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NXT in a Nutshell 11/07/12

Lots of angles, not many matches:

As the sub-title suggests, this was a different NXT than we have become accustomed to. If anything, this show felt like it was a throw back to the former-NXT. The show centered around a ton of backstage promos, video packages and hype videos on Money in the Bank. Considering audiences are used to seeing 4-5 matches in an hour, we were only treated to 3 this week (although, on the plus side, 2 out of 3 matches got considerable time which is always good). While i appreciated the producers of the show placing emphasis on building angles, these segments needed to be dispersed better and cut down considerably. Case in point: I enjoyed seeing Richie Steamboat get into a brawl with Leo Kruger. However this segment was wedged between a complete rundown of Money in the Bank   (something we could of easily seen on both RAW and Smackdown) and the debut video of Raquel Diaz. Also, by this point in the show, we had already seen another audiovisual package on Bray Wyatt (who was already scheduled to wrestle on the show) and another backstage interview involving Justin Gabriel and Heath Slater (two guys who aren't even on the NXT roster).

Time is of the essence on NXT and i don't believe it was used to its complete advantage this week. Considering NXT is only 1 hour in length, the producers need to cut down on so many segments. Consolidate these angles, throw out the ones that waste time and implement them into in-ring action (ie like in the Kidd/Camacho match). NXT has been coming off a much different show than that of RAW and Smackdown. Saturating the show with segment after segment takes away this originality. Lets hope this is rectified next week.

Match Results:

Match No. 1:

Camacho

def

Tyson Kidd

Rating: **1/2

Comments:

It was definately weird that NXT opened with a match that we can see every week on Superstars. I thought the idea was that NXT is for rookies, not for already established stars. As this show progressed, the lack of rookies on this show was one of its definite negatives.

Regardless, Camacho and Kidd should wrestle more often because we were privy to Camacho's best match to date. I haven't been shy about the fact that i am NOT a fan of Camacho's work in the ring. Granted, i have not seen much from him, but what i have seen hasn't set my world on fire. Tonight, he brought it and showed some unique offense on Kidd that freshened this bout (for example, Camacho's Double Underhook Suplex from the top). The commentary of the match also assisted in making Camacho come across as a calculated killer. Camacho can thank Regal talking about "Scruffing" for that positive outcome.

Tyson Kidd on the other hand is quickly becoming my favorite wrestler to watch week after week. He has a knack for bringing out the best in every opponent he faces. His "Babyface on fire" spots at the begining of this match are text book examples of Kidd's greatness. His combination of quick pin attempts, mixed with devastating kicks and flips built beautifully to the tranistion spot in the match (ie Camacho delivering a face-first leg trip on the apron). If you don't believe me when i say that Kidd is amazing at his job, just listen to the crowd leading up to the transition. The fact that Kidd is able to evoke that kind of reaction from such a small audience is testimate to his tremendous skill set.

The match had a flat detraction finish involving Michael Migillicutty that damaged the finish product of the match, but my main complaints on this match focus on the commentary of the match. I found it very strange that William Regal and Byron Saxton never mentioned that Tyson Kidd is competing for a World Title Contract at Money in the Bank on Sunday. Wouldn't that be the first thing you mention when he came out to the ring? Acknowledging this promotes the upcoming PPV and puts over Kidd as future potential World Champion. Not acknowledging Kidd's current history assists in fans forgetting about Kidd's involvement in Money in the Bank. Considering a big chunk of WWE's audience is casual based, commentators should ALWAYS be promoting current superstars. Unfortunately, this would not be the last time the commentating team ignored current WWE storylines.

Match No. 2:

Bray Wyatt

def

Aiden English

Rating: **1/2

Comments:

On every single episode of NXT since it's revamp, we have been presented a video package on the mysterious Bray Wyatt (WWE's Former Husky Harris). These packages are some of NXT's most polished and professional. This slow burn demonstrates that WWE have big plans for this big man. Such a move also puts a TON of pressure on Wyatt's shoulders. Considering Wyatt was 1 of 3 matches on NXT this week, even more added emphasis fell on the debut of this new superstar.

Thankfully, Wyatt  rose to the occasion. Much like the video packages that came before him, this guy OOZES charisma. His presence on the stick and in the ring is unquestionable. His semi-drunk/crazed walk to the ring, coupled with his ultra-aggressive manner makes this NXTer someone that is hard to ignore. There is no one like him on NXT. Furthermore, there is a mystery attached to him. We don't really know what he is about. We don't know what he is talking about when he says "all will be reveled". This emphasis on mystique is a definite plus going forward on NXT: once you provide the audience with a captivating character that people don't truly understand, they will tune in to find out more about him every week. 

The match with English further conveyed this aura of mystique. I loved how Wyatt went from pro-wrestler to crazed maniac in a heartbeat (ie his attack on English on the outside was BRUTAL). Furthermore, i really liked his transition into his finisher. Going from dancing with his dazed opponent to hitting him with a Spinning-Reverse DDT while cradling him like a child is VERY different indeed. All these unique touches made this squash one of the best squashes yet on NXT. Like most fans, i am looking forward to seeing what Wyatt brings tot he table in the coming weeks.

Match No.3:

The Prime Time Players

def

The Usos

 * Match of the Night*

Rating: **3/4

Comments:

This match was yet another example of NXT producers ignoring current WWE storylines. By this point, i getting quite annoyed that:

a) No one mentioned that the Prime Time Players are currently the NO.1 CONTENDERS FOR THE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP.

b) The Prime Time Player's manager, AW, was no where to be seen and was never touched upon during thier match with the Usos.

Again, wouldn't these pieces of information be CRUCIAL to convey during a match involving The Prime Time Players!? By not supplying these facts, this "important" tag team comes off as just another generic combination.

While this annoyed me, i was very happy with the match. The Usos, like Tyson Kidd, always bring out the best in teams that they verse and having the Samoan tandem go up against the Prime Time Players can do nothing but help this team going forward. I also liked the charisma Young and Oniel expressed throughout this bout. They interacted with the live crowd nicely and got considerable heat on Jay Uso by working on a body part. This beat down sequence was the best of the show as i can't remember the last time a team isolated a partner by working on a leg using STFS and Spinning Toe Holds. As crazy as that sounds, this was nice and fresh to watch. The finish was good and the PTP got to show off their tag team finisher (a Top-Rope Leg Drop into a Back Breaker). A fine tag team bout to close out another episode of NXT.


Final Thoughts:

This was probably the worst NXT episode yet. I didn't like the fact that the show was dominated by segments and matches involving already established WWE Superstars. This is NXT: a show that - i thought - was desinged to get new talent over in the eyes of audiences. Hopefully more rookies get the chance to shine next week.

However, saying that NXT was bad this week compared to previous episodes doesn't mean it was COMPLETELY horrible. Far from it. Although we only got 3 matches this week, each contest was fun and well executed. The only debut on the show, Bray Wyatt, was a memorable outing for the new comer and i look forward to seeing him next week. Kidd looked great as always. The Prime Time Players are coming along nicely. Although this show wasn't the best, there was still a lot to like as it relates to NXT.

RAW Review Express: 09/07/12

This week's RAW review is going to be a quickie

Why?

Because i hated the show and i don't want to bore my audience with pages upon pages of text telling you why i hated it.

Instead, i will treat you to a Monday Night RAW express review of the 1 segment that was good and the many were not.

So, without further ado....


# 1: Alberto Del Rio and Sheamus - hitting all the right marks

An ultra aggressive Sheamus destroyed Jack Swagger with 2 Brouge Kicks. Del Rio came on the Titan Tron and claimed "Jack Swagger is not Alberto Del Rio.....NO ONE IS!". He told Sheamus he would beat him for the World Title on Sunday as Sheamus looked at his championship. Simple, basic, effective. Puts over whats on the line come Money in the Bank and puts over each wrestler's role clearly. THIS was the only shining light on Monday Night RAW.


# 2: A bad opening segment with AJ

AJ "proposed" to CM Punk and Daniel Bryan "proposed" to AJ.....illogical on so many levels. I get AJ is nuts, but this is too much for anyone to take remotely seriously. I never got why CM Punk didn't talk up and say "NO YOU NUT JOB!". Instead, WWE had us believe that CM Punk was ACTUALLY considering this proposition and would give his answer later on in the night.....yeah right! Why would i belive that Punk actually has feelings for AJ when everything he has done for the last two weeks says otherwise! At least Bryan made sense being a heel and all, but considering they didn't even bring up the fact that the title is on the line this sunday, this program bombed BIG TIME. I want something that is tied down (even SEMI tied down) to reality, NOT complete fantasy.


# 3: A solid tag match.....with the most ridiculous ending!

Cena and Kane loose to Jericho and Show, Clean? no. Due to use of a foreign object? Don't be silly! Here's the Scenario: Cena hits the AA on Jericho. Ref goes for the count. Big Show pulls Cena to the outside. Ref calls for the bell....................................EXCUSE ME!? Ive been watching tag team wrestling for over 14 years and this has happened in nearly every tag match WITHOUT A DQ!!! This was a long, drawn out, basic tag team match that went over 2 commercial breaks and had a finish that insulted long time wrestling fan's intelligence. As simple as that. At least John Cena delivered a really solid pre-match promo putting over his Money in the Bank Match at the PPV.

# 4: Hornswoggle....... The anonymous GM????

Speaking of insulting fans that actually follow storylines week to week, Hornswoggle was the RAW anonymous GM after all these years. Why? I have no idea. Did they explain his actions? Not at all. Do you think they will follow this up at, say, Money in the Bank or next week's RAW? Absolutely not. It was bad enough having Santino, our UNITED STATES CHAMPION, walk around like a complete geek "looking" for the GM, but having the pay off as something so illogical and stupid put a REAL bad taste in my mouth. The backdrop to this announcement? A 10 second nothing match between Lawler and Cole where Lawler won with an AEROPLANE SPIN!!!! Whatever.


Final Comments:

There was other stuff on this show that rubbed me the wrong way, but i don't want to turn this blog into a rant center.

I want to like WWE. I really REALLY do. I grew up with WWE and i have always remained a loyalist for almost 14 years. But its shows like this one where i just groan and regret my decision to watch this show week after week. I get it! You want kids to enjoy WWE under a PG gaze. Thats fine. But i seriously believe there is a way to produce weekly television episodes that cater to both demographics. Hell, they were able to do this last year with Punk and Cena (they even increased the PPV Buy-Rate because of it!!!). TNA is currently doing it. Sure, there are a handful of mature storylines. But they are the complimented by storyline archs that tap into a traditional form of pro-wrestling storytelling (Such as The Bound For Glory Series). Wrestling themes are broad brushstrokes that everyone can relate to, regardlgess of age. Themes of justice, defeat, suffering are universal. Why can't the king of sports entertainment go back to its roots, look at what worked, and appropriately adapt it for a global market? This is NOT as hard as WWE makes it out to be.

Again, i really want to love WWE, but shows like this make it extremely hard.

The PPV Run-Down: TNA Destination X

TNA is currently the best promotion in wrestling. Hands down.

Yes, You heard right.

Last night, the second biggest company in the North American professional wrestling industry put forward a Pay-Per-View event that hit all the right marks. It didn't break any boundaries with its product in the way of brand new match types and crazy angles. Destination X wasn't about that. What it was about was providing a compelling, wrestling-heavy broadcast that centered around the crowning of two new champions. The end result was a fantastic 3 hours of pro-wrestling that successfully made the crowning of each of these champions feel as though you were privy to something very, very special. So, without further ado, lets delve into why TNA is quickly becoming the pinical of greatness in pro-wrestling.


Match Results:

 Match No. 1: "Last Chance" Qualifier Fatal 4-Way

Mason Andrews

def

Rubix, Lars Only and Dakota Darsow

Rating: * 3/4

Comments: 

Every PPV has to have an average match and unfortunately, we found our average match in the opener. Considering Lars Only and Darsow were in this one, i certainly didn't have high hopes after watching their sub-par outings last week on iMPACT. Fortunately, the right man won in Mason Andrews, as his win began a mini "underdog" storyline that eventually lead him to the Ultimate X match later on.

This match was basically a "spot fest", with each guy hitting big move after big move with little to no direction in the match. To be fair, the spots that we did see were cool to watch, with Rubix and Andrews provided some breathtaking Planches to the outside onto Darsow and Only. Speaking of Rubix,  the crowd was hot for him from the get go as he was the most recognizable star in this match. The masked one and Andrews tried to provide some direction in this clusterfuck, but it was definitely hard when Only and Darsow didn't know what they were doing. Case in point: 5 minutes into this X-DIVISION match, Lars Only gets one of his opponents into a front face lock....isn't that something you apply when starting a singles match? Moments of meaningless stalling between the 4 guys coupled with nonsensical move sequences made this one the most forgettable match on the Destination X.

Match No. 2: Ultimate X Qualifier

Mason Andrews

def

Kid Kash

Rating: ** 1/4

Comments: 

At this point, i was getting a little confused. I didn't fully get why Kash imediately ran to the ring and began a match with the already beaten down Andrews. Apparently, Jeremy Borash informed us that all the X-Division newcomers would have to wrestle established X-Division competitors (such as Doug Williams and Zema Ion) to get their shot in Ultimate X.  In short, the new comers needed to win 2-3 matches to get in, while the established stars only had to win 1. In this situation, a tornament bracket graphic REALLY would of helped settle the confusion.

I liked this match a hell of a lot better than the opener. There was nothing outstanding about it, but it was still a hard hitting, physical matchup from the get-go. Kash played to the crowd as the arogant heel that was looking to pick the bones of Andrews who had already wrestled a 5-6 minute match and he definately played his role well. Andrews kept up his part nicely with crisp sequences and a fun babyface on fire spot. The finish had Kash missing a Curb Stomp, which Andrews reversed into a Schoolboy for the "W". An "out of nowhere" finish to a traditional, yet well worked "2nd match on the card". The implamentation of an "underdog" storyline for Andrews was also appreciated, as it installed another layer and another possible winner for the upcoming Ultimate X match for the championship.

Match No. 3: Ultimate X Qualifier

Kenny King

def

Doug Williams

 Rating: ** 1/4

Comments: 

This one had a different feel from the previous qualifying match. This was definitely appreciated. For one thing, i felt as though they gave this one much more time as Williams (who has definitely put on some weight since we last saw him) and King started off real slow with some entertaining mat work. Little spots involving Williams switching from a front face lock into a reverse Indian Death Lock in the early minutes of the contest were indications of the type of pace expected for this one. 

If anything, i think the "feeling out" process for these two went a bit too long. There were moments where i was waiting for these two to kick it into the next gear, but instead, they went back to mat wrestling like they were going for a 60-minute Broadway. Like the Kash match, the finish had some crisp sequences and i was happy that Williams was able to keep up the pace with the much younger King. Even though the match wasn't ground-breaking, i appreciated the different style Williams brought to this tournament match up. Like before, the right man advanced, which is the most important thing. A solid bout between a vet and a young upstart.

Match No. 4: Ultimate X Qualifier

Sonjay Dutt 

def

Rashad Cameron

Rating: ** 1/2

Comments:

This bout counteracted the methodical pace of Williams' match with an immediate explosive start. These two went through the cruiserweight motions with quick pin attempts coupled with nip ups and standing somersaults. The only downside to this one was Cameron: he looked as though he lost the crowd while on offense. He attempted his Planche to the outside and while it looked great, i had already seen this move a number of times so it definitely lost its sting the third time around.  This is something X-Division wrestlers need to realize: sometimes, its better to stick with a traditional approach to their matches, instead of always attempting to take the audiences breath away with high-flying moves.  Thankfully, Dutt got the action back on track with his babyface on fire spots. Ultimately, Dutt won with his devastating Moonsault into a Double Foot Stomp. That move right there the price of admission for this quick Ultimate-X Qualifying Match.

Jesse Sorenson Promo:

 Comments:

Kudos for TNA making Sorenson's return to the ring a big deal. Sorenson's passionate promo was complimented by a tremendous video packaging that outlined his freak accident with Zema Ion last year and his road to recovery. It was an even better touch having his mother and girlfriend ringside crying as Sorenson proclaimed he would return to TNA to kick Zema Ion's ass. 

This was a text book example of how a promotion builds towards a injured star returning to the active roster. The only downside is that this program involves two guys that have had very little time to develop their characters via promos. Sure, Sorenson got a respectful reaction from the Orlando crowd, but he isnt exactly an established babyface with years of exposure in TNA. Furthermore, Ion - who may be quite good in the ring - isn't the most natural heel ive seen in years. His delivery is ripped straight from promo school (as we would find out later on in the show) and he lacks conviction in his delivery. Regardless, the right steps have been made with this rivalry and time will tell how this one plays out.

Match No. 5: Ultimate X Qualifier

Zema Ion

def

Flip Casanova

Rating: * 3/4 

Comments:

By this point in the show, i was getting kinda tired of X-Division matches that centered on similar structures. While the past two matches had been average to good, this one was like the opener: more a "spot fest" than a wrestling match. There was absolutely no story here. Instead, it was a competition between Ion and Casanova as to who could execute the world's newest and most craziest move set. Granted, the moves looked good, but if you don't have the competitors selling the effects of these seuqences, whats the point of doing them in the first place? Ion won with a crazy-looking Gory Specail into a Flapjack combination. Not much more to write about here.

Match No. 6: Bound For Glory Series Match

Samoa Joe

def

Kurt Angle

Rating: *** 3/4

Comments: 

Before i could say "i hope this show picks up" TNA Destination X 2012 gave us this little gem of a match. Angle v Joe was FREAKIN AWESOME! There was so much to love here. Sure, it could be argued that Angle and Joe have had better matches in the past. However, as a middle-of-the-card matchup, Joe and Angle knew exactly what to do to get this crowd back into this PPV.

Angle, as always, set his usual lightning quick pace and Joe, to his absolute credit, kept up and then some as the crowd were split in their support for both combatants. The match started with traditional mat wrestling, then moved into a hard-hitting arial display involving not only Joe but ANGLE AS WELL! It was nuts watching Angle pull out a Missile Dropkick from the top rope. However, Joe in my books was the star of this one. He moved that 300-pound mass around like he was Sonjay Dutt. At one point, the "Samoan Submission Machine" even delivered a DEVISTATING Rough Ryder from the top rope! 

All these high spots were expertly implemented into this 14-minute match. As a result, these spots ultimately lead to a tremendous finishing sequence. With submissions being both guy's bread and butter, Angle and Joe provided us with great dramatic counter-wrestling involving Joe's Rear Naked Choke and Angle's Ankle Lock. The reversals that lead to each man's finishing hold were things of beauty and there was high drama in every hold for the last 3 minutes. From Naked Choke to Ankle Lock and vice versa, the see-saw drama was exhilarating. Ultimately, this tremendous matchup lead to Angle passing out the Joe's Rear Naked to give the Samoan Warrior 10 BFGS points to go along with this SHOCKING win. Fantastic finish: Joe gets over as he wins definitivly via submission and goes to the No. 1 Spot on the BFGS leaderboard, Angle gets over because he never tapped out and only lost because he passed out, making him an "ultimate bad ass".

The only criticism i have is that if future BFGS matches are going to go this close to the 15minute time-limit, there needs to be a timer in the corner so that fans know how close the competitors are to the finish. Having this graphic would add to the urgency and overall drama of the match in the long run. Regardless, absolutely fantastic wrestling by two seasoned pros.

Match No. 7: Last Man Standing Match

 AJ Styles

def

Christopher Daniels

Rating: *** 3/4

Comments:

Joe and Angle signaled a massive turning point in this PPV. Just when i thought Joe and Angle couldn't be followed by a equally fantastic match, we got AJ Styles and Chrispoher Daniels in a Last Man Standing match.

Ill be honest. When i first heard about this one, i was a bit worried that the gimmick of the match would hurt both guys performance. Christ almighty, how wrong i was! Instead of providing the fans with their usual technical masterpiece, Daniels and AJ went out there a gave the fans an intense, hard-hitting brawl that built upon the last few weeks of storytelling and provided a breathtaking climax that we will be talked about for years to come. This is EXACTLY what a Last Man Standing Match is all about: violent and aggressive spots that are used sparingly that build on the story being told in the ring. 

The match started with Daniels attempting wrestling moves, but executing them in an ultra-aggressive manner (ie delivering a Vertical Suplex into the turnbuckle post/ delivering a spinning Uranage (Rock Bottom) on a set-up folding chair).  Furthermore, these sequences were complemented by the brilliance of Christopher Daniels as a heel througout as he bad-mouthed the fans at ringside while beating on AJ. These little tricks got the live crowd more and more behind AJ so that when their babyface finally busted Daniels open via a devastating slingshot into the steel stairs, Orlando, Florida became unglued. By the end, both men were bleeding as they brawled to the entrace way of the IMPACT Zone. Ultimately, the action culminated in Kazarian coming out to blindside AJ and throw him off the stage. This brilliantly executed spot was only a false finish however, as AJ, the courageous babyface, fought off both men to the delight of the ABSOLUTELY HOT crowd. Eventually, the match reached its epic climax, as AJ Styles delivered a ridiculous Styles Clash on Daniels off the stage through a table!!! 

This tremendous visual capped off one of the better Last Man Standing Matches in recent memory. Both men didn't go overboard with an excessive use of props and weapons. Both these pros didn't need them. Instead, they told a story with their bodies that provided a metaphorical representation of the hell AJ Styles had gone through because of Christopher Daniels. Fantastic storytelling for a fantastic match.

Match No. 8: Ultimate X Match for the X-Division Championship

Zema Ion

def

Sonjay Dutt, Mason Andrews, and Kenny King

to win the vacant X-Division Championship

Rating: ***

Comments:

Another Ultimate X Match, another Injury that effected the overall match quality. 

I know i should be fair and say that King, Ion and Andrews did a great job in carrying the match while Dutt attended to his injury. However, my disappointment in the payoff of this match overwhelms my desire to be fair.

There was a lot of pressure to do well in this match as TNA fans had already watched an Ultimate-X match a few weeks ago. Showcasing that match definitely hurt the overall special-ness of this X-Division Championship bout. However, there were enough skilled combatants in this match to make the bout potentially memorable.

Don't get me wrong, this match wasn't horrible. Not by a long shot.. Early on, spots involving all 4 guys looked incredible. Most noticeably, the triple Dropkick into Ion was a definite highlight. As the matched progressed, each guy was given time to showcase, and there was enough stuff here to keep fans at home and at the arena happy (King's lighting quick Kick to Dutt was one of them). Unfortunately, after Dutt separated his shoulder due to a standing Shooting Star Press, the match lost its way. Standard X-Division spots that we had already seen in previous matches, coupled with uninspired attempts to untie the Championship Belt made this match slow down considerably. Eventually, Dutt made it back for his involvement in the finish. It was just a damn shame that the finish was so inappropriate for a specticale match such as Ultimate X. Having Ion win by spraying hairspray into Dutt's eyes as he hung from the top of the Ultimate-X structure was a spot that should be saved for wrestling matches, NOT Ultimate-X matches. 

As a result of this week finish, Ion's win came off as a bit undercooked and less impactful as it could of been. His post-match promo involving Jesse Sorenson was forgettable and badly executed which makes me worry about the longevity of this rivalry. Regardless, there was still some great stuff to be found in the opening minutes of this match. Its just a shame that Ultimate-X claimed ANOTHER injury.

Match No. 9: World Heavyweight Championship

Austin Aries

def

Bobby Roode

to become the new TNA World Heavyweight Championship

*Match of the Night*

Rating: ****

Comments:

Somehow, someway, TNA were able to top two matches that could of easily headlined any PPV on any wrestling promotion. In short, the main event between Aries and Roode RULED in nearly every conceivable way.

This match is exactly what the phrase "main event" is all about: the underdog babyface, overcoming the dominant heel champion to claim his first World Heavyweight Title. Its crazy that in 2012, promoters struggle to tell this simple story on a PPV stage. They usually complicate its presentation with soap opera fluff and unbelievable angles that either make no sense or detract from the simplicity of the overarching story. however, i am so happy to report that TNA's Destination X PPV main event broke away from this norm.

The match was given plenty of time and was built very nicely from the start. In fact this match had EVERYTHING: grappling, submission wrestling, high-flying acrobatics and more. Great mat work by both competitors was mixed in with a Aries quick aerial assault. I loved this inclusion of an X-Division arsenal by Aries as it told the story of Aries shocking the Roode with a move set he rarely has to deal with. Roode's transition and cut off spots were hard-hitting and expertly executed every single time. Once this rollercoaster of a match reached its final minutes, i knew were were in for something specail and memorable. Instead of going for the usual babyface on fire spots, Aries and Roode put over their submission finishers (Roode with his Crossface and Aries with his Last Chancery). I loved this added layer of drama as both sequences put over the toughness of both men. I had absolutely no problem with Roode eventually going for blatant cheap shots, as these "dirty" tactics eventually backfired on the champ, leading to a series of exhilerating near falls. Eventually, we were treated to most fitting finish to end this rivalry. Austin Aries lived up to what he had said all along: he hit Bobby Roode with his Brainbuster and pinned him clean to win his first World Heavyweight Championship. This clean win is exactly what Aries needed. The finish and this match as a whole solidified "The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived" as a legitimate main-eventer in the eyes of every TNA fan watching this PPV.

Speaking of the fans, this match was boosted by an INSANELY hot crowd. I was taken back by how many people were actually behind Aries. In segments leading up to this PPV, he had been getting good to great reactions. But on this night, he got a reaction that was reserved for a bonafied star. I've always said that live crowds have the power to either destroy or enhance the action portrayed in the ring. At Destination X, they assisted in making Aries win feel as though it was one of the biggest title changes in TNA history.  On the flip side, their reaction made Bobby Roode's lengthy title reign feel just as important. The ridiculously positive reaction by the Orlando audience was personified by the post-match celebration involving red and white confetti. This lovely touch was the cherry on top of a tremendous and fitting main event that exceeded all expectations. Fantastic pro-wrestling for a truly fantastic PPV.

Final Thoughts:

I never thought i would say this about a TNA PPV in 2012, but if you have the chance, you must attempt to watch Destination X. While the 1st half provided average to good X-Division bouts, the 2nd half of this PPV was quite possibly the best 2nd half of a PPV i have ever seen. Joe and Angle was a tremendous contest that was eventually equaled by AJ and Daniel's fantastic Last Man Standing Match. Both matches could of easily headlined any PPV.. While the Ultimate-X Match had an injury that damped its in-ring quality, all 4 combatants worked their asses all things considered to produce one of the better Ultimate X matches since its incarnation. Then we had the main event that knocked the ball out of the park and solidified Austin Aries as a TNA main-eventer. If you were only looking for one reason to watch Destination X, now you have 4. Watch out WWE, TNA is on a roll!

NXT in a Nutshell 04/07/12

This week's NXT was a lot of the same from previous weeks: a Wrestling-heavy show that had squash matches put over NXT's bread and butter and matches involving low-carded Smackdown talent that identified who the main event NXTers are meant to be. Even though this is the 3rd show of its kind, i don't have a problem with this. The brand is still developing their main roster and short decisive matches mixed with a competitive main event is the way to establish a definitive NXT pecking order. In short, WWE is doing a tremendous job making this show feel different from their other 3 broadcasts. Variety is definitely the spice of life in this case. The end result is another 1 hour episode of NXT that is logical, straight forward and still highly entertaining.


Match Results:

Match No. 1:

Sophia Cortez

def

Paige

Rating: * 3/4

Comments:  

For NXT's first Diva match, i was VERY impressed with what we got for a 2-3 minute match. Cortez (a mix between Trish Stratus and Tiffany) and Paige (a mix between TNA's Daffny and Katie Lee) put on one of the most hard-hitting women's matches I've seen on WWE television in a long time. Both definitely had something to prove here and while Cortez was the one that was pushed with the "W", Paige was definitely no slouch. Both ladies's body of work was solid and it lead to an impressive DDT variation by Cortez for the pin. I also liked how JR was giving the back grounds of both ladies in this match. Hearing that Paige's mother AND father were former wrestlers added to her credibility. All in all, a good opener to NXT and i hope both ladies hang around on the roster.

Match No. 2:

Seth Rollins

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Camacho (w/ Hunico)

Rating: *1/4

Comments:

Rollins definitely has "it" and it seems as though WWE gets sees it too. Even though he was involved in a slow and , at times, motionless match, Rollins' high spots were highlights of an otherwise uninspiring match. He added to the story of work with his solid selling and had some intelligent babyface comeback spots where Rollins "learned" from his previous "mistakes". I think the boring pace of the match has a lot to do with Camacho. Although JR was attempting to put him over on commentary (even going as far as to recognize the reality that "He is a big prospect....We have not seen him wrestle on SD all that much"), there was no denying that Camacho's offense sucked. He came off as sloppy at times and when Rollins wanted to pick up the pace, he kept it slow with pointless stalling sequences. But, Rollins got the "W" and regardless of the match, it is smart of WWE to give victories to these new NXT'ers over Smackdown talent that aren't going anywhere fast. The post match beat down of Rollins helped set up the main event and a double dose of Rollins for this episode of NXT, which wasn't a bad thing. In short, the right man won here and the post-match moved the show along.

Match No. 3:

Jack Carter & Corey Graves

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CJ Carter & Nick Rodgers

Rating:**

Comments:

Happy to see WWE add another two tag teams to their division. For 2012 tag team wrestling standards, i enjoyed this bout. Both teams, like the females in the opener, worked hard, but worked smart. Both team's selling was a bit lacking however. That is, at times, big moves were hit and were immediately countered or no-sold. Like JR has said a million times, these young wrestlers need to slow things down so that audience members like me have the chance to take things in. Both of these teams had a generic look about them , but it was nice to see Vader's son out there (CJ Parker). Carter and Graves got the entrance, thus they got the "W". For future matches, i would avoid having one team or singles competitor miss out on having their entrance. Its quickly becoming obvious who is going to go over. Some of the best matches on NXT to date have both men come out to their music which gives a feeling of unpredictability. In the end, the man or woman who WWE wants to win will go over if they have the talent as "the cream always rises to the top". All in all, a fine tag match with an innovative Body Slam/Neck Breaker finish from Carter and Graves. 

Match No. 4:

Kassius Ono
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Mike Dalton

Rating: * 3/4

Comments:

Kassius was the one who got the royal treatment this time around with a pre-match video and post-match promo, but Dalton was the star of the match for me. Considering this kid has been trained by Lance Storm, it is obvious as to why. The kid was like a darkened version of Dolph Ziggler and he sold like an absolute champ. If his job was to go out there and attempt to make Ono look like a threat, then mission accomplished. However, i am not completely sold on this NXT newcomer. Sure, he dominated and got the "W", but his pre-match video package was a bit corny, and his post-match promo was way too scripted. WAY too many catch phrases that didn't connect with the live audience. Naturalness in promos is always the way to go. However, he had a number of innovative counters against Dalton. Coupled that with Dalton's fantastic selling and you have yourself a pretty acceptable NXT match.

Match No. 5:

Jinder Mahal

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Derrick Bateman

Rating: **

Comments:

After last week's win, it is obvious that WWE want to establish Mahal as a top heel in NXT. As of right now, i have no problem with it. Racial stereotypes are such natural heels and considering it is NXT's early days, a natural heat magnet will assist in garnishing a reaction from the live crowd. 

The match itself was well paced and well worked. Bateman looked good and had a number of effective hope spots that got the crowd going. A mixture of move sets (ie Bateman's quick offense vs Mahal's ground and pound) kept things fresh and interesting. Mahal again was basic in his offense but wasn't completely boring like Camacho previously. I think that has a lot to do with his aggression (or as JR calls it, his "mean streak"). Mahal's Camel Clutch got over once more and, like i said before, if they are intent on making Mahal a figurehead of NXT then well done. Time will tell if he will be able to carry the ball amongst guys like Kidd and Migilligutty while making the rest of the up and comers look good at the same time.

Match No. 6: Six Man Tag Team Match

Michael Migillicutty, Hunico and Camacho

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Tyson Kidd, Bo Dallas and Seth Rolands

*Match of the Night*

Rating: ** 1/2

Comments:

While this match wasn't as good as Kidd and Migillicutty's singles outing a few weeks ago, this match still had everything you could want from a main event: good solid mat work, exciting high spots and a clean winner. William Regal also joined the commentary team for this one match as it looks like he is now a guest commentator. While this is disappointing Regal is no longer a main stay for the whole hour, it was nice having him commentate on the most important match of the show.

The one overwhelming point that can be taken from this main event was that the established Smackdown stars definately took it to Rollins and Dallas. The match involved two babyface beat down spots and each sequence had Migillicutty, Hunico and Camacho all lay in stiff shots to the rookies. Chops, forearm shots, everything. I think this is what they call "paying your dues". These long, drawn out beat downs (while still fun to watch) were contextualized by strong wrestling from the established stars. Kidd's reversal of Hunico's Gory Special into a bridge-up was definitely one of these highlights. 

The finish had the heel team going over, while Dallas and Rolands showed their aerial abilities with Planches and Suicide Dives to the outside. Now that we are 3 episodes deep, I would like to see this result lead to NXTs 1st storyline. Regardless of future plans, the main event was a nice cap off to another fun edition of NXT

What will tomorrow bring??

Hey all,

Unfortunately I didn't get time to write a TNA report this week. In a nut shell, the show was great as usual, as TNA turned up the heat on the upcoming World Title match at Destination X with some explosive segments, provided us with another great wrestling match main event between James Storm and Jeff Hardy AND implemented some great video packages hyping the PPV and next week's Impact. Tremendous stuff. If you aren't watching Impact because of its past, I strongly advise you to give the new TNA another chance. You WON'T be disappointed.

Speaking of the next PPV, I will be watching TNA Destination X tonight and will be providing my first PPV review. The review should be up by Tuesday morning (Australian time). In the meantime, watch Impact's go-home show for Destination X.

Again, you WON'T be disappointed.