dubrozny, a family man to confess to the murders that have taken place in the last few episodes. Isaac does this by guilting him into doing so, so that his family will be looked after. This is the most important thing to Alex, who, it is clear, lives for his family. Alex writes the confession before having a shot of vodka, and finally shooting himself in the temple. This will then lead the police to think that Alex was responsible for the murders, therefore closing the case and leaving Isaac to carry on with 'business'.

Quinn receives a text that informs him that Alex has shot himself. This leads the police to take a look at this crime scene. Dexter explains how things would have gone down. Whilst doing so, he knows that Alex didn't do what he has confessed to and wonders who would have put him up to taking the blame. Batista also gives his opinion on the situation - he doesn't feel that this is as clear cut as it appears. It's too 'perfect' for his liking.

Later, Quinn and Batista talk; Batista is still sure that it's all too good to be true. He convinces Quinn that they should take another look around the club. Quinn agrees but wants to wait until the next day - Batista realises from this that Quinn has a woman involved. It is then admitted that Quinn is seeing Nadia (stripper).

The other situation going on in this episode is that involving Ray Speltzer.

It is revealed that he has been found and arrested - by four police officers! - as a result of this LaGuerta wants a confession from him so that they can charge him. This is done between Batista and Deb; firstly Batista goes in and tries to play 'good cop'; saying that Deb gives him grief all the time and he'd love to take a shot at her given the chance - he gives the impression that he'd love to put a woman in her place, too. He lets Speltzer know that Deb wants to 'get' Speltzer - this interaction is all to rile him up before 'feeding' him to Deb.

'Bad cop' Deb then enters the room after Batista has left. She goes onto relate Speltzer's murders to that of his mother's. Deb sole intention here is to get Speltzer so pissed off that he will tell all - this is achieved when she, as good as, calls his mother a whore. Confession gained.

Unfortunately, this victory is short-lived as LaGuerta shows everyone a DVD of Speltzer being taken down by the police officers. In this, he is basically unconscious when they ask him if he understands his rights. This resulted in the judge throwing out his confession. He is then released.

Dexter decides that his way of doing things is the way forward. He goes to Speltzer's trailer (also on the grounds of the cemetery); he is surprised when Speltzer comes back to the trailer and a fight ensues, leading to Dexter being knocked out. When he comes to, he is in a larger maze-like building, that appears to be Speltzer's greatest achievement. There is a sign for Dexter, which reads 'RUN'. Dexter isn't fazed by this as normally he 'makes people run'. After a chase through the various levels of the building, Dexter manages to escape and make a run for it. The only problem is that Speltzer now knows what Dexter looks like - from now on Dexter has to be very smart about any approaches/attempts.

The next time we see Speltzer is at Melanie's (girl he killed) funeral. As Deb and Batista come out of the church/chapel, Speltzer is at the roadside taunting Deb. This leads her to attack him and verbally take him down. She is filled with rage in this segment.

Revenge is finally gained at the end of the episode when Dexter goes to the cemetery and attracts Speltzer's attention. He leads him to a sign that says 'STAY' - a perfect response to the note left earlier for Dexter. As Speltzer reads this, Dexter sneaks up behind him and smashes him across the back of the head with a shovel, rendering him unconsious.

Speltzer awakens, strapped to a table in the crematorium. Unlike previous rituals, Dexter doesn't take a blood slide as he knows that his 'trophies' have the potential to be found. He explains to Speltzer that he was meant to be how he [Dexter] and Deb came to an understanding about what Dexter does - "who knows - maybe our relationship can arise from your ashes".

After stabbing Speltzer through the heart, Dexter reaches for his box of slides, placing them on Speltzer's lifeless body - "goodbye friends" as he then enters the body and slides into the furnace to burn.

As Dexter looks up at the fumes coming from the top of the building, a car pulls up. As he enters the car, we see that it's Deb who has arrived - as requested by Dexter. He then informs Deb that the smoke is Speltzer:

Deb: "Did you do that for me?"
Dexter: "No. How do you feel?"
Deb: "Glad (she seems disgusted with her response). What does that make me?"
Dexter: "Human".

Other segments;

• Dexter and Hannah McKay have another interaction when she comes into Miami Metro to potentially help with the Wayne Randall case. This is another awkward conversation where more chemistry is hinted at between the two.
• Also, Isaac visits an apartment - presumably Viktor's - where he looks at a framed photograph. He opens the back of it to reveal a picture of him and Viktor. As he starts to weep, he promises to avenge his death.

Summary
This was a good end to the Speltzer situation. Dexter's intention was to show Deb that his 'way' is an option. After the confession was thrown out, it was then left to Dexter to salvage what resulted. It showed that when the law was flawed, Dexter's code (or Harry's code) can come into play to serve justice. This seems to have opened Deb's eyes to this.

Isaac's power of persuasion and authority was shown further here; getting Alex to take the fall for the previous murders. As well as him knowing who Dexter is now, we were shown an unexpected turn of events as it seems that Isaac and Viktor were lovers - we now understand Isaac's motivation for coming to America. This will undoubtedly mean that Isaac and Dexter will cross paths further.

Deb is further conflicted here - it's been a very tough season for her so far. In the bloodbath dream, we see that her feelings towards Dexter are still very much there - she has a wedding ring on and Dexter proposes 'will you be mine'. With all that has been revealed so far, Deb's feelings will come to the surface, too, no doubt.

Film Review: 50/50

50/50 is a film starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Seth Rogen, and deals with Cancer and the events that follow for one young man.

We are introduced to Adam Lerner (Levitt) at the start of the film as he is jogging. He reaches traffic lights, and despite there being no traffic whatsoever, he decides against crossing. This is the most important character trait that Adam has - he is very sensible.

We are also introduced to his best friend, and work colleague, Kyle (Rogen) and his girlfriend Rachael (Bryce Dallas Howard). It appears that they are having problems in their relationship but Adam seems too nice to think that they might be serious enough to deal with. It is evident from his interactions with Rachael that she may be hiding something.

Adam goes to see his doctor, who casually tells him that he has a Neurofibrosarcoma Schwannoma (malignant tumor), before telling him what this is in plain English. After hearing the word 'cancer', Adam is in shock. After being so careful in life and never rocking the boat, how could something so bad happen to him? After researching this, he realises that he has a 50/50 chance of beating it.

This news shocks everyone, and each person responds in the way they feel will help; Kyle is a bit of a joker and he tries to put Adam at ease by wanting to have fun. Later, he also wants Adam to use his condition to pick up women. Rachael agrees that she will look after Adam despite him giving her the option to 'bail' if she wants to. Thirdly, Adam's mum, Diane, wants to protect her child (even though he is 27 years old), smothering him at every opportunity as she panics as to what's best to do.

After being out on a date, Kyle discovers that Rachael is cheating on Adam. He goes to see Adam that night and, in front of Rachael, shows him the photographic evidence of her betrayal. This leads Adam to end things with her. It also contributes to his change in attitude.

On hearing this devastating, life-changing news, Adam starts to doubt the way he lives his life. He has been so careful, never rocking the boat and it's as if he has been punished for this. He decides to take action; after all, he may die so this is now the time to live his life to the fullest.

Additionally, He reluctantly goes to therapy, where he meets his young and inexperienced therapist Katherine (Anna Kendrick). This is where his barriers come down and he is able to say how he feels. This doesn't happen at first as he is very sceptical about attending; especially when he realises that he is only her third patient. Eventually, they get closer and Adam feels he can open up more.

A very important encounter that he has during chemotherapy is with older patients, Alan and Mitch. Alan is probably in his late sixties/early seventies and Mitch a little younger. The three of them form a bond. When Mitch dies, Adam realises that this could very well be his fate, too. Alan doesn't respond well to this situation and doesn't help Adam's view of death.

The line between doctor/patient and friends gets crossed when Adam and Katherine share a car journey to get Adam home. There is an awkward moment between them that shows that there may be something there. Later, after Adam has a tantrum in Kyle's car, he phones Katherine and completely crosses that line when he tells her that he wishes that she were his girlfriend - this is something that seems to make her happy.

In a funny way, this situation that Adam finds himself in is the wake-up call that he needed in his life. He becomes unafraid of situations that he wouldn't have dealt with before: he does drugs (smoking weed with Kyle), he demands to drive Kyle's car (nearly causing an accident in the process!). He also stops accepting how his relationship is with Rachael, and once he finds out about her betrayal, he has no problem not pandering to her anymore. He also takes a chance and tells Katherine that he'd like her to be his girlfriend - something that a straight-edged Adam wouldn't have dared to do.

This film deals with various themes including friendship, reassessing close relationships, grief, and letting go and living life. Really good performances from Levitt and Kendrick, and some comic relief from Rogen in his awkward, try-to-say/do-the-right-thing role!

Jimmo's score: 5/5

@jimmosangle

Fantasy Booking: Royal Rumble Prediction

This Sunday is WWE's Royal Rumble and it sees the Royal Rumble match itself, as well as the WWE Title match between Champion, CM Punk and challenger, The Rock.

The popular belief is that The Rock will walk out of the Rumble with the WWE Championship. Undoubtedly, this is a money making opportunity that probably won't be missed. But what if they were to do something different?

I've had a scenario in my head for a few days now and after The Shield attacked The Rock on Raw, I'm going to go with it. It's a little hopeful and probably won't happen as I'm giving the WWE (and their creative team) far too much credit but here goes:

Oh, I should point out that I feel dirty writing this as I hate, hate, HATE predictions but, as said before, I have had this festering in my head and I need to let it out!

A way of killing three birds with one stone is this;

Let's assume that the WWE Championship match goes on last at the pay-per-view. That way, anything/anyone can screw with this match. I'm thinking that towards the end, The Shield come down, again with the intention of screwing The Rock - and yes, I know that Vince has said that any Shield interference would result in Punk being stripped - on their way down, their three main foes - Ryback, Sheamus and Orton - intercept them and it appears that the score is even. Now this is the point where some have said that Brock Lesnar makes a shocking return. I'm going with something else here.

For starters, Brock isn't 'scheduled' to be back until February/March time. So... in the panic of The Shield being cut off, Orton returns to the ring and RKOs The Rock, leading to CM Punk doing the unthinkable and retaining.

I know this is probably crazy talk - I kind of think it myself - but it keeps the title on Punk; appeases Vince's wish that The Shield don't get involved; and thirdly, it turns Orton heel. I know there are rumours about this happening and I can't think of too many ways that this is going to happen. Screwing The Rock would achieve this. The alternative would be him turning on Sheamus at some point but I'm not sure this will do it - Orton's RKO'd faces before and it's been seen as typical Viper behaviour. Maybe his motivation is that he's not had any opportunities to get to a title match, whereas The Rock just got one out of thin air?

This won't ruin any plans leading up to Wrestlemania either as they have plenty of time to put the title on The Rock (maybe Elimination Chamber) and they can then go with the Orton heel turn with Sheamus/Alberto Del Rio.

Just a thought; I'm glad I got that off my chest!

@jimmosangle

WWE Raw rant 21/1/2013 - Lead to the Royal Rumble

This weeks Raw was the 'go home' show leading to the Royal Rumble (this Sunday, 27th January). It featured The Rock/CM Punk feud and also a Beat the Clock Challenge to determine an individual to pick his Rumble spot.

The show started with Vickie and Paul Heyman coming out to the ring. Although they were showing a 'united front', they both took the opportunity to show the other's song that The Rock sang about them last week. Vickie then caught wind that The Rock had arrived - Vickie had already stated that he would be banned from the arena tonight. This led to a few scenes where Rock would talk to three police officers (indy workers) letting them know that he would get his way into the arena eventually.

Later, CM Punk and Heyman came out to the ring. Punk was carrying his own belt for a change, and this was for a purpose as he went onto say that he holds the championship closer to his heart than most men hold their families. He also referred to it as 'the most prestigious title that the WWE has to offer' - this is a result of him making it prestigious. Agreed. He would then go onto make another valid point - The Rock is here to 'sing songs and tell jokes' whereas Punk is here to 'hurt people and be champion'. Another ace promo from the Best in the World on the mic (making Cena's promo at the end of the show look even more ridiculous!). It baffles me why they leave top level promos like this to when part-timers like The Rock come back - I know it's Wrestlemania season but promos like this make feuds/matches MUST SEE; they should do this the rest of the year.

The last segment between the champion and challenger involved Heyman coming out to the ring by himself (with Punk safely hidden in a private sky box).

Paul explains his job and does some of the usual ass kissing to the champ. Also refers to Rock being 'January's Flavour of the Month'; I really hope he's right there. He also references popular belief that it's a forgone conclusion that Punk will lose at the Rumble. The last few weeks have put doubt in my mind that The Rock will walk away from the Rumble with the belt - a job well done by those involved.

The Rock's music hits and out comes the Great One - with a ticket that one of the cops gave him - Wow, I didn't realise that with a ticket it entitled you to get in the ring and cut a promo?! That's noted for the next time me and my friend go to a show! Some of the usual stuff from Rock before throwing in a few trademark catchphrases and then the lights went out... they then came back onto show The Shield delivering a beating to Rock. After a brief comeback they managed to keep him down and then deliver the triple powerbomb, leaving Rock bleeding from the mouth. The last three weeks have been varied in this feud - week 1 was face to face promo; week 2 a brawl; and now week 3 saw more talk from a distance before adding a potential factor to the Rumble match.

Another main feature of this weeks Raw was a 'Beat the Clock Challenge' where the winner would get to pick their Royal Rumble entry spot. This spotlighted six guys - Ziggler, Sheamus and Orton (World Title contenders), and Barrett, Cesaro and Miz (the best of the mid-card challenge). Despite the loss and draw, Cesaro and Barrett continue to be dominant mid-card champions. Cesaro has been kept strong throughout his US Title reign, and Barrett is heading the same way. It was nice to have a Beat the Clock Challenge where you could see all six guys coming out on top. The usual set-up is to have three favourites against three lower card guys where the outcome is easily predicted. All three matches went 10+ minutes and this was time well spent on these guys. Dolph ended up getting the best time after distracting Sheamus enough in his match, so that the time ran out on him. Unfortunately, Vickie gave him the choice of picking numbers 1 or 2 - possibly a chance to put in a Shawn Michaels/Ric Flair performance? (NB: I miss the Rumble set-ups where they used to have an 'over the top rope challenge' to determine the number 30 spot)

The final build towards the Rumble match was at the end when John Cena came out to stake his claim to winning. He started this promo by talking to a kid close to his age and mental ability. After a long, fast, crazy, stupid, pointless start to this, he eventually got to the point of what he's going to be doing this Sunday. Two questions though: Why didn't he compete in a Beat the Clock Challenge? Does it really matter if he did as whatever position he's in he'll probably win?

After stating he'd win, Sheamus made an appearance to say he'd win. This followed by all the main guys (and a fair few jobbers) coming out to say the same. Commence mass brawl to end the show.

Best of the rest;

• Big Show and Alberto Del Rio both had squashes over jobbers leading into their Last Man Standing match at the Rumble. Not sure the thinking behind having this boring match type again? Basically they both counted to ten; Show in English; Del Rio in Spanish. REALLY liking face Del Rio - this turn was definitely needed.
• Ryback defeated Heath Slater (w/ Jinder/Drew) in about two minutes. This was his first squash in a while and separated the men from the boys leading to the Rumble.
• Diva's division moved on after Eve quit last week: New Champ Kaitlyn was against Alicia Fox in an easy win - watched by Tamina.
• Huge comedy segment with Kane and Daniel Bryan graduating from Dr Shelby's Anger Management course. This stuff is silly as hell but is so entertaining/funny. It's also Kane's lowest point as a monster. If he ever 'snaps' and goes monster heel again, I don't think I can believe it.
• Punk and Heyman run into Vince who informs them that if The Shield interferes in Punk/Rock match then he will be stripped of the title. Hmmm I feel a prediction coming on - urgh I feel dirty!
• Second Hall of Fame inductee: Bob Backlund

@jimmosangle

Dexter: Season 7 review: Episode 3

Episode 3 - 'Buck the System'
The struggle between Deb and Dexter continued again this episode, as Dexter tried to convince Deb that his way of doing things is a viable option.

The episode starts with Dexter in the queue in the Post Office waiting to send something (we later discover that this is the hand/arm from the Ice Truck Killer evidence, that Dexter is going to send to Louis to cause his downfall). Whilst waiting, Dexter imagines the clerk closing the position, which, along with him feeling trapped by Deb at every turn, makes him angry and slash the clerk's throat - this, of course, is part of Dexter's imagination. After imagining stabbing Masuka with a pen (his imagination again), and after having an altercation with a suspect in custody, Deb takes him to one side to see what's going on with him. Dexter then admits that he feels smothered and trapped by her constant watching of him. He admits that he NEEDS her to back off or something bad will happen. Deb agrees to give him space.

Whilst having space, Dexter looks into a previous offender, Ray Speltzer. This is someone that Dexter would like to kill to feed his urges. He starts by stalking Speltzer at the gym. Speltzer is very into his gym session - possibly a sign that he is an aggressive individual.

This situation continues on as Dexter tries to convince Deb that he thinks Speltzer will kill again. If she lets him take care of Speltzer then he can assure her that this will not be the case. Deb disagrees as this is not the 'lawful' way to do things. Dexter argues that if the law had done its job right the first time of asking then Speltzer wouldn't be free, and there wouldn't be this debate. He also informs her that he only kills when he is absolutely sure of guilt.

Despite her disapproval of Dexter's code, Deb goes to LaGuerta to see if they can get a warrant to search the mausoleum (in the cemetery where Speltzer works - this seems to be where he is hiding things). LaGuerta refuses this request, saying that she needs more than just a hunch from Deb's 'lizard brain' - Deb is now using Dexter-isms.

By the end of the episode, Deb goes by Speltzer's place to see if there is any activity. As she is going to leave, she notices flashing lights and goes into investigate further. What she finds out is that Speltzer has a maze-like situation going on in the house, where he is chasing his latest victim. Things don't look good for Deb at one point until Dexter saves the day. Speltzer flees as they find the body of the girl that he has just killed - proving Dexter was right.

Their final interaction of the episode results in Deb asking Dexter to move back to his own place. After the Speltzer incident, Deb realises that both he and Dexter are very similar, almost the same. After all, they both collect trophies of their victims - Dex's blood slides; Speltzer's earrings. She also realises why Dexter does what he does - she doesn't accept it, but she now understands it.

Another situation that developed further in this episode was that of the presence of Isaac Sirko. He has a conversation with Nadia (the stripper who Quinn has shown a liking to); telling her a story about his music teacher that wronged him. This teacher was punished accordingly by Isaac. He then informs her that opera is the only thing left of his 'sensitive side'; giving her a clear warning that he is not to be messed with. He wants her to get close to Quinn and see what she can find out from him regarding Viktor.

This then leads Nadia to admit to Quinn that her bosses want her to find information out from him. They like each other enough to be this honest now. Quinn agrees that they could help each other out - he assures her that he will not let anything happen to her. They kiss as they are both smitten with one another.

Isaac's main concern in this episode is to find out where Viktor has seemingly disappeared to. The dead stripper, Kaja, had a bracelet and they believe that this would have been with Viktor - this must be tracked to find Viktor's whereabouts.

This bracelet is traced and it is discovered that it stopped tracking eight miles out to sea. Isaac denotes that this means that Viktor is dead. The hunt is then on to find the culprit.

Meanwhile, Dexter destroys Louis personally and professionally, first by sending the Ice Truck Killer hand/arm to Lewis/Masuka at Miami Metro - resulting in Masuka firing Louis, and secondly, by sending a dvd of Louis and the prostitute (that Dexter found in the last episode), to Jamie - thus ending their relationship. The destruction of Louis is complete...nearly.

Isaac, George (Novikov) and Isaac's bodyguard track the last whereabouts of the bracelet - and therefore Viktor's killer - to the marina where Dexter's boat (The Slice of Life) is situated. This leads them to Louis, who is sabotaging Dexter's boat. After a conversation with Louis, where he clearly doesn't know who he's dealing with, Isaac gets the name that he needs - Dexter Morgan. During Louis' rant about Dexter, he informs Isaac and co. that Dexter works for Miami Metro. With the relevant information acquired; he shoots Lewis.

• There are two 'first' interactions for Dexter in this episode; first with Isaac Sirko. Neither man knows who the other is - to Dexter, Isaac is just another guy in the strip club. Isaac has no idea that Dexter killed Viktor at this point.
• The second 'first' interaction is with Hannah McKay - the ex-girlfriend of Wayne Randall. She is now running a nursery (plants) and is paid a visit by Dexter and Batista to get a swab of her DNA. This is where there is an awkward moment between them - Dexter drops the first swab that he attempts to enter into her mouth. She seems to find his awkwardness cute and funny.

Summary
This episode developed things further and gave us more information on new characters. Isaac Sirko appeared to be a very powerful man in the previous episode. This episode he was shown to be very dangerous. The sharp suits and British accent make him seem civilised, but there appears to be a vicious side to this newcomer.

It was also the debut of Hannah McKay. She was mentioned, by name, in the last episode by Wayne Randall and we now have a face to go with this. There appears to be a spark between her and Dexter, and this will be interesting to see where this goes.

Deb is still on Dexter's case. This took a new turn as, by the end, she's realised that in some ways he's just like any other killer out there - a frightening realisation for her.

It also appears that Joey (Quinn) could have some problems on his hands, too, as he is prepared to help Nadia from coming to harm in order to find out about Mike Anderson's murder.

The Hair vs Hair Match: The contribution to the 'growth' of a star?

Just recently, I had an impressive beard that I couldn't part with. Bit by bit I have trimmed it down so that it is less imposing. During this time I started thinking of the 'Hair vs Hair' matches that there have been in wrestling history - and yes, as I write this I realise how ridiculous the link is I've just made?!

Background
Traditionally, the Hair vs Hair match has always been there to humiliate the heel in a feud. There have been some exceptions to this rule, but usually the heel will eventually get their comeuppance.

I was surprised to find out that the first notable Hair vs Hair match occurred in the 1950s. This took place on March 12th 1959 and pitted Whipper Billy Watson against the flamboyant and charismatic, Gorgeous George. In this match, George would lose his luscious, blonde locks. This would also be George's fate in a similar match in 1962. I can imagine that at that time, even though it would be seen as a comical match, it would be the height of embarrassment for the loser of such a match, especially someone as vain as Gorgeous George.

The 1970s saw Jerry Lawler and Bill Dundee have a series of gimmick matches. In 1977 Lawler would win two 'Hair vs Hair' matches against Dundee, first shaving Dundee's hair, and then the following week he shaved Dundee's wife's hair; as per the stipulation set. Lawler would get the tables turned on him in 1987, though, as he feuded with Austin Idol (along with a young Paul E. Dangerously (Heyman)). This led to a Steel Cage Match in which Lawler would have his hair cut by Idol, Dangerously and Tommy Rich (who came from under the ring to assist Idol in the victory).

Also in the 1980s, the Hair vs Hair match would be on the 'Grandest Stage of them all' when Roddy Piper faced 'Adorable' Adrian Adonis at Wrestlemania III. The Adorable One would lose his hair here; Piper assisted by Brutus 'The Barber' Beefcake (how fitting!) to carry out the task of making Adonis look hideous.

The last 'Hair vs Hair' match of note that I have found was between Chris Jericho and Kevin Nash on an episode of Raw in 2003. This match/feud had started on the build to an Elimination Chamber match at Summerslam of that year. The reason that Nash had his hair cut in this manner was that he was to appear in a film -The Punisher - and would need his hair short for the role he was due to play.

The two 'Hair vs Hair' matches that I want to focus on are the two I remember most from my time watching WWE programming; Jeff Jarrett vs X-Pac (Summerslam 1998) and Kurt Angle vs Edge (Judgment Day 2002). These are the two where there was the opportunity to change the four individuals destinies in the WWE/wrestling by changing their appearance.

'X-Pac's Justice'
Jeff Jarrett vs X-Pac - Summerslam, 30th August 1998
In the second half of 1998, Jeff Jarrett started to shave people's hair. Coupled with this his manager, Tennessee Lee, had introduced the repackaged Godwinns as 'Southern Justice'.

On the August 17th edition of Monday Night Raw, Jarrett and Southern Justice attacked Degeneration X (Billy Gunn, Road Dogg and X-Pac) during their Street Fight with The Nation. This then started a feud between the two groups. This made perfect sense as it saw Southern Justice feud with The New Age Outlaws (Dogg/Gunn) and saw a singles feud between Jarrett and X-Pac.

On the following Raw (24/8/1998), Jarrett and Southern Justice attacked a cameraman and shaved his head. All of their behaviour would result in a Hair vs Hair match at Summerslam between the two.

On the Sunday Night Heat before Summerslam, Jarrett and co. would shave the head of Ring Announcer Howard Finkel (The Fink). This would result in him accompanying X-Pac to the ring for the resulting match. The match was very good and flowed well - showing what good chemistry the two had - but was probably overshadowed by the IC Title match between The Rock and Triple H, and the WWE(F) Title match between Stone Cold Steve Austin and Undertaker.

Jarrett would lose this match and thanks to help from The New Age Outlaws, Headbangers and Droz - who had had his hair cut by Jarrett -  X-Pac was able to hold Jarrett down to administer his punishment. This feud would then come to an end the following month at Breakdown 1998, where the three members of Degeneration X would defeat Jarrett (with new haircut and ring attire) and Southern Justice in a six-man tag match.

And then?
After this feud, I have heard that Jeff Jarrett's new look was going to be the start of a push up the ladder, maybe resulting in him becoming a main event talent and WWF Champion. As history shows us, this didn't happen. In late 1998, Jarrett formed an alliance/team with The Blue Blazer before it was revealed that that was Owen Hart. The two (along with Debra) would go onto become very worthy Tag Team Champions before the tragic loss of The King of Harts. Jarrett then went it alone, having several feuds over the Intercontinental Championship before leaving for WCW in late 1999.

After this, Jarrett did become a multiple time World Champion; first in his time in WCW, he became 'the man' four times after the 'reboot' by Eric Bischoff and Vince Russo (a friend of Jarrett's) in 2000. He would then go on and be a 'founding father' of TNA wrestling; becoming a multiple time World Champion in that organisation.

X-Pac's career didn't fair as well. After the Summerslam match, he competed mainly for the WWF European Championship, having notable feuds with D'Lo Brown and Shane McMahon. He would go onto team successfully with Kane (winning the Tag Team Championship in the process). He later became one of Triple H's lackeys (again) as Degeneration X reunited to cement his WWF Title reign.

After being part of other groups, such as 'X Factor' - a lead role for him along with Albert and Justin Credible - and WWE's version of the NWO, X-Pac would go onto other ventures on the Indy scene as well as making the odd run in TNA; teaming with his old friends Kevin Nash and Scott Hall. His career would never reach the heights that Jarrett's did.

'Red, White and Bald'
Kurt Angle vs Edge - Judgment Day, 19th May 2002
Kurt Angle and Edge had some great encounters before they met in a 'Hair vs Hair' match. In 2001, along with Christian, they were the best of friends - helping each other in their matches.

In mid-2001, this friendship ended. At the King of the Ring, Kurt was due to fight two key matches - one in the King of the Ring final against Edge. Angle hoped that Edge would be sympathetic to his situation and forfeit the match. He was wrong. Edge went onto become King of the Ring and would have a successful summer during the Invasion angle. Angle, too, would have a productive summer; winning the WWF Championship before joining the Alliance side. During this time, Edge also beat Angle for the WCW United States Championship, before unifying that title with the WWF Intercontinental Championship - a very credible feather in his cap.

The feud between the two in 2002 started just after Wrestlemania 18. Angle was adamant that he was better than anyone on Raw and Smackdown. This resulted in a loss to Edge. This infuriated Angle and after a month of back and forth, they had a match at Backlash. Angle would win this but it wasn't a walk in the park; Edge having several near falls and coming out of this match looking much more of a star.

On the May 2nd edition of Raw, Angle challenged Edge to a Hair vs Hair match. This was a continuation of their feud and also gave them the opportunity to cut Angle's hair through storyline/match as he was naturally receding.

At Judgment Day, this match was another solid showing between the two and, like Jarrett vs X-Pac, was probably not given enough praise due to the rest of the card - WWE Title between Taker/Hogan, Hell in a Cell between Triple H/Jericho, Austin vs Flair/Big Show.

And then?
Kurt Angle would go onto feud with big names such as Brock Lesnar, Chris Benoit and even the legendary Hulk Hogan - who he made tap out to the Angle Lock. Kurt was already a WWE Champion before the Edge feud and would regain that title a few more times in his WWE career. The new bald look was a great look in my opinion. Although he was naturally balding, I think it gave him a new look AND a new intensity. With hair he was the 'American hero/Olympic Champion' - a nicey nice role. Without the hair, had a more believable look as a genuine hard man.

Angle would elevate others along the way; rubbing off on Team Angle (Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Haas), Brock Lesnar and, in 2002, a debuting John Cena.

After leaving the WWE, Angle went to TNA and has had a decorated career there, too. He has won all reputable titles in both organisations and is destined to become a WWE Hall of Famer.

Edge didn't do too badly either from the Angle feud/matches. He was on a great run in mid-to-late-2001 and this continued with his encounters with Angle. As well as other factors, the Angle matches elevated Edge to another level on his quest towards main event status.

Despite a career threatening injury Edge continued to climb the ladder, first continuing his exploits in the Tag Team division, before turning heel and becoming obsessed with the World Heavyweight Championship around 2004/2005. He became the first ever 'Money in the Bank' winner at Wrestlemania 21 and went onto have feuds with Chris Benoit, Kane and Matt Hardy (due to the real life situation between the two and Lita).

Edge finally realised his dream of WWE Title gold when he 'cashed in' his Money in the Bank contract on John Cena in early 2006. He would go onto become an 11-time WWE/World Heavyweight Champion before his career was tragically cut short due to a nagging neck injury that forced him to retire. This was a great loss to the WWE as Edge had been one of the best, most exciting Champions - and heels - that they had ever produced.

Verdict
Although the Hair vs Hair match was, is and always will be a comical match, it contributed to some Hall of Fame careers. Jerry Lawler, Roddy Piper and Gorgeous George are all deserving members of the Hall of Fame - and no, not because they had/gave haircuts! But this type of match is part of their histories.

This will be the case with Kurt Angle, too. Edge is already there (complete with a new, shorter haircut).

The two matches that I chose for my main examples are very contrasting; Edge IS a Hall of Famer, Kurt Angle WILL BE a Hall of Famer. Both were very successful World Champions. Unfortunately, due to other factors, Jeff Jarrett will possibly never be a WWE Hall of Famer. Although going onto have a great career with several World Titles to his name, he'll never get away from the competitive nature of being part of another organisation.

X-Pac's only hope is that he'll be inducted as part of Degeneration X. Although a very talented wrestler throughout the years, Sean Waltman - the real name of X-Pac - never rose to the level that the other three did. He wasn't the one that came out of the Hair vs Hair match with a view to being elevated.

And one last note; Jeff, and especially Kurt - I feel your pain of losing your hair. I stopped fighting the 'recede' a few years ago; it's a better look!

@jimmosangle

WWE Raw rant 14/1/2013 - 20th Anniversary

I've read a lot of reviews that didn't like Raw this week. Personally, I really liked it - not a great show, but a good show with a lot of positives going forward. As far as an 'anniversary' show - this one being the 20th anniversary; it wasn't great. I think people were expecting ALL the stars to come back and this just didn't, and maybe wasn't going to, happen.

The biggest stars of the last twenty years that showed up were, obviously, The Rock, Mick Foley (accepting his Hall of Fame induction), and Ric Flair (as part of the MizTV segment). At the end of the show we were given Mike Rotunda, Jamie Noble, Dave Finlay and Arn Anderson to break up the fight between CM Punk and The Rock. Booker T was there, too, for what it was worth. I was hoping for Max Moon ad Damien Demento.

Others that were expected included Stone Cold Steve Austin, Triple H, Shawn Michaels and Undertaker. I have a feeling that Wrestlemania is a much bigger priority and the latter three will be involved somehow with that, so Raw wasn't half as important in comparison. I wasn't disappointed that they didn't show - I would have loved it but I understand there's a bigger picture in the next three months.

As I said at the start, I felt that this show was good. There were some good segments that were positives for the future. The Shield shared time in the ring with Mick Foley (about to deliver a speech regarding his Hall of Fame induction), although this time was a few seconds before Ryback and co. came and made the save, it was still nice that The Shield can interrupt anyone - fellow superstars or even Hall of Famers.

As stupid and comedic as the Ric Flair/Miz/MizTV part was, again I felt it was good for Miz and Cesaro to have that interaction with the sixteen-time World's Champion. Ric Flair was going to be on this show so who should he have 'given the rub to' instead? With the amount of ring time that Miz has had lately, he could do with any pat on the back that he can get from returning legends.

Another positive that I'll take from this Raw was the encounter between Wade Barrett and Randy Orton. I fully expected the usual Orton win (as he's a World Title contender and Barrett is the mid card Champion) but to my surprise, Barrett pulled out the clean win. As much of a surprise as this was, it also made sense; Barrett could do with a big scalp like this to contribute to a strong IC Title run. It won't hurt Orton at all at this stage. Yes, he wants to be World Champion again, but that's not going to happen anytime soon - firstly, he NEEDS the rumoured heel turn. I can see this happening at the expense of Sheamus (maybe at the Rumble?), and then maybe we can talk about World Title expectations. So from now until the Rumble (or whenever they hope to achieve a heel turn), it really doesn't matter who they job him out to.

Alberto Del Rio continues to grip my attention. It's really refreshing to see him, with the World Title, and against Big Show. In the last few months, it's seemed that Smackdown only had two stars - Show and Sheamus - but since his face turn, Del Rio has a new lease of life. This is a side of him that we haven't seen before. It looks as though he has a Mexican version of Daniel Bryan's chant on his hands, too (Si! Si! Si! Si! Si!). After the spoiler of him winning the World Title last week, I was apprehensive as to how they were going to pull this off and make it look believable. After watching it for myself, I found myself enthralled in this match - I believed.

The opening segment of Raw involved Del Rio and Big Show setting up the rematch at the Rumble. It was also nice to see that they started the show with the boss (Vince) and the longest serving (full time) active member of Raw (Show). Even though this is the case, Vince still wanted to be called 'Mr McMahon'! I remember Vince telling Show off at Wrestlemania 15 and that ended very differently that night.

There was a Steel Cage match between John Cena and Dolph Ziggler. This had the usual outcome of a Cena win. As great as these two have been the last couple of months, this feud now needs to end. I know there are people that believe that wins and losses don't mean anything, but Ziggler cannot keep losing to SuperCena. Instead of him becoming a credible threat, Ziggler is constantly being put in his place - beneath Cena. It makes no sense to have a feud this one sided. The only time Ziggler has been victorious is because AJ messed it up for Cena. Apart from this, Cena has kicked out of Ziggler's best moves EVERY week.

Best of the rest;

• Obviously, there was the 'Rock Concert'. This is reduced to a bullet point as it was just Rock being his usual jokey self. The Paul Heyman song didn't really do it for me but the Vickie Guerrero 'Horrible Tonight' tribute was pretty funny. It was nice to have a brawl at the end as these guys can't keep having epic promos every week. I like how Rock keeps counting the days down in his promos, telling Punk 'time's up'. It's good that people KNOW when the pay-per-view is due to simple plugging.
• Kane and Daniel Bryan provided the top comedy moments of the night. This edition of Raw saw the return of Dr Shelby for their four month assessment. This broke down when he brought Cody and Damien in to 'test' Kane/DB; Shelby getting Kane/DB to 'get' Cody/Damien when he couldn't contain his own anger! Looking forward to the Tag Title match at the Rumble as we should now get new (and deserving) champions.
• Diva's Championship finally changed hands after a four month rivalry. This was a change that was definitely happening as it was reported that Eve was 'retiring' from wrestling/WWE. Maybe this forced WWE's hand in giving the title to Kaitlyn. Either way, hopefully we'll get some new women coming up from the ranks/NXT and we'll have some matches that'll catch the attention. This division is at an all time low so the only way is up.
• I think I'm being very hopeful if I think there's a chance that Brodus Clay will go down the route of being a '400lb Monster' anytime in the future. Fingers crossed. Keep the Funkadactyls about though...
• ALWAYS good to see two legends from when I was a kid - The Rock and Sock Connection in fine form. Foley copying Rock's catchphrases as in 1999/2000. Great line when Foley replied to Rock's 'Trust me'; 'You Rock Bottomed me last year?' - Rock blew this off with a very true statement about today's fan's memories; 'Nobody remembers that!'.
• Special shout out for one of the 20th Anniversary's flashbacks - Stuttering Goldust! I remember absolutely pissing myself at them skits with him in. Dustin Runnels, you legend!

Prediction for the Rumble: Sheamus to eliminate all three 3MB members. Then, he, Orton and Ryback take care of The Shield, followed by and Orton/Sheamus altercation.

Dexter: Season 7 review: Episode 2

Episode 2: Sunshine and Frosty Swirl
Episode 2 starts, as the first episode did, with Deb and Dexter. This time there has just been a new development in that Deb has now found out that Dexter is a serial killer. Wow, it's like Christmas for her with all these lovely 'presents' that she's unwrapping!

They talk at various times throughout the episode and Deb comes to the conclusion that Dexter is like a drug addict. The way in which a drug addict would confront their addiction would be to go to rehab - in Dexter's case this will be by moving in with Deb so that she can keep an eye on him and help him to stop his urges. It's amazing that what she has found out recently hasn't led her to do the 'right thing' and arrest Dexter - luckily she 'loves' her brother - this to be dealt with in other episodes.

Whilst at Deb's they discuss why Dexter does what he does. She also questions why she is helping her brother. A very confusing situation for her - she also tries to compare them to other families and hopes that there are some that are 'more fucked up' than theirs. That would take some doing, I think.

Also, Deb lays down the law to Dexter as well as setting a first rule that Dexter has to abide by: total honesty/trust. This is instantly broken as Dexter drugs Deb's food so that he can sneak out to target Louis and his questionable intentions towards Dexter.

This leads onto the two other notable interactions that Dexter has in this episode; the first is with Louis (Masuka's intern; Jamie's boyfriend). Louis is very upset that Dexter wasn't a fan of his serial killer game, and this is his reason behind wanting to ruin Dexter. He really doesn't know who he's messing with here...

Dexter breaks into Louis' apartment to look for clues as to what he is up to. He instantly finds a slip of paper that has Dexter's credit card details on - revealing that Louis was the one that cancelled them. He also discovers Louis' ideas/videos on his laptop (as well as a revealing clip of a prostitute going down on him). He also sees the lengths that Louis will go to in order to get what he wants - previously, Louis ruined a businessman to gain access to his company. This section ended when Louis arrived home and Dexter ambushed him wanting answers. Once Louis admitted that he was upset that Dexter didn't like his game, Dexter told him that he never wanted to see him again. Louis agrees that this will happen. Problem solved as far as Dexter is concerned...

The second notable interaction that Dexter has is with a new character, Wayne Randall. Randall is a serial killer (also prisoner) that decides to aid the police in finding bodies that were previously not discovered. Each time that Dexter arrives at this scene, he and Randall speak. There seems to be an ease about this - they are both killers after all, so this is a comfortable exchange for Dexter. It's almost as if Dexter can relate to Randall; maybe even try to learn from his predicament.

Towards the end of their exchanges, Randall admits to 'surrendering' to his situation. This is something that Dexter thinks about. Randall also mentions a 'Hannah' (Randall's accomplice?) and how he felt 'alive' around her. Maybe she will come into play soon? Randall finishes this segment by saying that 'the clock has run out' and that there is 'one more person to kill' before throwing himself in front of an oncoming truck. Dexter is left with a splatter of blood across the face as a result.

The Mike Anderson murder picks up more pace this episode, too. Quinn and Batista shut down the Foxhole again in an attempt to get information from anyone that is willing to help. One such stripper, Nadia, is questioned by Quinn, who with his reputation, seems to take a shine to her straightaway.

Connected to this is the arrival of Isaac Sirko - the leader of the Koshka brotherhood. He first turns up in George Novikov's office at the Foxhole and you can instantly tell that he is a man of authority. Novikov cowers to him and tries to explain Viktor's disappearance after Isaac informs him that he never made his flight back to Kiev. To showcase that he is a man not to be messed with, Isaac (and bodyguard) pay a visit to a former employee of theirs - Tony Rush - that was seeing the dead stripper from the first episode. After questioning him about what he might/might not have said to the police, Isaac stabs him through the eye, killing him, before leaving. Clearly Isaac Sirko is going to be a dangerous man in this season.

Capt. LaGuerta has an outside forensic department take a look at the blood slide that she found. The results come back that the blood on that slide belongs to Travis Marshall. This leads her to look back at the evidence of the Bay Harbour Butcher case and realise that this slide matches those from that case - all meaning that the Bay Harbour Butcher is still at large.

Summary
A good second episode that continued the focus on Deb's confusion and conflict with what she has just discovered. Everything she thought she knew has been turned upside down in the last two episodes.

We now have Isaac Sirko on American soil and things appear to be heating up as far as a major threat to Dexter go - he might be having to deal with a whole brotherhood of foes in the coming episodes. Also connected to the Mike Anderson murder is Quinn's involvement with Nadia in his quest to find out what's happening at the Foxhole.

And finally, LaGuerta appears to be on Dexter's trail (although he doesn't know this yet). After her relationship with Doakes, she will stop at nothing to get to the truth surrounding the true identity of the Bay Harbour Butcher.

WWE Raw rant 7/1/2013

The first Raw of 2013 shaped up to be a memorable one as it saw the return of The Rock. It also saw CM Punk's return to action after the 'injury' he acquired on the lead up to TLC in December. This would be in a TLC match for the WWE Championship against Ryback - the man that caused Punk to miss action in the last month.

There were two main talking points from Raw this week;

John Cena and Dolph Ziggler
As he had the last laugh of Raw in 2012, it was only fitting that John Cena be first out for the first Raw of 2013. He started out by letting everyone know what they could expect on the show; the TLC, WWE Title match between CM Punk and Ryback and, of course, the return of the 'Captain of Team Bring It', The Rock. He then went onto stake his claim to winning the Royal Rumble.

This then led to Dolph, AJ and Big E Langston to come out to confront Cena. Things broke down very quickly into a typical Cena comedy routine, where wiener jokes were the order of the day. This led to a Mexican wave... that audience should be ashamed of themselves. Dolph cut this short to, rightly, say that everytime Cena gets beat he simply laughs it up. It's all a big joke to him.

I have to completely agree with Dolph. It's really weird that in the last year and a half it seems that the heels are the ones telling the truth. Normally a heel should only BELIEVE their own bullshit, not actually SPEAK the truth. It's gotten to the point where I would say that Ziggler, following on from Punk, is saying exactly what we're all thinking. There seemed to be a hint of actual annoyance in his voice that Cena doesn't take things as serious as he should.

This is probably a big reason why people boo Cena so much. Surely this is all giving the wrong message to WWE's target audience? Cena's message seems to be that it's ok to be a loser, because if you're in the boss' pocket then your position is guaranteed. This is an awful message to be sending out. The other message being sent out here is that the lying, sneaky, cheating heels are telling you the truth (Punk in June 2011, Ziggler now). A heel's job is for you to hate them - not to sympathise with them; not to want them to get revenge on the face. Yet, with Cena's laugh-it-off attitude all the time, I'd love to see Ziggler get one over on him. He deserves it.

Anyway, this segment ended with Cena wanting to fight. Big E took the mic, to say his first words on WWE TV - agreeing that Dolph would fight Cena there and then. This seemed to upset Dolph and AJ - maybe something that will cause the break-up of Big E from them somewhere down the line. The match went as expected, with Cena kicking out of ALL of Dolph's best - the Zig Zag and the newly acquired Superkick - before hitting a AA for the win. Back to same old, same old then. Big E got involved in this match to try to help Dolph win, hitting his Big Ending finisher. Something I don't understand is - after the various attacks/finishers on him; why doesn't Cena want revenge on Big E at all?

The Rock and CM Punk
This was the segment that had everyone's attention. Punk came out first. It was noted that he has held the title longer than anyone in Raw history - I think that's a worthy thing to note going into the Rumble match against an icon. Punk explained the true meaning of a 'pipebomb' - Honesty; Truth. He also admitted to selling out - or in his case, cashing in on popularity.

Next was name dropping; saying that John Cena can have an awful year - as he did in 2012 - and it doesn't matter; he'll still get title shot after title shot after title shot. Daniel Bryan is a submission expert that puts a smile on his face to please everyone. Brodus Clay is a 400-pound monster that dances for everyone's enjoyment. He even mentioned that the invisible Little Jimmy has a better spot on Raw than a 'workhorse' like Tyson Kidd. These were all valid points as to what you have to do to be 'popular'.

Punk then went onto mock legends such as Flair, HBK and Edge, who all said they performed for the enjoyment of the fans. This is something that Punk has never done - he has always done what he has done for himself - 'you don't get to win!' was then repeated until The Rock made his entrance.

The Rock started off, and continued here and there, to be his usual jokey self. When talk got serious, so did he though. Rock gave huge credit throughout for Punk's 414 day title reign. He also recognised him as a major threat. Other statements that were clearly designed to give credit where credit is due was when Rock said that Punk has one of the most creative minds in WWE history. He followed this up by saying that when he became the WWE Champion, he also became the biggest jerk the world has ever seen. Great respect shown here.

Things got really serious towards the end of this segment, as they were face to face in the centre of the ring. After Rock had done his obligatory catchphrases ('Finally...', 'It doesn't matter...' etc) he told Punk that he can't stop him becoming the WWE Champion at the Royal Rumble. Punk responded by saying that Rock can keep coming at him with his catchphrases and jabs, but they won't mark the champ's face - 'I'm going to kick your ass' - short, simple and to the point.

The line of the segment was when Punk told Rock that his 'arms are too short to box with God'. Raw finished with a bang as Rock delivered a Rock Bottom.

This interaction was the best that has happened since the Rock/Cena program last year. Although throughout the year Punk has gotten on the mic and delivered the best promos around, he's never gotten as serious since the infamous first 'pipebomb'. Before The Rock came out Punk delivered some more home truths a la June 2011; unfortunately this wasn't as controversial as he wouldn't have had as much 'creative control' over what he said here.

It was interesting what he said about the likes of Daniel Bryan, Brodus Clay and Tyson Kidd though - Kidd, especially, should be on Raw more often but I suppose hasn't quite got what WWE is looking for in him. DBryan and Brodus do what they need to get popular and stay on TV. Shame things aren't different.

It was also nice that Rock gave Punk credit for his title reign, as well as giving him props for what he has accomplished in the last year and a half. This feud is only going to get better in the next few weeks.

Best of the rest;

• The TLC match between Punk and Ryback went as expected; I get the feeling they might have gone with what they would have done at TLC (ppv). After it looked as though Ryback couldn't be stopped at the top of the ladder; the lights went out... seconds later they were back on again and The Shield (Ambrose, Rollins and Reigns) were up the ladder, attacking Ryback (again). This all led to a triple powerbomb through a table and onto the steel entrance steps. Punk obviously retained. Some good spots in this match - mainly Punk being launched or suplexed into the ladder, or going through a table. Ryback vs The Shield continues going into the Rumble.
• Cody and Damien (Team Rhodes Scholars) got a much needed win against the Tag Champs (DBryan and Kane). I think if they'd have lost again then that would have been the end of their threat. Hopefully there will be a title match at the Rumble and Cody/Damien can get what they deserve. Finally.
• Orton and Sheamus both destroyed 3MB (separately). The only hint of the dissension from Smackdown was when Orton got interviewed and Sheamus was mentioned as a threat at the Rumble. Orton didn't seem to like this.
• After his match with Orton, and against Miz on Smackdown; are things looking up for Heath Slater (and 3MB)?
• Wade Barrett with a simple enough win over Santino. Ricky Steamboat was in Santino's corner - will this lead to another return of The Dragon? After his showing against Jericho a few years ago, it might not hurt to...
• Cesaro with another IMPRESSIVE Neutraliser on Khali. After, they fuelled the possible Miz feud.
• I didn't realise that the Eve/Kaitlyn angle has been going 4 months now. Please end it and move on.
• Kofi was back to jobbing; losing in under 30 seconds to World Champion Big Show. I know they need to make Show look strong but they could've done that with anyone - not a guy that is/has had a decent feud with Barrett over the Intercontinental Title and could do with elevating. Sorry Kofi, your stock just lowered a little there...

You can look out for more of my posts here on my blog, or follow me on Twitter @jimmosangle

MORE Hope vs What We Know

I've just read an article from a wrestling source that I frequently use and it has really bothered me. This isn't the first time that an article from this particular site has annoyed me, but this time it screams stupidity.

The jist of it was that Sheamus should have another World Title match against Big Show at the Royal Rumble. The person who wrote this article HAS seen Smackdown and still comes to this conclusion.

This hope/prediction was made even though Sheamus has announced that he is to enter the Rumble on January 27th. It's also been made when there seems to be a little dissension between Sheamus and fellow Rumble entrant Randy Orton. This is also on the back of rumours that Orton will turn heel at some point at the start of 2013. Now I know that plans can change but his announcement, followed by a misunderstanding between the two of them on Smackdown should point towards something happening at the Rumble (in the Rumble match) that will cause further conflict/contribute towards an Orton heel turn.

Another reason why ANOTHER match between Sheamus and Show shouldn't happen is because they have already had THREE pay-per-view matches in a row and Sheamus has still not regained the title in any of  them - TLC (Chairs match) being the 'blow-off' to the feud. So, despite Sheamus beating Show on Smackdown/Raw in the last couple of weeks - mainly to keep Sheamus strong after his pay-per-view outings - another match at the Rumble will be robbing paying customers of their ppv fee.

It looks as if they are going to have a 'nothing' match between Big Show and Alberto Del Rio at the Rumble anyway - Del Rio has just turned face and has had a couple of run-ins with Show in the last couple of weeks. The Rock vs CM Punk, along with the Rumble match itself will sell the pay-per-view, so there is no need to add anything special World Title-wise.

The bottom line is that the information is there for us to see; After three outings Big Show remains the WHC; Sheamus has announced that he is entering the Rumble match; Orton and Sheamus showed signs of a disagreement and this will, undoubtedly, be explored further in the coming weeks. It's time for new challenges to come Big Show's way.

Use information presented to us all instead of hope.

Dexter: Season 7 review: Episode 1

Episode 1 - "Are You...?"
The first episode started with a recap of the 6th season - going over Travis Marshall and the Doomsday killings, Louis and his serial killer game that he pitches to Dexter, Deb's feelings towards Dexter and, of course, the ending of season 6 where Deb catches Dexter as he plunges a sword through Travis' heart.

This episode followed on from that season finale and mainly focuses on what Dexter has done, and Deb's attempt to try and understand what she has just seen. There are several back and forths between the two, where Deb throws questions at Dexter on how he was so prepared to carry out the act. Later, Deb looks through evidence from the Ice Truck killer's case as she tries to make sense of things. She can see a link between the way the Ice Truck killer had restrained her on a table of plastic wrap, and the way that Dexter had Travis Marshall on the table (even though the Ice Truck killer - Brian Moser - had been imitating Dexter).

Alongside this, there are a few flashbacks of when Dexter and Deb are kids; Deb receives a puppy as a present, which gets Dexter on edge. These flashbacks result in the puppy having to be given back as Harry (their dad), is worried that Dexter will have the urge to kill the puppy. Ultimately, Harry and Dexter have a conversation about Dexter telling Deb the truth about himself. Harry explains that if Deb ever found out what Dexter does/is then she would be mortified and she would not look at Dexter in the same way again.

New developments in this episode were that of Mike Anderson being shot dead after accidentally stumbling on a dead stripper in a broken down car. This leads Dexter to go on the hunt of the killer - a Ukrainian gangster, Viktor Baskov.

Dexter works his magic through the databases available to him and catches up with his man at the Miami International airport (This sequence was also the opening to this episode where it was assumed that Dexter was going to flee the country after his sister catching him in the act of murder). Here, Dexter has to change his methods sightly, and kills Viktor to avenge the death of Mike Anderson and to satisfy his cravings.

Connected to this is that the dead stripper (Kasia Soroka) is linked back to the club that she works at - The Foxhole - where Batista and Quinn investigate and speak with the club's manager, George Novikov. After this initial meeting, Novikov calls his boss in the Ukraine, Isaac Sirko, to let him know that the police have nothing to connect this situation to Mike Anderson's murder. He also informs him that Viktor (Baskov) is on his way home to the Ukraine. Sirko seems happy about this. Sirko seems like he is a powerful man.

Another interesting discovery in this episode was that of LaGuerta finding the blood slide from the Travis Marshall crime scene that Dexter had accidentally dropped into a vent. This led her to speak with Masuka about who takes blood slides; Sgt Doakes - The wrongly labelled Bay Harbour Butcher - is the answer that Masuka gives. This gets LaGuerta thinking; she then takes the blood slide from evidence.

This episode ends with Dexter getting home to find that Deb has trashed the seating area looking for clues, as she knows something is not right. On display are Dexter's slides and knives. Busted. Deb asks if he killed all them people, along with the most important question: Are you...are you a serial killer? Dexter answers 'yes'.

Summary
A great start to the new season. The biggest reveal to date is that of Deb finding out that Dexter kills - although up until the end it was just assumed that it was a one off. Dexter now has a lot of explaining to do!

The loss of Mike Anderson isn't a great one as he wasn't in the show for a long time and was pretty much a generic cop character. His death has started up what looks to be the start of what will occupy season 7. It also potentially brings a very dangerous threat to Dexter's safety and survival. LaGuerta's find will also bring something new to the table as she'll undoubtedly question how a blood slide could be present if the Bay Harbour Butcher is no more.

WWE Main Event 2/1/2013 & Antonio Cesaro

This week, Main Event again focused on the mid-card heel champions; United States Champion Antonio Cesaro and new Intercontinental Champion Wade Barrett.

After last weeks battle royal to determine a new number one contender - Great Khali - the stage was set for Cesaro to defend against his biggest challenger to date. Both had videos highlighting their talents before the match started; showing both Cesaro's lengthy reign and Khali's past and 'worth' to his country - India. There were also several references to his World Title reign a few years ago. I suppose they needed to show that Khali could be a serious threat here.

I was quite glad that after this match they hinted towards putting Miz in a feud with Cesaro. Finally we'll get to see Cesaro defend against someone that has actually done something in their WWE career. This is on the back of Cesaro beating Santino (comedy character) to capture the title, Brodus Clay (comedy character), Zack Ryder (jobber) and R-Truth (I'm not a fan). The only person that has given Cesaro a real run for his money has been Justin Gabriel. This was probably more so to get Gabriel up the ranks. Most of these matches, and especially his pay-per-view matches, haven't even gone 7 minutes each.

A competent challenger hasn't entered the scene yet. This all has made Cesaro look a dominant champion. I'd go as far to say that his title reign is becoming as prestigious and important as CM Punk's. The problem that is arising, as with Punk's situation, is that there is no worthy challengers about (apart from movie stars).

The longer Cesaro squashes everyone along the way, the more apparent the problem becomes that there are no contenders for him to face. This is why they need to get a good run out of a Cesaro vs Miz feud. Miz needs this, too, as since his face turn he has done nothing apart from brown-nose the crowd and talk a hell of a lot (whether it be on MizTV or on commentary on Main Event).

Another potential contender that has been mentioned along the way is a returning, repackaged Jack Swagger. I'm not sure how this would work as he had such a bad run the last time out that he needs a great build, and maybe even a miracle, to get him to be a genuine threat again. The only thing that we can take from Cesaro's promos is that 'no American can beat him for the title' - this surely points towards an American eventually beating him somewhere down the road.

Anyway, as predicted, Cesaro beat Khali in the main event of Main Event. This started with Khali showing dominance before Cesaro worked on the legs. A little more power (from Khali) and leg work (Cesaro) eventually led to a very impressive Neutraliser. Not a bad match considering Khali's size and lack of talent/moves. The positive that can be taken from this is that Cesaro picked up the biggest man in the company (apart from Big Show) for his finisher. Another feather in his cap.

The Wade Barrett/Kofi Kingston feud also continued on Main Event. Kofi coming down for an interview on losing the Intercontinental title. This was interrupted by Barrett who said that to show how dominant he can/will be, he would compete in a gauntlet match against anyone in the back. Now bare in mind that this is Main Event so the talent backstage weren't going to be world beaters...

This was proven as Barrett made short work of Yoshi Tatsu and JTG. His third opponent - Justin Gabriel - caused more of a problem. He lasted longer than Tatsu and JTG combined (and some) before falling victim to the Bullhammer. The forth opponent was none other than Kofi himself, who disposed of Barrett in about a minute and a half. Well it was either going to be him or him messing it up for Barrett?! (NB: Title rematch to happen on Smackdown)

From this feud, I hope we get a decisive Barrett victory that then gives Kofi the chance to go for a World Title. This is a great opportunity for them to go that way; either that or they give him the IC title for the fifth time and solidify him as a permanent fixture in the mid-card. Barrett just needs to bide his time while the World Title picture is taken up by Show, Ziggler, Del Rio(?) and Sheamus. His time will come though.

Two matches announced;

• Punk's knee is 'officially' ok (WWE doctor Touted) so on Raw it will be: WWE Championship - TLC match - CM Punk vs Ryback
• Next week on Main Event: Sheamus vs Dolph Ziggler (w/ AJ & Big E); presumably Big E will give the beating to Sheamus instead of The Shield this time?

WWE Raw rant 31/12/2012 - New Years Eve

This weeks Raw was more back to normality. It was always going to have a New Years theme surrounding it but set a few things up nicely heading into 2013.

It was announced by everyone's favourite talkshow host, The Miz, that it would be a 'Champion's Choice' night, in which all the champions would choose their opponents. Ok, so with a majority-heel champions list, I wondered who they'd 'challenge' themselves with?

My feelings were right as Eve picked a returning, 89 year-old, pregnant again (yep, it's 1999 all over again) Mae Young. This didn't happen though due to Mae's pregnancy and Eve had to settle for a beating from Kaitlyn. Again (sigh).

The US Championship match saw Antonio Cesaro beating American hero Sgt. Slaughter and getting some good heat for beating the Sarge in Washington DC. The Big Show also made us think that his title reign was in doubt when he picked the dangerous Ricardo Rodriguez to be his challenger for the night.

This segment will, obviously, be forgotten for the match itself. A positive that did come out of this was Alberto Del Rio - offering his support to Ricardo before the match and also giving appreciation to him for always being there for him. This was then backed up by him admitting that he had treated Ricardo like dirt and this was not on - nobody, including him [Alberto] should treat RR like dirt. This seemed really heartfelt and, for me, has solidified Del Rio as a face. I thought it was a little easy for the WWE to just put Del Rio as Miz's partner at TLC but this interaction on Raw has swayed it for me now. It's something NEW and POSITIVE leading into 2013. Added to this, they'll probably go with a Big Show vs Del Rio angle now.

Another title match on 'Champions Choice' Raw saw Kane/Daniel Bryan defend the Tag Team Championships against 3MB members Heath Slater and Drew McIntyre. A simple enough win for Kane and DB when Daniel pinned Drew after a flying headbutt.

The Champion who decided to challenge himself the most was Kofi Kingston. Backstage, while Kofi was asking if Sheamus was ok (after the beating he took from The Shield earlier in the night), Wade Barrett came up and goaded Kofi into giving him the match for the Intercontinental Title. Kofi could've picked Hornswoggle or Little Jimmy (again, sigh), but he did the right thing and gave Barrett the rematch from TLC. In what was probably the match of the night - due to it being a serious title match instead of a joke booking - Barrett delivered the Bullhammer to Kofi for the much deserved win and change of champion. Barrett Barrage picking up pace going into 2013.

The main event of the evening saw a 'New Year's Toast' conducted by Dolph and AJ (of course, accompanied by Big E Langston). Throughout this, Dolph questioned the WWE Universe's decision to vote John Cena the Superstar of the Year. This followed by Dolph listing the achievements that John has accomplished in 2012; The build up and LOSS to The Rock; Lesnar kicking his arse on the Raw after Wrestlemania; John Laurinaitis PINNING Cena at Over the Limit; Cena being the first to cash MITB in and LOSE and, of course, Cena's latest PPV outing - LOSING to Dolph in the ladder match at TLC.

Cue John Cena coming out for the toast. And John being John and such a great guy; admits that Dolph is right. He then goes on to defend himself and basically challenge Dolph to step up in 2013. This was a really good interaction between the two and is a great way to kick Dolph up the arse going into the new year. It was then finished off with Dolph and AJ being covered in shit to finish the show. Happy New Year!!

Other Raw highlights;

• Punk made the usual appearance while his knee 'gets better'. This week he brought out his own doctor to assure people of the legitimacy of his injury. Vince then made a SHOCKING (as always) appearance to doubt this and say that Punk will compete against Ryback next week on Raw, and if he doesn't the Heyman will take his place instead.
• Sheamus took a beating from a returning Shield this week. Later in the show, The Shield were confronted by Ryback, Sheamus, and a returning Randy Orton. There's six entrants for the Rumble then...
• Maddox was put in his place the best way that Heyman knows how.
• Vickie farted.

Happy New Year... and I'll say it again, as I did last week; next weeks Raw should be completely back to normal!

@jimmosangle