WWE RAW Review: 16th May 2016

It is less than a week until the next pay per view, Extreme Rules! Tonight we are in North Carolina also known as Flair Country! I didn’t have high expectations for this week’s RAW as it is the ‘Go Home’ show for Extreme rules, but pretty much every storyline has been established. So I was left wondering would there be a spanner in the works? Or would RAW just coast into this Sunday’s pay per view?

OPENER

The commentary team tells us that tonight we will get Gallows and Anderson vs The Usos in a tag team match. Do you remember what I said about coasting? This is the seventh time, if you include both RAW and Smackdown, that The Club has faced The Family in some form. The night starts off with AJ Styles coming out to the ring. Styles aims to set the record straight, he is not using his friendship with Gallows and Anderson to unfairly win the WWE title. Roman Reigns comes out to interrupt Styles, with a chorus of boos to welcome him. Reigns isn’t believing anything AJ is saying. This segment is already beginning to drag honestly, and the crowd obviously agreed as we got a “We want Rollins” chant (Don’t we all). There is some more back and forth, AJ hates Reign’s “The Guy” speech as much as we do it seems. Also, The Family is no longer ‘The Family’, instead, the name has been replaced with ‘The Bloodline’. There are worse names I can think of so I’m not too fussed with this choice. Well, every good thing (and boring in this case) must come to an end as The Club come out to give AJ moral support, but the Usos are a step ahead as they enter the ring before The Club gets a chance to make their way down. The segment ends with a screaming contest between AJ and Roman.

• Ambrose to call out Jericho tonight
• Contract signing between Natalya and Charlotte also announced for tonight

SAMI ZAYN vs CESARO (NO CONTEST)

Before the start of the match, The Miz and Maryse make their way down to the ring as they will be joining the commentary team (I love heel Miz so this is fantastic). Things get even better when we see that not only is Miz going to be on commentary, we are also graced with Kevin Owens’ commentary which is always a joy to hear. Miz and Owens waste no time in bickering, continuing during the entrances of Zayn and Cesaro. The match gets underway as Sami and Cesaro feel each other out, however, the spotlight is quickly stolen by Kevin Owens, who attacks The Miz at ringside, leading to a brawl between the two. This an opportunity that Zayn and the Swiss Superman can’t afford to pass up and they both get involved in this brawl. The match ends in a no contest.

But wait! Here comes the money! It’s Shane O Mac! Shane quickly restores order and sets up a tag team match, Zayn, and Cesaro vs The Miz and Owens (Hilariously Owens screams that he has been given the worst partner). However, more craziness ensues when Stephanie McMahon decides to chip in, claiming that given the outcome of the same match on Smackdown the better choice is Cesaro and The Miz vs Zayn and Owens (Wait what! Zayn and Owens?!)

ZAYN & OWENS def. CESARO & MIZ

As we return from the break we find that Cesaro and Owens begin the match, with Cesaro quickly gaining the upper hand. The sassiness between the team of Zayn and Owens is wonderful both clearly despising each other. The match is very well paced and shows off the strengths of each competitor, especially Cesaro. Kevin Owens’ constant running commentary throughout the match is absolutely brilliant. This match was brilliant throughout, the Kevin Owens cannonball was great, and the spot in which Miz and Cesaro used each other’s finisher was entertaining. Surprisingly, in the end, it is the team of Cesaro and Miz who cannot cooperate causing Zayn to pick up the win after a Helluva kick on Miz. Unsurprisingly though the celebrations do not last long as Sami eats a superkick from Kevin Owens.

• Jericho is interviewed by Renee Young telling her that he is giving Dean Ambrose one chance to apologise.

THE SHINING STARS def. JACKSON & KENNEDY

After weeks of waiting it turns out those Puerto Rican video packages weren’t just a holiday advertisement, but actual wrestlers. Primo and Epico debut their new gimmick tonight, as The Shining Stars. What exactly they are meant to be is beyond me. Their match with Jackson and Kennedy (nice job on their tights by the way) is exactly what you would expect, a squash match. As expected The Shining Stars received no crowd reaction. At least their finisher is nice (Even if it is similar to The Ascensions).

• Ambrose comes out to the ring and calls out Jericho (what the hell was Jericho wearing?). Jericho who is still furious at Ambrose heels it up for the crowd and demands reparations for his jacket. The main thing we take from this segment is that this match will be an asylum match (basically a Clockwork Orange House of Fun match from TNA).
• Dana Brooke absolutely humiliates a random backstage guy. Brutal!

DANA BROOKE def. BECKY LYNCH

With the upsetting news of the back injury to Emma, it seems that Dana Brooke is being thrown into the deep end, even more than she was before. When Dana Brooke debuted on RAW last week, every NXT fan was left wondering, is it too soon? This week would be her gauntlet by fire it seems as she is left completely on her own against Becky Lynch. Well if this was her test then, unfortunately, Brooke did not pass. The crowd could not care less about Dana Brooke in this match, instead chanting “We want Sasha” whenever Dana was on offense. Dana looked sloppy in the ring and hesitant during the match, she definitely could have used more time down in NXT.

• Another ‘Make Darren Young Great Again’ video package. This one didn’t make any sense, are we just meant to laugh at Bob Backlund for being old?
• Stephanie and Shane are still trying to stay on good terms, but the cracks are there. The Dudley Boys interrupt the awkward tension in an attempt to get an easy match, which backfires leading to one of the Dudley’s facing Big Cass.
• Golden Truth video package (YOU WILL NEVER MAKE ME CARE ABOUT THIS)

BREEZANGO def. GOLDEN TRUTH

Well if you had thought that the troubles between R-Truth and Goldust were over then you will be disappointed after tonight. After a dominant showing from Goldust, the chaos in ring lead to R-Truth accidentally kicking Dust in the face with a corkscrew scissor kick, Tyler Breeze quickly took advantage of this clearing Truth from the ring and getting the pin on Goldust. It seems the trouble is far from over with the Golden Truth (but more importantly ANOTHER WIN FOR TYLER BREEZE!)

• Truth and Goldust vow to remain a team
• Now for the best part of the night, The New Day! This whole segment was gold. Absolute gold. From old school Kofi to Derriere Squares, this segment was brilliant. The Vaudevillains were also made to look very strong in taking out The New Day.

THE USOS def. ANDERSON & GALLOWS

There is nothing wrong with this match if you look at it from a technical perspective, both teams work well in the ring and have good chemistry. However, we have seen variations of this match so many times by this point that I am sick of it. This week’s version is the same as the previous matches that have taken place over various episodes of RAW and Smackdown. The Usos continuously dab, Style and Reigns trash talk and The Club look weak. I have to question the choice in having the Usos come out victorious, so far The Club has not looked like a threat at all during their feud with The Bloodline, and this has not helped at all. The all out brawl at the end of the match even feels stale at this point, even if the Styles Clash on the chair was cool.

BIG CASS def. DEVON DUDLEY

Holy shit! Cass was made to look really strong here. From start to finish this match was exactly 1 minute long. It seems even without his partner in crime Enzo, the WWE are invested in Big Cass’ future (as they should be).

DEL RIO def. KALISTO

This was a pretty good match between the former and the current United States Champion. Del Rio does a fantastic job at being the heel this week especially that swing into the barricade. It seems that some bonds are not easily broken as Del Rio forces Kalisto to watch former LON team member Rusev dismantle Kalisto’s partner Sin Cara. Alberto is able to control the pace of the match, with various bouts of offense from the Kalisto in response. Eventually, Rusev and Lana make their way to the ring while Rusev bullies and torments Sin Cara. This distraction costs Kalisto the match as Del Rio gives him a backstabber to pick up the win. That’s not the end for Kalisto however as Rusev then places him in the accolade, almost as if he is intent on snapping his spine. I for one am very glad to see that Rusev is being portrayed as a monster again. Hopefully, we can put this last year of love triangles behind us and return to the Rusev we know and love.

CLOSING SEGMENT

Can we take a moment to point out that a women’s segment is closing the go home Monday Night RAW? It seems that the era of bra and panties matches is long gone and it is a relief to have good women’s wrestling. Well, it is time for a good ole fashioned contract signing! With Shane and Stephanie acting as mediators, we have them introduce (or TRY to introduce in Charlotte’s case) the champion and the challenger. Now considering this is Flair country, Charlotte had to work very hard to get some heat tonight, but by god she did it. Charlotte had to resort to calling herself a goddess and silencing her own father but she was able to silence the boos. As expected with a WWE contract signing things get out of hand quickly. It is revealed that the contract has a clause. If Ric gets involved in the match against Natalya at extreme rules, then Charlotte will lose the Women’s Championship, and if Charlotte doesn’t sign she will forfeit the title tonight. Not much choice for the Women’s champion. This gets the Nature Boy heated as he berates Stephanie and tried to take on Shane (I don’t care how old he is, I will always love Flair). Flair gets a bit too angry though and ends up eating a slap from Stephanie McMahon. All this commotion in the ring leads to Nattie giving Charlotte the sharpshooter and we end the show on Natalya standing tall.

FINAL NOTES & SCORE

• Tonight’s MVP:
• Match of the Night: Zayn & Owens vs Cesaro & Miz
• Moment of the Night: The New Day time machine segment
• They have definitely pulled the trigger on Dana Brooke too soon.
• I’m definitely not imagining it, there is definitely a weird tension between Shane and Stephanie

In the beginning of this review, I questioned whether this week’s RAW would make some interesting changes or if it would just coast into this Sunday. Well considering that of the 8 matches tonight we have seen 7 of these matches before with a few slight changes. Not a good sign for the New Era. This week’s RAW gets a 5/10

As always you can follow me on twitter @THEREALDILLS, I am also considering making a private account so I can stalk Becky Lynch in peace.

TNA Review: 10th May 2016

OPENER

So this week we open up the show with the Charismatic Enigma Jeff Hardy and his awful theme song (I’m going to point this out every week). Jeff gives the usual baby face promo to fans telling them he does everything for the “creatures”. The promo is swiftly interrupted by Decay who come out and tell Jeff a few things. 1. They have nothing against him 2. They would even like him to join Decay and 3. They were paid to attack him and who paid them will be revealed in time. Jeff is not so easily swayed to the dark side, however, reminding Decay he “doesn’t sell out he sells in” (What does that even mean?) The conversation between Hardy and Decay doesn’t stay civil for long and with the numbers game on Decay’s side it doesn’t go well for Jeff. But wait! It’s James Storm! Strom runs out to save Jeff and the match is set, Hardy and Storm vs Decay for the tag team titles.

DECAY def. HARDY & STORM (TAG TITLES MATCH)

The newly put together tag team of Jeff and James perform well together in the match, James Storm is a clear crowd favourite, therefore, the crowd is constantly cheering him on whether he is on offense or defence. Jeff is a seasoned veteran at this point and he may not be what he once was but he knows a tag team match like the back of his hand and is utilises the hot tag very well. The match is what you would expect it to be. The titles are on the line and the match is fairly even with James Storm and Crazy Steve looking impressive in the ring. However, things change when suddenly the lights go out. As the viewer stares at a blank screen we hear the delightfully creepy laugh of Rosemary and when the lights come back on it is someone we would never expect, Willow! (For any in the audience not aware Willow was a character that Jeff Hardy has played in numerous companies including TNA). The commentators and especially Jeff are as confused as the viewer, how can Jeff be in two places? Well clearly he can’t, it seems that the targeting and toying of Jeff Hardy has only begun. Due to this distraction, Abyss is able to hit the Black Hole Slam to pick up the win.

• Backstage a very pissed off Jeff Hardy is determined to find out who this fake Willow is. He tells us he will unmask him tonight.
• We get a weird vlog of Mike Bennett and Maria at a Billy Corgan concert, I have no idea why this is a thing.

DREW GALLOWAY def. ELI DRAKE (WORLD TITLE MATCH)

Champion Drew Galloway comes out to the ring and calls out Lashley. The Champ and Challenger trade insults back and forth, with the number 1 contender clearly trying to get into Galloway’s head. In my opinion, Lashley is definitely better as a cocky heel. He’s a freak of an athlete and he knows it. Lashley puts Drew on notice, in a week’s time he is coming to get his title. This fight has definitely got a big match feel, and the anticipation keeps getting higher. After Lashley leaves, none other than Eli Drake makes his way from behind the curtain. Drake makes his intentions clear, he wants titles and he wants them all (way to put down the X-Division by the way).

The match tonight was good from both Drake and Galloway. It was clear from the pace of the match and from the commentary that this was a match that Drew was trying to end quickly. The Captain didn’t waste any time pulling out some big moves such as a belly to belly suplex or a beautiful scoop power slam (eat your heart out Orton). Drake is by no means a pushover, however, he displays his cunning by trying to distract the ref in order to attack Drew with his Money in the bank fan replica. However things do not go to plan and Galloway is able to put the match to bed with a Claymore Kick into a Future Shock DDT. The Champion doesn’t have much time to celebrate however as he eats a spear from the Destroyer Lashley, who is becoming desperate for the title.

• EC3 tells us backstage that tonight he has business with The Miracle Mike Bennett and that he will not leave until it is settled.
• Backstage we see Maria talking to both Gail Kim and Jade. Maria sets up a Knockouts title match between the two with Sienna to serve as an enforcer. (The Dave Meltzer reference in this segment was laughable)
• EC3 is so over that it is preventing him from doing his job. The Ass Kicking Machine calls out The Miracle and his wife Maria. (HE’S MAKING MEMES)

JADE def. GAIL KIM BY DQ (KNOCKOUTS TITLE MATCH)

The Knockouts title match between the reigning champion Jade and challenger Gail Kim was a fairly decent match tonight. The in-ring work from both girls was very technical and the match had a slow but steady pace. Sienna’s role in the match honestly didn’t work for me. Sienna is clearly being portrayed as one of the next big obstacles in the Knockouts division and it just doesn’t fit. Sienna is by no means small, but she simply doesn’t have the presence of other monster heels in wrestling history such as Kong or Chyna.

• Al Snow is a madman. Not much more that needs to be stated really.

 

• EC3 is pumped, so I am too.

SHERA def. AL SNOW

Al Snow is crazy. I stated that moments ago but his promo before Shera came out proved it for me. Apparently his new gimmick is Donald Trump (Say what you want about WWE and “Make Darren Great Again” but at least they were very slightly subtle). This match and the entire direction of Al Snow’s character is frustratingly stupid. Apparently Snow is meant to be the protector of good ole fashioned wrestling. So why then is he using weapons and choking people with wrist tape? Al Snow proceeds to dominate the match against Shera in boring fashion until Grado runs out to turn the tide in Shera’s favour. Even the lovable Scot can’t make me care about this.

• The Willow segment backstage was so weird. The only thing we were meant to take away from that segment was that there are now multiple Willow’s. So fine it did its job. The question I am asking is, what the fuck is going on?
• More Al Snow rage.

EC3 def. ROCKSTAR SPUD

This week Impact Wrestling decided to end the show with the EC3/Bennett storyline, which while it may deviate from the traditional main title in the main event formula, I actually liked. Both EC3 and Mike Bennett are clearly going to be in the main title picture for a while and it seems that TNA is not going to hide that. The match itself, however, was a bit lacklustre compared to last week’s main event in my opinion. Rockstar Spud was very good in tonight’s main event, however maybe a bit too good. I have to say if I was not aware of the ongoing story of EC3 I would think that he was in a major angle with Spud. I know they have a history but the focus of the match seemed to be focused on Spud almost as much as EC3. Well, in the end, EC3 is victorious after hitting the one percenter and the inevitable rematch with The Miracle is one step closer.

FINAL NOTES/SCORE

• Tonight’s MVP: EC3
• Match of the Night: Drew Galloway vs Eli Drake
• Moment of the Night: “I’m making memes?!”
• Al Snow may be crazy be we all know that Dixie is the Trump of TNA

I have to say this was a really lacklustre episode this week. The matches were average but this week felt very fillerish, I do have high hopes for next week, however. Final Score 5/10

Oh yeah also follow me on twitter @THEREALDILLS. I don’t tweet much but that can change. I might even be nice about wrestling for a change

WWE RAW Review: 9th May 2016

It’s a new era in WWE. That’s what they want us to think anyway, and despite the fact they bombarded the audience with this new phrase ‘new era’, it’s hard not to agree with them as of recently. Since Wrestlemania 32 things have changed drastically in the biggest wrestling company in the world. Whether it’s calls ups from NXT or imports from other promotions the main roster seems to have gone through a shift. This week’s episode of Raw has honestly been quite difficult for me to pin down. The show had solid matches and new talent (hence the new era) however, the booking was odd, to say the least. We had 4 out of 4 champions who wrestled tonight lose. Why? Well, it wouldn’t be WWE if I didn’t question the booking.

OPENER

The show starts with Chris Jericho’s highlight reel. Firstly I have to point out something that cannot be overstated. Chris Jericho is a perfect heel. Jericho quickly brings the crowd to life, managing to get them to chant the name of a plant pot. Pretty impressive. Jericho’s monologue can’t go on forever though as Big Cass comes down to the ring to shut up Y2J. Even with the absence of Enzo Amore the tag team of Enzo and Cass is over like crazy, Big Cass didn’t even need to say the catchphrase “And you can’t teach that” as the crowd was saying it for him. This segment ends with a boot kick that could be heard around the world onto Chris Jericho.

• Jericho then speaks to Stephanie but against his wishes, she puts him in the main event with Big Cass. Wow! Big Cass in the main event? Things are going well so far.

CORBIN def. ZIGGLER

Our first match of the night is Dolph Ziggler against Baron Corbin. The match itself was as good as their opener at WWE Payback, but this time the right man wins, Baron Corbin. The match starts off with a good pace. Ziggler clearly tries to use his speed to counter Corbin’s size, while Corbin portrays the monster opponent with great moves such as that amazing deep six. The moment of the match was when Ziggler played possum in order to use the fameasser for a near pin. This showed the veteran that Dolph has become.

• Backstage we see another instance of someone trying to turn Shane and Stephanie against each other. Once again they fail to do so.

 

• Jojo interviews The Club, hopefully soon to be renamed the Balor Club (please). AJ is pissed at last week and the lines between face and heel get blurrier by the week.

TRUTH def. FANDANGO

How long has this Golden Truth angle been going on for? It feels like babies have been conceived and born while this feud has been going on. At least Tyler Breeze is getting screen time. This match was the definition of average.

• Backstage we get an IC title debate. Miz, Owens and the sharpest man in wrestling Cesaro all make their case to Stephanie and Shane, but Stephanie eventually tells them how it’s going to be. A triple threat match at Extreme Rules for the title. However Zayn has yet to present his argument and when he does we get another match scheduled for tonight. Zayn vs Miz, if Sami wins he gets a place at Extreme Rules.

PAIGE def. CHARLOTTE

Having been the face of the division in recent years it is good to see Paige back on Raw after a long absence. The match was very back and forth, Paige and Charlotte looked even. The match ends when despite being banned Ric Flair makes his way to ringside to confront Natalya, however, this distraction costs Charlotte the match. The way this was booked was extremely confusing honestly. It seems purpose of the match was to show Charlotte’s weaknesses without her father, but all it did was make it seem like the Nature Boy was a distraction. The glaring issues though was the commentary. JESUS CHRIST, THE COMMENTARY! This week Natalya was a special guest commentator and somehow things got even worse. The constant bickering between all 4 commentators was extremely distracting, and this proved that while she is an expert in the ring it, unfortunately, seems as if Natalya will always remain poor on the mic.

ZAYN def. MIZ

This match is a prime example of two superstars who know their characters. Sami Zayn is the ultimate baby face. A true underdog and before the match even begins we hear ole chants from the crowd who are all behind Sami. The Miz, however, is a true heel right down to his core and he plays the role like he was born to. This match was great tonight and though only the fourth match of the planned eight it is an early contender for match of the night. Zayn especially looked great, from his barricade moon sault to his as always brilliant Helluva Kick, Zayn was on form. After Sami gets a pin on The Miz we see footage of both Kevin Owens and Cesaro watching the match, the Intercontinental Championship match at Extreme Rules is going to be great no matter what.

• Renee Young interviews Becky Lynch backstage asking about her match with Emma the previous week. She tells Renee that she will give Emma a lass kicking but is suddenly interrupted by Emma and a debuting Dana Brooke, who proceed to ambush Becky.

• Another Make Darren Great Again segment. Am I weird for laughing at these? They don’t seem like they should be funny at all but I can’t resist chuckling.

• Oh yeah! Upupdowndown getting the recognition it deserves? About time! Oh, wait… W-What’s happening… is that pizza hut? Really? God damn it.

• The backstage segment shows Zack Ryder pleading his case to Shane O Mac as to why he should be in the fatal 4 way at Extreme Rules. Kevin Owens interrupts the two and after getting in Shane’s face the match has been set, Ryder vs Owens for a place in the fatal 4-way match

SIN CARA def. RUSEV

If we cast our mind back to Wrestlemania 31 Rusev was one of the strongest wrestlers on the roster in both kayfabe and talent wise. However since he lost the US title he has been on a downward spiral that hit rock bottom with the League of Nations. Hopefully, his chase of the US title helps him reclaim former glory. The match between Sin Cara and Rusev was standard, it helped heat up the feud which is all that it needed to do. You can’t go wrong when you have Rusev’s acting ability.

THE FAMILY def. THE CLUB

The Club make their way down to the ring, the team of Styles, Gallows, and Anderson seem like a formidable unit, and despite their differences in the previous weeks, they seem ready to take on The Family. Said Family make their way down to the ring (I don’t even need to mention the boos at this point). The match starts and I have to say both teams look very comfortable working with each other. This shouldn’t be surprising giving the ties all the respective teams have, but it was nice to see how well they gelled for this match. It is obvious that Roman and AJ are being kept away from each other as they should early on. The Usos and the team of Gallows and Anderson put on a good show with the club being able to pick up the first elimination on one of the Usos (I can’t tell them apart). As Newton’s third law tells us though there must be a reaction from The Family as Anderson quickly follows Jimmy/Jey. After this, we go to commercial break only to come back to see that another elimination had happened and that we missed Styles hitting a spectacular phenomenal forearm. Eventually, we are down to only Styles and Reigns when all hell breaks loose. Both men quickly exit the ring and it seems we might get a repeat table spot from last week. However, eventually, The Club and then the Usos return to support their teammates. After a chaotic brawl and one intense stare down we are left with Reigns staring down Styles while lifting the title. As a professed AJ mark, I have to admit I am ecstatic about a WWE World Heavyweight Championship rematch in 2 week’s time.

OWENS def. RYDER

The stipulations of this match were established earlier by Shane McMahon, and while I love me some Long Island Ice Z, Owens winning was the correct outcome. It seems that Vince and the rest of WWE do not have any long-term plans for Ryder and I have to come to deal with that I guess. The match was good, Ryder was able to get in some good near falls and looked threatening, but in the end, Owens did not seem troubled by Ryder as he hits a pop-up power bottom to get the pinfall.

• Big Cass calls tonight, “the biggest match of my career” and dedicates it to Enzo (aww). He then flirts with Renee (no one tell Dean)

DUDLEYS def. NEW DAY

The Dudley’s defeating the New Day really wasn’t necessary, even if you give the reasoning that it created more heat. Too many champions lost tonight. I have no comment on the “people like us” line.

ENDING SEGMENT

Well, this week’s Raw has been hit or miss so far but we have a great match to close the show. The one and only Big Cass will be main eventing on Raw for the first time in his li- sorry what’s that? Dean Ambrose? Fuck…. Well, it seems like we are closing on an Ambrose/Jericho brawl instead. There was nothing wrong with this brawl but it seemed like an odd way to close the show. Definitely, could have close with Styles/Reigns instead. Also, if I was Ambrose my number one priority would be the limitless amounts of scarfs, not the jacket.

FINAL NOTES/SCORE

• Tonight’s MVP: Sami Zayn
• Match of the Night: Sami Zayn vs Miz
• Moment of the Night: AJ/Roman staring competition
• As much as it pains me to admit I have lost all hope for a serious Ryder push. At least he got his WM moment.
• Did anyone else get a weird vibe between Shane and Stephanie? It wouldn’t be the first time Vince wanted an incest story.
• Despite the fact we all miss him, Big Cass does not need Enzo to be cool.
• New Era, New Era, New Era, New Era, New Era, New Era, New Era, New Era…..

As I said earlier this week’s RAW was very hit or miss. The show contained some very great technical ability but it was ultimately let down by its booking. This week’s RAW gets a 6/10 from me.

King Khan Impressive But Cannot Dethrone Alvarez

Referee Kenny Bayless waves off the count as Khan is out cold

 

In arguably the most anticipated fight of the year thus far. Amir Khan and Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez duked it out, until the end came in the 6^th round, well before the scheduled 12. This to most book makers, boxing experts and ourselves at skatronixxx came as no real surprise, and although the knockout was extremely devastating, the fight was meant to be as brutal a beating and as one sided as Chris Brown and Rihanna’s relationship. Yet the fight was intriguing and not as one sided as the devastating KO loss on Khan’s record would suggest.

Amir Khan’s heart has never really been a question. At 17, as an amateur, following his Olympic Silver medal in Athens 2004, he had many chances to sign as a pro with lucrative contracts to earn himself a ridiculous amount of money at that age, yet delayed these opportunities for another year to avenge his gold medal final defeat to Cuban Mario Kindelan, in arguably the most watched Amateur boxing contest ever in the UK. Also Khan has shown some incredible courage in great victories whilst being knocked down and badly hurt against the likes of Willie Limond, Michael Gomez and most notably Argentine Marcos Maidana in 2010’s fight of the year. Yet with 2 particularly brutal KO losses as a pro, to World Welterweight champion Danny Garcia, and a 54 second destruction from unknown Colombian Breidis Prescott, these defeats have earned Khan a fairly justified reputation as having a vulnerable chin.

Coming into this fight against Saul Alvarez, who’s record stood at 46-1-1 (his only loss coming to Floyd Mayweather Jr.) with 32 KO’s and coming off the back of an incredible performance against the unheralded 160lb Middleweight champion and future boxing Hall of Famer Miguel Cotto, and a sensational 3^rd round KO of the dangerous James Kirkland, Alvarez had all the momentum. Khan had fought just once in the past year in a mediocre performance against Chris Algieri, who was spectacularly KO’d by Errol Spence just a few weeks back (as covered by Skatronixxx).

So the only real question was WHEN the KO would come for Alvarez, not IF. Yet from the opening bell, if you had not ever seen these two fight before, it would have been almost impossible to tell who the favourite was meant to be. Despite the year lay-off for Khan, the Brit started with electric speed. Canelo, who clearly had a size advantage as expected, looked particularly slow footed to start, which has been a problem of his in previous fights. Khan exploited this and within the first 30 seconds landed a crisp left right combo, which brought 2 of Canelo’s nieces in the front row of the audience to tears. It was a shock to everybody, and the thing that shocked most observers was the fact it seemed to move Canelo. Khan was meant to have a speed advantage, yes; but nobody anticipated Khan having the power to move or hurt Alvarez. The rest of the round Khan used his superior hand speed and took the 1^st in very impressive fashion. 10-9 Khan.

The second again followed the exact same pattern, some extremely fast hands from Khan, and with 4-5 punch combinations, which landed on Canelo’s arms and gloves did enough to win the round, because Alvarez still was too slow to be in range to land any shots on Amir. 10-9 Khan.

Khan landing a stiff jab square on Alavarez’s chin

The 3^rd round was a lot closer than the previous two. With Canelo moving slightly quicker and being closer to Khan, he was able to land a few shots. There were two significant moments in the round, both which strangely favoured Khan. I say strangely, because Canelo landed a clean left hook. This was great news for Khan for the fact it didn’t hurt him. Khan was meant to crumble as soon as Alvarez landed anything on his chin, yet his signature left hook didn’t move Khan. The second moment was with the last 10 seconds of the round, Khan landed a fast 2 punch combination on flush on Canelo’s face, popping the Mexican’s head back, giving a lasting memory of the round that Khan probably won it. So a close round but we gave it to Khan 10-9.

With Khan in the lead, Canelo’s corner looked nervous and were shouting conflicting instructions at the superstar. However this seemed to beam life into Alvarez, whose line of attack certainly changed in the 4^th. With Alvarez focusing his attacks more on Khan’s body, this disrupted the Brit’s flow and rhythm. The scintillating speed wasn’t as troubling to Canelo who was able to time Khan’s attacks better and land big body shots. Giving him a foothold in the fight. And the first clear round of the fight. 10-9 Canelo.

The 5^th followed an identical pattern to the preceding round. This pattern was startlingly identical to the Danny Garcia fight for Khan in 2012, where he was KO’d. However this Khan under trainer Virgil Hunter is a more defensive minded fighter, and a more intelligent fighter. Khan still tried to use his superior movement, but was trapped on the ropes a couple of times in the round. The combinations Khan threw were few and far between, and the brief interludes on the ropes where Canelo imposed his size and whacked Khan’s body, were more telling and the Brit was visibly slowing. 10-9 Canelo.

By the 6^th the frantic pace Khan set out from the start with may have caught up with him. Canelo’s timing was a lot better, but mid-way through the round Khan showed his heart, yet again which has typified his career landing a crisp combination. Canelo imposing his will and Khan’s movement was seizing up. Then BANG, with a lazy, slow jab, Canelo countered perfectly with a blistering overhand right, ending the fight in emphatic fashion. On first impressions the KO looked devastating, thankfully Khan got up and after an overnight stay in hospital for precaution, he has emerged unscathed and in fine physical condition.

So what’s next?

For Canelo it’s simple. GGG – for those who don’t know, that’s Gennady Golovkin, the other 160 lb world champion, and the number 1 pound for pound puncher in the sport. This is the fight the fans want to see and the only thing that can stop this fight is a dispute between promoters. Both fighters seem eager to fight one another, so there’s no logical reason why they shouldn’t. Unlike Mayweather-Pacquiao, this Golovkin-Canelo fight, would be the perfect time for these two to fight, two of the greatest fighters in their division, in their prime. It could be a classic, for either the end of 2016, or Cinco de Mayo (Mexican Independence Day, May weekend) 2017. For the good of boxing, we all pray it does take place.

Canelo and Golovkin a potential 2017 dream match up

For Khan, it’s hard to gauge where his career will go. As his venture up to 155 ended in such cataclysmic fashion, I think the move back down to 147 is inevitable, trusting he can still make the weight. But the courage, boxing ability, and heart he showed in this fight, and the undeniable talent the man possesses means he will still be a very tough fight for any elite level 147 pounder. The only question that remains, as was before this fight will be, can he be elusive enough to avoid the big punches in any of his fights to become a 3 time world Champion? A ‘tune-up’ fight would be recommended after such a heavy loss, but he’s still a world class athlete and a potential rematch with Garcia, or a mega domestic showdown with IBF Welterweight Champion and fierce rival Kell Brook could still be on the cards for him in 2017. Has Khan’s bravery to fight the elite caught up with him? It’s hard to know if this is the case as he fought against the world’s best 160lb fighter, as his natural weight is 147, that statement will only be confirmed or debunked when we next see him in action. Whenever that will be, it’s safe to say it will be an entertaining fight nonetheless.

 

Lucha Underground SN2 EP12- ‘ Three’s A Crowd ‘

Hey everybody and welcome to the return of my Lucha Underground reviews for Skatronixxx. I apologize for the lateness. On the bright side, I moved within an hour of where the Temple is! Hopefully I can provide even more Lucha Underground content for the site. On to the episode!

We start the episode off with Cage, Taya and Johnny Mundo in Dario Cueto’s office. Cueto is trying to convince the three to join the Trios tournament together. They originally decline his offer but eventually decided to team up. There was an audible laugh from me when Cueto sarcastically mentioned that Cage is a machine.

The first match of the night is Argenis facing off against Killshot. Killshot got a nice vignette recently so it seems he’s on a path to more exposure. I imagine we’ll see a win for Killshot in this match.

The match starts with Killshot continuously slapping Argenis across the chest. Argenis is able to get some offense in though by kicking Killshot in the tuchus. Killshot eventually jumps over the top rope onto Argenis, who was outside of the ring. The two men get back in the ring and are trading blows. Killshot is able to get the upper hand and hits a stomp on Argenis from the top turnbuckle. He then hits a brainbuster on Argenis to get the victory. This was a pretty good match that helped Killshot look like one of the men to beat in Lucha Underground.

We now see a backstage segment with Dragon Azteca and Black Lotus. They both talk about their issues with Dario Cueto.

Another backstage segment is next with Daga and Dario. Cueto tells Daga that he will be facing Texano for one of the medallions. I saw Daga perform at the tapings I attended and wasn’t particularly impressed with him. He seemed like a generic cocky heel to me. Hopefully he proves me wrong.

Match #2 is up next and it just so happens to be that it is Texano up against Daga for one of the medallions.

The action starts fast and furious and both men are able to get some hits on each other. There’s a lot of slapping back and forth. Texano is first to attempt a pin but Daga kicks out at 1.

There’s some more in-ring action between the two which leads to Daga jumping over the top ropes onto Texano. That’s the most Daga has impressed me so far. He throws Texano into the rafters as well as the commentary booth. He clearly has the upper hand right now. He attempts a pin on Texano but a kick out occurs. The two trade kicks. Both men are now down in the center of the ring.

Both are now up. Texano hits a lariat of a turnbuckle and goes for a pin. Daga reverses it but is not able to get the win just yet. Daga now has Texano in an ankle lock. Texano gets a hold of Daga and plants him. Texano gets the 1, 2, 3 and now is the owner of one of the Aztec medallions. I must say that Daga was better than I expected in this match but I am not sold on him yet. As for Texano, he put on a fun and entertaining match. Something Texano always does.

A backstage segment with Mil Muertes and Catrina follows and she says that The Disciples of Death will be in the Trios tournament. Muertes is ready to face Matanza! There were some pretty remarkable special effects in this segment involving Catrina summoning The Disciples of Death.

The main event is up next and it’s the team of Rey Mysterio, Prince Puma and Dragon Azteca versus Johnny Mundo, Taya and Cage. This match will be one hell of a main event!

The match starts off with Cage and Dragon Azteca. Azteca performs multiple aerial moves on Cage that excited me and the crowd inside the Temple. I really like this guy so far. Now it is Puma and Mundo in the ring. Mundo gets Puma down in the ring and goes for a few pins. None of these are successful. Taya enters the ring and continues to attack Puma. Taya and Mundo are one of the better parts of Lucha Underground every week. We get a Jem & the Holograms reference from Striker regarding Taya. That’s why you gotta love Matt Striker! Cage now enters the ring.

Cage continues the assault on Puma. Puma is getting demolished in this match. Mundo tries to get a chair involved but Cage refuses to use it. Cage slaps Mundo which is considered a tag. Puma is finally able to get to a partner. Azteca is attacking everybody! He is now being double teamed in the center of the ring. He is able to tag in Mysterio quickly after. It’s so great to see Mysterio again! Makes me happy for him! And who doesn’t love Rey Mysterio? Rey was one of the first people who got me into wrestling as a kid about a decade ago. He’s about to hit a double 619! But both Taya and Mundo move out of the way. Azteca and Puma both get them anyway.

It’s now Mysterio and Mundo inside the ring. He tries to get the win but Taya stops the pin. Puma, Mysterio and Azteca stand tall in the ring until Cage takes all of them out, aside from Rey Mysterio. The action continues and Puma is able to throw Mundo from the top rope. Mundo kicks out. This match is moving ridiculously quickly! Everybody is getting their licks in. Cage continues to beat the hell out of his opponents by throwing Mysterio into Taya as well as a double suplex on Azteca and Puma. He then beats down his own partner, Johnny Mundo.

Mysterio is able to get Mundo in the ropes and attempts a 619 for the second time. He connects this time. Azteca and Puma take down Mundo in their own ways as well and get the win for their team. I expected a great match out of these six and I was not disappointed!

The episode ends with Cueto in the basement talking with Matanza about his match next week against Mil Muertes. Cueto shows his love for Matanza and reveals he keeps him in the cage because of how valuable he is.

I’m happy to be back doing these Lucha Underground reviews! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Lucha Underground is arguably the best wrestling in the world and consistently one of the best hours of television each week. This week’s main event was stellar and next week’s involving Matanza and Mil Muertes sure will be as well.

The TNA Review – 3rd May 2016

For my first TNA review, it seems the wrestling god (not JBL the other one) has decided to bless us with the rare event of a great episode of Impact Wrestling. The May 3^rd edition of TNA saw the fallout from Sacrifice the previous week, and boy it did not disappoint. Before I get into the show I feel it is worth noting how important good shows like this are to Impact Wrestling at the moment. Dixie Carter and co have fallen on hard times recently, as their finance and ownership have been called into question. The recent relocation to a certain warehouse comes to mind. As for the product itself, it has been at most average, the importance of these coming weeks cannot be understated. With that said let’s get into the review.

OPENER

The show starts with gym bro Lashley ready to teach Drew Galloway why he is the most feared man on the TNA roster. The segment leads to a confrontation between the unsuspecting champion and Lashley during Drew’s gym session. The fight ends with the intervening gym members but not before Lashley and Galloway each get their fair share of offense in. Drew’s reversal of the guillotine choke into a powerbomb looked very vicious and the segment did a fantastic job at reminding the audience that Drew is a man with a target on his back.

After the opening segment, we are shown a video package focusing on the ongoing feud between EC3 and Mike Bennett after last week’s shock result. The decision to end the EC3 undefeated streak was and is still a good one in my eyes.

MIKE BENNETT v JEFF HARDY

So Bennett cuts a promo telling the crowd and everyone in the locker room that The Miracle is the best thing going in TNA, then suddenly we hear the atrocious sound that is Jeff Hardy’s theme music (God! That theme sucks so much). After a verbal exchange between The Miracle and The Charismatic Enigma, our first match is set. There is not much to say about this match though as it is cut short by Lashley as he spears both Hardy and Bennett.

After the attacks on Hardy and Bennett Lashley proceeds to hold the show hostage by demanding to speak to Dixie Carter. The president herself then comes out to set up our main event, Lashley v Hardy v Bennett to decide the number one contender, the special guest referee? None other than the champ himself Drew Galloway.

BACKSTAGE SEGMENT

Backstage we see Harley Qui- I mean Rosemary giving the rest of Decay a pep talk. The rest of this scene is super weird as we see Decay go through a sort of baptism by mist which is so very, very gross.

ABYSS v STORM

The segment is followed by the reveal of the newly unmasked Abyss. It seems that the unmasking of the grizzled veteran clearly reflects his new character as part of Decay. James Storm comes down to the ring to challenge Decay reminding them that Storm is the ‘S.O.B from Middle Tennessee’ (sounds a lot cooler when he says it). The match that follows with Abyss is a standard match. Storm and Abyss seem mostly even throughout but The Monster is able to get the upper hand with the help from partner Crazy Steve who spits in the face of James Storm so that Abyss can get the pin after a Black Hole Slam. The match was solid and showed that Storm and Abyss both proved a challenge to each other but Abyss using the help from Steve solidifies Decay as a championship unit.

IN RING SEGMENT: THE KNOCKOUTS

• Before coming out Maria totally rips into someone backstage

Maria comes to the ring with her usual self-confidence and begins her usual routine of patting herself on the back. Maria then calls out the current Knockouts Champion Jade to the ring, and after a slight delay she joins Maria in the ring. Maria tells Jade that she “sees her star shining bright” however according to Maria her vision for the Knockouts division are bigger than Jade so that is why Jade must lay down. Jade, of course, refuses to do this which leads to the introduction of a new Knockout, Sienna. Instantly her and Jade brawl, eventually leading to an absolutely brutal swing into the steps. The segment ends with Maria and Sienna standing tall over the fallen champion. This segment was a great way to progress the knockouts storyline. Both Jade and Sienna looked good and having them brawl instead of a match leaves me wanting to see them go against each other in the ring. However, the credit has to be given to Maria who once again carries a segment on the mic. She’s such a good heel that I have had to accept she has to be a bitch outside the ring.

KOTM MATCH

• Bram cuts a promo on how despite being the KOTM champ he is still his old self
• Bennett gives an interview again stating that                                                                        

The King of the Mountain match type sucks. SUCKS. It is an absolute joke of a match concept. It is convoluted, messy and ridiculous. The participants in this match are the Champion Bram, Eli Drake, Andrew Everett, Jessie Godderz and Eddie Edwards. As always with a match with multiple people chaos ensues. The match itself is not too bad, there is no clear story in the match until we see Everett and Eddie engaged in a heated brawl displaying their distaste for each other. Then they leave… Wait, what? Why? Could they really not think of another way of getting wrestlers to stay out of the match in a match type that involves A CAGE?! (sigh). Returning to the action we almost get an Eli Drake victory but luckily we are saved from the smugness by a sensational Bram dropkick, with Bram going on to retain the championship. Considering this match was limited by one of the stupidest match concepts it was actually pretty good. Bram’s powerbomb on an aerial Everett looked brutal, Drake looked strong with his near victory and it is clear that this is the KOTM feud that will be going forward.

MAIN EVENT

• Drew Galloway assesses each of his contenders and why they should be given this opportunity.
• Matt, sitting in the dark covered by his hood, gives a weird promo. Not a fan honestly, seems like an odd character shift.

As we get ready for the main event The Miracle Mike Bennett makes his way out to the ring, but on his way our shining saviour graces us with his presence. EC3!What a guy! Anyways fanboyish reaction aside he cuts an INTENSE promo on The Miracle.

And finally, we get to the main event of the evening the triple threat match for the number one contender spot. The match starts off chaotically with all 3 men looking to do some damage. I did enjoy the corner beating that Jeff endured by a smug Bennett and Lashley who looks like he doesn’t give a fuck. Overall the match was very good and as expected Lashley picked up the win. The notable moments from the match include:

• The Swanton bomb onto the steel steps looked like it hurt a lot. Probably wasn’t worth doing honestly.
• Decay intervening against Jeff while Galloway was down and out. Jeff vs Decay seems like it will be a battle of the face paint. (that clapping from Jeff while he was laying on the steps made me cringe a little)
• The Lashley spear onto Jeff into the turnbuckle which looked awesome.
• The show closing out with a brawling Galloway and Lashley. Here’s hoping the feud remains this intense.

FINAL NOTES AND SCORE

• Tonight’s MVP: Maria
• Match of the Night: Main Event
• Moment of the Night: “Guess I’ll be your devil”
• Fuck the KOTM match type. Why do you have to take it up the ladder rather than take it down? Bram put it on the hook only to take it off seconds later. IT MAKES NO SENSE

The 3.5.16 episode of TNA Impact gets a 7.5/10. All the interesting feuds were developed on tonight. We have a clear path going forward and after this episode, the future for the Knockouts and World Heavyweight title picture looks bright.

Interview With Rising ‘British MMA Star’ Scott Clist

So I was asked to interview a local cage fighter from my home town of Trowbridge, Wiltshire Scott Clist and of course jumped at the chance. So please read my interview with Scott below I hope you enjoy.

1) How did you get into MMA?

I have always done some form of training since the age of about 5 years old when my father taught me and my older brother how to box in our living room.

I started Karate from the age of 10 and then progressed into kickboxing.  I have studied some form of martial arts ever since.

I have competed in so many different styles of martial arts that MMA was the next thing to do. it was just something that was suggested I do by my sponsor (Spitfire fight equipment) in  2006 so he arranged a semi pro fight for me  and I went into it with limited knowledge on the ground game. I knew how to do a double leg takedown, a rear naked choke, an arm barr from mount and guard position. I went in thinking my kickboxing would carry me through.

2) What does a normal days training consist of for you?

If I am in fight camp then training is much more intense. I will wake up and either go to the Contender gym and work boxing or strength and conditioning.  Depending on the day. Some days it will be footwork and movement, other days it will be power and speed training.

I’ll have breakfast then shower and go to work.

In the evenings I go to Dragonslair in Melksham and work MMA. Depending on who I am fighting we will work either wrestling, submissions or positions followed by sparring. When we get closer to the fight I will get shark tanked.

Shark tank is where One fighter stays in the cage and a new opponent is put in every round so the fighter is getting tired and has to spar with fresh opponents. You really have to be pushed every session.

I train 6 days a week, sometimes 3 times in one day.

3) Would you ever consider entering The Ultimate Fighter?

I actually tried out for the Ultimate fighter when it was UK vs Australia. I made it to all the way through on my skills and was standing in the last 16 when they picked the final 8 for the show. I understand that the producers were looking for a specific type to make the show interesting for viewers. I was unlucky that I didn’t get picked.

4) You have just come off a fantastic TKO win against Brad Wheeler what’s on the cards next for you?

I will keep winning my fights and progress as a fighter.  I will fight on cagewarriors again and people will see me in the UFC soon.

5) You have your own gym called Revolution gym what inspired you to set this up?

I actually don’t run Revolution anymore.

I fought on an 8 man tournament couple years back and my mental game wasn’t really where it should have been because I was teaching fighters it was very hard to focus on my own training. The fight made me realise that I had to make a choice between being a teacher/coach of fighter because at the level I am now fighting I really need to focus on my own training and grow as a fighter. I now train at Dragonslair in Melksham and to be honest I really wish I had made that move 10 years ago. I am a much better fighter now than I ever was and that’s because I have some of the best coaches in the country. Stu pike and UFC fighter Brad Scott at Dragonslair and Mark Kent and Wayne smith at Contender gym .

6) What advice would you give to someone who is trying to get into the MMA game?

Find a good gym with good coaches. People who can develop you as a athlete.

So many gyms pop up promoting classes in MMA but the instructors have never competed so don’t know if what they are teaching works under pressure.  Find a gym with proven results and coaches who know what they are doing and are not just concerned with taking your money.

7) Do you prefer UFC or Ballator?

UFC .

8) If you could fight anyone from the UFC past or present who would you pick and why?

Matt Hughes former welterweight Champion because he was my favourite fighter when I started watching MMA and I followed his career. I think he was a great champion. I would also like to fight Anthony Pettis because I think he is a great fighter.

9) What do you think of all the hype around Connor McGregor and his recent choice to not attend any promotional events and instead choose to concentrate on his training?

Connor McGregor has made enough money that he prob never has to work another day in his life and for him that’s great but I imagine it’s wrote into his contract that promoting the fight is part of his job and it is his JOB!!

He should remember that the way he has promoted fights in the past is what has given him the pay days that he now receives.

You do what the job requires.

So there you have it keep and eye out for Scott’s next fight and you can also follow him on twitter @scottclist 

Ortiz vs Berto II – Time To Retire For Victor Ortiz?

Well as the old saying goes in boxing ‘one punch can change a fight’ and that proved prominent in the rematch between Andre Berto and Victor Ortiz. The fight was not expected to go the distance – and it didn’t. The fight was expected to be exciting – and it was. Although not quite the same fight that erupted in Atlantic city for the WBC Welterweight Title 5 years ago, the match up was still enthralling. Berto the slight favourite heading into the clash; as was the case when they first met 5 years ago, just looked uncomfortable and uneasy from the first bell. In stark contrast, Victor Ortiz, whose recent performances since his fairytale world title victory against Berto have merely shadowed the man who was recognized as pound for pound one of the best and a potential superstar who could dethrone Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather off their perch on the top of the Welterweight division. His shocking KO defeats to Luis Collazo and Josesito Lopez, his ventures into other media such as films, (most notably Expendables 3 and Creed) and with his only wins since his victory against Berto coming against unknown Gilberto Leon and Manuel Perez have led many boxing experts to question his hunger and dedication to the sport.

However Berto has hardly took the boxing world by storm either. A devastating TKO loss to Jesus Soto Karass and being completely annihilated by Robert Guerrero have threatened to end the career of this once ‘all conquering’ seemingly invincible Haitain with one punch KO power. However with a credible performance against Floyd Mayweather and a gritty and gutsy performance to stop Josesito Lopez in a fight that looked to be going against him, Berto’s heart and dedication have never really been questioned.

The first round was a cagey affair, the only real thing of note was a clash of heads that left Victor Ortiz with a nasty gash on his forehead and blood streaming into his eye, obscuring his vision. Despite this, Ortiz boxed slightly better and stuck to his game plan in round 1 and took the first. 10-9 Ortiz.

The 2nd round was spectacular for Ortiz, all the questions of whether the Kansas man had heart or any questions of his dedication to this fight were well and truly vanquished. Ortiz came out to box, and confused Berto, landing 3 exquisite straight lefts from the southpaw stance flush onto Berto’s chin. The 3rd in the round dropping Berto on his butt, to receive an 8 count from the referee. Although Berto was not hurt, he was perplexed at Ortiz’s movement and speed. Ortiz round 10-8.

The 3rd, although not quite as dominant was still very much following the same pattern. Berto did have a couple of good moments with a couple of right hands landing, but nothing of real note. He still looked like a sleeping neanderthal chasing shadows, as Ortiz’s movement and superior hand speed showed, winning him the round. 10-9 Ortiz.

Round 4 seemed to start the same way, and frustration for Berto was clear. With two looping right hands missing and being caught with 2 clean lefts from Ortiz, Berto looked uncomfortable. Ortiz, with more confidence was moving in with his shots, and trying to step up the pace, but as he stepped in to land another left, Berto timed it to perfection and landed one of his trademark right uppercuts that have defined his career and got him out of jail in many fights. Ortiz was badly hurt and knocked to the canvas. Up at 9 he struggled to get to his feet, and his legs were extremely shaky. Berto smelt blood and the end was inevitably close. Ortiz valiantly landed a couple of rights and lefts to keep off Berto, but Berto showed us why he has a 70% KO rate, and finished the job. Unlike the first fight when Ortiz got up twice off the canvas to beat Berto, this time when Ortiz hit the ground for the second time it was over. Although he beat the 10 count, referee Jack Reiss twice asked Victor if he could continue, to which Ortiz couldn’t respond with anything, but a dazed absent look in his eyes. The referee was right to call the fight, and award Andre Berto with the TKO victory at 1:14 of round 4.

This victory catapults Berto in line for a big named Welterweight opponent, or even potentially a world title shot. However this devastating loss leaves the 29 year old Ortiz in a tough position. With his good looks, charm and undeniable talent in many facets, it could be time for Victor Ortiz to draw the curtain on his up and down career. However as he’s shown in the past, not just in the boxing ring, but in life, when you write Victor Ortiz off, and when the chips are at their lowest, that’s normally when the Kansas boy pulls out a miracle, so hopefully we do see him back in the ring.

‘WWE Thursday Night SmackDown’ Gets Cheeky

 

Opener:

Just like this past week’s Monday Night RAW, Smackdown emanates from London, England. Before the show begins, we’re shown a video package of the entire AJ Styles/Roman Reigns/Bullet Club encounter from RAW.

And just like RAW, we’re treated to another talk show opening the show. The Miz and Maryse are in the ring in all their Hollywood glory.

AJ Styles is Miz’s guest.

Side note: I really can’t take AJ Styles seriously with his hairstyle. He needs a haircut or at least an elastic band to tie that shit up.

Miz grills Styles on whether or not Styles had anything to do with Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson attacking Roman Reigns. Even though Styles declines, Miz keeps on questioning which results in Miz getting knocked on his ass.

This has been the longest a Miz TV segment has ever lasted. A full 7 minutes!

Opening segment: 2/5

Kalisto V Ryback:

Ryback faces off against Kalisto in an exciting rematch from WrestleMania.

I appreciated this matchup for a couple of reasons:

1. Ryback and Kalisto worked well together.

Ryback’s bull-headed fighting style complimented Kalisto’s swiftness to create compelling in-ring chemistry. The way Ryback tossed Kalisto around at the beginning helped me get behind the Lucha Dragon and root for him.

2. The match wasn’t too long.

I wouldn’t have cared if it went on for longer but it was right in the goldilocks zone for being the first match of the night. Neither man locked in a submission to run down the clock. They both did their thing and left us wanting more.

3. It wasn’t one-sided.

Ryback did have the upper hand due to his size and power, but Kalisto put up a fight and wasn’t a punching bag for the entire match. They both had their fair share of surprising moments — like Ryback reversing Kalisto’s Salida Del Sol into a Shell Shock for the victory. That was a beauty.

It helps that Kalisto isn’t a botch-magnet like his “mentor”, Sin Cara. He can pull off surprise moments without face-planting.

Kalisto V Ryback: 3.5/5

Baron Corbin V Dolph Ziggler

Corbin attacks Dolph from behind as he makes his way out to the ring.

Thank god. I was worried I’d have to sit through a Baron Corbin match.

Baron Corbin V Dolph Ziggler: 1/5

AJ Styles V The Miz

A solid ending to an otherwise average bout. Anytime AJ Styles starts to pick up the pace, The Miz slows him down with a headlock or a kick to the gut.

Miz shouldn’t be paired up with high-intensity wrestlers. He’s not exciting enough to keep up. He mainly resorts to holds and quick stabilizers to bring the match down to his level.

Contrary to what some people might think, pairing Miz with another non-exciting wrestler forces him to elevate his game. His match against Zack Ryder a couple of weeks ago is proof that he needs someone at his own wavelength to truly shine.

Styles comes back at the end with a solid sequence of moves. Miz tries to leave but is forced back into the ring by an approaching Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows.

Styles wins with the Phenomenal Forearm.

AJ Styles V The Miz: 3/5

P.S. I love Mauro Ranallo’s commentating. He’s an actual student of the sport. He knows all the moves by their original name and even makes it a point to call out what’s happening in the ring rather than babbling on like JBL and King do. He reminds me of Matt Striker. I miss Matt Striker.

Backstage segment:

Dean Ambrose and Sami Zayn talk about their match later tonight. Ambrose and Zayn try to have an odd-couple-style banter but it falls flat. Oh well, you never know until you try!

Backstage segment: 1.5/5

In-ring segment:

Oh, what? Miz is still in the ring?

Miz demands that somebody launch an investigation into AJ Styles and The Bullet Club. Shane O Mac comes out and tells Miz that he’s not a priority. Being the egomaniac that he is, The Miz gets insulted by this remark and starts poking Shane to do the right thing. Shane tells Miz to stop poking him and Miz pokes him a couple of more times.

Shane hits Miz with a few baby punches and then a big elbow.

In-ring segment: 2.5/5 (it would be a ‘3’ but the segment went on too long)

Backstage segment:

Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows say that they’re not aligned with AJ, they’re just here to make an impact. Hmm, a possible shot at TNA?

They say that they’re making their debut on RAW against the Usos.

By the way, did anyone else notice that Luke Gallows’ arms were incredibly orange during this segment? It looks like he just freshly spray-tanned his arms and nothing else. That or he was shoulder deep in a bag of Doritos.

Backstage Segment: 2/5

Paige & Natalya V Team B.A.D:

This was a sloppy match. I have respect for all the wrestlers in this match but you could tell they didn’t run through the chain of events.

Paige wins via PTO:

Paige & Natalya V Team B.A.D: 2/5

R-Truth V Fandango w/ Goldust as Special Guest Referee:

What the fuck was this?

Why is WWE stretching this “will they won’t they” Golden Truth partnership? Why is Fandango involved? Why did I just watch 3 grown men awkwardly dance for cheap laughs?

R-Truth V Fandango: 0/5

In-ring segment:

Enzo and Cass are out to have a verbal smackdown with The Vaudevillians.

Both teams did a great job of trash talking one another but Enzo came out on top, obviously.

In-ring segment: 3/5

Primo and Epico video package:

Ugh.

Does anyone want to join in on a pool with me to see how long these guys will last before they fade into obscurity? I’m going to give them 2 months.

Primo and Epico video package: 1/5

Dean Ambrose & Sami Zayn V Chris Jericho & Kevin Owens:

Alright, so what the hell happened at the end of this match? There had to be some sort of miscommunication between Owens, Ambrose and Jericho because it seems like Ambrose being pushed off the top rope and getting pinned isn’t how it was supposed to end?

The Heels dominated for the majority in order for the Face team to come back with a hot tag victory. The only problem was the Heels won. Was that supposed to happen? Maybe Sami Zayn missed his mark to break up the pinfall? I don’t know, but something funky happened.

The entire broadcast went whack after that moment. The cameramen were confused and didn’t know where to focus and Eden stood in the ring as if she was going to announce a match.

Overall, a standard tag-team match.

Dean Ambrose & Sami Zayn V Chris Jericho & Kevin Owens: 2.5/5

Conclusion:

WWE Thursday Night SmackDown emanating from London, England was a lacklustre affair. It started off on the right foot with a great opening match but didn’t live up to that hype as the show went on. Anything that came after was perfectly average or downright awful — I’m looking at you Goldust and Fandango.

You’ll get ‘em next time, SmackDown! I will always love you more than your pampered brother, RAW.

SmackDown rating: 24/60

Errol Spence VS Chris Algieri – Was Errol’s Victory A Blessing Or Curse?

Errol Spence stepped up in class for the first time on Saturday against former WBO light-welterweight champion Chris Algieri. From the opening bell Spence asserted his dominance in centre ring and showcased the skills that have him widely regarded as the welterweight divisions hottest prospect.

The 1st round was fairly close, with both men establishing their game plans. Spence laded a few crisp combinations, with Algieri landing a couple of nice counter shots. Both men targeted the body, with limited success. The 2nd round followed a similar pattern, but Spence was busier and landing effective shots.

By the 3rd round, Spence had established his dominance and was landing with real authority to both body and head. Algieri was gone, yet his efforts were easily quashed. Spence was beginning to hurt Algieri in the 4th, this was illustrated when a flush left dropped Algieri to the canvas. The 5th round was no different, Spence unloaded a four punch combo and a left hook shaking Algieri, and dropping him for the second time.

This time Algieri looked demoralised, The speed, strength and ferocity in which, Spence delivered his attacks had completely drained him of his resilience. A reluctant Algieri barely beat the count, and after a further barrage pummeled Chris onto the ropes, a sweet, sweeping left hook dropped Algieri for the 3rd time prompting referee Benjy Esteves to step in and stop the fight.

Algieri had been dropped 6 times by Manny Pacquiao and sensationally dethroned the seemingly invincible Russian Provodnikov. And last year took Amir Khan 12 rounds in a very close fight. Yet, Saturday, Spence pulverized Chris and forced the fight out of him.

Errol Spence has truly established himself by beating Algieri in such emphatic fashion, and in doing so became the #1 ranked welterweight. Kell Brook is in his sights to become champion, yet Brook is unlikely to take that fight with Spence purely for economical reasons. So this is a huge step Spence, but until he becomes a household name and gains global recognition, it’s unlikely Spence will be involved in a huge mega fight. This performance, impressive as it was may harm Spence’s chance for a big fight. Until he brings a bigger fan base due to the politics and financial side of boxing, most elite fighters will avoid this young, explosive, talented American because he will pose a threat to anybody in the division.

NEXT FIGHT

April 30th sees the always entertaining ‘Vicisious’ Victor Ortiz face Floyd Mayweather’s last opponent, Andre Berto in a rematch of thier 2011 ‘Fight Of The Year’. Although both men are probably past thier best, this fight will be entertaining due to the bad blood between the two of them. A victory for either may catapult them into the title picture for a shot at the world title. It may also be a potential swansong for either man. As both have suspect chins, I’m not anticipating a decision. if Berto wins by KO it will be early. The later it goes, it favours Ortiz, due to Berto’s stamina issues.

MY PREDICTION – Ortiz wins by K.O in the 11th round.