NGN FAVORITE TATTOOS PART III-BATMAN

The Joker is my favorite villain, so of course Batman is my top choice in regards to heroes. Plus, although my left is reserved for my villain sleeve, by right is at the very least going to have the shoulder covered in various Batman logos. Which will wrap onto my back and become Batman. How? Not sure yet, I know the other half (if I split them instead of separate them) will be The Joker haha Here are some of my favorites from my search in planning out my own...

There will be more Batman ink as my ventures across the web broaden, but I might look at more of a basic symbol style. Not just the plain logos, but the ones where people have added designs of any kind within them. Saw a couple awhile back and just loved them. The OG of Superheroes is on deck. Superman for those unaware of who the entire genre started with. Unitl then, Stay Nerdy!

NGN FAVORITE TATTOOS PART I-THE JOKER
NGN FAVORITE TATTOOS PART II-HARLEY QUINN

For more nerd stuff like Comic Books, Movies, TV, Video Games, and Wrestling! Head on over to Non-Geeky Nerd and check things out! Stay Nerdy!

NGN FAVORITE TATTOOS PART II-HARLEY QUINN

Since the last post was about The Joker (HERE), I figured who better to be next in line than Harley Quinn? Like her Puddin' the ink that Margot Robbie sports in "Suicide Squad" will be a part of my villain sleeve and some other stuff including my youngest daughters name, which happens to be a variation of Harley Quinn haha Here though we are looking at other people's Harley Quinn tattoos (again don't know owners or tatt artists). And they would be...

Given her steady rise in popularity (non-stop since she debuted on Batman: The Animated Series really) I am sure we will see more and more Harley Quinn tattoos make their way onto human canvas across the globe for long time. There were a couple that were the same pic for their tatt selection, but I just liked the differences that separate them making them unique despite the origin. Think I should cover the goddamn Batman next. Till then, Stay Nerdy!

NGN FAVORITE TATTOOS PART I-THE JOKER

For more nerd stuff like Comic Books, Movies, TV, Video Games, and Wrestling! Head on over to Non-Geeky Nerd and check things out! Stay Nerdy!

NGN FAVORITE TATTOOS PART I-THE JOKER

I figured I would pay homage to fellow inked nerds and geeks by posting my favorites as I see them. Plus, it will keep the nerd ink flowing as I wait and plan out my sleeve (possibly sleeves). They do take time and money after all. Neither of which I have for tatts right now, so as we will. The first entry focuses on who is the inspiration for my first and currently only tattoo (again, sleeve is a comin'), The Clown Prince Of Crime, The Joker. I am pro-Joker being inked as well. I figured an updated version would, and the "HA HA"s and the grin mean that he will always be laughing and smiling. I would almost be certain that there is a Batman tattoo on him somewhere as well. If not visible, then possibly right on his uber white booty haha Here are my favorites. I saw some cool and different concepts and directions, but the work wasn't to my liking. And I am not about to shame anyone so they shalt not be seen here. These however will...

No, I am not sure who these tatts of The Joker belong to nor who the artists were. Regardless, I like them (the Venom/Joker ink was a great idea. I'm contemplating Batman/Joker in a similar fashion to join my shoulders on my back), and there will be more to come of course. Being that the ratio of inked to non-inked isn't what it was years ago. Adding that comic book and just general nerd movies are white hot right now there will be more than enough to fill the gaps of my own "journey" haha

TO BE A FLY ON THE WALL OF TNA WRESTLING

I try to avoid mass negativity on here. It slips out at times, but that is simply a personal opinion that isn't able to be delivered in a negative light haha This time though I care not. It is nearly impossible to approach things positively in TNA. Beyond the talent, who are good but in the wrong place at the wrong time, it has been and is a mountain of garbage.

The title says, to be a fly on the wall of TNA Wrestling, and right now I would really like to be. Reports are stating that Dixie Carter is looking for investors and partners to help keep TNA afloat. The reports are also saying that she is looking to maintain a 51% majority ownership. This is why I want to be that proverbial fly on the wall, as I really am curious as to how Ditsy is selling this idea to people. Her own fathers company, Panda Energy, pulled out financially about half a decade ago so how can she ask others to give her their money and expect a return? I am curious as to who and what she blames TNA's failures on, because she clearly isn't saying that it was her. It is easy to think of possible scapegoats. Jeff Jarrett and the whole Kurt and Karen thing years ago, his backing out of the company. Vince Russo fooling her and creatively destroying her company. Spike TV. Hulk Hogan & Eric Bischoff. Any talent who didn't get over. Vince McMahon. Etc. Etc. But, nothing was Ditsy Carter's fault though hahaha
WrestlingInc.com is reporting that there are a few investors lined up despite Ditsy wanting to stay in charge. But, things are so bad financially that she might have to settle for a much less of a role and give control to others. How bad? She owes one of those investors for having put up the cash for recent tapings, and if she doesn't pay up by a certain date she loses her controlling stake.

In summary, Ditsy buys a new but thriving company from Jeff Jarrett. Despite all the talent and Daddy's money, ev-er-y-thi-ng fell apart. And is so bad at business, she is about to lose control of her company instead of negotiating a way to at least give it away. I will always feel for the people below her who will possibly lose a job if things don't work out (with or without her). But, since WWE has been scooping up TNA made talent (AJ Styles, Samoa Joe) or at least teasing at it with some (Robert Roode) I like others aren't suffering too much by all of this. Also like many others, a smirk grows on my face at the thoughts of Dixie proving how Ditsy she really is and then never being seen again.

NGN FAVORITES: PRO WRESTLING V: TAG TEAMS

They say that two is better than one, and tag team wrestling has shown that many times over the years.

As A Kid...

• Steiner Brothers
• Legion Of Doom
• Hart Foundation
• The Rockers
• Demolition

-The hardest list really. 1980's and 90's were loaded with tag-teams, and they were all pretty good, well as a kid. Steiners for the amateur wrestling moves, and the Frankensteiner being the first hurricanrana I had seen added greatly to this. LOD is likely on everyone's list, understandably. I'm Canadian so of course Jim and Bret are on here, plus I always preferred them over the British Bulldogs. The break-up on the Parlor Shop meant more to me because I actually liked The Rockers. Things turned out pretty good though via HBK (sorry, Marty). I was mostly a WWE guy, so Demolition were my Road Warriors...until they were squashed by the Legion Of Doom.

As A Teen...

• New Age Outlaws
• Hardy Boyz
• Edge & Christian
• Rock 'n' Sock Connection
• Dudley Boyz

-It is a pretty standard list, but could I really leave the teams from the TLC matches off it? Mankind and The Rock were the perfect odd couple team at that time. And I still do the New Age Outlaws entrance to this day, so obviously. Others would have been the Brothers Of Destruction, The Outsiders, Holly Cousins, APA, Two-Man Power Trip (Austin and Triple H), Harlem Heat, Too Cool, and others.

As Young Adult...

• Dudley Boyz
• Los Guerreros
• 3-Minute Warning
• Chuck & Billy
• The Worlds Greatest Tag-Team

-In the WWE, I didn't like the splitting of the Dudleyz at all, was stoked to see the reunion at Survivor Series in 2002 (weird to say but it was done better in TNA). Other than his title runs, Los Guerreros was my favorite Eddie stuff, thinking it was the beginning of the Lie, Cheat, and Steal schtick (can't remember for sure). 3-Minute Warning was somewhat of a trio with Ricco, but loved the tag team of Rosey and Jamal. They were a new age Head Shrinkers and Wild Samoans. Ricco once again in the mix, but loved the Billy & Chuck teaming. The wedding was a bit much, entertaining but killed the gimmick. The Worlds Greatest Tag-Team was the precursor to American Alpha in a way. Shelton Benjamin was a whole different athlete than the other 3 in this discussion.

Now...

• Enzo And Cass
• Harper And Rowan
• Dudley Boyz
• Usos
• 
  

-Like many I am a big fan of Enzo Amore and Big Colin Cassidy. The entrance, the difference in characters yet are similar. Its all good. And you can't teach that. I can also see them as singles stars if and when the time calls for it, with Enzo being a good mic worker and scrappy as hell, and Cass of course being that rare 7 footer who can move. I don't like them as much in singles, but together Harper and Rowan are money. Dudleyz of course. Usos have become a bit stale for me, but would love a heel turn. A new age 3-Minute Warning look wise, it would also be a homage to their late uncle, Umaga. I left the last spot open because I am only just under halfway through my 30's, and not sure who to pick between The Revival, American Alpha, and The Vaudevillains. Have to see how Revival and Alpha do on the main roster, and not sure if the Vaudevillains will be as interesting a few years from now.

You would think that perhaps that the Dudley Boyz were my all-time favorite tag-team, given they are listed in each era of my life. However, they are not. They are Top 5 for sure, but they happened to be great in a variety of times in WWE history. I can't pinpoint an absolute favorite team. I liked too many for different reasons, and at different times in my life.

NGN FAVORITES: PRO WRESTLING I-SUPERSTARS
NGN FAVORITES: PRO WRESTLING II-FINISHING & SIGNATURE MOVES
NGN FAVORITES: PRO WRESTLING III-ENTRANCES
NGN FAVORITES: PRO WRESTLING IV-WWE RETURNS & DEBUTS 

NGN FAVORITES: BATSUITS

It all really falls on my opinion of how the artists draw the iconic cape and cowl. In the live action side of things, the Batsuit has evolved and improves both in look and in function. In my opinion of course.

Comic Book:

1. 1980's and 1990's Blue & Grey
-It is what Bats was wearing when I first started reading comic books, so it sticks in my head the most. Well, until the memory goes I guess haha It is blue cape and cowl, grey suit, ad the traditional bat-logo. Although the newer blue and grey look works with a more updated symbol too.

2. The Original
-Bob Kane's initial costume is a favorite for being simply that, the original.

3.New 52
-Again, it is mainly in the artists presentation. And the peeps who've drawn Batman in the New 52 era (short as it was), did a great job of making the suit updated and appealing. With Capullo leading the way.

Live Action:

1. Batman (1989)
-It was my first, and as a kid I had no concept of function. I just thought that rubber suit looked amazing. I liked the slight upgrade for Batman Returns, but love the first. "Errant" logo and all (it wasn't, they changed things later).

2. The Dark Knight (2008)
-With a better idea of function, and of course reference within the film, the Batsuit was pretty amazing in my opinion. The neck was a bit skinny compared to the mask/head in regards to scaling. But, it didn't make for any slightly cheesy silhouettes with the ears bouncing to and throw.

3. Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice (2016)
-I've yet to go see it (don't ask haha), but just based on the trailers and photos, it is possibly the best one. It looks pretty darn close to the suit in The Dark Knight Returns. Initially it doesn't look like it would have good mobility, but the trailers show otherwise. I'm talking the basic suit, not the armor he dawns as well. Which is also amazing.


There are others, like a Yellow Lantern/Sinestro Corps Batman that I liked the look of, but opted to focus on the ones we see/seen more regularly. Perhaps I will list those as a "Fav Arkham Games Suits" with all the DLC's bringing a lot to life like Knightfall and Batman Beyond, which aren't on this list 'cause they aren't technically Batsuits without Bruce Wayne in 'em. Yes, I am one of THOSE people haha

NGN FAVORITES: COMIC BOOKS III-CHARACTER COSTUMES

Batman and his Batsuit is my favorite. The reason being that there are too many variations that I really like that they need their own list. Plus, Batman is my top hero so I am being majorly bias here of course haha Keep an eye out for that in the future though. Although I have my favorites, I do like characters who have evolved their looks and costumes over time. Even the best can get stale.

Spider-Man

-A lot of variations nowadays, but it wasn't always like that. There was a time when it was the traditional, a cosmic one which was the same as the regular, but had webbing in the armpits haha And of course the black. Black is my all-time favorite Spider-Man costume, even as a non-symbiote the basic black and white work well in comic books. Followed by the Spider-Man 2099 get-up, and of the newer styles I really like the looks of the Spider-Man Noir and Future Foundation versions.

Cyclops

-Another Marvel character that has had many styles and looks over the years. Only the visor has generally remained the same, with the exception of that "X". My favorite is from the early 90's, with the blue and yellow sans hood. It just looked like what a leader and soldier would wear when I was a kid, and seemed to almost perfectly complement both Jean Grey's and some other X-Men's general uniform pallet at that time as well. Not a fan of them with Cyclops, but if I had to pick from the "hooded" looks, I'd go with the original. His powers were all that separated him from the flock and that "X" visor looks pretty cool to I must admit.

Spawn

-Fellow Canadian Todd McFarlane struck gold when he created Spawn. The mask and eyes, the chains, the cape. Head to toe I like the look of this one. Even when the mask is removed, we get a gross, but great look of Al Simmons after his death. A look that hasn't needed to change really, plus I am not an avid reader so I haven't grown bored with it haha

Catwoman

-It is one of the hardest looks to pull off in the real world. Sorry ladies, but most of the time the ears just don't look right. I can't explain it. Halle Berry's mask doesn't count, as it doesn't look right period. Back to the print, where my favorite Catwoman costume in comic books is in the New 52 era. It just looks like it would actually work, it fits the base of the character (a cat burglar/thief), and isn't too revealing when not drawn that way haha A close second is the purple suit with long black hair hanging out the back of the mask, and black thigh high boots. Just looks great to me. If there is a comic book version of Michelle Pfeiffer's costume, then that would be a definite second but maybe the tops haha

The Joker

-The costume has generally stayed the same, purple suit, but there have been slight variations and other outfits. And his general appearance has evolved over time (face, hair, grin, etc). I can't really pick a top favorite, but the clowns fighting for top spot are...from the 1980's and 90's being when I got into comic books so it holds down in my memory and Joker obsession haha, "Joker" graphic novel, which is a comic version of Ledger. From the New 52 era with the mechanic outfit and "face strapped and stapled back on" look and the "new" look. One was sick in both meanings of the word, the other similar to what we'll see in the upcoming Suicide Squad movie (sans ink....which I like to be honest).

I dawned on me after I was finished that there are two Batman characters in the mix, but that's ok haha I said a separate posting would be for just Batman, and really the people within Gotham have the better looks in DC Comics. But, again I am pretty bias in this case haha

NGN FAVORITES: PRO WRESTLING IV-WWE RETURNS & DEBUTS

A few things add to the "experience" of witnessing a WWE debut or return. How I like the superstar, the music, the look, the crowd reaction, the moments that follow. One of each, all of the above, or various combinations of them.There were more, but these are the WWE debuts and returns that I can still remember and in some cases still get the chills and goosebumps even today.

Debuts:

Chris Jericho

I still get goosebumps watching this one. I didn't have the internet then, and didn't really have any friends who read the dirt sheets and whatnot, so I was shocked when "Jericho" appeared on the screen and Y2J appeared. He was one of the few WCW guys I enjoyed watching in my limited exposure to the product.

Tazz

The New York crowd kind of gave it away as Kurt Angle was cutting his promo, but they also added to their hometown boys WWE debut. The music, the lights, even the towel on his head made it look epic as the MSG gave possibly their biggest pop of Royal Rumble 2000/

The Undertaker

I can't remember if I watched this live or soon there after on VHS (yes, VHS). Regardless, all I can remember is that from moment one, the Deadman scared the sh!t out of me. Later adding Paul Bearer and the Funeral Parlor only made things worse haha

AJ Styles

The crowd pop wasn't as big as Jericho's (that could have been the audio though or arena acoustics), but it was still close and a big reaction from the crowd at the 2016 Royal Rumble. I could've cared less about the reaction as I was just pumped that the Phenomenal one was finally in the organization he belongs. Other companies helped prepare him, but the WWE stage is one AJ Styles belongs on.

Booker T and Diamond Dallas Page

Booker was given the better scenario with Austin, DDP was with Taker but the stalker angle was weird. Regardless, their arrivals meant The Invasion was officially on. Didn't get all of the big names, but I enjoyed this period regardless. Booker T and Diamond Dallas Page helped that.

Returns:

Stone Cold Steve Austin

Which time? Wrestlemania 32. When I noticed HBK was ready to wrestle, and then Mick came out I thought this was gonna be cool. The Rock is probably the third guy. Then "the glass broke", and I had my greatest feeling ever in sports entertainment haha I think my heart might have actually stopped for a moment before the goosebumps and the numerous "Holy Sh1t!!!"s sped from my mouth. Sure, he wasn't in his gear, but I knew I was about to relive my glory years and watch a classic Texas sized Can Of Whoop-Ass be opened. And the bit with The New Day was hilarious. One time deal, but that's sure better than nothing.

Shane McMahon

I got goosebumps with this one as well. The shock of Shane O'Mac returning, but also possibly the loudest crowd pop I've ever heard. Or perhaps it felt bigger as it has kind of been awhile of a worthy moment. Regardless, it was a huuuuuge ovation.

Undertaker

Again with the question of which time? Wrestlemania XX. We obviously knew he was returning, but when Paul Bearer's voice echoed his trademark, "Oh Yes!" it took things to another level. Then to see Taker's return to an updated Deadman gimmick was amazing. This was really the only thing I talked about with coworkers at that time leading up to Mania. Benoit was a Canadian boy, and this was obviously before the tragedy. But, it was how Taker will look and approach his character upon his return against Kane (who was at his best at that time in my opinion).

Triple H

His return from his first torn quad. WWE did an amazing job helping us remember not who he was (we wouldn't forget him) but what he did. Not even just the torn quad, and finishing the match. He tore his quad and finished the match in the *expletive* Walls Of Jericho!!!! If you think I am overselling, do the math. Jericho's finishing submission on top of the announce table wasn't helping The Game's fresh injury. Anyhow, the pop of the ever loud MSG crowd gave me goosebumps once again.

n.W.o.

I put them under returns as the same or similar reaction would've came sans the black and white. They were WWE made men which is what made the New World Order work in the beginning. The only "debut" was simply of the brand. Either way it was a great moment at the aptly named No Way Out. Crowd reaction and the entertainment. Scott Hall's line about maybe having some beers with the boys and Hogan and Nash saying no was hilarious (it's good to laugh sometimes).

NGN FAVORITES: PRO WRESTLING I-SUPERSTARS
NGN FAVORITES: PRO WRESTLING II-FINISHING & SIGNATURE MOVES
NGN FAVORITES: PRO WRESTLING III-ENTRANCES

NGN FAVORITES: PRO WRESTLING III-ENTRANCES

Now I must admit that you won't find any of The Undertaker's string of Wrestlemania entrances. It isn't that they don't belong on here, it is because they would take up most if not all of the list. So, that will be saved for a future installment haha

Finn Balor (The Demon)

Th music for starters is one of the rare songs without lyrics that I like haha Combined with the body motions in sync with the music makes it good "normal" or "demonized". But, with the paint, the lights, and the anticipation to what Finn will show us next. So far my fav was the various Demons coming and going individually from the smoke, then having just Balor in Demon garb. Visually epic. I cannot wait to see this on a Wrestlemania stage. It is clear Taker has given him some pointers.

Kane/The Brood

I put them together because I love both, but always felt that the whole rising in a ring of fire should have been part of Kane's entrance. At Wrestlemania in the least. Kane is the music, lighting and pyro. The Brood was the ring of fire and blood ritual thing by Gangrel.

Undertaker

I said his Wrestlemania entrances wouldn't be on here haha It all starts with the lights cutting out and that bell tolling, followed by his music. Which has also evolved during the years, personal favorite was his Ministry Of Darkness days music wise. The trademark lights on routine is still a must have classic. The lights and visuals have gotten better over time. The titan tron and it's evolution has added to all of this.

Triple H

Another Mania entrance guy, but I like the basics of it all. It did look better when he had the long hair, but still works with the corporate buzzcut. Lights, Motorhead (The Game or King Of Kings), occasional laser lighting, and a bottle of water. Yes, a bottle of water. And the simplicity of it perhaps adds to it all. But, the water spews (initial and follow-up) just looks amazing in that light haha

Baron Corbin

It is kind of different on the RAW stage, but on NXT it looks amazing. Again with simplicity. Darkness, then a massive flash of blinding light, and as your eyes adjust Corbin fades into your view. The added footstep spotlights cutout thing is great too, but loses it again on a RAW stage. At Mania it would look great, but only in a closed arena or at night. Pitch black night, not the "evening" haha

The Wyatt Family

This started off very cool all in itself. You got the "new age Undertaker" vibe in the sense of the darkness from it. The crowds have added to the effect with the "fireflies". Which looks better and better with growing supporters and bigger arenas. This would still be cool in the pre cell phone era with thousands of lighters lighting up the pitch black arena.

As like most things I list, it is ever evolving. New superstars, evolution of established stars. As technology gets better, I can't wait to enjoy things to come. Until then, Stay Nerdy!

NGN FAVORITES: PRO WRESTLING I-SUPERSTARS
NGN FAVORITES: PRO WRESTLING II-FINISHING & SIGNATURE MOVES

NGN FAVORITES: TELEVISION-SHOWS

Like many, most notably those born in the 1980's, television has become part of my day to day haha My tastes fall between mainstream and unique. Although I have enjoyed the "upgrades" within television, I am not a fan of things such as the countless breaks. Whatever happened to just the summer being the break between seasons? Or was it always that way, and that things I watched just weren't affected until now? Regardless, they are annoying. But, here are the shows I have, still, and currently like...

Fav Television Shows As A Kid

• He-Man And The Masters Of The Universe
• She-Ra The Princess Of Power
• Thundercats
• Transformers
• Care Bears
• The Smurfs
• Disney's Adventures Of The Gummi Bears
• Darkwing Duck
• Ducktales
• Toronto Blue Jays Baseball

This part of my life could be an entire post in itself, like many other 80's kids I loved television. Not our fault as ev-er-y-thi-ng was geared towards us. Care Bears and Smurfs were awesome then, so shush. Gummi Bears was a show I loved, but now as an adult seem to be one of the few who remember it. He-Man and She-Ra were the original nerd shows for me, and yes I said She-Ra haha I was huge into baseball as a kid too, again not my fault as it was when the Toronto Blue Jays were consistently good.

Fav Television Shows As A Teen

• WWE RAW
• WWE Smackdown!
• WCW Nitro
• WCW Thunder
• Mighty Morphin Power Rangers
• Chicago Bulls Basketball
• Toronto Raptors Basketball
• 90210
• The Simpson's
• South Park

As a teen it was really anything with hot females haha But, I did watch the entire shows so I did get to see what they were kind of worth haha Switched from baseball to basketball, and was mildly obsessed with it so there was a lot of Bulls and Raps on my television. Of course, this was the ultimate peak of professional wrestling, so no shocker that WWE and WCW's shows are on there. It was more WWE than WCW, but still. My mom wouldn't let me watch The Simpson's as a kid, so as a teen I watched that and discovered South Park. Yes, I am a bit mouthier because of it. I said mouthier. The rest was genetic haha

Fav Television Shows In My 20's

• WWE RAW
• WWE Smackdown!
• Smallville
• Dexter
• Sons Of Anarchy
• The Big Bang Theory
• Trailer Park Boys
• The Sopranos
• Family Guy
• TNA Impact

Stopped really watching any sports as a young adult, but still had my wrestling. It was only WWE for the longest time, but TNA did appear on my radar for awhile. Started watching more shows in entirty at this point. Started with going back and watching all of Smallville (joined in progress about season 7-8), and The Sopranos, Dexter, and SOA followed. Saw the premiere of The Big Bang Theory, hated it, got talked into watching it later on it the season, now I love it. It happens. Family Guy. Nuff said....giggity.

Fav Television Shows Now

• WWE RAW
• WWE Smackdown!
• WWE NXT
• Arrow
• The Flash
• Breaking Bad
• The Big Bang Theory
• iZombie
• WWE Network (everything)
• Modern Family

WWE is really the only game in town now (sorry ROH and remaining TNA fans), but with the loss of competition came a revamped NXT brand that is on par with RAW and Smackdown! in many ways (if not better, but don't tell Vince). And we get all that comes with the WWE Network. Old, new, original, parodied. The Big Bang Theory is still a fav', and Modern Family is too easy to relate to, at times, not to like. Breaking Bad was epic. As nerds, we finally got a smorgasbord of shows, that is growing even still. For me Arrow and The Flash are tops. So far, I have enjoyed iZombie, but not sure if that will last or not.

AJ STYLES: THE LONG SHOT

It is kind of weird to think of AJ Styles being the "underdog", as he truly is phenomenal. He's transitioned perfectly into the WWE Universe, you would think that he is a WWE Veteran, and not just an overall Vet. But, in the WWE he is a rookie none the less. AJ is also not the "traditional" WWE Superstar in regards to being THE man. We've seen others break that invisible glass ceiling, CM Punk, Daniel Bryan, etc. Difference being that they had to acan still lmost "earn" their way to the top through the WWE Universe. AJ Styles is still a WWE rookie, having only been in the WWE since being a surprise entrant in the 2016 Royal Rumble.

Those are the basics. AJ Styles is also not Roman Reigns. WWE has been building to all of this for almost 2 years now. Money In The Bank cash in, The Authority, etc are a thing of the past. Unless things have changed, The Roman Empire is on a run as being the WWE World Heavyweight Champion. The new don't care attitude says that they are going to keep trying to win fans over. So again, unless things have changed, AJ isn't walking out with the title after Payback.
Are they at least turning Roman heel or going with the new evolved "good" and "bad" guy routine? Which is where it isn't face versus heel, as it is fan fav against person fans like less. I say evolved because of people like Kevin Owens, who are fan favorite in regards to ring ability but can garner cheers as a face and boos as a heel. If people booed Owens as champ, it would be because his character at that time called for it. If Reigns doesn't turn, fans will be booing because he wins and not because they simply prefer Styles. It isn't because Roman is a bad guy, it isn't because Roman is a good guy, it is because fans just don't want him as THE guy in this manner. Just like with John Cena, who I've mentioned could "turn" without doing anything but acknowledging he is a heel. Same stuff, just justifying the chorus of boos. It is also hard to see past a traditional "someone runs in and screws AJ over, he feuds with them, Reigns on to the next challenger" scenario as well.

Things aren't horrible with a Reigns win though, well, if they played it out as such it wouldn't. I've said before how The Usos are going through a similar situation as their cousin Roman. Beyond their entrance, fans don't seem to be behind the tag team. So, why not have them join The Roman Empire and have all turn heel? Usos run in costing AJ the title, Karl Anderson and Doc/Luke Gallows follow-up clearing the ring and starting The Bullet Club now The Balor Club with AJ? Then feuding of course. Joe isn't part of the Samoan Dynasty, but he could be included in the Roman Empire, with Finn Balor in the Balor Club to make this that much better.

Guess we shall see soon. Again, I am big fan of AJ Styles and have been wanting a WWE jump for years. I would just be shocked if he walked away from Payback as the new WWE World Heavyweight Champion. A very welcomed shock, but a shock none the less. Guaranteed positive is that I'll be watching via the WWE Network. Couldn't handle disappointment at PPV pricing.

INJURY BUG BITES WWE YET AGAIN

Seth Rollins, John Cena, Randy Orton, Neville, Luke Harper, and now Bray Wyatt. Cesaro was on there, but came back the night after RAW. I may have even forgotten some, but that is a pretty big number. Nothing beyond confirmation that there is an injury has been released yet, but the acknowledgment indicates it is bad. The level of bad is the question. Can he still walk on it, but can't compete? Bray of course could still work the mic while Rowan and Strowman unleash hell. Or is it bad enough that there is yet another void to fill?

To make things worse, this was a freak accident with Bray slipping and falling while walking backwards from the corner. The opponent was Roman Reigns, who did absolutely nothing to cause this.Regardless of the how, if Bray Wyatt is out of action for a period of time, how does this effect...everything? On television we were witnessing The Wyatt Family turning baby face, with Bray even teaming with Reigns in a tag match against the League Of Nations. A part of me senses this was maybe part of a bigger story involving Wyatt and Reigns, how does this effect that?
And lets not forget about The Wyatt Family as a whole? It has been cut in half, leaving the two who aren't as strong on a mic as the fallen members. Bray is the leader of course, where do Braun Strowman and Erick Rowan go from here? Remain as a tag team? Split up and go the singles route? The latter would benefit Strowman more, given reports of being a fav of Vince McMahon's. I am still wondering why the white sheep left and returned to the flock, so not sure what they would do with him. Sheamus' cousin? haha
If Bray is out for awhile, will we see another NXT call-up? The Balor Club (Bullet Club) members signed by WWE are a Finn away from completion. And of course there is Samoa Joe, interesting to see what Vince does with him when it happens. Or will a different NXT star make their way onto the main roster?

I guess we will find everything out as it happens. We still don't know anything beyond that there is an injury, and it is the right calf. It is ironic that there are so many questions surrounding this, for me at least, being so fitting of a character like Bray.

NGN FAVORITES: PRO WRESTLING II-FINISHING & SIGNATURE MOVES

Another installment of my favorite things in sports entertainment and professional wrestling. This time I am listing my favorite signature and finishing moves. At times the two get confused, but signatures are more of a simple trademark move that isn't always getting a finish from it. It does at times, but it isn't really supposed to. Finishers are divided into "impact laced" and submissions.

Fav Signature Moves

• The People's Elbow (The Rock)
• 5-Knuckle Shuffle (John Cena)
• The Spinarooni (Booker T)
• The Spear (Goldberg)
• Stratusphere (Trish Stratus)

I hated when The Rock used The People's Elbow to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. It was his signature, not either of his finishers (even though nobody should tap to his Sharpshooter haha). Love it either way and was the precursor to others as well Cena and Booker for sure. Booker's has nothing to do with actual wrestling moves, but it shows the arrogance or confidence (depending on heel/face) so it makes the cut. The Spear is used as a finisher in most cases now, but Goldberg used almost exclusively as a Signature Move before delivering The Jackhammer (he even did it on Show). Stratusphere is on there as it showed Trish her creativity, as we hadn't seen the men doing that at that time. Plus, it looks great.

Fav Finishing Moves

• Stone Cold Stunner (Steve Austin)
• RKO (Randy Orton)
• Hellavator (Matt Morgan)
• The Last Ride (Undertaker)
• KO Punch (Big Show)

The Stunner and RKO (and Diamond Cutter) are there for the out of nowhere and ring clearing ability. Well, it looks good when done on everyone. The RKO would be tops if not for Austin, but what Randy Orton and his opponents have done with the move puts in right under it. Morgan's Hellavator just looked cool. Taker's Last Ride was basically a power bomb, but that little extra lift just made it feel like it had more impact. Not everyone likes the KO Punch, but to me if a Giant punches you on the button, you're going for a snooze. If they wanted to add to things, the people who are only staggered by an initial blow would be considered tough as hell. They could make it where he actually misses and gets caught in another persons finisher at times.

Fav Submission Moves

• Sharpshooter
• Walls Of Jericho
• Figure 8
• Kimora
• Bank Statement

When I say that The Sharpshooter is my favorite, I mean when delivered like Bret Hart or Natalya, and not The Rock haha And when I say Walls Of Jericho, I mean the original neck torquing version and not the Boston Crab that he does mostly now. Charlotte has shown she better than Daddy with a simple elimination of illegal rope use to add to the submission. It also shows her superior athletic gifts. The Kimora simply adds realism to things, obviously not going to break an arm, but there is that "if he wanted to" vibe when someone like Brock Lesner slaps it on someone. Sasha Banks' Bank Statement is more of a combo, but it ends in a submission and the whole thing just looks great.

This is somewhat ever evolving as I see new moves, and sometimes it is "who" and how they look delivering it. The Sharpshooter again is an example of that.

NGN FAVORITES: PRO WRESTLING I-SUPERSTARS 

NGN FAVORITES: COMIC BOOKS II-ARTISTS & WRITERS

If we took the greatest artist and the greatest writer. We put them in a room together and asked them to create a masterpiece together. Want to know what they would make? A comic book. Neal Adams had a quote (that I can't remember exactly or find of course) that said the same thing. And it is true. With equal showing of each persons ability, a comic book would be exactly that. In the comic book world, generally speaking, the artist gets the credit for great comic books. It is the art that draws (no intended pun, but meh) people in, and the stories are what keeps them coming back. Although I must admit, artwork that isn't of my own preference can severely take away from a story. I've seen perfect "wordless" comic books, that told the story without them, but even then somebody had to write a story for the artist to follow. The true under valued are the inkers, colorists, and letterers haha

Writers

• Scott Snyder
• Todd McFarlane
• Fabian Nicieza
• Geoff Johns
• Alan Moore
• Frank Miller

Loved Snyder's run on Batman in the New 52 era, on all levels really. Character portrayals, revamped origins, all of the story arcs from Court Of Owls to Zero Year, and all in between and beyond. Only got a taste of Spawn, but I liked it and of course credit goes to fellow Canadian (just found that out haha), Todd McFarlane. Fabian was part of my my childhood with his work on X-Men. Although he overdoes them, Geoff Johns has created a Green Lantern, and now Justice League world that was...is?....New 52 Green Lantern and Justice League was good reads haha Moore and Miller are almost mandatory in some circles haha Watchmen, Swamp Thing, The Dark Knight Rises, Sin City, 300, the list goes on.

Artists

• Adam Kubert
• Andy Kubert
• Alex Ross
• Greg Capullo
• Todd McFarlane
• Jim Lee

I've mentioned in previous postings about having no Batman, then finding Marvel Comics and loving their universe, most notably the X-Men. That is how the Kubert brothers make their way in, and stay even today. Ironically there is some Kubert material in what I returned to, Batman. Alex Ross' work is flawless, I just wished his style would include all the looks and not just the classics. Capullo on Spawn and of course Batman during the New 52. Jim Lee and fellow Canuck, Todd McFarlane have actually gotten even better than when I was a young kid reading Marvel and the seeing the launching of Image and WildStorm.

No shocker that this is another ever evolving list. But, these will always remain in at least a Top 50 or 100 situation. Sometimes the era and the technology impacted and hindered some peoples art abilities. And of course censorship may have held both writers and artists back from unleashing their true talents.