Looking Forward To Wrestlemania 31

Last night, I could have gone to a local wrestling show. After a conversation with a good friend of mine earlier in the week, I convinced myself that my time (and money) would be better suited to doing something that I wouldn't be tearing my hair out over... as easy as it is to get material from the wrestling show in question, I felt that the time had come to move on to things more worthwhile. Instead I went to the gym - one of my new favourite things - as well as doing one of my other, fairly new favourite things: listening to podcasts.

Whilst in the gym, earphones in, I listen to the likes of Steve Austin, Chris Jericho and, my choice this time around, Jim Ross. On this particular episode, he would again refer to the potential Wrestlemania scenario of Brock Lesnar dropping the WWE title to Roman Reigns in a 'passing of the torch'. Although this seems to be the general consensus amongst those in and around wrestling, I can't help feeling that this can't be the only option. For one, I'm still not sold on Reigns being the 'chosen one' just because that's what they want us to believe. He's got a long, long way to go and we're four months away from the biggest show of the year.

JR would also say, as he has done for weeks, that Lesnar's contract might be up right after 'Mania which, inevitably, will do the rounds and become common knowledge, thus confirming the outcome of any such meeting with Reigns at that show not only to smart-ass fans, but everyone else, too. I got thinking about other possibilities and almost came up with half of the card that could be a better option in the long term. I haven't banged on about 'the future' for a while on my blog as WWE seemed to be heading in the right direction with regards to that; finally giving Daniel Bryan his big win, making Bray Wyatt a bigger player (despite the Cena feud), and having all three members of The Shield have relevance as individuals.

The matches below are just some of my ideas that will, hopefully, help following Wrestlemania:

Rusev vs. Randy Orton

This might be a weird match to see but the alternative that is being talked about for Rusev doesn't sound good in the slightest. Rumour has it (as it always does) that Rusev is on his undefeated streak that will lead to a program, and match, with the mighty John Cena at Wrestlemania. Admittedly, that sounds great; a top opportunity for Rusev to step up to the next level and all that. But I really worry for Rusev after this because, in my mind, he's definitely losing that one. It's the ultimate 'Russian guy has been tearing through the roster; who can possibly stop him?... if there's anyone that can, it's John Cena!'. I know that there are those that say that wins and losses don't matter, but in situations like this THEY DO. If Rusev beats Cena then that is a huge feather in his cap as nobody ever beats Cena. Ever. It elevates him. But if he loses then he potentially gets thrown on the scrap heap like everyone else that had an undefeated-something against Cena: please Google Muhammad Hassan and Chris Masters' Masterlock Challenge for examples.

I'm not saying that them two guys were ever going to be top guys, but they had undefeated streaks that came to a crushing end thanks to Cena (not his decision, but you get my point). Bray Wyatt is a strong enough character that he has come back from being obliterated, in feud terms, by Cena earlier this year, but for Rusev things are a little different. It's all about strong wins for him. If, on the lead up to 'Mania, Rusev gets the Accolade on Cena and looks to be a threat then great. But what happens to him once he's disposed of by Cena? I can't keep being convinced that having a feud with Cena, or having matches with Cena automatically 'makes you' or elevates you. If there was a chance of gaining a win from the situation that's brilliant, but if it's just Cena coming out on top EVERYTIME, then how is that productive or making things move forward. It wouldn't hurt for Cena to lose here and there. It literally NEVER happens so if it does, he won't be worse for it; he'll still be the top guy, miles above everyone else. There's literally no downside to him losing one every once in a while.

This is the point of a match with Randy Orton. At the present time, Orton is going to come back as a babyface after the beatdown that he received this week. He's the number two guy in the company after Cena and has been for ten years now. He's at the same level as Cena (just?) except that he's likeable, he hasn't just been a good guy his entire run and his worth as a top guy isn't damaged by losing. In fact it must be even greater as he's the biggest scalp on Roman Reigns' list so far. Therefore if you need a big name against Rusev, why not have him in that role? It showcases Rusev on the biggest stage against one of the biggest names out there with a chance of coming out with a win. Save Cena vs Rusev for a later time where it isn't as crucial. With Rusev vs Orton, you have people wondering who could win. You could have Orton break Rusev's streak and it wouldn't be as much of a roadblock as if Cena were the man for the job. You could also have Rusev win; at Wrestlemania; against one of the top-two guys in the company, and Orton wouldn't lose any value in doing so. Rusev would only gain. WWE would also gain in having an unstoppable heel to go after their newly made star (?), Roman Reigns.

We really need to get away from this pedestalled idea that simply breathing the same air as Cena makes you a star. Sometimes, just sometimes, let's accept that wins are needed to hammer the point home and have that person elevated.

Brock Lesnar vs Cesaro

Now, you're probably thinking 'well if Lesnar's in this spot and Cena's not against Rusev, I know where this is going...' and you'd be right.

IF Lesnar's contract is up right after Wrestlemania and there's no chance of renewal then surely something else needs doing with him. What better use of him than to elevate another guy that has needed such treatment since Wrestlemania this year (and before). There's a link in there with Heyman to make this thing come together, too.

WWE are in dire need of top babyfaces. They have this dream of having Roman Reigns be the next guy but that seems to be the only one that has a rocket strapped to him. Why can't several guys reach that level at the same time? Why can't Dean Ambrose get that sort of attention? What about the ascension of Bray Wyatt? Let's not forget about Daniel Bryan if and when he returns. There's so many guys that could be main event players if the right care and direction is given to them. It just looks like, after Wrestlemania, there will be Cena, Orton and Reigns. That's just one guy different from the year before, or even five years before.

This match, just like the Rusev versus Orton match, could go either way and STILL make Cesaro. Unlike a match versus Cena, it would all be in the performance and a loss wouldn't necessarily kill the person's momentum. If Cesaro is allowed to stand toe-to-toe with Lesnar, have a decent match with him (which he would), trouble Lesnar in places, then after Wrestlemania you'd have another babyface to join up with Reigns going forward. And I say 'babyface' and Cesaro because if he's not already one leading up to Wrestlemania, he definitely will be one after a program with Lesnar (and Heyman).

WWE title: John Cena (c) vs Roman Reigns

As much as people will hate John Cena reaching Ric Flair's milestone amount of World titles, I think it's needed in the ascension of Roman Reigns. If Lesnar is to leave straight after 'Mania then something else needs to happen to make it less predictable for a Reigns win. What better way than to have Reigns have to overcome the biggest test against the guy that “the future has to go through” and all that. Obviously it would be babyface versus babyface with, probably, a portion of the fans in attendance more in Reigns' corner (or maybe a little more than that?!), but it could have a positive outcome in two ways; first, you would give Reigns his big, defining moment against the biggest star in WWE. If he fails after that then he fails. Secondly, you might, and this is a very big might, generate some sympathy and respect for Cena. This is obviously a huge ask and there will be those that still boo the sh*t out of him, but if he were to 'do the honours' at Wrestlemania for the next big star, maybe people would warm to him a little.

OR maybe people won't buy Reigns as the next big thing by Wrestlemania and boo the hell out of both of them?!

A better option?

Conclusion

These are just some of my thoughts last evening and they can be added to all the other fantasy bookers out there. I know it's often said that it's not the result that is important but the journey to get there (Daniel Bryan is a fine example of this earlier this year), but if Reigns isn't ready and they're going to force it upon us (as seems to be the case) then they'll get the reaction that's coming to them.

With Lesnar potentially not re-signing, what better use for him than to elevate a guy, win or lose. It's the same situation with Orton; win or lose, he's not going to suffer from it or have a stigma attached of 'losing to Rusev'. He'll carry on in 2015 doing what he always does. Cena is a different story, though. I hope I haven't come across as a Cena-hater in this piece because I'm really not. I just feel the need to point out the potential damage that losing to Cena could do to up-and-comers.

There seems to be this idea that being in the ring with the guy instantly elevates you. I felt so bad for Bray Wyatt earlier this year because he has such a great character that they can have him around for years. I hate to liken it to being the 'new Undertaker' because I really hope that he'll be the 'first Bray Wyatt' or whatever way you would wish to say he's his own man with his own destiny. He gained nothing from the Cena feud apart from “I had a feud with John Cena”; he had one win over him – not even a pinfall win – due to a creepy, singing kid distracting Cena. I just don't think Rusev in the same position is beneficial to anyone.

If I'm being honest, I don't think that it's NOT going to be Lesnar vs Reigns or Cena vs Rusev, but we can all dream and fantasy book...

One last one: how about Rollins vs Ziggler for the Intercontinental title? It would be one of them classic IC title matches where both guys should be at that level on the stage of Wrestlemania. It would have all the potential to be a showstealer, too. You could even have Rollins attempting to cash-in at the end of the show regardless of the outcome to this match...

I'll shut up now!

@jimmosangle

How WWE Brings In New Talent

The big news in wrestling this past week is that of WWE signing Prince (Fergal) Devitt. Obviously, with his following in the UK and, probably more-so, Japan, there was always going to be a buzz about him signing with WWE and how great that can potentially be, but it really surprised me that it was an actual story on WWE.com. Maybe I don't check that site too often, but I don't recall any other signings getting that type of news article by WWE, themselves. Kenta is also a notable signing in the last few weeks that falls under this same surprise.

It got me thinking that despite there being no competition to WWE these days, they still made a fuss over someone that is seen as a potential star of the future. It seems that over the years they have signed the best that the indys have to offer and just, quietly, implemented them into the developmental system. There never seems to be any hype made about any signings apart from amongst the fans themselves.

The Way We Were...

This got me thinking of the some of the most high-profile signings that WWE have acquired in the past. Maybe WWE have signed people since but the biggest names that come to mind were Chris Jericho in 1999 and the four 'Radicalz' (Benoit, Guerrero, Malenko and Saturn) in 2000. 'High profile' if you're a wrestling fan, of course.

Perry Saturn, Eddie Guerrero, Chris Benoit & Dean Malenko

My point here is that when these guys moved across from WCW, I didn't know too much about them. Other fans that watched both WWF and WCW would know who all these guys were, but I was, and still am, a WWF-only kid, so these guys were kind of strangers and unknown quantities to me. The same could be said of Prince Devitt and Kenta.

When Jericho was brought in, he interrupted The Rock - the biggest WWF star at the time - and went onto capture the Intercontinental title not too long after. A little over two years later he would become the FIRST undisputed champion. The four Radicalz all made their mark on their debuts and would be involved in high-level feuds straight away. All four would also be champions not long after joining. Not only were they champions, but highly regarded champions in their individual divisions.

What's Changed?

Obviously, the death of WCW was going to change things. While they were around, WWF talents could jump ship to them and cause a stir and vice versa. After Vince bought them, where would that excitement of new talent coming in come from? Obviously, former WCW guys that were still under contract with Time Warner could wait it out and then make waves down the road - as was the case with Hogan, Nash, Hall, Goldberg, Steiner etc etc - but eventually that would dry up and WWE would become (have become) the only 'place to work'. Them guys weren't exactly 'new', anyway.

OVW (Ohio Valley Wrestling) produced a pretty impressive class of 2002, when the likes of John Cena, Randy Orton, Batista and Brock Lesnar graduated and, over the course of the next two years, became the future of the WWE that we still see today. These were all young, WWE-bred guys and would be the last crop of truly 'big' stars.

Lesnar with another 2002 graduate, Shelton Benjamin

In the late-2000s, WWE would start to recruit the best that the indys had to offer in Daniel Bryan, Seth Rollins, Cesaro etc. The difference with these guys was that they had to have a name change, as well as being sent to a developmental area - to 'learn' how to wrestle the WWE way. I'm not saying that that's necessarily a bad thing, as I'm sure they were more than happy to learn a new style(s). More importantly, they had a job in the big-time; whatever sh*t came their way, they would eat, I suppose.

The Performance Centre And The Way It Is

In 2014, the WWE Performance Centre is just over a year old. It has loads and loads of potential 'stars of the future' coming and going all the time. I can imagine that it's THE place to learn and train. In turn, NXT is where hopefuls go to try their luck and see if they can make it on that first rung of the ladder. But should everyone have to go through this process?

The main thing that I want to point out in this post is why should the likes of Devitt and Kenta have to start out in NXT? I love NXT, but it is the part of wrestling where you learn and take part in your apprenticeship. Surely, guys like Devitt and Kenta have travelled the world, they have picked up experience along the way (that will, undoubtedly, be invaluable to the future guys coming through the ranks), and could quite easily make an impact on the main WWE roster just like Jericho, Benoit and co. did fifteen years ago?

Fergal Devitt

Why can't this 'developmental system' way of doing things be changed up so that the standout stars, such as Devitt or Kenta have vignettes aired and then be showcased on the main WWE roster; WWE have made the effort of advertising these guys as 'important' by announcing their signings, so why not continue that hype on their major TV slots instead of the show that is only on the WWE Network... or maybe I've just answered my own question...

The Realisation...

Whether this is a business move to get people watching NXT, and in-turn, SUBSCRIBE to the WWE Network or not, the way in which talent is introduced to the 'WWE Universe' (I hate that term for 'fans'!) should be decided by a case-by-case system. If someone has the experience and talent when you sign them - such as the hyped, advertised Devitt or Kenta - then get them on your MAIN TV show. Let the ex-football players, models and others fill up the lower ranks with the second generation guys and lesser indy wrestlers.

Devitt and Kenta are 33-years-old. A couple of years in developmental means that you bring them up to the main roster when they're 35. They THEN have to go through sh*tty gimmicks for a while before finding their feet (Devitt will probably be lumbered with some crappy, racist Irish gimmick or be Sheamus' little buddy!)... they're not 24 like Orton or Lesnar were when they got their break so highlight their talents NOW!

@jimmosangle

An Offer...

It's been a few days since I ruffled a few feathers, upset a few people, and continued to stand up for what I believe in when it comes to my wrestling preferences. I've had time to dwell on it, and after the unexpected volume of response I had for the article - The Positives and Negatives of NBWA: Passion For Glory - both good and bad, it's time to offer my services further.

Or should I say, continue to offer my services.

I've been doing show reviews for over a year and a half now, but as of late, I've gotten bored of doing them. I think that's partly because I wasn't finding fault with anything (not that I want to?!), and I was just, kind of, kissing arse every post that I was doing. This was unintentional. For the most, the British wrestling shows that I have been to have been great entertainment and have made me smile, surprised me (in a good way) and have left me wanting more.

A great example of this is the PROGRESS shows that I've attended in the last few months. That promotion hooked me before I even went to a show with the quality of their DVDs and the interaction with the audience. Being there live was just something out of this world that I urge everyone to find out for themselves!

This year has seen me want to get out there and see more and more different shows. This way I'll have a varied experience and knowledge of the wrestling that the UK has to offer. So far I have managed to see several new promotions including Triple X Wrestling (Coventry), Chaos (Bristol), PROGRESS (London), and have still made time to see some old favourites in Kamikaze Pro (Birmingham) and Pro EVW (Gloucestershire)... just to clear up that Pro EVW probably comes across as my favourite, but the truth is I will always have appreciation for the guys down there as they were the first to allow me to see behind the curtains. They, also, genuinely put on a very good, family orientated show that never seems to disappoint.

On Sunday, after I posted my article for all to see, I had a lot of negative response; mainly from fans and friends of NBWA. This was to be expected. What I didn't bargain for was the wonderful, positive responses that I received throughout the day. Several wrestlers and a few promoters contacted me to thank me for my honesty in my review. I greatly appreciated these comments, I can't say that enough. A couple also asked if I would attend their shows to give the same sort of critique. My answer to them requests is that I would love to.

And don't get me wrong, I realise that when it comes to the actual wrestling, I should watch my mouth. I HATE judging wrestlers on their wrestling ability (apart from when it is clear to see that they are dogsh*t!), but as a fan I know what I like to see - this is what I can bring to the table. To be fair, other writers and bloggers can do the same; I hope that they do. I pay my money to see a show; why shouldn't I voice my opinion if I didn't like something? Too many wrestling bloggers only find good in what they see - nobody seems to want to tell it how it is and, potentially, upset anyone. I think that they just want to stay in the good books so that there'll always be an invite for them. That's not going to get us any further forward now, is it?

In some small way, I hope I opened a few eyes on Sunday and made people realise that they shouldn't just accept the wrestling that they see as 'good' or 'great' just for the sake of it. Maybe some (probably the majority, actually) have no clue what is good wrestling and what is plain unacceptable wrestling. That really is that company's responsibility to ensure that they are putting on a respectable show so that they don't fool the fans that are going to part with their hard-earned money.

There's the background; now to the offer...

I will continue to travel as far as I can to spread the word of good (and bad) wrestling in this country. Any promotion that would like a critique of their show, I am more than willing to provide that. It's really impressed me that a couple of promoters have welcomed constructive criticism as they feel it will give them the information that they need to IMPROVE their product. Surely that's the attitude that should be adopted if British wrestling is to grow in the future?

Support British Wrestling

@jimmosangle

Heels acting like heels...

I've really gotten into podcasts just lately, with JR's, Steve Austin's and Chris Jericho's being the top of my list. After listening to several from the last few months, I'm finally catching up and will be up-to-date with the latest ones in the next couple of days!

Today I finished JR's chat with Lance Storm from last week. I only really saw Storm in the WWE (from 2001 onwards) so am unfamiliar with his work in ECW and WCW, but from everything that you hear or read, he seems a great 'student of the game', as JR would say. This podcast was really interesting and brought up two excellent points. The first is one that JR repeats every week on his podcast, but is such a great point and more relevant now than ever before:

Heels acting like heels
I completely agree with JR's take on heels. For him, heels should cheat to win (at times) and portray the bad guy at every turn. He and Lance point out that Bray Wyatt's 'He's Got The Whole World In His Hands' being sung by the audience or Cesaro's Swing (or, for me, Swagger and Coulter having the audience participate in the 'We The People') are detrimental to what they should be trying to achieve - being a hated figure.

Storm points out that if the audience join in with a song, such as Wyatt's situation, then that part of the act should be changed immediately.

Bottom line is, if the heels are being cheered, even a little, then the babyface isn't going to be rooted for as much as he should. If the heel is hated, as should be the case, then the audience will want nothing more than to see them get their comeuppance. The payoff will be that much sweeter.

Wrestling schools
Throughout the podcast, JR plugs Storm's wrestling school several times. This pleased me greatly. I've done a couple of articles on the subject of training and the importance of it, and this furthered that point and, hopefully, pointed some youngsters in the right direction. Storm's school is in Canada, so a little far away for most in the UK. There was also mention of Booker T's school in Texas and The Dudleys' school, too. I'm not sure where others are in America, but it seems that, if you really want to be in the business, there are plenty of REPUTABLE places that you could go to learn your trade.

I hope that the UK can boast the same one day. We do have some schools that are worth your time if you're serious about becoming a well-trained, SAFE wrestler, but there are also the shoddy, should-never-be-touched places that lead youngsters to believe that they are receiving the 'right' kind of training. I get that money can be an issue in this scenario, but don't settle for second (or third or fourth) best - get the best training possible from guys that have been places and know their stuff.

@jimmosangle

Fantasy Booking

Not done much content on here for a bit so thought I would do something short and sweet...

I've just got through Money in the Bank; really good show, kept me interested for the most (apart from Layla vs Summer... yawn) with two pretty decent ladder matches - especially the MITB ladder match.

Obviously Cena won (anybody in any doubt of that??) and we'll get our Cena vs Lesnar Summerslam match, that, let's face it, is the best it was going to be. Sorry to the people out there that was hoping for a Cesaro or a Wyatt or a Roman Reigns win but that just wouldn't have been the best thing right now. Great to 'make' someone at anytime but now's not that time.

I got thinking about Wrestlemania next year with all the talk of Reigns going for the title then. Fair enough. What gets him to that point, though?

I'm thinking that at Summerslam it's Brock vs Cena for the title, where Brock gets his win back (not that he should've lost to Cena in the first match?!) and Reigns goes up against Triple H to elevate him. THEN, Brock (in his limited appearances) comes back here and there and destroys everyone put in front of him (because, y'know, he broke the streak and should be IMMORTAL now...), even getting to the point where The Authority can't control him so they enlist the help of the only guy that they feel could get the job done: Roman Reigns...

You know, that 'we hated each other, but you proved me wrong and you are someone to be reckoned with' kind of thing... LEADING to Reigns' big moment at Wrestlemania 31 where he beats the unbeatable, streak-ending, champion of this, champion of that Brock Lesnar, becomes a 'star' in the process (?) and hopefully gets a better run than Daniel Bryan had this year...

@jimmosangle

Daniel Bryan's Time?... YES!!

What a difference two years make...

Monday night on Raw, Daniel Bryan got his revenge on Bray Wyatt, turning on him and taking out his frustrations in the confines of a steel cage; warranting a huge 'YES!' chant from the Rhode Island audience; quite possibly the biggest one to date. As a fan, it made what hair I have left stand on end; a truly epic last few minutes to Raw and a reminder of why I watch: for moments like that.

Nearly two years ago, at Wrestlemania 28, Daniel Bryan lost the World Heavyweight Championship to Sheamus in a record 18-second defeat. No champion should be treated in such a way, but remarkably, just like this summer, Daniel Bryan would grow further in popularity after losing a major title. That fateful Wrestlemania, the 78,000+ crowd would start a rapturous 'YES!' chant that would follow Bryan around ever since. For such a simple chant, it has helped to propel Bryan to where he belongs (almost), and has also made a statement when the WWE Universe feels aggrieved at what they have been given (eg, Orton vs Cena).

Bryan at Wrestlemania 28

Following on from this, Bryan would go through 2012 having standout pay-per-view matches with CM Punk before forming an unlikely alliance with Kane. Together, they would form Team Hell No and become Tag Team Champions. Despite holding the belts for just over eight months, the biggest achievements to come out of the team would be their connection to the audience, the comedy and entertainment that they provided, and most importantly, raising Bryan to an even higher level of popularity. It was natural, organic. It was something that I had not seen for as long as I could remember.

This past summer would see mixed results if you're a Daniel Bryan fan. Although he won the WWE Championship (twice), it never felt that he had made it. As JBL likes to put it, he had a 'cup of coffee' with the title. The back end of last years pay-per-views were frustrating to say the least and a, somewhat, demotion to joining the Wyatts seemed a further middle-finger to the fans. Now it seems that it was all an act to extract his revenge on Wyatt in a situation where Harper and Rowan couldn't help their leader.

This brings me to a theory that I like more and more, the more I read it...

The Big Red Conspirator

Generally, I hate predictions and random theories that the IWC come up with (even though I'm guilty of making them myself!). Most are more hope than logic. One that I have read on more than one occasion in the last week is that Kane is Daniel Bryan's 'inside man'. I really like this idea.

I'm now going to go into fan/mark mode to explain the ramblings in my head:

You see, Team Hell No didn't really have a definitive end in my book. Orton came between them towards the end before both Bryan and Kane stated their ambitions to become WWE Champion. Kane was then taken out by the Wyatts and was abducted, not to be seen for a couple of months. On return, he gained no revenge on the Wyatts for what they had done to him and offered his services to The Authority (specifically Stephanie). In the last couple of months in his role as Director of Operations he hasn't really offered much to be honest - this seemed very weird to me. When he has, it hasn't been that heelish, either. Yes, he did make both 3-on-1 handicap matches involving Bryan vs the Wyatts and Punk vs The Shield, but maybe both cases were to get to the point we find ourselves in today; Bryan getting behind enemy lines and Punk causing cracks in The Shield's united front. Maybe Kane is there to destroy The Authority from within?

Kane's abduction...

Regarding Bryan's handicap match; between them, Kane and Bryan would know that the Wyatts would be too much for Bryan and that he would have to be 'weakened' to the point where he would have no choice but to join them, making Wyatt believe that he is as all-powerful as he thinks he is. This then led to the Steel Cage match this Monday on Raw where the odds were surely in favour of The Usos, right? Kane would have possession of the key to the chained door of the cage. In this situation, apart from pinfall, the only way to win is over the top... therefore the quicker Usos were always going to have the advantage. Therefore, the reason for Kane having the key is so that once the Usos escaped, Wyatt would be alone in the cage with Bryan; with no back-up from Harper and Rowan. Enter revenge.

(I urge you to read Brandon Stroud's (@MrBandonStroud) Best and Worst of WWE Raw (link) as he gives his own unique, funny spin on this theory!)

I realise this could all just be coincidence and total crap, but it makes SENSE to me. It would be awesome if this scenario played out and Kane was looking out for his pal, but I suppose we'll have to 'wait and see' in the coming weeks... my perfect end to this theory would be Bryan winning the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at Wrestlemania, in the main event, thus solidifying him as a top player, followed by a reveal on Raw the night after that Kane was behind it all. A huge story arc that would have a very rewarding and pleasing end to it. And in the twilight of his career, Kane would be responsible (in part) for making the next big thing.

In no way am I saying that WWE planned all this, it's kind of fell into their laps, though, if they choose to use it.

Ramblings over...

That Austin 3:16 moment...

Daniel Bryan's rise to the top this past summer was likened to Steve Austin's. That's a huge compliment but not too far fetched, in my opinion. Austin gave his acceptance speech at the King of the Ring tournament in 1996 and began his meteoric rise to the top; he was OVER and a little under two years later, he was given 'the ball' and ran with it - it was hugely successful. When you hear the name Steve Austin, it's usually up there with the other big names of wrestling.

The historic '3:16' speech from 1996

Bryan's situation is no different; at Wrestlemania 28, 'YES!' chants began and have echoed around arenas ever since. His popularity has gone from strength to strength and we are at a point where we have the biggest Wrestlemania to date on the horizon. This is the opportunity to make the next Steve Austin, or more appropriately, the first Daniel Bryan. I don't remember the last time that someone got the red-hot reactions that Bryan receives week after week and this must be capitalised upon.

I think we've got a very unpredictable couple of months ahead of us; there doesn't seem to be locked-in matches for Wrestlemania yet (only pencilled-in ones), and with the returns in the coming weeks and Daniel Bryan's freedom from the Wyatts, things are looking very positive and interesting. Add the introduction of the WWE Network next month and it is safe to say that it is a great time to be a wrestling fan.

@jimmosangle

My Weekend of (British) Wrestling 23 - What's to come in 2014?

It feels like forever since my last 'Weekend of Wrestling' post, but after looking through my archives I've noticed that it was only the end of November at the much needed, family fun show that James Mason and Alan Ravenhill put on in Brackley!

James Mason (photo: Superkick.co.uk)

As I've stated many times, these shows are a winner in anyone's book, and it's probably this reason that I put it in another category to anything else that I watched at the back-end of last year.

I need to make a confession before I move on into 2014: I fell out of love with British Wrestling towards the end of 2013. I think I felt a little burnt out from doing a show review after every show I went to. I contemplated stopping doing them but who am I kidding; the next show I go to WILL have a review conducted - good or bad - so I might as well pick myself up and get ready for a resurgence in 2014!

In all seriousness, a few things really bothered me about British Wrestling towards the end of last year. I'm going to do my best to not name names or promotions but it'll probably be abundantly clear who I'm talking about based on my previous ramblings! As I've stated several times (almost to cover my arse from the too-obvious comebacks that I'm likely to get on the matter) I am not a promoter, never plan to be, and have never run a show. I have, however, been around a fair few people that have. I've also got an idea of basic costs of shows. This is why I hear things, total-up costs in my head, and find myself fuming at some things in British Wrestling. It really bothers me that people do not seem to learn from their mistakes, continue to do things the same way, and believe in their own crap due to having [sort of] 'back-up' from people in 'higher places'. I can't think of a better way of putting it than that so that I don't name names...

A huge probem that really offends me (even though it doesn't directly affect me) is that some promoters still have the nerve to NOT pay the talent that have been on their show. This is completely unacceptable and it baffles me why talent would continue to work for companies where this happens.

Both of the above things had me shaking my head to the point where I had to step back and take a break... only giving Welsh Wrestling (under Mason/Ravenhill in Oxfordshire) the benefit of my time as (1) it was just up the road from me and (2) it's simple, easy to digest, good family fun that you cannot help but smile your arse off all the way through. It's well organised with no egos.

Now I've got that off my chest I wanted to focus on what I've seen in 2013 and what I'm hoping for in 2014:

2013

Last year was the first year where I went to shows on a regular basis. Don't get me wrong, I'm fully aware that I only went to shows that are fairly local to me, but still, I went to a fair few and a few different promotions.

In Oxfordshire, I went to shows in Banbury (NBWA) where I saw an underrated triple-threat match between Justin Sysum, Kenbai and Sam Wilder, as well as several other shows in the county for GSM/Welsh Wrestling. In Birmingham, I had the privilege to see the finest live match I've ever seen when Emi Sakura defeated Shanna (yes, a ladies match!) for AWW, as well as a huge babyface reaction for the usually unpopular Magnums at a Kamikaze Pro show!

The Magnums got a huge ovation at this show

A lot of my 'Weekend of Wrestling' posts were devoted to Pro Evolution Wrestling shows down in Gloucestershire (and surrounding areas), though. This is a promotion that I have a lot of time for and I am sorry that I haven't been down in a few months - this must change in 2014! I've seen a lot of good stuff on these shows, including anything The Magnums do (I have no shame in being a Magnum mark), Chris Andrews' theme music and great little matches involving Justin 'The Hammer' Sysum against Andrews, as well as one against former TNA star Doug Williams.

With the addition of The Alpha Males (Iestyn Rees and Charlie Garrett) to the tag team ranks, I expect more great shows from Pro EVW this year! (cheap plug: my interview with Iestyn is my most viewed article - give it a read, like it, and BOOK HIM on your shows - a really nice guy and top UK talent!)

2014

In 2014 I hope to get to a lot of shows as I did last year. The difference with this year is that I hope to get further a field and see something different. Ref Paz - the Safest Hands in British Wrestling - showed me a Progress Wrestling DVD a few weeks ago and this is a promotion/show that I would love to go and see. I'd also like to get up to House of Pain Wrestling in Nottingham as well as Southside Wrestling.

I'd even like to get up to Preston and see Preston City Wrestling (PCW) - a bit of a trek but one that I think would definitely be worth my time.

Basically, the aim this year is the same as it's always been - to promote British Wrestling. That being said, bad shows need to be exposed, too, and I'll continue to call them out. There's no point in sugar coating problems and saying something was good when it was complete and utter shite. By doing anything other than this would be doing British Wrestling a disservice.

Thoughts

There seems to be a debate at times about where British Wrestling is at. I completely agree that it is on the rise and doing well - we have such great talents in this country; too many to list - but we must be aware that there are a lot of cowboy promoters; WWE-wannabe promoters, if you will; that are making wrestling in this country look like a joke. That sort of thing needs to stop otherwise international talent will lose faith in us. Luckily, there are a lot of companies that are making a genuine effort to give British Wrestling a good and reputable name.

Sometimes I think that a TV deal is the only thing missing from putting us on the map in a big way in the world of wrestling. That ever happening remains to be seen as it is still a very American pastime that has been gone for a generation in this country.

Now that I have gotten through this post, I feel more positive about 2014. I think it'll be another good year for British Wrestling, hopefully making further progress and getting the good name of wrestling in this country recognised by more and more people - in this country and abroad.

Hoping to get along to one of their shows...

I look forward to getting to more shows and extending my readership - hopefully with people enjoying what I write as well as it encouraging people to get along to their local - and not so local - wrestling events.

If anyone has any views/comments or would like to get in touch over the great subject of wrestling then please feel free to comment in the field below, contact me on Twitter (@jimmosangle) or 'like' the Jimmo's Angle Facebook page!

Support British Wrestling

@jimmosangle

Unification: Are we turning a corner?

Despite it being last month that the WWE unified the WWE and World Heavyweight Championships, I thought with the Royal Rumble approaching it was about the right time to give my thoughts on the unification.

To start with I just wanted to share my problems with the unification... three things really bothered me going into the match and since...

Firstly, the amount of time they gave to build the 'most important match in WWE history'. Three weeks. That's how much time you give to this type of match (which, if it's that important, why are you having it under TL-f*cking-C rules??!). Luckily, they had two guys (Cena and Orton) who were competent enough to sell the match with that much time until the PPV. Along with the history-video-packages, they did a nice job.

The second problem I had was with how 'prestigious' the World Heavyweight Championship was going into the match. Now that the match is over, it doesn't really matter that it was completely worthless for as long as I can remember; it just gets added to the pile of stuff that happened and is forgotten about, thus letting WWE off for the poor job that they've done with the title all this time. As I've said in a previous article; I LOVE how Michael Cole repeatedly says that the World Title is 'prestigious' and we're meant to listen and eat that crap until it tastes good. The biggest problem with this World Heavyweight Championship is that it is NOT the World Heavyweight Championship that they are claiming it is, which leads me to my third problem...

Chris Jericho was the first Undisputed Champion in December 2001. This happened. I have proof... and yet this has been completely overlooked (apart from an explanation from Michael Cole on an episode of Smackdown where he made reference to it and gave more fuel to the argument's fire). When Jericho unified the WWF and WCW Championships, the newly created 'Undisputed Championship' swallowed the lineage of both titles. The 2002 reintroduction of the World Title was therefore a new title that looked freakishly like the 'big gold belt' from WCW's run (weird, eh?) but would have its own path now.

See! PROOF!!

I also got to thinking that back in 2001, Austin, Rock, Jericho and Angle - the four biggest stars at that time - sold that mini-tournament (along with bosses Vince and Flair (16 time World Champion)) on their own... The 2013 unification match had an ensemble of former World Champions in the ring such as Jack Swagger, Christian and Rey Mysterio - what an embarrassment in comparison.

Luckily, WWE have chosen their words wisely and the title is now called the WWE World Heavyweight Championship - which, I suppose, they can rightly call Randy Orton the FIRST ever holder of.

Now before this spins off into a huge negative rant of what I didn't like about the unification match build, the point of this article is to explore the future and the possibilities that can stem from having only ONE unified champion in WWE.

I think it is a great move provided the WWE gives it the proper attention needed to make it the biggest prize available to WWE Superstars. The same can now be said for the Intercontinental Championship, which should surely be held in a higher regard now.

Intercontinental Championship

With the World Heavyweight Championship unified, it should now be the job of the Intercontinental Championship to be the stepping stone on your way to the main event (as the case always used to be). This should never have been the job of the World Heavyweight Championship in any case: if you hold the World Championship it shouldn't be your test to see if you can then hold the WWE Championship. This is where WWE went wrong with this belt and its decline in prestige was inevitable.

Big E Langston is the current IC Champion and things already seem to be heading in the right direction. He is a strong champion already (only having the title for a matter of weeks). He has had stand-out matches with Damien Sandow and Fandango in his run so far and they have been different from the norm; he has been challenged and tested; it hasn't simply been a walk in the park. He has had to earn his wins; and they have been clean wins. The only downsides to these matches are that a regular program hasn't come from these matches. Despite him defeating Damien Sandow, I felt that a series of matches/feud could've happened to elevate both guys, and the title, further. We'll see as time passes, I suppose...

A clear division is also coming together, too. As I said earlier, with one World Champion on the show, the mid-card title has now got a purpose and a more obvious spot on the show. With this being the case, a group of contenders are vital and I believe that this has been thought about and put together nicely in the last few weeks. Big E (Champion) has already taken on two worthy opponents in Sandow and Fandango. Tied in with those guys is Dolph Ziggler - who, let's face it, with one World Champion about is going to have to earn his stripes all over again to be considered for the main event. WWE also attempted to raise the stock of both Kofi Kingston and The Miz. I think with The Miz' motivation and face/heel dynamic being unclear here, it hurt their program and it didn't pan out as they had hoped. Both guys are kind of back to the drawing board again.

Needed Returns

I did an article a few months ago on the Unneeded Returns of RVD and Christian. As it stands, I was right to say that they were short-term, who-gives-a-f*ck returns as both guys were never really given the ball to run with in their respective WWE/WHC quests.

On the other hand, with Wrestlemania season getting under way, we're going to get some welcome returns, short-term or otherwise. Brock Lesnar made his return this past week on Raw and looked dominant as soon as he walked out. This is the thing I love about Brock; he legitimately looks mean, angry and like he could kill you at any given moment. There just isn't ANYONE around that is like that. He comes back and takes out the biggest hero of the day - that's why it's so easy and natural to hate him. Brock is a straight-up bully; this is how a heel should be.

Seriously, would you f*ck with this guy?

The other upcoming return is that of Batista. Again, he is a presence and someone that you can believe will kick ass from the outset. He'll also seem like a fresh face when he comes back as he's been gone long enough that things have moved along; there are endless opportunities and matches that he hasn't had yet. He is also a multi-time World Champion, with reigns that had worth to them.

...or this one?

The thing that both of these guys have got in common is that being former World Champions mean that they can be inserted into the World Title picture as soon as is needed. This is because they are some of the last group to have a major push - that was 8-10 years ago and things have drastically changed since then. Thinking about this earlier, it dawned on me that this just shows what can happen when WWE does have faith in a particular talent; Brock was gone for 8 years and came back and was a dominant force from the get-go. Somehow, I don't think that Batista will be coming back for a US title match either...

Contenders

The Intercontinental title picture is coming together nicely (at least at the moment, anyway!) and it looks as if the WWE World Title picture is taking shape, too; we have Orton and Cena at the top of the pile. Brock is back and has stated his ambition to win the title. Batista will be coming back and is pencilled in to win the Royal Rumble. If he stays around long-term then he'll probably be in title matches more often than not. Along with Punk and Bryan on the fringes, that's six guys (five when Brock leaves for months at a time) that can realistically lay claim to the biggest prize. This is how it should be.

With this said, the WWE's divisions don't look in bad shape. I don't think we'll see it right away, but in the coming months a clearer picture will become apparent where the ONE WWE World Heavyweight Champion will have its worthy contenders, the IC title will have its contenders and the Tag Team division will also see more traditional teams trade the belts (once the Rhodes brothers go their separate ways).

The Winner of the Royal Rumble match...

Another element that has a chance to regain its prestige (hey Cole, there's that word again?!) is the Royal Rumble winner. I think that over the last decade, the Royal Rumble winner hasn't been as big a deal as it should've been. Whenever the winner has challenged for a title (usually the World Heavyweight Championship) and then had their match in a less-than-flattering stage of the Wrestlemania card, it has diluted the point and worth of winning the Royal Rumble.

With the Rumble winner now being in the position that they will challenge ONE World Champion, it will become a bigger deal and, similarly to if there were only the one Money in the Bank winner, that particular wrestler will be seen as a bigger deal and (hopefully) taken more seriously - with a view to becoming a - or the next - star.

Ah, a logo from the good ol' days...

Things are looking brighter - Wrestlemania season, and the near future, looks intriguing!

@jimmosangle

I'd Appreciate Your Input 1: WWE's Call-ups vs Outside Talent

I thought I'd do something a little different and (try to) get some discussion on this...

For some reason, after seeing Xavier Woods debut on Raw last night, I started to think about the call-ups that WWE have made from NXT - their developmental show. For me, Woods wouldn't have been my first choice to promote from that show as there are masses of talent ahead of him that deserve a shot on the main roster, but I digress...

The difference that I've noticed in the last year, maybe starting with The Shield's first appearance, is that, unlike years ago, debutants nowadays aren't going to be catapulted to the main event scene straight away. I understand that things have drastically changed - i.e no real competition outside of the WWE to cherry pick from...

Let me give a little background on my thoughts here: In 1999, Chris Jericho debuted on Raw in an epic segment with The Rock. Jericho was a name that had been places and was well respected in wrestling - he was a major coup. Then, in 2000, Chris Benoit, Eddie Guerrero, Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko jumped ship from WCW to WWE, instantly populating the upper ranks of the card as soon as they appeared on TV. These are just some examples of WWE bringing in established guys from OUTSIDE of their own ranks. Very rarely did they have to start at the bottom and work their way up.

I suppose from about 2002, WWE would find their future megastars in John Cena, Randy Orton, Batista and Brock Lesnar in an OVW developmental system that they had at the time. From what I understand, NXT is different to OVW in that OVW was a wrestling promotion that was a 'farm' for up-and-comers; NXT is a WWE-owned, WWE-run developmental promotion.

In the last year, The Shield debuted at the Survivor Series last year and have stayed at, kind of, mid-card-to-henchmen-to-main-eventers level since. They all have potential individually but I think it's a long time until we see it. Big E Langston was brought in as Dolph Ziggler and AJ's 'heavy' and is only just getting some momentum with his first singles title win. The Wyatts have come in and gained a first 'big' scalp in Kane and have a similar spot to The Shield. Antonio Cesaro came in and instantly became US Champion but has since been relegated to the tag team division (for now). No one has really been promoted/debuted and stayed at the top - a la Kane in 1997.

What I'd like to know is:

• Do you think that WWE will ever get 'big names' in from outside of their own ranks again?

• Do they need to? Does it go against their 'best for business' model?

• Will an NXT-er ever get onto the main roster as an instant main event talent (i.e will they be introduced as a big player straight away) or are the days of that over?

• What are your thoughts of NXT guys having to earn their stripes when they make the main roster? Although they should (to gain experience) is it a little boring that no one will get pushed to the stars on debuting?

Please give me feedback via the comments field below or tweet me - @jimmosangle

I look forward to hearing everyone's take on this

@jimmosangle

Jimmo's Angle Special: One Year of Jimmo's Angle

Thursday 19th September 2013

Today marks the one year anniversary of Jimmo's Angle. I'm very proud of this (as I was for my 100th article and reaching 10,000 views - both quite recently).

The first few months saw me give my take on issues in and around the WWE; if something bothered me I would write about it; if something interested me I would write about it. At times I was writing three, nearly four, articles a week! Looking back, I'm not sure how I did this?! Now I try to sit back and enjoy WWE television and for the most part, I do. This has been made easier by the compelling tv that they have put on in the last few months.

I hope that not doing too much in such a short time will also improve my writing. It will give me the chance to think about one article or issue in greater depth to come up with a better argument and an interesting read for those that find my blog.

2013 has seen me go to more and more UK wrestling shows, too. Admittedly, I have focused my attention on somewhat local promotions, but this is something I'm not ashamed of and something that I feel is important in getting their names out there and seen by as many people as possible. In some small way I hope I can influence a few people each time so that they decide to attend a UK-based wrestling event.

This year I have also been privileged to see behind-the-scenes of some shows and this is due to having a few friends that work on the shows. I'm very grateful to these guys for the opportunity that they have given me and I hope they know it. As a result of going to these shows and reviewing most, I have also been offered opportunities to further my writing - this is also something I'm grateful for, and slightly overwhelmed about, too!

To sum up, the last year has been a really progressive one. I've had great support from most people and hopefully I've surprised a few others with my persistence and drive to do well at this writing game. Either way, I'm going to continue, try my best to learn and improve, and look for opportunities to get my views and opinions to as many eyes as I can.

Thank you to everyone that has read, liked and shared my work in the last year. Thank you to anyone that has given me any comments or feedback - this is something that is still lacking, though, and I hope for more feedback so I know what areas to work on.

Here's to the next year!

@jimmosangle

WWE Raw thoughts 2/9/2013

The last few weeks of WWE television have been some of the best in a very long time. In fact, it could be said that it's the best since I've been watching WWE. Although it's not the risky, attitudinal stuff I remember from 1999-2001, it is a compelling show for the PG era that we now live in. This is down to it now being about a very fundamental factor: The battle between Good and Evil.

Daniel Bryan vs The Establishment
The months leading to Summerslam saw Daniel Bryan's popularity soar. With John Cena's injury, coupled with the events that transpired at the end of Summerslam, Bryan has been shot into the number-one-guy slot. This is refreshing as he is a babyface that we all actually like and want to succeed. At the other end of the scale is the new WWE Champion, Randy Orton. Now corporate-backed, Orton is the ultimate villain that we all despise due to his screwing of our new hero's crowning glory at Summerslam. And to top it off, in Randy's corner is the new, evil boss Triple H. Austin vs McMahon 2.0 has began.

The last few weeks have seen Bryan (and Orton) start the show, be talked about throughout, and then end with a cliffhanger - usually with Bryan beaten down and seemingly without hope. It's brilliant stuff as all we want to see is Bryan gain the revenge that he rightfully deserves. Eventually we'll see this happen, but for now we are continually pissed off that he keeps getting cut down - it's all great stuff that will give us an ace pay-off when Bryan finally 'wins'. We hope.

Raw: Ryback destroyed Ziggler (after Ambrose attacked)

As well as the tyrannical boss and the evil champion, Bryan has had to deal with 'hired guns' The Shield. On Raw last night, Ryback also seemed to be a tool at the disposal of Triple H and co. as he dominated Dolph Ziggler - another face that is being punished for speaking out against the new regime. After a shorter-than-expected World Heavyweight Championship run, and ending his feud with ex-girlfriend AJ and heavy, Big E Langston, this is a positive road for Ziggler to be travelling down as it could result in him joining Bryan as the newest 'made-men' in the WWE.

Trying his best to add to the face side of the fence is Big Show. Last night, along with the last couple of weeks, showed the anguish and utter frustration Show has as he wants to do the right thing. It's now been mentioned that he has money issues - something else to tug at our heart-strings.

Ultimately, the top three faces - Bryan, Ziggler and Show - have been put in their places and it'll be great to see them get their payback for the weeks of beatdowns.

Cody Rhodes
Although I've been disappointed that Cody and Damien's (Sandow) feud has seemingly been ended, I'm happy that the future could be very bright for Cody.

Last night, Cody made the mistake of talking out of turn to Triple H and Orton and found himself in a match (vs Orton) with his job on the line. Not realising that Cody is having time off, I thought he was going to get a valuable victory over Orton (whether it be clean or due to Bryan interference). Unfortunately, it wasn't to be and after a hard fought battle, with Cody hitting Cross-Rhodes for a near three-count, Orton delivered an RKO and sent Cody packing.

An emotional Cody tore into the McMahons on departure

Later in the night, as Cody was being escorted out of the building, he delivered a blistering promo about the McMahon's hatred of the Rhodes'; humiliating his father twenty years prior, his brother a few years after, as well as dashing Cody's dream, too. I'd have thought that Cody will have time off for his wedding before returning and being instantly elevated after this revealing information about the McMahon/Rhodes history and feud. A new chapter can be written with Cody doing well from the potential situation.

Other
The Punk vs Heyman situation continues to grow and be a very good supporting storyline to the Bryan vs HHH/Orton. Both are great storytellers and have such a personal history that it writes itself. Week after week, these guys sell the Night of Champions pay-per-view (if Bryan hadn't already!) more and more, giving us the hope and belief that Punk will finally get his revenge on Heyman after his betrayal at Money in the Bank. Punk guaranteeing that he will 'break' Heyman's face is a sight I'd pay good money to see!

Some excellent, gripping storylines happening right now on WWE TV; can't wait to see what happens next.

Fantasy Booking
I've read rumours today that this Big Show turmoil could all be a set-up so that he helps Bryan only to screw him over at Night of Champions. I'm willing to see how this plays out, but despite this being the umpteenth time that Show would have turned heel, it's not the worst thing that could happen.

Could this be the newest addition to the new regime?

If it did happen then it could keep Bryan occupied for a month or so whilst someone else (Ziggler?) challenges Orton. In that month, Bryan could slay the giant - a huge feather in his cap - before going back and demanding another shot at Orton for the next pay-per-view. It continues the chase and keeps us drawn in hoping on hope that Bryan finally gets his moment of glory.

@jimmosangle

100th Post: WWE: A New Hope

This is my 100th post on Jimmo's Angle and is inspired by a text I just got from a mate of mine. It simply said that the WWE has a "new feel" in the last few days. That's exactly how I feel and it was refreshing to hear this from a friend that is usually quite negative about the recent past of WWE. He's been justified at times but now it does seems like a new chapter; something that we can be proud of and really get excited by.

As I've recently said in a few of the posts that I've done, the future is looking brighter than ever. It's a theme I try and run with in a lot of my posts as it's very important to me that the WWE continues to be number one, but also doesn't just rest on its laurels. That's something that it can be accused of in the last few years.

After the screwing: new heels Triple H & Randy Orton

The Orton and Triple H turns at Summerslam are the types of things that I crave and long for. Something to get my teeth into and believe in. Something where I can get behind a true babyface and hate a true villain. Credit where credit is due to John Cena in the last month - he has made Daniel Bryan a believable threat to his title and did what was needed to get Bryan to the 'next level'. Unfortunately for John, the time off he's about to get is well overdue - as most occasions for him usually are. Also, he never gets the 100% backing of any audience. Daniel Bryan, on the other hand, does. This is, possibly, the most important factor to this 'new feel' that WWE has. And it's something that we, the audience, haven't experienced for as long as I can remember - the number one face is someone that the fan's want to succeed; does anyone remember what that feels like?

We finally have ourselves a situation where the chasing babyface is someone that everyone wants to succeed and get the bad guy, and the championship. Bryan's popularity has gone from strength-to-strength in the last few months and it's something that WWE have desperately needed for so long. Many might feel that CM Punk was that guy but he is a popular cool-heely-face, NOT a 100% face. Daniel Bryan is someone that all demographics can support and maybe, just maybe, this could be the start of someone else being the 'face of the company'.

Daniel Bryan's glory was cut short...

What I mean by this is that Daniel Bryan has the potential to be the guy. As crazy a statement as that is, with Cena injured for the next four-to-six months, that leaves Bryan and Punk as the top two faces in the WWE at the moment. This is an opportunity. An opportunity to get behind the remaining two, or at least Bryan, and rocket him to Superstardom - after all, Bryan is a 'wrestler' and would surely commit to the WWE, as Cena has done for the last decade, if made the number one guy.

I'm an Attitude Era kid, but not someone who craves the return of that era. I do, however, want the passion, effort and storytelling from that era to return. I don't care what anyone says: that era was must-see TV. The events of Summerslam and Raw last night have opened up a new door to the possibility that we could have that type of enthralling TV back again.

Part of the reason for this feeling I have is because there seems a very similar feel to the storyline from back then - the evil boss doing whatever it takes to stop the 'unworthy', ultra-popular hero becoming what he rightfully deserves to be; the champion. Back in 1998, Stone Cold Steve Austin was that very guy; although he was the anti-hero (more similar to Punk than Bryan), he was still the fan's choice. Daniel Bryan has that role now, but in our PG-era, he fits the role perfectly for the time we live in. The 'Mr. McMahon' role is played by Triple H (flanked by Vince, himself, and Stephanie), and the new 'Corporate' Champion is the previously hugely-underutilised Randy Orton.

The new Corporation? Vince, Orton, Hunter & Stephanie (a la Survivor Series 1998)

Orton has been doing nothing for at least the last year, probably longer. As predictable as his cash-in was, it was also genius. By beating an exhausted, deserving new champion in Bryan he instantly became the number one villain. Triple H turning heel and aligning with him added fuel to the fire that was already going to be molten-hot. On Raw, their justification of the screwing at Summerslam was a perfect example of a heel-believing-in-his-own-crap. We now have the ultra-popular hero, Daniel Bryan, chasing the dangerous, corporate-backed, 'chosen one' Randy Orton. The very essence of Good vs Evil. The very reason we watch wrestling and suspend our beliefs.

This is an exciting time to be a wrestling fan. Not only for the potentially great storyline that I've outlined above but for many other reasons, too.

With the injuries to John Cena and Sheamus, I hope that Dolph Ziggler gets the nod to chase Orton, too. He seems to have been brought into the mix by having his tweet (about Triple H's deceit) aired and was punished for this. Big Show was also punished for his thoughts; I love that the boss has set a precedent and will attack anyone that speaks against him. Both guys' punishments were handled by The Shield, who could take on a new role of 'hired guns' for the McMahons and Hunter. This would be something new for them, elevate them (again), and add numbers to the new heel boss' cause.

I know it's early days for this but it's created a buzz around the IWC. I just hope that WWE doesn't, as my friend also text me, "drop the ball" on this one. WWE television has been great in the last few months; something I didn't think would happen, so I hope that they continue to raise-the-bar and surprise us further with quality TV and unpredictable storylines that keep us hooked for the rest of the year.

@jimmosangle

Cody and Damien: 'Best Friends'; Better Enemies?

Cody Rhodes and Damien Sandow squared off with each other at Summerslam last night with Rhodes coming out victorious in decisive fashion. This match was great for the loyal fan as it was a culmination of a years friendship and need to progress for both men. I looked at how we've gotten to this point and the pleasing aspect of having something play-out for such a long period of time.

History
After having the longest Intercontinental championship reign in almost seven years, and with seemingly no direction in singles competition in mid-2012, Rhodes started to team with Damien Sandow in late August. Damien had debuted his 'Intellectual Saviour of the Masses' gimmick just after Wrestlemania XXVIII and this was a nice step-up for the relative newcomer (he had had a previous stint in WWE a few years earlier).

Around this time, Daniel Bryan and Kane had become the WWE Tag Team Champions and with this, they would need credible teams to challenge them. It's probably no coincidence then that Rhodes and Sandow would defeat Bryan and Kane in singles matches on the September 9th episode of Smackdown before announcing their union, and team name - Team Rhodes Scholars - on the following Raw.

Rhodes and Sandow challenged for the Tag Titles several times

What would follow in the next few months would be very confusing, though. Despite becoming number one contenders on numerous occasions, and even defeating the champions in non-title bouts, Rhodes and Sandow would never become the Tag Team Champions in their time together. They would have no-less-than four attempts at winning the gold - two of which were on PPV - but would not be victorious.

I would take a punt that the WWE had no idea what to do with Kane and Daniel Bryan had they not been champions - they struck gold by teaming them up (due to 'anger issues') and having them become champions but really missed something by not having them drop the championships to the worthy team of Rhodes and Sandow. This is the only reason I can see for not crowning Rhodes and Sandow champions.

Best Friends
After their last attempt at the Tag Team titles at the 2013 Royal Rumble, Rhodes and Sandow would agree to go their separate ways but remain 'best friends'.

Only a few weeks later, though, they would again team up to take on Brodus Clay and Tensai (Tons of Funk) on the Elimination Chamber Pre-show in a losing effort. With the addition of the Bella twins and the Funkadactyls, an eight-person tag team match would be set for Wrestlemania XXIX - one that would not happen due to time restraints. This would be another obstacle in the path of two of the WWE's most talented guys.

Things would start to pick up for the duo as of the Extreme Rules pay-per-view; Cody would compete against The Miz on the pre-show in a losing effort and Damien would be defeated by Sheamus on the pre-show of the Payback pay-per-view. Although they both lost it was a step-up from not being on PPV. The latter match would be a result of a mini-feud that consisted of Damien conducting 'intellectual challenges' on Smackdown - Sheamus interrupting and accepting them. Although these segments were probably designed to elevate Sandow, they would also show a 'bully' side to Sheamus - becoming frustrated and resorting to attacking Sandow.

Sandow in a rare moment; in control of Sheamus

Despite the inevitable loss to Sheamus on pay-per-view, Sandow would have one moment to saviour as he would get the better of Sheamus with a vicious assault. In a WWE filled with Sheamus always getting the last word, this was a very welcome sight. It gave Damien a level of credibility.

Better Enemies?
Leading to the Money in the Bank pay-per-view it was announced that Cody and Damien would compete in the World Heavyweight Championship MITB Ladder match. This MITB contract match would see seven 'future' superstars battle it out for the somewhat lesser WHC contract as opposed to the 'Allstar' WWE MITB Ladder match.

In the weeks building to MITB, Damien and Cody would have exchanges where it would become clear that they agreed that the best man would win, along with the knowledge that, regardless of who won, they would still remain best friends. During these backstage skits, it would be obvious that Damien had a more confident, almost forceful approach that he would be the better man.

If I'm honest, I wouldn't have predicted a Cody or a Damien win going into the PPV. The same would be said for the 'Real Americans' tag team of Antonio Cesaro and Jack Swagger. I felt that all four had tag team commitments, and futures, and that they were there purely to make up the numbers. My pick was Wade Barrett as he is long overdue a World Title opportunity and had nothing going on at the time.

As it turned out, WWE might actually have struck gold with its decision to have Damien turn on Cody and be crowned Mr Money in the Bank. I'm still baffled how a heel threw another heel (albeit his best friend) from the ladder to win and we're supposed to buy that as a definite break-up, but I'll overlook that! I suppose on the lead up to the finish, the crowd were 100% behind Cody due to an intensity-filled sequence from him before his downfall.

The Sandow-ized MITB briefcase

The Future
On their journey towards Summerslam, both men have been given some quality time on TV to build the feud and have also been positioned at important parts of the show. This is massively important if we're to care about this rivalry. It really feels like WWE want us to get behind these guys - and I haven't felt that about a feud for a very long time. If it doesn't revolve around the WWE or WHC titles then it doesn't normally get the relevant attention on TV.

This feels different. It really feels like the WWE realise that they have to invest in the future earlier. With Cody and Damien they have something unique and different - a feud that has history.

Normally feuds develop just after the last PPV has finished. They then get resolved at the next PPV and the cycle begins again. This feud has been a year in the making; Cody and Damien have been team-mates, best friends, and remained mid-card challengers for a year now and that's uncommon in today's WWE landscape. It also means that, to frequent watchers of Raw and Smackdown, we have been there throughout the journey - and despite them being heels, we've enjoyed the friendship and alliance that these two have shared. As a result, we can really get behind seeing this play-out and establish a definitive winner; where we're rewarded for the time that we've invested in these characters.

Summerslam: Rhodes defeated Sandow

At Summerslam last night, Rhodes pinned Sandow and this pleased me no end. It surely means that the feud will continue, and hopefully that'll mean that the stakes will be raised. Maybe Cody will now challenge for the MITB contract; a match that will raise the stakes and keep Sandow busy (whilst he awaits cashing-in his briefcase). My hope is that whoever the eventual winner is, both men will come out of this elevated and in contention for the World title, or even better, the WWE title (wishful thinking, I know).

@jimmosangle