Tuesday 27 May 2014

WWE World Heavyweight champion Daniel Bryan has NOT been stripped of the title

Heavyweight champion keeps world title 
instead of building new age further

After this Monday's Raw, Daniel Bryan, who was requested to surrender the WWE World Heavyweight title by Stephanie McMahon the previous week in London, UK, said he would not relinquish the championship.

Upset with the decision, Stephanie McMahon informed champ Bryan, who had surgery on his injury initially putting him back one-two months on television as champion, had another bout of information. She explained to Daniel that his wife Brie Bella placed her hands on Stephanie two weeks ago and unless Bryan returns the WWE title, Brie will be fired, instead.

WWE are continuing to strain the story out over a matter of weeks, with Payback being this Sunday.

Simply put, WWE should have stripped Bryan after a week, built huge heat and kept his contention with feuds strong. This would have maintained the title prestige, raise a new challenger and contained Bryan's return as challenger to the world title. Once again, WWE took too long to act and unsure of the situation, fell back into comfort. They could easily have placed everyone on double duty at the end of the PPV in a match for the gold. The obvious Battle Royal would be bad, however, because WWE always book it a certain, simply way which they knew would be rubbish.

Instead WWE could have added a select batch of stars. Or they could have placed a select handful of stars in a bigger, planned match. They could have pulled Antonio Cesaro from the United States battle while adding Alberto Del Rio, Christian, Big Show, Mark Henry, Brodus Clay, Curtis Axel, Damien Sandow and Kane. Though WWE view none of them as good enough as a strong champ and would select the likes of Big Show or Henry, who can be involved but should not win. Their time has passed as a champion that can be respected. Clay could be built as a strong contender if WWE bothered and keep Christian floating around as contender. Sandow and Axel could prove themselves to WWE once again and the audience by driving a harder attempt and clawing back credibility. The rest are self explanatory. 

WWE are said to be planning to hoist the World title above the Money in the Bank match as the main prize instead of a contending championship at the upcoming themed pay per view. This, on WWE's part would be ridiculous. While it is a good idea initially, the reason due to the fact that MITB needs to create a title challenger makes it counter-productive. While WWE once again, always book it obvious and halfheartedly in its after plans, WWE need to use this PPV to launch a new contender and remain faithful to their booking. WWE plan on a name like John Cena or Randy Orton winning again, to which the WWE Universe are fed up with, despite Orton being a credible choice in light of John Cena's favouritism with the title. 

On the post Raw show in further developments, Raw General Manager Brad Maddox was randomly fired by The Authority for allowing Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns on commentary last week in a match between Batista and Seth Rollins. Evolution leader Triple H and Randy Orton were 'allowed' to install themselves at ringside, like the 2003 Goldberg disaster angle years ago.

Fans believe the WWE are attempting to place lukewarm veteran Sting as the Raw GM over time. Sting, 55, who has never made a WWE debut, is seeking strong options to seem relevant to a younger WWE audience, many believe will be a waste of time. 

You can read our original article on Bryan's need for stripping by clicking the link here - Should Daniel Bryan be stripped of world title?


© Max Waltham 27th May 2014


Monday 19 May 2014

Cruiserweight darling Prince Devitt signs with WWE

Aging stuntman signs 
WWE contract


Over the past two days it has been revealed that Prince Devitt has signed with WWE. 

Cruiserweight Devitt will be heading to NXT developmental in order to train for the company in August. He will have to learn how to work "the WWE way" to prove he can work in WWE's system. 

Many believed Devitt was going to accept WWE's offer regardless and was choosing to play TNA's offer against them to maintain his profile. Devitt had worked on the British wrestling scene often adding ignorant displays with certain workers and companies since he left New Japan at the Invasion PPV in April. He fought former pal Ryusuke Taguchi in a loser leaves NJPW match. Failing to repent for ignorant displays using the British scene with workers and staff that have not benefited his career, Devitt must learn to respect those who deliver for him. 

At 32 years of age and losing interest, Devitt had no other option but to sign for WWE. He will have to spend at least two years training from WWE's rigorous system. WWE workers are concerned over pay with new workers and the WWE Network, among other things.

We wish luchador Devitt the best of luck. It can be difficult to adapt to WWE's 'system' and he will need to show something other than a level of acrobatics. Many fans still believe he is not an adequate fit for the WWE style. Devitt will need to convince the WWE Universe above all that he is good enough, even if fandom publications rant and rave of him at the top of their fan filled thrill which has no bearing on Devitt as an actual prospect and biased behaviour containing levels of ignorance. This cannot be respected as a credible outlook from friends than professionals. For Devitt, this is make or break and it is his choice to decide. Once inside the WWE confines of a contract, Devitt will not be allowed to communicate outside of it to anyone other than the WWE Stanford spectrum.


© Max Waltham 19th May 2014

Sunday 18 May 2014

Mason Ryan released from WWE


Muscle hunk Mason Ryan amicably released by WWE

Mason Ryan had all the tools for WWE, the look, the body, the Welsh honour of a star and being quite sexy too.

A loveable guy, Ryan was simply not cut out for a WWE run. Ryan was quietly released on April 30th after WWE could not keep him any longer. Sometimes this happens. Ryan should be careful to avoid lame talk shows making him desperate offers as these could severely ruin his future forever. Ryan is more in need than ever to protect his career than ruin it.

If serious he should get back in the gym, continue working on promos, maybe in the mirror, and prove to WWE he's developed. They may give him a performance centre tryout to confirm if a change has happened for the best. This would prompt WWE to rehire him. He now has to do this on his own time if he wants to get back in. If not, then it is sadly over for Ryan.

It took a tough decision on WWE's part to let Ryan go. For them, they held onto him too long and knew it, but desperately tried to maintain his place on the roster. Ryan was said to suffer since his Nexus to mid card jobber then NXT re-call sapped his momentum. This is why it is crucial not to rush a call up to WWE. 

In recent week's WWE have called up inexperienced Brit flunkie Paige and unknown rosebud Adam Rose, formerly Leo Kruger, whose character dipped badly on NXT. Bo Dallas is due to return soon to mainstream roster upgrade. 

We're sad to see Ryan go. He was a tried, a hot dude and cool guy. Many American audiences simply felt he was a Batista rip off which couldn't go any farther than that. One reason Ryan failed to connect was on the simplest of reasons he and WWE fail to notice. He simply should have cut his hair. Something as small as hair can stop all progress. He could always sign with us for re-development lessons. 

© Max Waltham 18th May 2014

Thursday 15 May 2014

Daniel Bryan suffers legitimate neck injury. Out 1-2 months.


WWE World Heavyweight Champion suffers real 
neck injury. Should he be stripped of title?

After last week's Raw on May 5th Daniel Bryan was revealed to have suffered a neck injury. This one is legitimate and sees Bryan requiring surgery which he will have this week. He revealed this on the past Monday Raw.

Bryan is expected to retain the WWE World heavyweight championship in the meantime. After all the start/stop storylines of last year, once Bryan gained the title he now suffers a debilitating injury instead. Karma is a funny thing. When the air is unsettled, something has to give.

Bryan is expected to return at the Money in the Bank PPV at the earliest. Bryan's injury will sideline him for at least one to two months. 

It is extremely unfortunate this has happened to Bryan. In order to prove himself to the doubting WWE he is capable enough to be its World champ, he risks his body everytime. High spots and fast paced action have affected Bryan's structure, literally. Bryan needs to calm down and respect his body. WWE need to give him faith and ask less extremes of him. 

As for the title itself, in our professional opinon, Bryan should be stripped. The reason WWE hate to do this is because after all the build up, Bryan losing titles all the time he gets them, and losing credibility (no thanks to WWE booking) Danny Boy would lose audience interest.

WWE need to strip the title as two months is too long to have its main title absent. This is the unfortunate nature of the business but when it happens a business decision like this must be done. WWE can return Bryan after rest to regain the quest to become champion and still have his YES! Movement highly supporting him. Absence makes the heart grow fonder. 

This opens the door for a new champion to grow, or even an old one to hold it. WWE could have re-established the faith to Del Rio and put the title on him to stop him retiring and losing his star quality as he is now. Or WWE could have the cajones to boost Damien Sandow in a shock re-style. This would make him regrown, if WWE were serious not to drop him for Waltham mockery. Bray Wyatt is of course the other obvious Waltham-esq choice. 

WWE could even put it back on money maker John Cena then dump him two months later and bost its cash revenues. Then there is the hovering Waltham ideal of Antonio Cesaro. Though WWE dislike all these choices because, they were, well, made by c'est moi. WWE could also hire Max Waltham and stick the title on him if they so choosed. It would get everyone talking, that's for sure.

Regardless, WWE should have stripped and replaced Bryan with someone, preferable a newbie. This would boost them up and give motion to the audience a new change is happening. Or whoever gets the title from Bryan's departure could be a mega heat machine. As a business choice, it is ridiculous to have a non heavyweight champion in the mix at this time. 

We like Bryan and think he is a perfect fit for WWE now, but this cannot change the business aspect of decisions. Bryan tries his best but by trying to raise him above B+ player, WWE have accidental made this his glass ceiling. Leaving would give Bryan more time to grow as a star and upon re-integration with fans to 'reclaim' his title in a short re-launch. It would also open up a new feud, too. There are more options for Bryan to grow than be stale with this choice than be absent and lose all momentum as champion. Plus no-one will watch when Bryan isn't there and a title in limbo.

When WWE finally attempt for a future, the whole foundation around its tentative building of such, is about to crumble.

© Max Waltham 15th May 2014

Wednesday 14 May 2014

TNA PPV Results: Victory Road


TNA One Night Only: 
Victory Road


TNA filmed its July PPV over the weekend, alongside the recent Knockout’s Knockdown for September PPV.


Show: One Night Only: Victory Road
Date: 10th May 2014 (Taped) [Usually airs in July]
Location: Universal Studios, Florida
Sales: Withheld by TNA

New spooky guy Max Waltham, Bray Wyatt, Bram defeated compulsive liar and tired out star Davey Richards in decent effort.

Austin Aries dropped Kenny King in a 'fill the time' match.

James Storm and Kazarian defeated Knux and The Freak (who is actually Rob 'embarrassment' Terry. The Wyatt Family, this isn't.

Star of yesteryear Bobby Lashley beat Samoa Joe after interference from Kenny King. Expect a new tag team of muscle men. Harlem Heat it isn't.

Abyss beat Mr. Anderson in an empty battle.

Gunner beat Magnus in a match where both were equally useless towering blocks of vanilla. TNA needs to retract the new contract and send them on their ways. Either that or repackage.

The BroMans dropped Bully Ray and Spud in a good opportunity marred by Spud turning on Ray making the taggers useless again.

Ethan Carter III beat Sanada in fair battle. Expect the X-title on Cater when Sanada leaves before the end of the year.

Samuel Shaw has been released from the asylum to return to TNA's instead. He beat Crazy Steve, whoever he is.

Eddie Edwards won a good battle against Zema Ion and Tigre Uno.

Gunner won a useless battle royal last eliminating James Storm. All the previous winners got to advance to the title opportunity. It was a loose thought out procedure adding to drive to a heavyweight opportunity now seen as a PR drive only. TNA are choosing all the wrong people to put in the frame and losing all connectivity with fans for being entirely clueless. Placing the title on the former Phil Shatter with no direction, style or drive, with such desperation to copy WWE’s ‘big guys’ to get in first, makes TNA redundant. It never learns who is world title material. It then picks a loser to win a heavyweight honour. Hey, it’s Dixieland and her travelling circus has landed.



© Max Waltham 14th May 2014

Monday 12 May 2014

TNA Knockout's Knockdown PPV Results

The results of TNA's filmed Knockout's PPV, due for June? is here below.

Show: One Night Only: Knockouts Knockdown
Date: 10 May 2014 (Taped) [Usually Airs in September]
Location: Orlando
Sales: Withheld by TNA

Gail Kim beat unconvincing rookie Veda Scott.

Angelina Love defeated unknown random Scarlett Bordeaux in uneventful encounter.

Madison Rayne dropped the hapless Jessicka Havok in wasteful showing.

Porn star Reby Sky beat Velvet 'Skank' Sky in fluke victory due to interference by Angelina Love using hairspray on Velvet by accident.  

Taryn Terrell, returning from pregnancy, beat someone called Karlee Perez, formerly known to WWE fans as Maxine.

Dependable worker Mia Yim won a empty 'doing the rounds' battle with someone called Brittany.

Brooke Tessmacher  (who faces the next TNA release) beat the ever unknown Deonna.

Random chancer Marti Belle beat ODB, with assistance from Belle's new boyfriend Rockstar Spud.

Small sized Spud and leggy 'afro babe' Belle clearly don't fit. Though both are British and Lei'd 'afro babe' Tapa was released two months ago, so go figure.

ODB then beat Rockstar Spud in further lunacy on the card which even the great ODB couldn't save.

All the winners then qualified for a gauntlet match for winning their earlier matches. Madison Rayne against Gail Kim was the final ending. Returning mother Madison Rayne got the win to be named Knockout's Queen 2014.

End Result? - Washout.

The fact TNA constantly rely on random nobodies and book it to finish as soon as it starts, the show is just ridiculous. This gives no weight to the show, company or performers and once again ruins any real progress the company could make as a stand out promoting.

Fans believe this is merely measure to place the title back on (pending) Madison Rayne in September. Either way, TNA is simply floating around in no-man's land.

© Max Waltham 12th May 2014



Sunday 11 May 2014

Former WWE star abuses late Ultimate Warrior at UK event


Has been hunk rips off WWE legend

Former wrestling junkie Chris Masters recently appeared in the UK at an inferior wrestling promotion copying the recently deceased Ultimate Warrior in a distasteful show of theft and mockery. After entering to the Warrior's music and portraying Warrior in the match without any permission from the deceased star who had clear problems with plagiarism, and use of his copyrighted issues, Master's claimed it was to 'honour' his memory.

Steroid abuser Master's used the "honour of Warrior" as a cheap excuse to try to make a name for himself once more after the wrestling world lost interest with the former drug taking fanatic.

The promotion in question has been one that constantly steals and copy's WWE PPV names such as "SpringSlam" and "Money in the Bank" matches without any taste or decency, among others.

The rip off pair have infuriated fans and viciously abuse those who disagree with them telling them if they don't like it to get lost, among other harsh language. Instead of taking a balanced approach the promotion and wrestlers in question display such ignorance that they fail to accept they are neglecting their fans on personal assumption they are superior to all.

Failed WWE superstar of past Masters is fondly remembered for his steroid abuse and upset towards Triple H for taking a stand against such dishonour. In 2006 Triple H said to Masters on TV "What are you going to call it: How to Lose Fifty Pounds in four weeks?" in regards to a muscle building book. Master's is said to still hate Triple H over the comments of Masters' own steroid abuse at the height of WWE's wellness policy abuses.

He also took a recent dig in February 2014 at WWE Chairman Vince McMahon saying he was "barely" accessible to communicate with.

Master's is known for being a 'kiss and tell' since his WWE and all-round career dwindled. Simply put, no one is interested in the media talking liability who takes everything personally with bitter aftertaste.


Any suggestions Master's makes tend to be shrouded without any weight. He is also accused of doing "backhanders" from sources after Master's starts claiming companies should hire certain ignorant wrestlers. Masters rely's on a UK market with numbers of occasional appearances. Fans believe this is fuelling the suggestions to also get him a profile that has already peaked while favouring locker-room stars at the top  of the card.   

He dressed up as Warrior a week past on Friday evening.



© Max Waltham 11th May 2014


Tuesday 6 May 2014

New US champion crowned


New United States Champion crowned 
on Post Extreme Rules Raw

On the post-Extreme Rules Raw, WWE set a 20 man battle royal match with the United States title on the line. It was obvious this would be a loss for Ambrose and just like that, Dean Ambrose loses the US title to Sheamus, a WWE favourite in a throwaway battle to crown someone new at the drop of a hat. This has also made Sheamus look further inferior and hasn't helped Dean Ambrose's core character.

Sheamus is set to became, as Wrestling Wonders suggested a year ago, a dishonourable man.


WWE have stalled and since, left even this opportunity to become, lukewarm. As a dishonourable man trying to re-establish his being, Sheamus did not require a WWE title to do so. This also highlights how little significance WWE respect their title/s. Well, it is mid season PPV come WWE change in perspective season. 

©  Max Waltham 06th May 2014

Monday 5 May 2014

WWE Extreme Rules 2014

Extreme Rules 2014

Live on Pay Per View, Sunday May 4th, from the Izod Centre in East Rutherford, New Jersey, would Extreme Rules be a worthy pay off for staff, the WWE Network and its new age performers? The biggest test for WWE was not Extreme Rules, but the WWE Network itself hosting PPV after going it alone from traditional cable providers. Would a future be laid down or simply washed out? Let's find out.

Triple Threat
Rob Van Dam Vs Jack Swagger Vs Antonio Cesaro w/ Paul Heyman

RVD begins the show with his Rolling Thunder at Jack Swagger who monkey flipped Antonio Cesaro on top instead. RVD later dropped a powerbomb onto Cesaro to the floor. Cesaro returns later to swing Swagger stopped mid way by Van Dam.

Antonio slammed Swagger with a heavy suplex as RVD elsewhere flew the frog splash to nail Swagger. Jack Swagger became eliminated. That's right. This late triple threat addition was a elimination from the original Swagger/Cesaro collision. Van Dam uses the guard rail and lands on Cesaro from the ring apron. Fans chant ECW. Hardly, but fans are feeling the buzz at this time, which is a comfort to the performers. After using a trash can slightly in ring, RVD takes to the top for a frog splash once more. Rob Van Dam missed as Antonio Cesaro won the battle with a powerful neutralizer.  Van Dam continues to use his exact routine from yesteryear in a smooth and easy going relay. If he really wants to re-influence his place, he and WWE are going to need to figure this out with a more current transition.

Handicap
Alexander Rusev w/ Lana Vs R-Truth and Xavier Woods

If there was ever any doubt that two could overcome one as odds would have it, allow Extreme Rules to enlighten you. After an introduction from the ever cherry glazed lipstick lovely Lana, she absurdly dedicated the match to Russian President Vladimir Putin. There was simply no need. Ingenious WWE allowed Ruzev to dominate the match and crush the pair of superstars who became two random jobbers in the evening. Running as a failed prospect of big men with all muscle mass and no talent, skill or charisma, Alexander Rusev easily crushed Xavier Woods and R-Truth. Woods, one of WWE's so called favoured prospects called up months ago, was pummelled into oblivion. We never saw greatness in Woods, but even if WWE did, a call up to destroy them on national television was plainly ridiculous.

The new reform of Evolution had a chat backstage.

Intercontinental Championship
Big E. (c) Vs Bad News Barrett

Quite a lot has occurred in recent weeks for this. First Langston was re-branded as Big E. after WWE got bored of the muscle mass prospect. Adding insult to injury, Bigster had to simply watch a TV screen in the locker-room over two weeks of Raw shows leading to the PPV. On these shows an Intercontinental tournament was launched and dragged on so long it was pointless. Leading candidate Cesaro, by fans, was predictably by this writer, used as a swerve from WWE bigwigs to place Barrett onto the path of IC glory. The tournament failed to build strong momentum as intended for this match itself.

Though Big E. has been a huge liability and careless in his in-ring behaviour WWE once again, likened to Woods, dropped someone they felt important at the time. Not to say 'we told you so' (which we did) we wanted to protect these cautions. WWE chose not to think and placed the path regardless. The result was this disaster of no momentum to either champion or challenger and a waste of talent presented. Given yet another senseless push, Bad News Borette held most of the action. Big E. was allowed a little action in spots to run and support the match. Big E. attempted the Big Ending backbreaker, but was countered by Bad News Barrett who ran a botched and non connective forearm fly followed by the Bull Hammer.

Some fans cheered for Barrett because they were so bored of the IC title in limbo while others had no real reaction. The basis of change was present. It was not for with Big E. or Barrett themselves. Therein lies the problem. Barrett's countless repackage and mid-tier prospects are so dim that not even the IC title can save him from jobber to future endeavours even if WWE are high on him, for now.

Six man Tag Team
Evolution Vs The Shield

The Evolution refit of Batista, Triple H and Randy Orton for this very match up was cast in doubt. Will Triple H's incessant ego drop The Shield a chance to be big names? Is the ego that big that being off television as a headline performer is so difficult to bear he will dilute a PPV instead?

The Shield began clearing house as Evolution then took control. Ambrose was used as whopping boy by Triple H and Co. until he managed a comeback enough to tag in Roman Reigns. Reigns fell to a pedigree but kicked out. So much for a new star in the making. He kicked out of an RKO, performed well by both Orton and Reigns. This one then went into the crowd with fighting. Ooh, how novel. The crowd getting some 'Extreme' action.

Seth Rollins was then required for the flying spot. He launched from the stands onto Orton and HHH, which was perfectly done by The trio's superglue Rollins.

Reigns flew the superman punch onto Batista in the ring during the frucous smashing Batista of Evolution as Reigns picked up the victory for The Shield.

Steel Cage
Bray Wyatt w/ Erick Rowan and Luke Harper Vs John Cena

After their weird encounter at Wrestlemania last month, would this match for Wyatt raise the profile after a loss previously when the big stage could have presented such glorious opportunity?

Over with crowd, Wyatt began strong. Cena countered in typical fashion, but met by Rowan upon an escape attempt. The Wyatt's await on yet another attempt for a Cena escape, who clearly did not learn from the first try. Cena's extreme over-animation in character, mannerisms and in-ring action just screams stupidity. Fans are not that stupid. They are fed up with it.

Cena tries a pin which Bray kicks out of. Cena reaches the door now. Again, clever thinking Cena is met by Rowan and Harper who halt the escape. Harper predictably enters the cage. Cena lands an Attitude Adjustment from the top rope failing as Harper saves his family member.  

As Cena mounts a chance to escape (again) the lights go out. The sound of a lone child signing "He's got the Whole World in his hands" sounds from a muffled microphone. Distracted and confused John Cena misplaces his faith and is nailed by Bray Wyatt with Sister Abigail to land a clean pinfall victory.

Divas Championship
Paige (c) Vs Tamina

Tamina was allowed huge momtuem and dominance over Paige fromthe beginning. After winnning the diva's title in a random encounter with AJ on the post-Wrestlemania Raw, fluke champion Paige has been booked with jobbers to lead to her match this evening. Taking on the likes of Aksana, Alicia Fox, Aksana and alaicia Fox, with a dash of Rosa Mendes thrown in, Paige is nothing more than a flunkie. Paige's interactions were sloppy and inaccurate.

Called up by Triple H's desperate ego trying to prove to WWE up top he can run the show, is pathetic. With his failed stars Sin Cara and Kharma, both of whcih are gone from WWE, HHH is desperate to have a name on TV he can say was his great forward thinking. With his clutches tightly squeezing the skill out of NXT call ups, HHH saw an oppotunity. Picking a fan favouirte who put in a few average performances with a very sprse roster in NXT for fan cheer, HHH has actually cost himself his reputation tenfold.

What makes for NXT success doesn't equate to WWE stardom. Alexander Rusev, Xavier Woods, Bo Dallas (wherever he is) among others prove WWE's mismanagement is costing them a real chance. All to say, 'I did this' because WWE are getting fairly clueless, though not as clueless as TNA, granted.  If it can't think of ideas, hire this writer despite your pride costing you everytime. "There is no-one who can do what I can do" Argue all you like, this is a fact.

Tamina was predictable defeated by fluke champ and inexperience mainstage diva Paige. What a waste. Fans want to know when is the point WWE will actually value anything ever again. Will Triple H's re-re-launch of the Diva's division after dropping the tag division since his mates are not champ be ever fruitful? Hmm.

WWE World Heavyweight Championship
Daniel Bryan (c) Vs Kane

After finally gaining the heavyweight gold, Daniel Bryan took his first defence against Kane. The 5 foot 8 superstar who has a different look to WWE and the audience whom respect it took place in WWE's annual new age, past Wrestlemania PPV block. Does this remind you of anyone who had the World title at this stage years prior under all the exact requirements? Expect a loss before Summerslam.

Kane began with a Singapore cane onslaught of Bryan. The re-heated fire breathen Kane provided excellent competition for Bryan. Re-masked and as dangerous as ever, Kane battered the champ in a show of understanding. Bryan changed pace with a tornado DDT off the announce table outside.

The pair took the fight backstage. Ooh. An Extreme Rules thriller every year. After turning the tables on Kane, Bryan however made it memorable, at least for now, using a forklift truck. Wheeling Kane back to the ring on the vehicle front, Bryan lands a headbutt. Kane kicks out. A near fall chokeslam returned to Bryan in retaliation. Bryan uses chair attacks and kendo sticks on the monster before placing the YES! Lock on him. Kane smashes Bryan through a outside stacked table. The monster proceeds to lit a table on fire for Daniel to fly through. Kane is misplaced by Daniel Bryan's skill and Bryan puts Kane through the fiery wood instead. Daniel Bryan follows up with the running knee attack for the win.


PPV Rating - 5/10

Men/Women of their matches - Antonio Cesaro, R-Truth, Big E., Seth Rollins, Bray Wyatt, Tamina, Daniel Bryan

Man/Woman of the PPV -Daniel Bryan


The Swiss sensation of beefcake galore is not growing as WWE intended. Their start/stop treatment is costly at the highest level. Even as a Max Waltham Paul Heyman guy, Antonio Cesaro could well be doomed at this point. Favouring Wade Barrett over Cesaro proves WWE have no idea, even if Cesaro should not be Intercontinental champion.

Barrett as champion, with yet another useless gimmick to try to prove he can make it before WWE finally concede defeat is laughable. It makes the company look entirely stupid, really clueless and very biased. What level of hope is there when it also discredits its own title? WWE need to find real challengers not one word gimmicks that offer no interest whatsoever.

The Shield are on a course of slow burner which we suggested as praise. WWE, however, are unsure how to develop them all whilst keeping the battle ticking over. Stuck in the '80's is clearly hurting the future now.

Tamina should have grabbed the title at Extreme Rules. When WWE are going to boost this aggressive, clever and powerful diva is anyone's guess. People, especially with diva's matches, have low interest and a flunkie champion on a handshake victory will not encapsulate the audience. She needs to be dropped, pronto. Do it now. This will only ever continue your problems. Why would you need such problems unnecessarily?

In the case of Wyatt, it was too little, too late. Wyatt's win was needed at Wrestlemania. Merchandise seller John Cena remains WWE's problem. There is nothing wrong with selling merchandise, but affecting the product from moving forward to a future is wasteful. Anything Wyatt does with Cena over the coming months is not fully momentous, because the culmination at 'Mania was needed to win. Cena, however, has few opponents to battle with. Tired and dated, Cena is losing stride as much as every challenger he fights. The drawing board with WWE must be assessed in order to re-structure the way forward. It is simple. WWE just don't know what to do, so will revert to the past. The result is the present, never a future.

Daniel Bryan is booked as champ. He'll keep it though to the Summer, so WWE need to get on with making real contenders to his title, to validify the heavyweight reign as important, powerful and meaningful after a year in the making with last year's up and down coming of age story.

WWE are really trying to make new stars, that much is clear. Their lack of understanding how to do it, who to place and in what light is making WWE look ridiculous. With it, fans lose interest, even if they continue to watch as standard than be fully engaged. Fans in the Wrestlemania arena were bored during The Undertaker's match, which is shambolic that this legend was resigned to nothingness.


WWE's future is currently lit. We are officially in the underachievers era. The one's that WWE failed to launch correctly have now been placed. In their placings they either are useless or have been used as fodder whilst as champion. That is simply ludicrous. WWE is low on stock. It needs to seriously think about its way forward than simply assume it will be okay.   

For WWE, its over reliance on the personal thrill of the WWE Network is reducing its quality. Never to be outdone by anyone, Vince McMahon will want the network to become a roaring success. With already so much money wasted on the network, WWE should have stuck with financing its future with training, new hires and backstage business growers. Fans already disgruntled at the shabby transmissions of choppy and delay features, the WWE's Network is something that may be around from those up top, but the fans will not be encouraged to support it, nor passionately get behind it to boost its popularity. Can it before it grows too problematic. Don't get in 'over your heads' as the company got in a flurry with streaming giant Netflix, as noted by WWE's head office. You're Welcome.



©  Max Waltham 05th May 2014








Thursday 1 May 2014

Antonio Cesaro: Future heavyweight prospect in WWE's motion?


Antonio Cesaro: 360 heavyweight swinger 
taking stalled detour to future success


Beginning his WWE career in 2012 on an April edition of Smackdown with provocative diva Aksana and her boyfriend Theodore Long, the General Manager of that very same show.  One month later, Cesaro and Aksana came clean over their suspicious behaviour. Aksana confessed. "Antonio. He's my lover" she lingered. Theodore Long was stitched up. After getting him a contract with WWE, Aksana helped her lover on numerous occasions, including as manager ringside. On one occasion Teddy Long got the wonderful job of oiling up Antonio with smooth lotion.

After a distraction Cesaro soon dumped his incapable female lover in a costly non-title match. Cesaro soon made headline progress as a new United States champion. Regaining the title and its contenders to a highly credible level of competition, Antonio made the US title interesting to fans alike. Cesaro had the most impressive reign of the United States title for today's era. He held the gold for 239 days ending on the April 15th Raw to Kofi Kingston.  Cesaro by now had enough reputation to but WWE decided he had lost his stride and "wasn't ready" for fuller stardom. Cesaro's career dwindled a little until he was ushered into a grouping with with Xenophobic nationalist nutcase Zeb Colter and All American Jack Swagger in the ultra wasteful Real Americans stable. The pair were tasked to re-develop and prop up the tag division. Instead, overflown with multiple rising tag team with The Shield and others, Cesaro became lumbered with the ever disastrous Swagger. With new, or indeed, old options WWE was focused on the big players, Cesaro was ignored and pushed into a minor scenario to fill the time. WWE had run out of interest and had no plans for him. Forming a consolation tag team for the interim, the scene was set to change.

Whilst WWE had lost their way with Cesaro, the ever influential creative strategist Max Waltham had other plans. Pointing out the credible positions Cesaro's career could travel, WWE soon regained interest from the very ideas presented. Cesaro was due a split.

Unable to perform well with standard entries and media reputations up in smoke,  Cesaro had to be given something strong. WWE donated a giant swing to the six foot hunk of Swiss white chocolate who soon made the move his own. Turning a 360 u-turn becoming the moment of a match and proving expert stamina and technique, Cesaro had grown impeccably. Enough so that WWE have listened to those impressed and began looking again with appealingly eyes.

After missing a career enhancing opportunity with a scuppered Royal Rumble entry, Cesaro was given a supporting role in the Elimination Chamber match for Randy Orton's WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Regardless of the outcome, Cesaro had been given a strong place on the card. Now, WWE needed to maintain the momentum and give rise to a star that was capable, beautiful and talented. Working with others over the past two years with glowing endorsements, Cesaro has tangled with Randy Orton, The Shield, mid level players and upheld credibility with consistent performances. Holding the details together, while understanding in ring psychology and giving his opponents a rise in match portrayal also, this one has the chance to excel in 2014 to 2015. Clearly the decision from up above will be what decides Cesaro's fate. Given clear structure and strong challenges with expert meaning, another skill Cesaro adds impeccably, will be a boosted payoff for WWE with lucrative effect.

The future for Cesaro is somewhat clear, but still hazy. WWE decided not to push hard for Antonio and made changes. Believing he was not strong enough again, WWE changed his name. Instead of having a full name identity, WWE gave him a surname only. Known simply as Cesaro, because WWE's chairman decided it wasn't strong enough to call someone Antonio, renamed him a surname only. Worldwide theoretical philosophers and even previous WWE performers similar to Cesaro were towers of strength, which is in tune with Cesaro. Alas, WWE disagreed. Adopting the 1980's approach again to a big guy, Antonio Cesaro is preferred by the office to be named a surname. This alone places Cesaro in a backward position that can't go forward as quickly as intended.

Stuck and confused how to build Anti up, WWE decided to present to him the originator of the idea, Max Waltham, in the form of on-screen genome and ingenious promoter Paul Heyman. Used as a mechanism to poke fun and try to elevate Cesaro, WWE's conflicting ideal will be what always stalls a new prospects hopes of rising high and fast as could be needed for the current climate in wrestling. WWE are still trying to hold Cesaro in the position of villain in a heroes role. It clearly isn't working with fans, who still remain hopeful for the star with, for now, their support. As we all know, fans won't wait forever and cannot be taken for granted any longer. WWE are keeping this slow and trying to build a reputation. This is acceptable, but is not worthwhile when so many blips are in place.

Failing to give Cesaro a Royal Rumble victory launch and no drive afterwards with the Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal victory, WWE are stalling at a tense rate. The action needs to pick up a gear, but now WWE have stalled, Cesaro is at a pace of which cannot be rushed in a way that contradicts his momentum. Indecision is truly costly to future growth.

WWE's less than appealing music entrance, awkward renaming and second gear transition is not placing Antonio in the best light. Rename, re-brand and boost. We may just have to wait a little longer. But how long can you wait before the steam evaporates?

Hope is all the WWE Universe have left. WWE thrive on it. Though too many awkward rebuffs can put the hairy stomached hunk in a less than smooth airbrushing of wonder for a WWE future. Getting it right is now the biggest test, because, done incorrectly, will open Cesaro to the pitfalls of mid card jobber failing to reach the final front -ier. This is it. No more ifs and buts. Messing this up will cost the company one of the biggest futures for fans and finance. Can pride set aside product? Only one decision maker knows. The other, must make the call.


© Max Waltham 1st May 2014