WWE WrestleMania XXX Review

It's a little bit late, but I've been very busy over the last couple of day, so finally here's my WrestleMania XXX review! There's a lot to talk about and a lot of opinion to get through. I know a number of people who weren't particularly excited for this year's Mania, after a number of years where the show has failed to live up to it's own hype, how would this year's offering fare? 

After a two-hour pre-show featuring The Usos retaining their tag team titles against The Real Americans, Rybaxel and Los Matadores in a stellar fatal-four way Elimination match, the show proper kicked off with a video package, featuring highlights of previous Wrestlemania's, alongside a street party in New Orleans, with the likes of The Bella Twins and Sheamus dancing and other such hijinks. At times the two would merge creating some really nice visuals such as Shawn Michaels ziplining in above the crowd. A quick look then at the major matches on the show, Triple H vs. Daniel Bryan and the World title bout that would follow, as well as The Undertaker vs. Brock Lesnar and John Cena vs. Bray Wyatt. I really enjoyed this opening package it got me hyped for the upcoming show, which is exactly what you want from an opening video package.

After some ballyhoo and Michael Cole's opening lines pushing the "Then, Now, Forever", we were treated to a lovely opening segment between Hulk Hogan, Steve Austin and The Rock. Whilst Hogan continues to be shockingly bad at cutting promos, almost calling the WWE Network the WWF Network and referring to the Superdome as The Silverdome, Stone Cold and The Rock more than made up for it with their entertaining work on the microphone. With each man coming out toe big pops, it was a very cool moment to see three of the biggest draws WWE has ever had in the same ring at the same time. A truly fitting way to kick off the 30th edition of the Granddaddy of Them All.

1. Singles Match: 

Daniel Bryan vs. Triple H with Stephanie McMahon

Before the match got underway, we got a superb introduction for Triple H by Stephanie McMahon, when she's on her game as a heel, she's spectacular and generates some great heat for herself. Triple H's entance was the first to get the WrestleMania treatment as he entered in a glorious headress and robe, flanked by NXT Diva's Sasha Banks, Charlotte and Alexa Bliss and sitting in a huge throne, it was a moment that was as spectacular as it was symbolic. By comparison Bryan's entrance was basic, no fancy ring jack, no fireworks, just 75, 000 people chanting "YES!" in unison. The contrasts between the two were clear and obvious, none more than when the two stood across from each other in the ring to start the match. 

For me, this match was an absolute pleasure to sit and watch. Triple H did a superb job in his role, working over Daniel Bryan's injured arm with a series of impressive manoeuvre's including an arm trap back suplex on the apron and a tiger suplex. I'm still not over Triple H hitting that tiger suplex, has he ever used it before? Stephanie McMahon was also on top of her game as Triple H's manager, cheerleading from ringside and keeping the fans involved when the pace of the match slowed, allowing Triple H to focus on Bryan. We've seen it time and time again from Daniel Bryan, there really is no one better at fighting from underneath, his selling believable and his offence crisp throughout. Altogether, the story told was captivating and easy to get behind, it's not often that WWE television manages to make me buy into the characters and story as well as this match and it's build up did, but it was fantastic to watch something and be completely engrossed in the match, willing on Daniel Bryan every step of the way. The finish was strong, seemingly coming out of nowhere with Bryan flipping out of back suplex attempt from Triple H and nailing him with The Knee That Beat Cena to pick up the pinfall victory. That knee has been very well protected so far, and I was surprised that Triple H didn't kick out, seeing as most finishers are kicked out of at WrestleMania! Overall, a very very good match, well paced with plenty of excitement with everybody involved playing their part down to a tee, even the commentary team did a decent job.

After the bout, McMahon got in the ring with Bryan delivering a few slaps to the face, allowing Triple H to pearl harbour Bryan, before nailing him with a steel chair shot to the arm. I actually called this happening in my predictions for the show, personally, I expected more of an attack, but this did the job well enough. 

2. Six Man Tag Team Match: 

Billy Gunn, Kane & Road Dogg vs. Dean Ambrose, Roman Reigns & Seth Rollins

Essentially, this match was a squash match and I'm not complaining. It went less than three minutes, with The Shield dominating throughout. Roman Reigns continued to look impressive with single handedly taking apart the opposite team in the early part of the match. Seth Rollins was also on form with a beautiful heelo dive, whilst Dean Ambrose joined him for a suicide dive later on. The finish looked great with The Shield hitting both New Age Outlaws with the Triple Powerbomb at the same time, which got a nice pop from the crowd. Credit to the New Age Outlaws and Kane for putting The Shield over so strongly, as they barely got in any offence in this one. For three minutes of action this was a lot of fun, I'm interested to see where The Shield go from here.

A backstage segment with Jim Duggan, Sgt. Slaughter, Danny Davis, Ricky Steamboat, Ted DiBiase and Ron Simmons took part in a mildly humourous segment based around the Slam City range of action figures. It was a nice way to get these guys on the show and went short enough that it couldn't be accused of taking time away from any of the matches.

3. Andre the Giant Memorial Thirty-One Man Memorial Battle Royal: 

Alberto Del Rio vs. Big E vs. Brad Maddox vs. Brodus Clay vs. Cesaro vs. Cody Rhodes vs. Damien Sandow vs. Darren Young vs. David Otunga vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. Drew McIntyre vs. Fandango vs. Goldust vs. Heath Slater vs. Jinder Mahal vs. Justin Gabriel vs. Kofi Kingston vs. Mark Henry vs. R-Truth vs. Rey Mysterio vs. Santino Marella vs. Sheamus vs. Sin Cara vs. The Big Show vs. The Great Khali vs. The Miz vs. Titus O'Neil vs. Tyson Kidd vs. Xavier Woods vs. Yoshi Tatsu vs. Zack Ryder

Once some of the talent that rarely appears on television was sent packing in this one, (David Otunga, anyone?) things got a lot more interesting. There were some genuinely impressive spots, none more so than Kofi Kingston being launched over the turnbuckle by Cesaro, only to keep himself in the match by landing with his feet on the steps, which helped to lift the crowd in the later stages of the match. As soon as I noticed Cesaro was in the match, it was clear that he would be picking up the victory, as he was the only participant from the Pre-Show tag team match in the battle royal, so if he wasn't heading for victory there really would've been no need for him to take part in the match. The finish saw Cesaro pick The Big Show up in a body slam position, reminscent of Hulk and Andre at WrestleMania III, and send him out over the top rope, in what felt like a star making, true WrestleMania moment for Cesaro. Let's hope that in a years time, he has a much bigger role in WWE's biggest show of the year. 

4. Singles Match: 

Bray Wyatt with Erick Rowan & Luke Harper vs. John Cena

Whilst I wasn't a huge fan of the build being focused around "Legacy", which seemed only to be to fit around the Eminem song which was being used as a theme and throughout the hype package, the story told within this match was exquisite. I loved the idea of Wyatt trying to turn Cena into a monster and this lead to some of Cena's best character work in a very long time, fighting with his demons as Wyatt got inside the fourteen time World champions head. A highlight for me saw Cena attempt a five knuckle shuffle, with Wyatt blocking by entering his "spider-walk" position, with some really nice camera work setting up the visual to perfection. Whilst many were disappointed that Bray didn't pick up the victory here, I certainly wasn't up in arms about the result. Of course, Wyatt would have gotten a lot out of defeating Cena at WrestleMania, but his climb towards the upper echelon of WWE talent was hardly dented by Cena going over here, especially when that never seemed like Wyatt's plan anyway. I look forward to more bouts between these two with a battle at Extreme Rules in May seeming almost certain, giving Wyatt and Cena a gimmick match could produce a match of the year contender. 

After a video package from the previous night's Hall of Fame ceremony (unfortunately nothing about Mr. T's mother, before the traditional show-case of the new class of Hall of Famers. Jake Roberts, Mr. T, the sons of Paul Bearer, Carlos Colon, Lita, Razor Ramon and The Ultimate Warrior were all present to accept the adulation of the 75,000+ in attendance. It's a moment now tinged with sadness, due to the passing of The Ultimate Warrior, seeing him walk through the giant X, is a sight that pulls at the heartstrings. Thankfully he got this moment in front of a huge crowd one more time, if his last appearance at a wrestling had been wrestling Orlando Jordan in Spain, it really wouldn't have felt fitting. 

5. Singles Match: 

Brock Lesnar with Paul Heyman vs. The Undertaker

Well, what can I say about this one? Let's be honest, the actual match really isn't that important, is it? The bout was messy, Undertaker looked old and tired, but there were some nice moments like the false finish that saw Undertaker's Old School move reversed into an F5 for a late two. It really should have been about fifteen minutes shorter but that aside, this one was all about the result. Yes, THE STREAK IS DEAD! The internet exploded, the arena were as shocked as Shane McMahon the day Kane introduced a current to his testicles. It really was one of those "Did that just happen moments?", wasn't it? Many were angry at the result, feeling The Streak should have lasted forever, which is a testament to how well WWE have built it up over the year, but if Undertaker really is retiring then it's was the right result, losing on your way out has always been the way in wrestling. Yes, we'd have all loved to have seen Bray Wyatt or Roman Reigns be the ones to end the streak, but neither were ready for a match of this magnitude this year, and The Undertaker was ready to bow out this year, so Brock Lesnar it had to be. Hopefully, we'll see Lesnar in action more often over the next 12 months to really capitalise on this win, it would be great to see him mixing it up with he aforementioned Wyatt and Reigns, as well as Daniel Bryan and Cesaro along the line.

A video package hyping WrestleMania XXXI at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California was shown, with clips of previous WrestleMania's being shown. I thought it was strange that they didn't show any pictures of the host city, and the logo was under whelming. It will be the sixth time Mania has graced California and the first since Triple H and Batista main evented WrestleMania 21, who knows what Santa Clara will get on 29th March 2015.

6. Diva's Championship Vickie Guerrero Invitational Match: AJ Lee (c) vs. Aksana vs. Alicia Fox vs. Brie Bella vs. Cameron vs. Emma vs. Eva Marie vs. Layla vs. Naomi vs. Natalya vs. Nikki Bella vs. Rosa Mendes vs. Summer Rae vs. Tamina

In the biggest graveyard slot of all-time was the first title defence of the show as AJ Lee defended the Diva's belt against EVERYONE, because booking a feud for the women at WrestleMania would be a mental and out there idea. For ever good idea in this one, like Natalya's triple sharpshooter, there was an Eva Marie roll up, to keep things in check. It quickly 

evolved into a finisher fest, with everyone getting their chance to hit theirs (Who knew Rosa Mendes did a side-walk slam?) The finish was botched with AJ Lee supposedly having Naomi tap out to the black widow, by slapping Naomi's hand on the mat, which would have allowed Naomi a reason for a rematch later down the line, strangely Naomi tapped any way. Whilst it won't be remember for too long, the girls should be commended for keeping up a killer pace throughout, in what, when taken on it's own, is an entertaining couple of minutes.

In strangely only his second appearance of the night, host Hulk Hogan was interviewed by Gene Okerlund. Quickly, the two were joined by Roddy Piper and his friend from the late 1800's, who sported a magnificent moustache. I jest, obviously, it was Paul Orndorff, still sporting a magnificent moustache. When Mr T arrived we were treated to the terrific visual of the four men who main evented the original WrestleMania shaking hands, including an embrace between Piper and T. Pat Patterson turning up a referee outfit was surely the icing on the cake.

7. World Heavyweight Championship Triple Threat Match: 

Batista vs. Daniel Bryan vs. Randy Orton (C)

This is one of those matches that improved on a second viewing, away from all the hullaballoo surrounding the ending of The Undertaker's streak. Steeped in drama from the outset, this truly was a fantastic triple threat bout, that typified WWE's style of professional wrestling in 2014. Playing to each man's strengths, the early parts of the match saw Orton and Batista take out Bryan on numerous occasions allowing the former Evolution stablemates to go at it, with Orton dominating from a backdrop on the steel steps onwards, this allowed for quick comebacks from Bryan, building up towards a magical double frontkick, made even better thanks to a clever camera angle keeping Bryan out of shot until just the right moment. Triple H and Stephanie McMahon's appearances to keep Bryan from winning worked very well indeed, allowing the odds to be stacked even higher against Bryan, and a surprising piece of continuity for WWE saw Scott Armstrong placed into the match, only to get a kick in the head from Bryan! After Bryan had conquered Triple H with a sledgehammer to the face, Orton and Batista's teaming up made a lot of sense, placing another obstacle in Bryan's path as they sent him crashing through the announce table with a Batista Bomb/Neckbreaker combination, that looked to have broken Orton's back as he landed hard on a TV monitor. After Bryan had refused to leave on a stretcher, this is where th best wrestling content of the bout lied. Playing of the triple threat concept well, we saw a number of false finishes broken up by the other participant, as well as some late kick outs that had the crowd on the edge of their seat. But as soon as Bryan nailed Batista with The Knee That Beat Cena, followed by locking in the Yes Lock for the tap out victory, we crowd were out of their seats, arms raised in the air in a truly spectacular moment, that will be remember for some time to come. 

Overall, I felt this was a really good WrestleMania, certainly one of the best in some time, with both Daniel Bryan bouts and John Cena's match with Bray Wyatt being of the highest order, and each presenting something different in some way. Brock Lesnar defeating The Undertaker's streak was a historic moment even if the match wasn't too great in itself. The undercard also delivered with The Shield's bout being booked perfectly, whilst Cesaro was handed a WrestleMania moment in an exciting battle royal. The backstage segments were non evasive and fun, whilst Hulk Hogan, Steve Austin and The Rock opening the show was both fitting and epic. Overall, a top notch PPV in my book, helped out by a surprisingly good showing on commentary from Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler (JBL was there too) and a faultless stream on the WWE Network. Let's hope WWE can keep this up as we head towards Extreme Rules on 4th May. 

One Warrior Reality - Pete Stevens

Being woken up by my brother at 7am Wednesday morning on my first day off in 6 days wasn't my idea of a wake up call. He had neither a cup of coffee or a bacon sandwich however, what he did have woke me up more than an entire pig and a handful of coffee beans could ever do. He told me Ultimate Warrior was dead.

James Brian Hellwig known later in life simply as Warrior, had died. Let me take you back to the part where I was hearing this at 7AM. I wasn't drunk but that was one hell of a sobering moment. Only 2 days before Warrior, I stand corrected 'Ultimate' Warrior came out on to the Hall of Fame stage. A WWE stage, to accept his induction into the WWE Hall Of Fame for class 2014. I witnessed him being the entrance themed final Inductee onto the stage actually at Wrestle Mania XXX for their HOF presentation. I SAW him on Monday Night Freaking Raw! This can't be real. Alas I'm wrong and it is real. All TOO real.

Tuesday April 8th 2014, just 48 hours removed from his Hall Of Fame induction and less than 24 hours removed from his appearance on Raw, Ultimate Warrior had died. I had a number of important things to do that day. One was a telephone job interview & the other being a staff meeting that me and my manager were hosting. All I have managed to think about all day is how all this could of happened. We all know the history and the connection of warrior to the quick argument linking him to drugs and performance enhancers and i'd be the first one to agree with you but you see its deeper than that. This is a man that walked out on to that stage Saturday, Sunday & Monday to great applause and rapture from the crowds for which I know he took personally as it was visible for the world to see yet Tuesday he is gone?

I never claimed to be the biggest Warrior fan and nor would I put any of his matches in my top 100 contests of all time but he was important to professional wrestling. As a child growing up I collected the action figures. I needed Ultimate Warrior because without him who was Hulk Hogan going to wrestle for the belt? As I grew up, so did Warriors reputation for being a brash, difficult & a down right piece of work who once held the WWE hostage for money. Think of other people in this situation, the Jeff Jarrett's of this world who did the same thing for their own gain, only as I grew older something changed.

As I got older still and into adulthood I used to notice Warrior more and more, popping up on YouTube here and there as well as conventions or things he posted himself. I heard all the rumors about him still being difficult to work with & still being an ass from time to time but I started to look at it from a different perspective. I looked at it from the perspective of a guy who was extremely passionate about who he was, how he was perceived in his chosen line of work and his lifestyle choices. Don't get me wrong he still came across a little nutty but through it all I saw the method in the Madness. I'm a retail manager in a fast past sales environment. If I had just ONE warrior working for me, my store would be a much better place.

He believed and now so do I.

Being confused by someone for how they operate doesn't make them anything other than me or you. Warrior exemplified the spirit that more people need in this life, Individuality, pride, ownership, passion & determination to name just a few. He was ridiculed for most of his working and post career because of a combination of all these characteristics but like most things in life you never know a good thing till its gone.

I once read a great quote which is, "Each Man Is The Architect of His Own Destiny". No one in my opinion exemplifies this more then Warrior. Like I said earlier, I've never been a big fan of his ring style or work but the man has left an indelible mark on my within the past 72 hours which is no matter what you do, how hard you work, how passionate you are or how much you love, there comes a time in every mans life when it all comes to an end. Sometimes its sudden& sometimes its not but one thing is for sure, if you don't do any of those things whilst above all staying true to yourself, before you know it you're time will come to sudden stop and you will have done nothing.

I don't fear for the people surviving Warrior. I don't worry about how his two daughters will cope without their father. I feel bad but need not worry, for they will live the way of the Warrior with the knowledge and mindset laid out to them by there truly remarkable father.

I admit I haven't Always Believed........But I do now.

God Bless you Warrior. Rest In Peace.

Pete.

WWE All Star Search #4: 25th August 1984 - Adam Ross

Welcome Turnbucklers! It's edition #4 and we are in Madison Square Garden for another house show! We're a month removed from WWE's groundbreaking show, The Brawl to End it All, so let's see if they are riding a wave of momentum. A couple of new blog appearances in this one including Roddy Piper, Ken Patera and Jesse Ventura. Terry Daniels is also back so here's hoping to see some armbars! Shall we get on with it...?

The Card:

Kamala vs Chief Jay Strongbow

B. Brian Blair vs 'Iron' Mike Sharpe

Rick McGraw vs Salvatore Bellomo

Dick Murdoch/Adrian Adonis (Tag Team Champions) vs The Wild Samoans [Tag Team Title Match]

Ken Patera vs Pat Patterson

Jesse Ventura vs Ivan Putski

Fabulous Freebirds vs Butcher Vachon/Ron Shaw/Pete Doherty

Roddy Piper vs Jimmy Snuka

Terry Daniels vs Fred Marzino

Tito Santana (IC Champ) vs Greg 'The Hammer' Valentine [IC Title Match]

The Show:

Our commentary team for tonight is Gorilla Monsoon and Lord Alfred Hayes.

Kamala vs Chief Jay Strongbow

Chief Jay Strongbow is already in the ring when Kamala heads out to his awful music with Freddie Blassie and Friday. Kamala is slapping that belly so I guess he means business. He won't let go off his spear so lots of stalling is a foot (no pun intended). Gorilla tells us to note the serious expression on Strongbow's face but to be honest, he just looks bored...slightly melancholic. Strongbow uses his quickness in the beginning and nails some chops and punches but Kamala no sells and goes to work on Strongbow. Kamala misses a splash and Strongbow gets a sleeper on briefly. Kamala takes back control with nothing more than weak looking chops and punches. This goes on for about a minute until Strongbow has enough and fires himself up. He nails a couple of chops and kicks and charges at a cornered Kamala. Unfortunately he eats nothing but boot and then eats nothing but a splash and that gets the 3 count. Squash match with two wrestlers with huge limitations. Match Rating: DUD

B. Brian Blair vs 'Iron' Mike Sharpe

Straight to the ring for our next match and we get more first time blog appearances. Future Killer Bee, B. Brian Blair who gets a decent reaction and 'Iron' Mike Sharpe who gets decent heat. Sharpe makes sure we and the crowd know his biceps are 20 inches. Apparently they call Sharpe 'the wimp' which for a wrestler must be crap. Stalling by Sharpe to start to big heat as he mouths off to the crowd and avoids Blair. They lock up and swap wristlocks and Sharpe escapes to the apron. Funny criss-cross spot whereby Sharpe outsmarts Blair. They repeat the spot but this time Blair nails some dropkicks and armdrags to put Sharpe in his place. Sharpe brings a chair in the ring but immediately drops it back outside. Sharpe takes control and starts working on the eyes of Blair. He then moves to working on the neck, dropping Blairs neck across the top rope repeatedly. Blair reverses a whip into a nice monkey flip out the corner followed by a really nice flying head scissors which sends Sharpe reeling to the outside. Nice! Sharpe back in and partakes in some more mouthing off before being refused a handshake. So much stalling by Sharpe here and it seems slightly misplaced within the match. Blair with a cheap shot and starts working over Sharpe's leg. Sharpe regains control with knees and armdrags followed by a lovely double backbreaker which is held into the submission attempt but Blair escapes. More back and forth action until Blair is just plain thrown outside to boo's. Sharpe with more taunting of the crowd and he heads outside to Blair and rams his head into some chairs. At this point Blair surely should've been counted out once Sharpe got back in the ring about 30 seconds ago. Sharpe still won't let Blair back in the ring so Blair sneaks under the ring across the other side, back in the ring and levels Sharpe with right hands and an elbow from the second rope. Out goes Sharpe and Blair follows with an elbow to the outside. They slug it out and the bell rings for the double countout and crowd seem slightly peeved. Good match, Sharpe was really fun to watch, had good aggression and I liked those backbreakers. Blair had a good one in this showing off a good array of moves and a good quick pace. Match Rating: **1/4

Salvatore Bellomo vs 'Quick Draw' Rick McGraw

I think this is face vs face and I don't know why this match is featured apart from it being filler. Back and forth to start with the swapping of headlocks. McGraw hits a nice array of armdrags and locks in an armbar. Nice sequence where Bellomo manages to hit a scoop slam while in the armbar, but the armbar is kept on by Bellomo throughout and keeps control. A drop toe hold leads to a hammerlock for McGraw. Hip lock by Bellomo but McGraw gets him back in the armbar. McGraw ought to have a chat with Terry Daniels and swap armbar notes. It last forever until McGraw works it into a nice cradle for 2. Not seen that before! Test of strength between the two which McGraw wins and manages to bridge Bellomo and a lovely counter sequence ensues followed by some mat wrestling, all very crisp! McGraw ends up locking the armbar back on and uses his knees to add further damage. Bellomo gets him up on his back, goes to drive him in the corner but actually places him on the ropes and they both let go and shake hands to big boo's from the crowd. What was so sweet I now have diabetes...weird. Headlock by Bellomo but McGraw gets an armdrag, goes for a monkey flip but Bellomo lands on his feet and nails a cross body for 2. McGraw takes back control and goes back to an armbar. Christ, we've got a Terry Daniels match later too. Cut to random grizzled old man watching on and back to the ring and Bellomo sends McGraw to the outside. McGraw nails a sunset flip for 1 but Bellomo replies with an uppercut and a stomp. Both men start to get aggressive and have a cat fight. Bellomo works on McGraw's legs until both men knock each other out with parallel shoulderblocks and then again with parallel dropkicks. And again! ...And again into a 2 count for Bellomo. Scoop slam by Bellomo for another 2 and McGraw gets a 2 of his own via a small package. The bell rings during a sunset flip pin attempt by McGraw but its the time limit expiring. It's a draw and this one needed a winner. Good action from both men with some unique offense. Bellomo blesses America and everyone shakes hands. Aww. Match Rating: **

Into the back with the tag champs, Murdoch and Adonis. They say the wrecking crew is gonna wreck everything and we see a brief glimpse of Captain Lou Albano talking to the champs before the match even though he's the Wild Samoans manager. Hmm, fishy.

Adrian Adonis/Dick Murdoch (Tag Team Champs) vs The Wild Samoans [Tag Team Title Match]

Big cheers for the Samoans and big boo's for the champs. Albano is our special ref in this one which makes the earlier backstage clip even fishier. Sika and Adonis start us off with a lockup and Sika hits a back drop on both heels before taking control on Sika. The champs regroup on the outside, get back in the ring but neither heel can take control on Sika. A double elbow by the champs is sold and they both get sent back outside for a slow count by Albano. The heels regroup again and Murdoch finally takes control with punches and elbows. Sika with a slam on both heels. Afa in as well and both champs eat more scoop slams and Murdoch eats a double clothesline. Murdoch forgets the Samoan hard head rule tries a charge into the corner and eats knees. He stumbles to the wrong corner for a tag which gets him a punch in the face but he finally finds Adonis for the tag. Adonis comes in a quickly locks on a sleeper hold while Murdoch nurses himself on the outside. Afa escapes and Adonis tags back out to Murdoch who methodically works over Afa until he misses an elbow and suffers an atomic drop. In comes Sika but the champs double team him in the corner. Adonis nails a scoop slam and heads to the top rope but gets crotched and headbutted outside. Murdoch in for a double headbutt but Albano doesn't count the 3 and instead rings the bell. He raises the champs hands because they won by DQ as Sika didn't have hold of the tag rope, huh. The Samoans want revenge and chase the heels off but keep hold of the belts. Match was OK but the Samoans are too basic even for 1984. Murdoch was all punches and elbows in this one too. Match Rating: *1/4

Ken Patera vs Pat Patterson

Both men are out of date at this point so I'm not expecting a classic. This is Patera's return to MSG after 4 years. Patera by the way looks like a poor man's Ric Flair. Patera shows off his strength and Patterson responds with a headlock. Armbar by Patterson, forearm by Patera but he eats a flying cross body by Patterson! A flying stooge! Patera with some hard right hands and Patterson responds with some of his own. Patera manages to end up stuck in the ropes but Patterson doesn't take much advantage. Patera goes for a boot but Patterson catches it, floors Patera, drags him to the ringpost and rams his knee into it a couple of times. Patera sells it slightly and takes control with a backbreaker for 2. He puts on a sleeper hold which Patterson tries to reverse into a wristlock...but ends up in a chinlock. Patera taunts the crowd but they don't care, thats not good after 4 years gone. Patterson escapes another chinlock attempt and levels Patera with a slingshot to the corner for 1. Scoop slam by Patterson and he goes up top but Patera rolls out of the way. A botched powerslam attempt by Patera ends up straddling Patterson across the top rope. Patera locks on the full nelson and Patterson can't escape so Patera gets the win! Wasn't as bad as I was expecting but wasn't much better. Match Rating: 3/4*

We head to the back with Jesse Ventura who tells Ivan 'Paduski' to expect a beating tonight and that he will become the number 1 contender. He looks like a travesty both in the back and in the ring. He's wearing some weird purple potective goggles and a sparkly green buret, bearing in mind his awful hair style poking through. He looks like a gay alien wizard. 

Jesse 'The Body' Venture vs Ivan Putski

In the ring and Ventura doesn't look much better. His hair is multicoloured which doesn't distract from his bald bounce surrounded by streaks of long hair. Ventura tries to take advantave straight away but it backfires and Putski takes control. Ventura awkwardly sells a punch to the stomach and falls outside. Back in the ring and then straight back out for Ventura to get his breath back. Putski, the little roid ball, is pumped up. No countout for Ventura despite him being outside for well over a minute. Billy Connelly! That's who Ventura looks like! Headlock by Putski and a slap on the bald spot for Ventura. Ventura driven head first into the mat and eats some vicious kicks. The crowd is RED HOT! Jesse does some sneaky heel antics with his wrist tape which the tries yet fails to see. Ivan knicks the wrist tape now and uses it himself to strangle Ventura and the ref does...nothing. They bail outside and onto the apron, Jesse pulls something out his tights and nails Putski outcold. Ventura wins via countout. Crap match although the crowd were hot. Jesse just knows how to be hated. Match Rating: 1/4*

The Fabulous Freebirds vs Ron Shaw/Butcher Vachon/Pete Doherty

This is a 2 out of 3 falls match will they failed to mention until mid-way through the match. So here we have the Fabulous Freebirds who gained success all over the countries territories. They had a massive feud with the Von Erichs which is still mentioned to this day. Their opponents are Jobber UTD and I can only see one winner here. The match was an elongated squash match. Basic moves mixed in with a series of awkward dances and gyrations from the Freebirtds. Michael Hayes is especially irratating and I think he thought he was way better than he actually was, he was definitely sloppy in this. Terry Gordy is a big lad and he showed it off here. He looks like a swollen Bob Orton in my eyes. Buddy Roberts was as vanilla as they go. The jobbers did there bit. I always have a soft spot for Butcher Vachon because he just physically stands out. Freebirds win by two straights falls, neither anything beyond average. Match Rating: *

Jimmy 'Superfly' Snuka vs 'Rowdy' Roddy Piper

Straight into the next match and the crowd are hot for this one. Snuka is looking for revenge after attacks and jibes from Piper throughout the year. Even before we start the intensity is staggering. Snuka doesn't even blink during his long stare with Piper. Piper gets solid heat and even gets nailed with flying debris from the crowd and this is his first in-ring appearance of the series so he finally starts getting scored! Action is hot from the beginning with the intensity through the roof. Snuka gets the early control using his martial arts. I don't really like martial arts in wrestling as most the time it seems far too staged and lothargic. Snuka is a good example of that here, stalling after every chop. He gets heat but how heated is a blood match if you pose in the early stages...at all in fact? Piper gets control using heel tactics like a sneaky thumb to the eye but his domination is stop and start. Snuka uses a sleeper which baffles the commentary team. Surely he's picked it up by watching endless of others in other matches at least. I bet he's mastered the arm bar too. Piper goes into the ringpost and tries to use a chair by fails. He busted open though from the post shot and the crowd are louder than chavs on the tram. Piper stops Snuka in his tracks when he goes up top and he takes a nasty tumble outside giving Piper the countput win. Theirs afters as Piper lets loose with a chair on Snuka's neck. Snuka does a stretcher job as the commentators play it serious. The crowd want Piper's blood...which is luckily for them, pouring out his noodle. Match Rating: ***

Terry Daniels vs Fred Marzino

Time to count the armbars, if there's any less than 4, I'll riot...or at least be slightly disgruntled. We don't even show the match's early goings as instead we watch a zombie-fied Jimmy Snuka backstage. We cut back to the match for literally a glimpse of Armbar #1 before going back to Snuka having his pulse checked...he's still not dead. Back to the match for Daniels IN an armbar...doesn't count. Back to Snuka 5 SECONDS later and now he's being bandaged. Is this Holby City? Seriously, we're on Snuka for minutes while the match is going on. Back to the ring to a backslide for 3! Why bother keeping this on the card for home viewers?? Altogether...less than 20 seconds of match and worst of all, only one armbar from Daniels. Match Rating: One a scale of * - Jimmy Snuka,  I'm giving this one...a Snuka!

Tito Santana (IC Champ) vs Greg 'The Hammer' Valentine [IC Title Match]

This one should be alright given that we actually get to see it. Santana starts in control and Valentine does his Valentine begging off. Has that ever worked Greg? For you or Flair. Valentine does get control not long after using his normally aggressive punches and nails a lovely shoulderbreaker for 2! Valentine bitch slaps him and Santana responds by punching like a bitch. Into the back to see Snuka being stretchered out and I don't think today's audience would appreciate missing the main event. Back to the ring for a glimpse of a chinlock and straight back to Snuka while Monsoon tells us to say a prayer for Snuka. How many kids did pray that night and how embarassed would the now athiests be that they did? Valentine still in control while Santana tries to fight back. Ref bump and Valentine tries to take advantage but eats a flying jalepeno forearm for the 3 count for Tito! Valentine locks on the figure four afterwards and poses with the IC belt afterwards. He looks pissed and shocked when Santana was announced the winner...which makes NO SENSE as Valentine lost clearly. No point in the ref bump in this one. Match Rating: *1/2 of that what I saw.

That's all we have folks for tonight as the commentators worry about Jimmy Snuka and Tito gets interviewed by Lord Al. Santana makes some noises I never want to hear from him again.



Wrestler Scores:

• Kamala +2 (2)
• Chief Jay Strongbow +2 (5)
• B. Brian Blair +4 (4)
• Iron Mike Sharpe +3 (3)
• Rick McGraw +3 (3)
• Salvatore Bellomo +3 (9)
• Dick Murdoch +3 (6)
• Adrian Adonis +4 (7)
• Afa +2 (7)
• Sika +2 (7)
• Ken Patera +3 (3)
• Pat Patterson +2 (2)
• Jesse Ventura +4 (4)
• Ivan Putski +2 (4)
• Michael Hayes +2 (2)
• Buddy Roberts +2 (2)
• Terry Gordy +3 (3)
• Ron Shaw +1 (3)
• Butcher Vachon +1 (3)
• Pete Doherty +1 (1)
• Roddy Piper +7 (7)
• Jimmy Snuka +6 (10)
• Terry Daniels +1 (3)
• Fred Marzino +1 (1)
• Tito Santana +5 (17)
• Greg Valentine +6 (9)

Daily Royal Ramble #8 (6th April 2014) - WrestleMania XXX Predictions

There's only one thing I can really talk about today, and that has to be my predictions for WrestleMania XXX! I'm sure there's hundred of these things knocking around today, I recommend checking out Marc P's on Youtube (If you're a fan of air fresheners this ones for you) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-q-fqWStjx4, obviously after you've read what I have to say. 

Let's work our way through the card, shall we? 

Kicking off with the Pre-Show, we have The Usos defending the Tag Team titles against The Real Americans, Rybaxel and Los Matadores. This is a pretty throw away match, I expect inoffensive action, that will be watchable, but with nothing of any significance occuring. Los Matores and The Usos will hit dives over the top rope, with The Usos eventually picking up the victory, as they've only just won the belts. The Real Americans seem on the verge of break up, Rybaxel are Rybaxel and Los Matadores are seemingly there for the banter.

Moving onto the show proper, I see The Shield opening the show for the second year running against Kane and The New Age Outlaws. I can't say I'm particularly hyped by this one, the build up has been pretty weak, with The Shield spending a fair few weeks teasing a break up, before Kane, Billy Gunn and Road Dogg were brought into it. I can't look past The Shield picking up the victory in this one, start off the show on a high and possibly put a close to the New Age Outlaws run in WWE. 

The joys of the Vickie Guerrero Invitational something or other, as AJ Lee defends the Diva's title against everyone. We all know this is going to be terrible, there is just no way fourteen women in the same ring is going to equal a good match, especially with one fall to a finish. I forsee AJ retain her title, leading to Paige's debut the next night on Raw, kick starting a feud between the two, but I've got a feeling that might be wishful thinking. My outside bet would go to Summer Rae, as they seem pretty high on her and it would tie in nicely with Total Divas. 

John Cena vs. Bray Wyatt is a tricky one, traditional storytelling would call for Cena to overcome the odds and pick up a heroic victory on the biggest stage of them all, but the flipside is the world of good it would do Wyatt, if Cena allowed him to go over clean. Personally, I think we'll be seeing Wyatt in the WWE title picture heading out of WrestleMania and towards SummerSlam, so I'm going to go with Bray Wyatt for this one. Hopefully clean, but it wouldn't surprise me if there's some shenanigans here, allowing for a rematch at Extreme Rules in May. 

Triple H and Daniel Bryan will battle it out for the opportunity to join Batista and Randy Orton in the main event, I think they'll place this one somewhere in the middle of the card. As much as I'd love to see Triple H win for the reactions on Twitter, the mark me really wants Daniel Bryan to win this one and it would seem like the right decision for him to do so. I see Triple H dominating Bryan for most of the match, giving Bryan and absolute beating, before Bryan pulls out the victory. It will be interesting whether they have Bryan win with the knee that beat Cena or the LeBell lock. Personally, I'd have Triple H attack Bryan after the match as well, a tasty sledgehammer attack to add intrigue to the main event. 

Then there's the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, better known as "We can't be arsed with mid-card storylines". I have to admit I'm intrigued with this one and I do enjoy a good battle royal from time to time. If booked right there's space to give a number of performers and opportunity to shine. I expect something crazy out of Kofi Kingston, I expect a load of people to team up to eliminate the big guys and I expect a couple of surprise entrants. Out of all the participants, Alexander Rusev looks like the guy for this one for me, after the build-up over the last few months, it would be great for him to eliminate Big Show or someone similar last and get the heel heat with the trophy. My outside choice for this one is Bad News Barrett, because it'd just make me chuckle.

The Undertaker and Brock Lesnar go head to head, in a match that I don't think anyone gives Lesnar a chance in. That doesn't mean to say this doesn't have potential of being a very good match, because it does! No one gave CM Punk a chance last year, but they managed to put together some nice false finishes, especially the one with the earn and I expect more of the same here. I'd not be surprised to see a lengthy MMA style submission sequence, with Taker's Hells Gate and Lesnar's Kimura Lock, which could be very nice to see, especially if Lesnar works the arm. But yes, in the end Taker comes out victorious, with a possible angle either on the show or on the Raw after WrestleMania to set up his bout for next year. It seems likely to be Sting, but it would be fantastic if it's Bray Wyatt. 

And finally, the main event of the evening. I personally think we will see a Triple Threat here, although I know many are expecting a Fatal Four Way. I don't see Daniel Bryan starting the match, I think we'll see Batista and Orton work the first seven or eight minutes to nuclear heat, with Bryan supposedly out of the match due to the attack by Triple H. Bryan eventually comes out to a huge pop, bandaged and beaten, and battles to an eventual victory, with streamers and all that jazz to close the show. It seems the logical way of doing things, and I'd mark out like a mother bitch for it.

Well, I hope you enjoy the show tonight and I'll see you tomorrow for the review! 

Daily Royal Ramble #7 (5th April 2014) - Hall of Fame Drinking Game!

HELLO THERE! It's the day before WrestleMania XXX, and that means it's the night of the 2014 WWE Hall of Fame! So I present to you, the INAUGURAL HALL OF FAME DRINKING GAME! It even rhymes a little bit, better than those old John Cena raps anyway. 

Before we get going with the rules, I'd remind you to drink responsibly, you rascal! And to Jake and Scott please abstain from this game and enjoy your moment.

Rightio, pour yourself a beveragino and let's get this show on the road.

1. ANY time the crowd chants "Thank You *Insert Name*" take a sip of your drink.

2. ANY time the crowd chants "One More Match" take a sip of your drink.

3. Each time an Inductee name drops a current WWE wrestler, take a sip of your drink.

4. Each time the WWE Network is mentioned, stand up, say "It's WAY over the top" and drink two fingers.

5. Any time the crowd breaks out in a "YES!" chant, drink for the duration of the chant.

6. Any time you find yourself looking at Trish Stratus or Lita's "puppies", take a sip of your drink.

7. Any time Michael Hayes is shown on screen in yet another ridiculous outfit, sing "Badstreet USA" and take a sip of your drink.

8. Whenever someone mentions "tomorrow", or any of Wrestlemania's nicknames (Show of Shows, Showcase of the Immortals etc.) drink two fingers.

9. If The Undertaker inducts Paul Bearer, down your drink.

10. When Mr T. says "I pity the fool" down your drink

That's ten to start off with send your rules into @ATPWrestling on Twitter or www.facebook.com/acrossthepondwrestling and we'll add them to the list.

Daily Royal Ramble #6 (4th April 2014)

So it's been a while since the last DRR and for that I apologise, but I'm back! And a lot has gone on the Wrestling world since I've been quiet. Let's get into it.

Wrestlemania XXX is a mere two days away, the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony is tomorrow night, anyone who is anyone is heading to New Orleans (apart from me obviously, I'm stuck in beautiful Aberystwyth) There's a kind of anticipatory feel in the air once again, isn't there?

Everyone seems a little apprehensive about what WWE are going to hand us this year. There hasn't been a REALLY good Mania since 24 and whilst there has been a handful of stand out matches on the last five events (most notably Shawn Michaels vs The Undertaker) and some success at the box office, the Show of Shows have been anti climatic at best.

So much of this year's Mania hangs on the outcomes of a handful of matches. If Bray Wyatt doesn't defeat John Cena, no matter how good the match, it will be seen as a mistake by the IWC, I can only imagine the response on Twitter following that result. Even more pivotal is the saga involving Daniel Bryan and The Authority, if WWE continue to hold out on Bryan, it will no doubt effect how people view the show. We all know Bryan is going to get his moment eventually, but if WWE don't pull that trigger on Sunday, they could find many people losing their patience by Extreme Rules in May.

Daniel Bryan and Triple H will be pivotal in the success of Wrestlemania XXX

The results of those three matches, will effect where this Wrestlemania places in the history books, almost definitely. It will be interesting to see if WWE gives the Internet exactly what they want, simply to save another backlash from the fans the night after on Raw!

Right, that'll be it for today. Come back for more ramblings tomorrow!

WWE All Star Search #3: Brawl to End It All - Adam Ross

Welcome Turnbucklers! Its edition #3 and it's The Brawl to End it All! This one is a biggie history wise as this was WWE's big break so to speak. The Rock 'n' Wrestling connection was under way with Cyndi Lauper and her fella/manager creating bridges between WWE and mainstream pop culture. This show had a portion featured on MTV at the time and that was a big deal regarding viewing figures. Strangely it was the women's match that was showcased as the main story going into this was Lauper vs Albano represented by a women's wrestler each. For added intrigue the women's title was on the line. Not only that but every men's title is being defended and we have a Battle Royal to boot so let's rumble on!

The Card:


Sika vs Ron Shaw

The Iron Sheik vs Tony Garea

Tito Santana (IC Champ) vs 'Cowboy' Bob Orton [IC Title Match]

Bob Backlund vs Butcher Vachon

Hulk Hogan (WWE Champ) vs Greg Valentine [WWE Title Match]

Antonio Inoki vs Charlie Fulton

Adrian Adonis/Dick Murdoch (Tag Team Champs) vs Sgt Slaughter/Terry Daniels [Tag Team Title Match]

The Fabulous Moolah (Womens Champ) vs Wendi Richter [Womens Title Match]

Paul Orndorff vs Cheif Jay Strongbow

Afa vs Rene Goulet

20 Man Battle Royal


The Show:

We kick things off with Mean Gene but he ain't alone, he's with the WWE Champ, Hulk Hogan. We are 6 months into his title reign so far and the belt itself is a different design than the last time we saw it. I definitely prefer this smaller style. The word Hulkamania is used for the first time in the blog and Hogan puts himself over and Hulkamania over while claiming that the potential list of challengers to his title 'turns him on'. Frisky. We leave Hulk posing for the camera and I gotta say, that was one of his more easily understandable promo's. It was OK and Hogan looked to be having fun.

Our commentators tonight are Gorilla Monsoon and Mean Gene Okerland.

Sika vs Ron Shaw

It seems since last time, Sika (and I assume Afa too) has had a bit of a popularity boost as he gets most the positive reaction in the intro's while Shaw is booed. Sika can't be too much of a Wild Samoan judging by how maticulous he is with folding his t-shirt. We start with a gentle shove by Shaw but he bails out the ring before anything happens. They try a couple of lock ups but nothing comes of it until Shaw gets caught in the ropes and sent outside with a forearm to take a breather. Back in and both lads trade punches until Shaw is levelled by a running elbow. We have eye racks and hair pulling from Shaw now but Sika nails a headbutt and then locks on a chinlock. Shaw's punches are no-sold by Sika and then he eats a headbutt for his troubles. A snapmare by Sika and back to a chinlock. Shaw escapes but quickly eats a headbutt for a 3 count. Another stinker of an opening match. Match Rating: DUD

The Iron Sheik vs Tony Garea

Straight into the next match now and we have Tony Garea, who I'm sure is still looking for a new tag partner 6 months later, as well as The Iron Sheik with Freddie Blassie. Must mention the lovely all gold number Blassie is wearing. Tony Garea looks more like Alvin Stardust every edition which isn't a good trend. Still big heat for Sheik which is good as he hasn't really been doing much since his title loss 6 months previous. Sheik mouths off to the fans to stall and gets a USA chant in return. (Wrong chant number 1 - Tony Garea is from New Zealand). Headlock to start by Garea followed by a scoop slam and a headlock takedown. Lovely sunset flip by Garea gets 2 and back into the headlock. Sheik escapes, goes for a boot to the chest but its countered into an atomic drop which Sheik sells like a botched circumcision...and back into a headlock. Shoulderblock by Garea but he then eats a right hand by Sheik. That allows some crucial posing time for Sheik to some decent heat. He goes for a big back body drop but eats a boot to the face by Garea. Hip toss, dropkick and cross body gets a 1 count for Garea. Sheik whipped into the corner but he reverses it, Garea goes chest first into the turnbuckle and backs into a lovely back suplex for the 3 count! Enough entertainment in this one to keep it away from DUD territory and decent heat for Sheik. Garea is just a means to an end now. Sheiky mouths off after the match and camera cuts to a fan who is clearly a little too angry...so much so, he has a police escort. Match Rating: 1/2*

 Tito Santana (IC Champ) vs 'Cowboy' Bob Orton [IC Title Match]

This one should help the pace pick up now. Tito had won the IC Title from Muraco earlier in the year and was now well into his run. Orton is a new recruit to the WWE and was one of a few people to appear on this card who also featured on the first Starrcade at the end of 1983. Big cheers for Santana which he didn't have 6 months ago. They lock up, shoulderblock by Orton but Santana comes back with repeated armdargs. He locks in an armbar, its countered into a head scissors by Orton...but countered again back into an arm bar by Santana. More chain wrestling until Orton escapes to the ropes for a breather. They tease a lock up but it doesn't happen. Wristlock by Orton is countered into Hammerlock by Santana and countered again by Orton into a Hammerlock of his own into a pinning predicament. Santana whipped into the corner and Orton misses a charge, hurting his elbow. Santana responds...by working over the elbow! Nice! Santana upto the second rope and levels Orton with a right hand. Santana back to working over the arm, elbow and shoulder of Orton and locks on an armbar although not for long. They lock up again and Orton takes control with some aggressive quick punches. Orton hits what I can only describe as a galloping stomp...seriously, it was very horselike and Tito sells it like death. Orton taunts the crowd and it seems VERY familiar to see. A lovely running powerslam only gets 2 for Orton so he responds by working on the lower back! Nice! Psychology 101 in this one - Tito aiming for the arm, Orton aiming for the lower back. Orton lifts up Santana and nails him with a backbreaker for a close 2 count. Santana tries fighting back with right hands to the mush and the crowd love it. Orton, the heely bastard that he is, takes back control with an eye rake and we go into a headlock. Santana fights out with an arm drag but Orton levels him again with a boot to the tummy for 2. Scoop slam on Santana and Orton goes up top, tries for the VaderBomb but eats nothing but knees! Santana is pumped now and goes to work with right hands, Orton flops down and eats a knee drop. Ortons head now repeatedly driven into the mat but Orton takes back control AGAIN with a thrust to the throat. Not for long as Santana gets him in an abdominal stretch. Orton reverses and locks on one of his own! Nice! A hip lock by Santana breaks it up and onwards with the right hands until both men collapse to the mat in exhaustion. Suplex by Orton and he tries for a second but its reversed into a small package for 2. Santana goes for a cross body but eats nothing but air and regret. Orton whipped into the turnbuckle, eats a low punch by Santana and clotheslines himself off the top rope. Orton goes for a piledriver but eats a back body drop. Into the corner for 10 punches but Orton counters into an atomic drop half way through. Wait a minute...the bells goes and we've reached a time limit! No! Both men continue slugging it out afterwards until Santana is left in the ring. Crowd shit all over the draw. Either way, was still a really good match with top psychology and plenty of opportunities to get behind Santana. Orton was methodical and aggressive and the similarities between himself and his son are glaringly obvious here. It annoys me to think Orton will never get WWE gold when putting on matches like this. Tito was the typical babyface but the crowd seem to love him although I find him dull. Everytime it seemed the fightback was on, Orton cut it short and I loved it! That's not to take away from his performance here as I think it's the best Tito Santana match I've seen so far. I can't blame those who give this match a higher rating than myself as it would've been a classic in 1984...but it's 2014 so... Match Rating: ***1/2

Bob Backlund vs Butcher Vachon

Straight into the next match and after the last one, I somehow expect this not to match up in quality. Bob Backlund is still around 7 months after his title loss and Butcher Vachon is scary looking, but if he wins this, I'll eat my own face. Backlund dodges Vachon to start and the crowd go...uninterested. We almost get a wristlock but don't and Backlund does some more avoiding. Vachon takes control with punches and a shoulder thrust in the corner. Backlund reverses a whip attempt into a scoop slam, holding Vachon up for a while which is really impressive to see. Cross-face Chickenwing applied and Backlund gets the quick win. I really want to give this a DUD for wasting my time and yours but that slam was impressive. Match Rating: 1/4*

Into the back with Mean Gene and Greg 'The Hammer' Valentine. Greg promises Hogan he will feel the figure four leglock and...that's it!

Still in the back, this time with Mean Gene and Hulk Hogan. When Hogan puts the Hammer down, he's calling New York City electric company to shut off all the power because 'everyone will be glowing' and we're not going to see anything. That doesn't make sense Hulk, but at least you seemed pumped up.

Hulk Hogan (WWE Champ) vs Greg 'The Hammer' Valentine [WWE Title Match]

Out comes Valentine to big boo's, although many of them will be shared with Captain Lou who is out with Hammer. Hogan comes out to an explosion of noise and his entrance really makes him look like a superstar. He's still in his white ring gear here. Seriously, the reception for Hogan is amazing. Hammer tries to pearl harbour Hulk but to no avail as Hogan levels him with right hands sending Hammer staggering across the ring. Whip into the corner and Hammer face flops to the mat. If a Hammer falls in the woods and no ones around to hear him, does he make a noise? Hammer begs for mercy, tries for a cheap shot, gets countered and eats an atomic drop to send him flopping to the mat again. Hammer tries to escape but gets slammed back inside for his trouble. Chinlock applied by Hogan to bring the pace and crowd to a simmer. Headlock reversed into a nice back suplex by Hammer and then into a camel clutch. Hogan powers out but Valentine regains control and hits a flying forearm for 2...and another 2. Hammer works over Hogan with punches, elbows and knees. Hogan reverses a suplex attempt into one of his own. Lovely shoulderbreaker by Hogan followed by a big boot out of the ring. Hogan follows outside for a brawl and nails an atomic drop. Back into the ring we go and Valentine nails a knee as Mean Gene calls him a 'capitalist'. Elbow gets 2 for Hammer and into another headlock we go. Valentine heads outside and nails Hogan with two (very weak) looking chairshots to the knees. The chairs were bright red and very much padded I may add. The ref was watching but no DQ, just a slow 10 count that makes it to 6. Hammer works on the knees and the...balls...of Hogan. Hammer up top, attempts a flying forearm smash but eats a weak clothesline floor him. One leg drop later and Hogan gets the win! Classic Hogan formula as we'll come to expect. Crowd was electric for Hogan at the beginning but the pace of the match assisted in its diminishment. Hammer was fun to watch and Hogan was at least mobile and competant.Match Rating: *1/2

Charlie Fulton vs Antonio Inoki

We've seen Charlie Fulton before and there's nothing to mention. Inoki is the Martial Arts Champion, which means nothing to me. Nice chain wrestling to start and Inoki eventually locks on an armbar. Fulton escapes and we get some stalling. Fulton with a series of shoulder thrusts and forearms which send Inoki down. Snapmare gets a 1 count for Fulton. Inoki has been getting tips off Sgt Slaughter on how to grow an oversized chin. Fulton locks on a headlock but Inoki escapes, nails some martial arts kicks to the legs and a jumping kick to Fulton's temple for the 3 count! That was crap. Match Rating: DUD

Sgt Slaughter/Terry Daniels vs Adrian Adonis/Dick Murdoch (Tag Team Champs) [Tag Team Title Match]

The Marine music hits and out comes Sgt Slaughter and the unknown Terry Daniels to big cheers and lots of flag waving. Terry Daniels is the first recruit to Slaughter's COBRA CORE which in the long and short term means...fuck all. Out next are the tag champs, Adonis and Murdoch. They had won the belts earlier in the year and were proving to be aggressive and well adjusted champs. Adonis at this point is wearing leather and looks like a Roman biker. Murdoch looks like a slightly slimmer Dusty Rhodes...emphasis on the slightly. Slaughter throws his shirt into the crowd and it's caught by the one bloke who doesn't have a shirt, talk about convenience! We start off with Daniels and Murdoch and of course, some stalling. They lock up, Daniels gets the upper hand but suprisingly just lets go. He gets some words of wisdom from Slaughter before another lock up, a wristlock and into an armbar. Murdoch tries to escape but Daniels holds on, hits an elbow then locks the armbar on again. Daniels gets kitchen sinked in the gut and both men tag out to their respective partners, big pop for Slaughter. Short chain wrestling sequence, a lock up and Slaughter nails Adonis with a right hand that sends him rolling backwards. Slaughter and Adonis start countering wristlocks between each other and in comes Daniels to lock on his favourite move...the armbar! Massive chop by Daniels followed by a run the ropes sequence. Daniels gets monkey flipped, lands on his feet...kind of...as he loses his balance, bounces off the ropes and lock on...the armbar! Crowd liked it all though! Adonis tags out to Murdoch who finds himself quickly in...an armbar! Bodyslam by Murdoch which is no sold and the armbar goes straight back on. Adonis in...and into an armbar...followed by a dropkick...and an armbar. Finally Slaughter comes in, takes control with a nice armbreaker and the crowd loves it. Daniels is and...no armbar! Its a kneedrop...followed by an armbar! Adonis comes in and finally beats on Daniels something fierce and nails a lovely running powerslam. A big USA chant goes up (Wrong chant #2 - EVERYONE IS AMERICAN!). Heely antics ensue which Slaughter doesn't help the situation until he finally gets the hot tag and locks on the Cobra Clutch to Murdoch. The crowd is buzzing but Adonis breaks it up, Daniels in with a series of dropkicks and a double team backbreaker move gets the win for Slaughter and Daniels. This match was essentially one long arm bar. Some decent action at the end saved it somewhat but Daniels was frustrating to watch. Match Rating: *

Out comes Captain Lou Albano who tells the crowd to stand in a few minutes time for the Fabulous Moolah. Bit rich, as Moolah can barely stand herself at her age...then again...she's champ again in 1999, sad.

The copy of the show I have gives me a cheeky Avengers advert. Dame Diana Rigg, you, were, stunning!

Into the back with Mean Gene who's with Fabulous Moolah and Captain Lou. Lou says Moolah and him discussed strategy and Moolah is beyond being beaten. Moolah sounds cocky...but as cocky as a sweet old lady can sound. Mean Gene bigs up Cyndi Lauper's training skills. That annoys Lou so much he gets Moolah's title reign length wrong and then corrected by the lady herself. Awkward.

The Fabulous Moolah (Womens Champ) vs Wendi Richter [Womens Title Match]

So before we start its worth knowing that out of all the matches on this card, this one is the most important. It was aired live on MTV and drew HUGE numbers, mainly thanks to the appearance of Cyndi Lauper with Richter. The huge ratings this drew was a big encouragement for Vince to gamble with Wrestlemania. So was Richter more influential than Hogan on the grand scheme of things...dwell on that...or don't, not arsed. Anyway, out comes Lauper, fella and Richter to big cheers and the only Lauper song I know, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun. Lauper's fella joins us for commentary and he sounds way out of his depth and very confused. I apologize for the lack of details but the match itself is very basic. The crowd is hot as hell as Moolah stalls and then hits some snapmares. Richter ends up on the commentary table before getting back in the ring for some basic back and forth with Moolah that gets a 2 count for Richter. Lauper is a little cutie a must point out. Moolah acts heely until Richter headbutts her in the cervix. Moolah gets trapped and Richter takes advantage. Moolah gets free but ends up in a full nelson. Lauper punches Moolah right in the mush in front of the ref...who does fuck all. Suplex gets a 2 count for Richter but Moolah comes back with a monkey flip. Back body drop into a pin but Moolah pulls her up because she can. Lou misses a cheapshot and Moolah goes for a roll up for 3. It looks awkward though and we see that Moolah's shoulders were down while Richter kicked out at 2. That means a new womens champion to HUGE cheers from the crowd. Lou and Moolah take it out on the ref and have a whinge but nevertheless. The match itself was crap, no two ways about it. Just awful. Match Rating: DUD

Into the back with Lauper and Richter. Lauper calls Lou fat and expects an apology. Richter is also happy and gives the soon to be standard 'I believed in myself' speech. Some randomer comes in and calls it an incredible match...christ. Did I mention Lauper is a cutie? Slaughter comes in and has banter! Hogan follows and everyone is celebrating.

Paul Orndorff vs Chief Jay Strongbow

Back to the ring and Orndorff is definitely over now, big boo's for Mr Wonderful. Crowd are indifferent to Strongbow but that isn't suprising. Stalling to start until Strongbow gets some shots on Orndorff in the corner. Orndorff misses a clothesline and both men collide. Strongbow is knocked to the outside and rings the bell on the way down. More back and forth until Strongbow takes no more and psychs up. Finally its an awkward clothesline that gets the win for Orndorff. Another poor match that did little for Orndorff taking so much from old man Strongbow. Match Rating: DUD

Afa vs Rene Goulet

Straight into the next match and it baffles me that THIS is the semi-main event. Think about that. I'm a new found Rene Goulet fan and I'm expecting his normal cheeky foreign heel escapades. Back-drop by Afa almost straight away followed by a bearhug. Way to kill ANY heat straight away. Goulet gets it back using his normal heely antics...including biting of the noodle. Afa with a headbutt but Goulet comes back with a snapmare. Goulet with the face claw but Afa escapes quickly with another headbutt. Afa nails a big samoan drop for the 3 count. Poor match but quick. Goulet was fun as always. Match Rating: 1/4*

20 Man Battle Royal

I'll just tell you who's in it and the finish: Sika, Jose Luis Rivera, Butcher Vachon, Antonio Inoki, Tony Garea, Chief Jay Strongbow, Afa, Steve Lombardi, Dick Murdoch, Bob Orton, Adrian Adonis, Rene Goulet, Ron Shaw, Charlie Fulton, Terry Daniels, Iron Sheik, Tito Santana, Paul Orndorff, Sgt Slaughter and Samu.

The last 5 is Orton, Inoki, Shaw, Garea and Goulet. I really want Orton or Goulet to win but its not to be as Inoki eliminates Shaw and Goulet last to win it. It was your standard battle royal so take that for what you will. Strange choice in the final men and strange that Inoki looked so strong tonight. Match Rating: *



Wrestler Scores:

• Sika +2 (5)
• Ron Shaw +2 (2)
• Iron Sheik +3 (9)
• Tony Garea +2 (4)
• Tito Santana +6 (12)
• Bob Orton +7 (7)
• Bob Backlund +2 (3)
• Butcher Vachon +1 (2)
• Hulk Hogan +6 (12)
• Greg Valentine +3 (3)
• Charlie Fulton +1 (3)
• Antonio Inoki +4 (4)
• Sgt Slaughter +4 (8)
• Terry Daniels +2 (2)
• Adrian Adonis +3 (3)
• Dick Murdoch +3 (3)
• Fabulous Moolah +1 (1)
• Wendi Richter +2 (2)
• Paul Orndorff +3 (8)
• Chief Jay Strongbow +2 (3)
• Afa +2 (5)
• Rene Goulet +2 (5)