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: 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: 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 

OUR ARMY HAS GAINED ANOTHER SUPPORTER

It is something that all of us fans experience. Whether you call it wrestling, professional wrestling, or sports entertainment. We are all fans of it. As fans, that one thing we all go through is the classic, "Wrestling Is Fake". The rise of MMA didn't help things. Although many fans like both, there are the traditional two-sided arguments among the one and done audience. Wrestling is fake, MMA is boring. Both are kind of right, but both are very wrong. MMA may have moments of "nothing" with both fighters either circling or on the ground wrapped up. This can be boring, but it is all part of professional fighting. If fighters approached their fights as if it was a bar or street fight, they would likely find themselves tapping or knocked the f' out. Pro wrestling may be predetermined outcomes and there isn't intent in the shots fired (usually). But, in terms of even just punches and kicking, things happen and people connect really good. That isn't including the countless "moves" that the wrestlers perform. The doubters need to simply just fall onto their backs. A basic bump. Now watch what these people do beyond, again, a basic bump. I'm not even talking about the stunts that have been performed over the years, just the basics of professional wrestling.

We've all been through that. But like the title says, we've gained a supporter. Who? My lady haha She isn't a fan per say, but has seen enough wrasslin'  over her lifetime to know it is far from "fake". She was talking at work about Wrestlemania 32 and everything she saw. Of course, her watching Shane McMahon's jump (which she only could view via replay after she knew he didn't die haha) on the top of Hell In A Cell. Somehow, this lead to a non-believer to start going off about how fake it all is and blah blah. Likely a typical "my boyfriend watches MMA, so that's what I have to love" or one of the types who like things because they are popular. Props to the real fans out there though, to the sheep among you though? Nah, too easy.Anyhow, my significant other had to walk away because she couldn't handle how stupid the person sounded haha And immediately thought of the struggle I've gone through all of this time haha Of course I replied with a smirk that screamed "atodaso!" ("I told you so" for non-Trailer Park Boys fans).
Ironically, the gnarly stuff and major injuries have come from the basic stuff. The high impact maneuvers leave us wondering how they survived at times, but even walking is dangerous in wrestling. Look at Triple H's first quad tear. Took a step, rip, down he went. To show just how tough these guys are, he not only finished the match, but was but into a move that one shouldn't be in with any leg injury. Fans remember, torn quad and put into the Walls Of Jericho. Not a fan? Go Youtube the moment or maneuver and ask yourself if a torn quadriceps should be handled that way. Vince McMahon himself tore both quads at the same time just diving into the ring. A gnarly moment came from another simple move, Sid coming off the ropes to deliver a big boot. I still can't watch it without flinching with my whole body. Again, look it up 'cause I don't wanna show it haha. Or get the WWE Network, as I am sure it is on there (*shutters*). It is pro wrestling's equivalence of the Blue Waf.....(*swallows vomit*) I can't even finish that.
There have even been deaths or accidents that caused paralysis, on a professional level though most of those weren't from wrestling directly. Droz was paralyzed via a botched power bomb. The deaths in the rings weren't though, as it would appear to be heart attacks or stunts gone wrong (Owen Hart). I am surprised that we haven't witnessed things like this in MMA. The throws, slams, etc delivered in the octagon are with intent.

The argument will never die, even if MMA (most notably UFC) dies off with all the juicing going on. Another irony, it is also frowned upon in wrestling but the juiced up guy is now able to carry more weight helping make things safer in some aspects. BUT, that is reaching for a reason. Steroids and all of the sh!t are for losers. Sorry, let me correct that. The juice is for rehabilitation purposes, beyond that you are pathetic.

THINGS CENA WASN'T GIVEN

I've seen many a postings about John Cena being given everything. Some foolish enough to think he doesn't at least earn what he gets, which he does. But, when you are the top guy for so long it will appear as though you are just the boss' b!tch. It happens. Regardless, despite everything that John Cena has earned over the past decade there are some things he didn't and in some cases will not get (ever). Allow my Non-Geeky Nerd butt to list those for you haha

The Undertaker's Wrestlemania Undefeated Streak

If there were a list of guys, I am sure Cena was on it along with Triple H, Kurt Angle (supposedly), etc. But, it didn't happen and Brock Lesner became the 1 in 21 and 1 (I feel like that should've began with "My name is...." haha). It is something we could still see depending on how many more Mania's we have The Phenom for. And it would still mean something win or loss. Not because of a streak, but because it is still The Undertaker.

WWE Intercontinental Championship

Of the active championships, the Intercontinental title is the one championship John hasn't won. It has evolved over the years, but the "grand slam" right now would be WWE World Heavyweight Championship, WWE Intercontinental Championship, WWE United States Championship, and the WWE Tag Team Championship. Cena is a title short at this point in time. Although it could be achieved before he retires.

Stone Cold Steve Austin

Possibly even more so than with The Rock, I am sure John wants/wanted this to happen. He got the "torch passing" with Austin giving him a beer at a Hall Of Fame ceremony, but it lacked anything really. Don't know about others, but I felt like Cena's run using a Springboard Stunner was a way to draw the Texas Rattlesnake out of retirement. Yes, I am aware of how adamant Austin is about being done, but a boy can dream for...one...more...match! If Wrestlemania 32 is as close as we get, then fine, but a boy can still dream haha

WWE Divas Championship

This started as just a joke, but then my dirty mind took into an obvious direction. Which would be John and Nikki getting it on, when out of nowhere he puts her in the STF, makes her tap, then proceeds to run around the room naked with the WWE Divas Championship belt in the air haha Okay that was a toned down version but you get it haha

That is what comes to mind at this point in time, I am sure I will think of more things later or be given a new example haha It isn't so much he's been handed the 15 World titles and other accolades, it is more that it has become "Hogan just before nWo" levels of staleness.

NGN FAVORITES: PRO WRESTLING-SUPERSTARS

Fav Superstars As A Kid

• Hulk Hogan
• Macho Man Randy Savage
• Undertaker
• Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase
• Jake The Snake Roberts
• Bret Hart
• Shawn Michaels
• Animal
• Hawk
• Ravishing Rick Rude

What can I say? I was an 80's kid who had more exposure to WWF (WWE) than NWA (WCW). Otherwise there may have been room on the list for Ric Flair or Sting, but I didn't see much of them as a kid. My cousins always argued and I never listened. It didn't help that when I would catch an episode of either NWA (Crockett) or WCW, it was always a low budget, bingo hall type show. Where even the "stars" who appeared, looked more like WWE jobbers at times. I remember seeing a young Marcus Bagwell, who hadn't found his character yet, nor was at all good in the ring. Not that he was great period, but early years are always the worse for young male escor.....er wrestlers.

Fav Superstars As A Teen

• Stone Cold Steve Austin
• The Rock
• Triple H
• Bret Hart
• Chris Jericho
• Scott Steiner
• Hollywood Hulk Hogan
• Goldberg
• Kevin Nash
• Scott Hall

Once again, more WWE than WCW. But, that was a cable situation for me. I got RAW live every Monday Night (if not preempted by a frickin dog show....stupid TSN), and saw more highlights than show with Nitro via Thunder on Thursdays. It would occasionally be on, but not enough to get hooked. I'm Canadian. Like Snitsky said, "it wasn't my fault". But, I did enjoy them both when I was able to see them. Hence why Big Poppa Pump and others are on there.

Fav Superstars In My 20's

• John Cena
• Randy Orton
• Kurt Angle
• Eddie Guererro
• Chris Benoit
• Brock Lesner
• Undertaker
• Kane
• Shawn Michaels
• Triple H

Not original Cena, but the Doctor Of Thuganomics John Cena. Also, "Legend Killer" Randy Orton. I actually think of who they could actually bring back for him to "kill". I liked Taker as both the American Badass and when he returned to the Deadman gimmick. Still get chills thinking about Wrestlemania XX when the late Paul Bearer's voice hit the air. Plus, Kane removing the mask and unleashing a new monster was awesome. Lesner's initial run was really good too, it was almost as if he was McMahon's way of showing how to properly build a Goldberg haha With HBK, I was glad to see return. Not initially with those hideous tights at the initial "Elimination Chamber". But, the matches he went on to have with Cena, Angle, Taker, etc made it hard to keep him off this list.

Fav Superstars Now

• AJ Styles
• Finn Balor
• CM Punk
• Bray Wyatt
• Luke Harper
• Daniel Bryan
• Samoa Joe
• Seth Rollins
• Dean Ambrose
• Roman Reigns

Yes, Roman Reigns is on the list. Take away Vince's strings and you got something. Can't blame him, part of becoming a top guy nowadays. Plus, this list is an evolving one for sure, given I am only just under halfway through my 30's....dammit. CM Punk is also on there, because he could always change his mind one day, plus he hasn't had a fight yet so technically more pro wrestler than pro mixed martial artist so far. Daniel Bryan JUST retired, and really may stay on here given the impact. Been liking Balor. Inring and his entrance. Glad to see AJ jump over to the big times where he belongs, like Joe. Rest speak for themselves really. Seth, Dean, Bray. The future. Harper, I just like his look mannerisms in regards to his gimmick.

VINCE ISN'T HELPING ROMAN

He is in the sense of getting behind Roman Reigns and giving him the "push". Fans began to reject Reigns, showing weekly that they are not a part of the Roman Empire at this point in time. Although many will disagree, I don't think this is exactly what is hurting Reigns current stock. Anyone who holds a title has Vince's support on some level. Even if only a "transitional" champion, Vince entrusted them to fill that spot, and if the selected hits it out of the park at that time, meaning they will remain at the top a little longer or will be in the near future. If they don't then they weren't able to maintain their fan fare. Yes, there are exceptions (ie Zack Ryder years ago) but true greats can turn sh!t into shineola.

How I think Vince is negating Roman Reigns progress with the audience is the sudden promo delivery, and just tonight on RAW, as Roman was delivering his new "I'm not a bad guy. I'm not a good guy. I'm THE guy" schtick, there was a brief moment where Vince's voice chimed in with a "I love that!" (or something along those lines). Combine that with the endless reference to how the post Wrestlemania RAW crowd will cheer who they usually boo and visa versa. The crowds are always very vocal, but not usually in Bizzaro Land fashion like us Canadians. They booed Roman because they aren't behind him anymore. All of this is what is really killing this moment.
I can't even think of a superstar who could get Roman over as a baby face. Jericho kind of proved that tonight, where the crowd opted to chant "We Are Idiots!" instead of getting behind Reigns. Jericho, like Triple H, is a master of going ultimate Heel. Neither have been able to get this to work. I have mentioned before that the only guy who could pull this off is perhaps John Cena. A heel turn that simply is his acknowledgment of it, joining The Authority, being handed his 16th WWE World Championship. After six months to a year, fans would be begging for anyone to knock him off the throne. It is either that, or Roman turns heel himself a la The Rock.

Not sure how long this will go on. AJ Styles is now the #1 Contender, and is pretty over with the crowd. Will he get the nod to wear the belt for now, or are they prepping Roman to turn? Because this isn't going to help Roman's Empire in regards to the crowd reaction.

UNDERTAKERS LAST MATCH

In the world of professional wrestling and sports entertainment, we as fans never really know until we are told when it is an official last match.  There may be a final WWE match, ie Ric Flair, but the list of people who would be finished with the business after that is pretty low. Even now with WWE being the only big promotion right now (sorry indy peeps), a lot of WWE's roster would simply go back to the independents, even TNA if they are desperate for a late pay cheque haha Names on that list would be John Cena or  Randy Orton. Top of that list though would be, The Undertaker. Sure, Kevin Nash reference him coming to WCW at one  point, but that could have possibly been simply bullsh!t (which Nash likes do to mess with the IWC haha) or possibly that WWE was in rough shape at that time. There was almost a chance we'd be watching WCW right now. With Taker, there isn't going to be independent shows like Scott Steiner and other legends. And it isn't because WWE owns the name. Mark Calaway would still draw without it at this point.

So, how would my non-geeky nerd butt book Underaker's final WWE match and moment? As always, I am so happy that you asked haha Many people would have the match come at the grandest stage of them all, Wrestlemania. Understandable, given the spectacle the event is and how much the Deadman has been a major part of that.  Taker was and is much more than his Wrestlemania streak. It hadn't even become a "thing" until late into the streak. His greatest matches came with Triple H and HBK at Wrestlemania, but he still had great and just as memorable moments outside of Wrestlemania. Ya, we're getting Hell In A Cell at Wrestlemania 32, but the best Undertaker HIAC matches were Badd Blodd and King Of The Ring (obviously). Buried Alive matches, Casket matches, etc. He won his first WWE Championship (against Hogan of all people) at Tuesday In Texas. And of course, his origins that stem from Survivor Series.
That is where I would have it happen, Survivor Series, his opponent and type of match that is the hard part for me. A Casket and Buried Alive matches are the choices for me, being the almost soul Taker matches. However, with these options I would have the Phenom lose his final match (which is almost the norm in the business). In a straight up match, I would prefer Taker get the win. My choices for the opponent are Bray Wyatt, Kane, and John Cena. If Taker is losing, then Bray. If winning, then why not one last time with his "brother" (who wouldn't be effected at all character wise). Why is Cena an option? Just one of the many things he could do as a heel to garner heat. Beat Undertaker in his last match, almost especially cleanly, fans would garner even more hate. But, that was covered before (and likly again).

It almost all falls onto how Taker exits things post match. Does he walk out of the arena through the massive gratitude  and applause of the crowd? He's earned it. It could be the one time we saw him "crack". If I am sticking with the character, going classic with new day upgrades. Lights cut, lightening strikes (ring, casket, or headstone, smoke, sound effects, etc. If a Casket or Buried Alive match, druids or Kane come out to reveal an empty casket or grave. Steal from the Wyatts and have the lights cut again, everything disappears. If in the ring, then Taker doing his trademark kneel, lights cut out, lightening strike, spotlight on the center of the ring. The ring would be empty, with only an urn in the middle. Done. If I am being honest, that would be better. Taker doesn't need to put anyone over on his way out, and it would be a thank you to both fans and the man behind the legend that is Undertaker.

Survivors Series. Possibly against Kane. Win. Trademark kneel. Lights out. Lightening and smoke. Spotlight. Urn. End of the greatest WWE career of all time. Hogan, Stone Cold, Cena, anyone. Always be second in comparison. And will be an emotional moment for everyone wrestlers and fans alike. I am similar to that of Big Show, and not afraid to show some tears haha Yes, he always has more reason to do so, but still he's my "save" for ridicule. "Oh ya? Would you make fun of Show for this? Look at him. Ya, that's what I thought" haha

NOELLE FOLEY: WHAT SHE SHOULD TAKE FROM DADDIO

As per the Stone Cold Pod Cast with Mick Foley, Noelle Foley is looking to begin an inring career. Which is awesome. I am a fan of next generation wrestlers. I also understand their troubles in deciding to imitate their predecessors or take their own route. Either way works for some, not for all though. Curtis Axel has been a mix of the two, but creative has him in #socialoutcast so we don't see him for what he is really worth. The Rock tried taking on the past, but succeeded making his own way. Charlotte seems to have things down taking some of her fathers stuff, and improving on them. The Figure 8? Eliminates the use for ropes.

So, what can Noelle take from her Hall Of Fame father? You might say "go extreme!", but Mick was so much more than hardcore. Noelle can take a similar route as Charlotte and incorporate and improve on other trademark moves  of her Dad. His diving elbow drop to the outside is as close as she would need to get to his risky moves. His double-arm DDT with a twist of some sorts would make for a good finishing move, and if every Von Erich (even Lacey) got to use The Claw, Noelle can and maybe should use the Mandible Claw for a submission finisher.
Mick Foley was/is a creative genius as well. All 3 "Faces Of Foley" are completely different from each other. In the ring, character development, and on the mic. Whether she gained it through genetics or from up bringing, she might have that gift too. Mick also has his "cheap pops", so Noelle should have "cheap heat". She can do so using the towns name as well. It would be more creative, but a basic "who the hell would want to be here? Right here, in.....".

Basically, I am saying she may be capable to go any direction. If anything like her father she will be creative. I will admit though, her doing a general hardcore approach would be interesting, but not needed. She could be the wrestler her father was, but didn't really showcase. Although, I do think adding some updated versions of Mick Foley's move set like Charlotte has done with Ric Flairs/ Will be interesting to see how she fairs. Bang! Bang! Have a nice day.

CANUCK WRESTLERS I WASN'T AWARE WERE CANADIAN

There are the obvious, well know Canadian wrestlers, like Bret Hart, Chris Jericho, Edge & Christian. But, there are and were so many more. Some of these people I didn't even know were fellow Canadians, and given their "Legend Status" I am a little bit embarrassed haha While some it wasn't my fault (no, Snitsky isn't one) given the way they were promoted character wise or which background was "shown" to the public.

John Tenta/Earthquake/Shark/Golga

This discovery came with my wanting to finally know who was under the mask, who was Golga. Which of course led to the late John Tenta better remembered as Earthquake.

Abdullah The Butcher

His legend may have been tarnished at the end of his career, but couldn't believe Abdullah was a Canuck.

Fake Razor Ramon/Rick Bognar

Hey yo, the Fake Razor gimmick may have been his peak, but was interesting to find out about another Canuck in wrestling history.

Carlito And Primo

These guys are half-Canadian through their mother, and example of thinking they were "only" Puerto Rican due to how they were presented to us. Makes sense given their father was the wrestler, but interesting to see.

Steve Corino

Again, didn't get to see much of Corino but was aware of him. His Canadian roots, I was not.

Ronnie Garvin

A legend I had no clue was Canadian. Always came across as American to me as a kid.

Dink The Clown

Not a prominent player in the game, but memorable...for some of us.

Rocky Johnson

With Tony Atlas they became the first black Tag Team Champions. But, what is more interesting for me, is that he is Canadian ergo making Dwayne aka The Rock half Canuck.

Ivan Koloff

Didn't see much of his career, but his name is almost always mentioned. And given the Russian gimmick, I assumed Russian and not Canadian.

Little Beaver and Sky Lo Lo

Had no idea the two biggest LP in wrestling history were Canadian.

Jinder Mahal

Beyond his time in 3MB, didn't care as much for him. But, Knowing now he is a Canadian, would've been nice to see him at least continue in a jobber-esque role.

Kurrgan

Another Odity member who is Canadian. But, I remember him more from his small role in RDJ's Sherlock Holmes.

Santino Marella

Although entertained by the comedy route, was always annoyed they never let Santino show his inring skills. Knowing now he is Canadian, I understand. We're athletic and funny as hell.

The Missing Link

Can only remember images of him, but as a child he looked like a legit badass. Apparently, a Canadian badass.

Lanny Poffo

Should've known a person with The Genius gimmick would be a Canuck. Only born here though, but being Macho Man's little brother makes that okay.

Stan Stasiak & Shawn "Meat" Stasiak

Only knew of his Stan's career, and didn't care much for Meat (whether in WWE or WCW). But, it is interesting to find out about their Canadian roots.

Vampiro

Honestly, haven't followed him since WCW died out. Last heard he was doing his thing on the indies last I heard. I did think he had a cool concept, that needed WWE and not WCW behind it.

Viktor (The Ascension)

Not really been much since moving to the main roster, but that is likely Vince not knowing people like tag teams. Regardless, glad to see another Canuck in WWE.

Rosa Mendes

Well, they can't all be as gifted as Trish Stratus.

Rhonda Sing/Bertha Faye

Like Medusa (aka Alundra Blayze), can't remember much about her WWF career (women's wrestling was uber back burner then), but she was memorable regardless.

Rowdy Roddy Piper

Saved the best for last. I am a bit ashamed that I wasn't aware that Hot Rod was Canadian. I knew he had wrestled through here, as Canada did have some legit territories. I just assumed he was from the USA, and showcasing his Scottish heritage. Now the argument for greatest Canadian wrestler of all time has changed.

There are some others, but they just didn't do too much (in my opinion of course), or I missed them in the search. Again, this all came from wanting to know who Golga was under the mask. Although I am a bit embarrassed by having not known these people were Canadian, I am glad I know now. Still shocked that Piper was a fellow Canadian, and like I said the discussion on who is the best Canadian wrestler of all time is different now. Bret is likely the majorities vote, but knowing about Piper's roots makes for an interesting argument.

THE UNDERTAKER MOVIE

Awhile ago, there were reports that WWE was planning to do an Undertaker movie. Not an autobiography of Mark Calaway, and not directly of the WWE Hall Of Famer (matter of when, not if) we've seen in the ring. It would be a movie simply about The Undertaker with the Hollywood touch of scripts, action sequences, special effects, etc.

Everyone has their own opinions on how they would go about this and would like to see in the film. Personally, it would be a cross between The Crow, Fight Club and a Western movie, with added sci-fi vibes to the script and presentation. I don't think I would have guns really, but a lot of hand to hand combat. With a majority of Undertakers move sets involved in the fight scenes with twists of course. Imagine an enemy laying off the edge of a building or something, Taker does the classic leg drop. Except this time there is obviously no apron, but he does the move and actually decapitates the person before vanishing into a cloud of smoke in midair. I would also consider having Kane be involved as well. Now that I think of it, he could play the roll of the main instigator, or the muscle of the main villain. Can show a flashback of Takers home being burned to the ground, his family inside. Only to have this monster return later. Not far from what they did in WWE, but with a major Hollywood upgrade.
I don't know if I would have Undertaker (Mark Calaway) play himself or have a hunt for someone who looks like him and can actually act. If it were done a few years ago, or made right now? The real Deadman for sure. As of right now he could do most of the work himself, and if need be, make him younger looking via however they do it haha

As for how I end it. Remember then ending of Conan The Conqueror? With Arnold as an aged King? That is when the Taker we see today appears sans young effects, or the real Undertaker will appear if we used another actor.

It is of course likely to "never" get made, or will be at least a few years from now. However, that doesn't mean it shouldn't. Undertaker is one of the few characters from over the years that you wouldn't necessarily need to make a "wrestling" movie. Till next time, stay Nerdy!

AUTOBIOGRAPHIES I WOULD LOVE TO READ

When I mean autobiographies, I mean both the life story and the tell-all stories.  Legitimate ones, which are always hard to really tell, unless you actually knew the person and "was there". And in the world of professional wrestling and sports entertainment, there are a few names that come to mind who I would love to read about in the manner stated. Truths, debunkings of myths and legends, unknown stuff that would've been newsworthy.

Vince McMahon

There are so many things that he could tell us. Ranging from a simple was the "glass ceiling" real, to the more corruptible like did you pay off some people to get Jimmy Snuka away with killing someone? That's just the stuff he had his hands in/on. Add all the things that he may have been privy too which also range from basic to massive.

Hulk Hogan

I always feel the good ol' Hulkster is never honest, or when he is you can never tell as he does seem to bend and alter truths. Or so it appears. So, basically have him on a lie detector and ask him every question that comes to mind from who has he screwed over, to is he really a racist. Everything and anything.

Paul Heyman

I would say put him on a lie detector too, but Paul at least makes things entertaining. Another person who would be nice to ask anything and everything. He's been around the business a long time and has had his hands in a lot of things, and his eyes and ears wide open the entire time.

Jim Ross

Another person who has been around the business for a long time and has likely seen and heard a lot of things, that he may never tell simply to protect friends, or because Vince would destroy him haha

Pat Patterson

He has been around a long time, and has been involved in controversy himself. Did he sexually harrass that guy nobody cares about? Or were he the victim of discrimination? I would like to believe he wasn't involved with what Terry Garvin was. But, it is a story worse than Benoit (if you consider possible brain damage Benoit had).

There are others I would like to see unload. Even people I haven't thought of, but would have another perspective on things that have happened in professional wrestling like The Fink. The hard part is always figuring out fact from fiction, but from the mouth type things are always better....so we have someone to pin it on when we are wrong haha

TRULY IS SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT

Yes, there is professional wrestling, it is what the 20x20 squared ring is used for. But, what the WWE truly is, is Sports Entertainment. As a company it has become more than just professional wrestling. Movies produced by WWE with WWE Superstars and Divas in leading roles, the WWE Network and the original programing we are starting to see on it. Look at the highest rated (or one of the highest rated) segments from the Monday Night Wars, it wasn't "professional wrestling" per say. Ya, there has always been promos and whatnot, but the "This Is Your Life" segment with The Rock and Mankind was a bit more than that. Low budget, live improve comedy. That is entertainment, not wrestling.

I think a lot of the problem, or perhaps the root of it all, is Vince McMahon's complete and outright refusal to reference WWE as professional wrestling, or any of the WWE Superstars are professional wrestlers. He is both right and wrong in going about things that way in my humble opinion.
In the right was, establishing that his brand was different than others. WCW was dying out before the Monday Night Wars too really (in comparison to the 80's at least). And what did Turner and Bischoff do? Make WCW more like WWE in regards to promotion and production. They became more Sports Entertainment than wrestling, did very well, and if not for poor creative as well as the AOL Time Warner deal may have survived. The original ECW, originally TNA, and ROH are/were professional wrestling organizations. ECW is now part of WWE, and TNA made the mistake of trying to compete directly with WWE in a failing manner that began the slow demise. No not done yet, but when mjority of your top stars who practically made TNA what it is have left and are either signed with WWE or a possibilty of doing so (if not other professional wrestling companies).
Vince was wrong in many ways as well. Not all of his WWE Superstars are anything more than professional wrestlers. And a lot of them will tell you so as well. An example would be Daniel Bryan. He was/is a professional wrestler, and got over with the crowd for not being the typical WWE guy (was he really an underdog?) in a massive way. Sure he could maybe do bit parts, but I cannot see someone like Daniel Bryan becoming an actor like The Rock, John Cena, or some others. Not a dis in any way, I would almost assume DB would say himself that his way of entertaining people was in a squared circle. Perhaps if Vince and WWE allowed more people to simply be wrestlers, the entertainers would stand out even more. Perhaps, perhaps not.

So again, what the WWE has become is truly Sports Entertainment Company that produces a professional wrestling show, among other things. Ring Of Honor? TNA? GFW? Those are purely professional wrestling companies, who should focus on that instead of competing with WWE (looking at you, Dixie).

MOMENTS IN WRESTLING I LIKED, OTHERS HATED

I'm not normal, but not one to always have to go against the grain either. There are moments I am with the general opinion, and there are times I am against it. In terms of bad moments in wrestling or sports entertainment, here are my opposing opinions...

End Of The Streak

Either one. Goldberg's and Undertaker's. Both finishes worked for me, and made sense. First with Goldberg, was there really any other way to end the streak? They went with a run-in and a taser/cattle prod. The problem was that they had no idea how to use Goldberg after that. Ending showed it took 2 men and a weapon that takes down cattle to beat him.

With Taker, it is a "if they're gonna do it, this is how" type deal for me. Didn't want The Undertaker's Wrestlemania Undefeated Streak to end, but if it was then I am glad it was Brock Lesner. Reasons being, Lesner is a legit badass, freak of nature, however you want to put it. Who else could handle the heat that would come with being the 1 in 21-1? Brock gives zero sh!ts about what we think, especially in the real world. Then there is the "what if...?" aspect of if someone else did it. What if their careers are cut short due to injury or personal problems? It would end up being a waste.

Katie Vick

I'm joking, I'm joking haha Although they could have simply referenced it, and it might have worked...probably not but jeezbus haha

Finger Poke Of Doom

Hold on a minute, I enjoyed the initial moment of it. I thought it was part of a bigger storyline. Not just reuniting of the nWo. Perhaps if someone came out and said that things weren't happening that way, and brought out say Goldberg and face both Hogan and Nash for the title. He destroys them, and turns tables on Scott Hall going to the well too many times. I don't know, again the initial moment made me go, "Ohhh, sh!t." and then it turned into, "this is sh!t".

Chris Benoit Tribute

It was the last moment Chris Benoit was cast in a positive light or really even mentioned again. Now, I am absolutely no way condoning what happened. Even with the chance that it was purely brain damage related (which is hard to fully press judgment, as we are all capable of that with a damaged brain), I am not saying we need to honor Chris Benoit, I am just picking a moment in time where a great wrestler was remembered or honored for a final time. Benoit the wrestler? Legendary. The person? Will never know for sure.

The Invasion

When it first appeared to be guys like Shawn Stasiak and Mark Jindrak at Wrestlemania X-7, I was like "crap." I liked seeing Chavo and Lance Storm, but it didn't seem like much. But, then pieces began to reveal themselves, and I was actually pleased with the "final roster" of WCW and ECW's Alliance. Booker T, Diamond Dallas Page, Kris Kanyon, RVD, Lance Storm, Sean O'Haire, etc. were the guys that were actually working on WCW every week up until the end. The big stars minus Steiner, were come and go mostly, and not at all near the end.

There are others, I simply cannot think of them at the moment, so perhaps for a future entry. Till then...