Jamal
Main Eventer
Joined on: Nov 24, 2005 14:53:44 GMT -5
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Post by Jamal on Mar 6, 2013 18:34:57 GMT -5
I thought Taker/Batista was the best match of the night, and should have been the main-event.
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Post by skribbel24 on Mar 6, 2013 22:53:31 GMT -5
I actually liked WM23, if only for Batista/Undertaker. I thought those had great matches everytime they danced.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Mar 7, 2013 11:33:14 GMT -5
I thought Taker/Batista was the best match of the night, and should have been the main-event. yes it should. also Taker and Batista had GREAT chemistry.it was such a novelty seeing UT getting thrown around like that.
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Post by wabarrett on Mar 8, 2013 7:02:24 GMT -5
The two Main Events were the only part of 'Mania 23 I enjoyed.
Everything else, from the Trump/ McMahon hair stuff, the Khali/ Kane match, 8 main event stars being crammed into a MITB match, and the noise level and atmosphere being totally drowned out by the size of the building, the horrible Divas match, and the failed attempt to make fans think the ECW brand mattered, I just hated.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Mar 8, 2013 11:19:01 GMT -5
Wrestlemania 12 is a wierd one to me. It's probably the only time when Bret didn't have the best match on the card he was on, and not only that... It could well be the worst of the night.
I love me the Camp Cornette vs Team Yokozuna and Warrior/HHH matches. What's not to love? At the time HHH was less than a mid-carder, he was the perfect person for Warrior to come back with. Someone who had some recognisability, but wouldn't really suffer from a loss against Warrior. And I never got the fuss over Warrior getting up from the Pedigree. Like I said, Triple H was a jobber to the stars at the time.
The Diesel vs Undertaker is without question my FAVORITE Undertaker Wrestlemania match ever. Nash has a reputation of being a "bad" wrestler. I couldn't disagree more and this match is a good reason why.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Mar 9, 2013 8:03:34 GMT -5
the Undertaker feud seems to have really mattered to nash.he brings it up several times in his shoots.it seems that Bret was unhappy his match with Diesel at IYH:Rage In The Cage being used to further the feud.
Nash apparently told him "this isnt about YOU its about OUR feud in a heated tone backstage"
or so he says.
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Post by MrPerfect25 on Mar 12, 2013 13:40:38 GMT -5
WM12 was a snoozer for me as well. And sorry to say, I think Hart/HBK is totally overrated. I appreciate the technical aspects, but there was too many time killing or "rest" holds. HHH/Rock is a very underrated ironman match imo.
I'm enjoying your thread. I watched WM6 last night. 7 tonight after work. Then my favorite, 8.
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Post by Turnbuckle Zealot(Phil) on Mar 13, 2013 20:58:27 GMT -5
Solid work. Coherent & well written. *Appluads*
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Dante, The Voc
Main Eventer
If I'm not online, I'm on the toilet
Joined on: Dec 5, 2010 9:48:02 GMT -5
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Post by Dante, The Voc on Mar 17, 2013 14:06:56 GMT -5
Somewhat of a disappointing update. I obviously didn't realize beforehand how tough it is to reserve four hours a night every other day to watch/review these events. I do want to continue this series, because it seems most of you enjoy my writing. I won't, however, put myself to a schedule, as it was tough to maintain one in the first place and I would start to lose interest quickly. My postings will be sporadic, but I'm confident I will eventually review all 28 Wrestlemanias.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Mar 17, 2013 18:39:56 GMT -5
take your time man.......you should start a new thread for each review.....then I can lock the older ones.
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Dante, The Voc
Main Eventer
If I'm not online, I'm on the toilet
Joined on: Dec 5, 2010 9:48:02 GMT -5
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Post by Dante, The Voc on Aug 9, 2013 8:13:07 GMT -5
Wrestlemania XV March 29. 1999 First Union Center Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Resurrecting this long-forgotten series from dormancy is Wrestlemania XV. I was reading someone’s sim of 1999 (Penguin, I think. VERY good read if you have some spare time) and that, coupled with a few recent posts I found of people comparing this ‘Mania to the scrutinized 9th and 11th installments, gave me inspiration to review.
So the year is 1999, and the WWF has never been hotter. Following a raging 1998, which saw Vince McMahon’s creation finally surpass Billionaire Ted’s WCW in the ratings, 1999 began with a great emphasis on the rebellious superstars, such as Steve Austin, Mankind, and Undertaker, combat Vince’s corporate competitors, namely The Rock, Big Show, and Big Bossman, among others. It was dubbed “The Ragin’ Climax” as Philadelphia played host to a crucial point in WWF history.
Triple Threat Match for the WWF Hardcore Championship Billy Gunn © vs. Al Snow vs. Hardcore Holly First thing’s first: this stage is within my top 5 Wrestlemania stages of all-time. I love the simplicity, yet it gives off a big-time feel. Also, Boyz II Men sang “America the Beautiful.” Not sure how I feel about that, but I digress. I don’t like how Billy Gunn is in the hardcore division, where Road Dogg is Intercontinental Champion. I feel Gunn was vastly more talented, and I recall Road Dogg saying he found a singles niche in the hardcore division. I’m a sucker for hardcore matches, so I’m expecting positive things. Billy shows shades of his illegitimate son, Dolph Ziggler, selling a clothesline with a flip. I always hated Al Snow; a good hardcore wrestler but he was too cheesy (pun from Wrestlemania 2000 fully intended) for my liking. Hardcore Holly hits an uncharacteristic big boot on Snow; Snow responds with some hockey stick shots. I love Philly; they’re chanting, “Let’s go Flyers!” Billy Gunn breaks the hockey stick over Holly’s back. Al Snow, channeling the Wicked Witch of the West, uses a broken broomstick like a veteran. Still, he’s getting lukewarm reactions at best. Is a clothesline with a broomstick still a clothesline? Even in 1999, Cole and Lawler have ZERO chemistry with each other on commentary. “E-C-Dub” chants break out in Philly (of all places) when Snow hits a Sabu-esque chair-assisted kick. The more I watch Billy Gunn, the more I see Dolph Ziggler in him. Cliché, I know, but it really is true. Head gets some action, and he (or she?) commands Snow to “GET THE TABLES!” There is dried blood on the underside of that table. Holly takes a brain-scrambling chair shot to the head. While I do miss massive chair shots like that, I do understand why they are banned and I do enjoy the new and unique uses of the common folding chair. Snow goes through the table on what can be described as a hip toss. The Fame-Asser is a lovely move, and Billy plants Snow with it. Holly hits Gunn with a chair shot on the cover and pins Snow for the win. It was a good hardcore match with some decent action, but it was too short for my liking. Hardcore Holly defeats Al Snow & Billy Gunn © to WIN the WWF Hardcore Champion (5 out of 10)
Tag Team Match for the WWF Tag Team Championships Owen Hart & Jeff Jarrett © vs. D’Lo Brown & Test It’s sad to think that this is Owen’s final Wrestlemania, and it’s even sadder considering the means by which the duo of D’Lo Brown and Test “earned” a shot at the belts. With competitors like D.O.A., Gillberg, Droz, Tiger Ali Singh, and Johnny Grunge in a battle royal on HeAT, these two came out on top and got the shot on the main show. Save that kind of stuff for In Your House shows. Better yet, LOD was in the match; give THEM the shot. D’Lo was underrated and Test was pretty good, but the talent on the opposite side of the ring was much too much to even be believable. “Guns don’t kill people; I kill people,” Test’s shirt reads. Well with the copious amounts of drugs and anabolic steroids he poisoned his body with, he did kill someone. A lot of these title matches on the card feel thrown together, mainly because all the champions have held the belt for a couple months at the most. Pre-match brawling ensues, and Test botches a clothesline over the ropes to Owen. Poor Owen almost broke his nose at two consecutive Wrestlemanias. The bell still hasn’t rung but I’m just assuming we’re pretending it did. Test with a decent-looking powerbomb; it got a near-fall. Owen has the Sharpshooter locked, and D’Lo runs IN FRONT OF THE SUBMISSION, off the ropes, and back to hit Owen. As if the King of Hearts couldn’t see the guy running around him. I will give D’Lo this: he had a nice moveset and he could’ve amassed to something more—unfortunately it was for the best, as a TON of people got lost in the shuffle in that time period. Unless there were two WWF Titles, there was just no room in the main event picture, which is why a guy like Ken Shamrock couldn’t be a constant main-eventer. Jarrett gets some good offense in; I feel like he and Owen really clicked as a team. Okay, D’Lo reversing the leapfrog into a Low Down is one of the coolest spots I’ve seen in a long time. Debra and Ivory get involved as Test and Owen enter the ring; is this really the end of the match? Also, why in the holy hell did Jacqueline come down here? Owen hits a missile dropkick into a Jarrett roll-up for what could’ve been a 7-count, as the ref was distracted. Four minutes. Forget the fact that the finish was ugly (D’Lo was getting offense in, and yet he succumbs to a 7-count), forget that this was a disgraceful amount of time for seasoned workers like Jarrett and Owen to work their craft on the grandest stage (in their final Wrestlemania contests, no less). This match was just bad. I never thought I’d find a bad Owen Hart bout, but this was it. Uninterested crowd, uninteresting match. Jeff Jarrett & Owen Hart © defeat D’Lo Brown & Test to RETAIN the WWF Tag Team Championships (3 out of 10)
Brawl for All Final Bart Gunn vs. Butterbean Okay, Anvil Fan, go easy on me here. Brawl for All, as we all can agree, was a failure. I always thought JBL was a conceited prick and I’ve been skeptical of him ever since I heard the stories of his locker room rampage, and to see his brainchild flop is so satisfying. I consider myself a small step above the casual fan, and I really remember NOTHING about Bart Gunn. I remember the Smoking Gunns, but everything else is a mystery. Obviously if more people thought he was any good, he’d be more well known. The Mean Street Posse has front row seats. Those lucky bastards them. After a good couple minutes of introductions (although the ovation for Gorilla Monsoon’s last Wrestlemania was heart-warming), Butterbean comes out in his Rocky IV (my favorite movie) attire to absolutely no reaction. That isn’t a good sign. Bart Gunn doesn’t get a reaction either; I guess that’s no surprise (did I mention I love Jim Neidhart, AF?). I’m seriously lost with the rules and points system. Bart got drilled right away and he is down. As soon as he gets up, Butterbean flops him with one of the strongest rights I’ve seen. Thirty-eight seconds into the fight, Bart Gunn is seeing stars as the Brawl for All finally comes to a close. Outside of one punch, there isn’t much entertainment, and I’m seriously hoping that time from other matches wasn’t cut to squeeze this crap in. Butterbean annihilates Bart Gunn to WIN Brawl for All (1.5 out of 10)
Guest Referee Match Big Show vs. Mankind Judging by their fight on HeAT and the quality of the program thus far, I’m having low expectations from these good workers, which is sad. Eons ago, I reviewed Wrestlemania 2000 from the following year and I believe I crapped on the fatal 4-way main event. Personally, I think the main event here should’ve been Rock defending against Austin, Mankind and Show with Vince as the guest referee. Show can still turn face (SPOILERS) after McMahon blows a pin count on him, Vince is out, new referee in, Austin wins. Foley referring himself as a “young man” really makes this event feel old. Nitpicking here, but it pissed me off when they used to call him “The Big Show” Paul Wight, as if Big Show was his nickname. Stupid, I understand, but Paul Wight doesn’t sound like a name for a seven-foot giant. Furious offense by Mankind proves to be futile as Big Show boots his head, along with the rest of his body, out of the ring. Foley takes a tumble over the steel steps as the action returns to the ring. WWE did a good job of making Big Show look like a monster threat, but his overall win-loss record doesn’t reflect. My eyes widened as Show hit a Russian legsweep! I don’t understand how missing a right hand forces your entire body over the top rope. Mr. Socko was locked in for a good 10% of the Brawl for All final (four seconds for you math majors) before Show escapes with a headbutt. Ten more seconds of sock-based submissions ensue. I find it somewhat fascinating that Foley went from using that hold with his gloved hand as a tortured soul to using a personalized sock as a happy-go-lucky extremist. Mankind kicked Show in the groin; the announcers even call it a “low blow” but Earl Hebner refuses to call for a disqualification. The electric chair that Show pulls out looks brutal. Show uses a chair outside the ring to no DQ; I like the rule of “no rules outside the ring” and I was seriously angry when Jericho was DQ’ed for it at the Royal Rumble 2008. Show chokeslams Foley onto the tabled stairs for a disqualification. I call bull here; the chairs part like the damn Red Sea before Foley even lands. Is it bad that I can call this a serious contender for match of the night? It wasn’t terrible. The icing on the cake was Show chokeslamming a livid Vince McMahon, effectively turning face. Mankind defeats Big Show by DQ and will GUEST REFEREE the WWF Championship match with “severely injured” ribs (6 out of 10)
Four Corners Elimination Match for the WWF Intercontinental Championship Road Dogg © vs. Goldust vs. Ken Shamrock vs. Val Venis If for some sad reason you’ve read all of this review, I beg of you (I’ll pay you) to refer back to the hardcore match section for my thoughts of Road Dogg being champion. Nevertheless, I love the guy’s stick work and he’s really over at Wrestlemania here. Val Venis is out next—he was pretty fun to watch, although I mainly remember him for the “Choppy Choppy Pee Pee” angle with Kai-en-tai. There is a little kid, probably no older than eight, in the front row gyrating his hips in perfect synchrony with Val. Goldust was underutilized upon his debut (Wrestlemania XII with Roddy Piper was atrocious, but I’ve turned that stone before), but this incarnation is my least favorite. Blue Meanie should’ve stuck to comedy, and the whole Ryan Shamrock love triangle/square/experience was really forgettable (Ryan, however, if you still look like you did in 1999, find me on Facebook). Clichéd to say but yeah, Ken Shamrock deserved more. It really irks me that this guy wasn’t World Champion but we can’t change the past. I mean, the guy is known for his brawling and technical prowess but he just hit a hurracarana on Goldust! I can safely call myself a Shamrock mark; I’m just a decade and a half too late. Road Dogg hit a dropkick; how many times has he done that? Goldust hits a Cena-like sit-out powerbomb (the one he does right before the 5KS) for a two-count. Venis responds with a strong powerbomb as poor Shamrock argues with the blue bastard on the outside. I like how smooth Venis hits the Perfect-Plex; it looked leaps and bounds better than his bulldog earlier. For some reason, both illegal men attack the legal men. Shamrock is getting intense over the two-count. Shamrock gets the ankle lock in; remember folks, this maneuver made the current WWF Champion tap to win King of the Ring in 1998. Here, Val Venis is able to get to the ropes. Shamrock and Venis both get counted out; that sucks. The fact that Goldust is in the final two and Shamrock had to slow down to actually receive the count-out is a Shield-like injustice. But we do get Shamrock going intense and suplexing both remaining guys while shouting “F**k you!” a good four or five times. Ryan Shamrock distracts Goldust long enough for Road Dogg to counter a powerslam into a botched roll-up for the win. This wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t anything special either. Road Dogg © defeats Goldust, Ken Shamrock & Val Venis to RETAIN the WWF Intercontinental Championship (5.5 out of 10)
Grudge Match Kane vs. Triple H In between matches, Big Show gets arrested in the least hostile way possible. It’s kind of funny to watch a giant in a black diaper get put into a police car. Of all love interests for Kane, he goes for Chyna? He-she isn’t the prettiest damsel in distress. Okay, transgender jokes aside, Kane is my all-time favorite. He’s been put in some serious crap in his career, but his character is just great. That motherless Pete Rose had to come back. Dammit. Cole mentions Wrestlemania 30, which is surreal considering it’s already next year. Triple H enters from the crowd, much to the surprise of Kane. Cole tries to make it sound like Trips is the underdog here, which is ironic considering Kane was made to look like the underdog to Trips a few years later (this is just the match of jokes isn’t it?). Kane plants Trips grapefruit-first onto the barricade and sends him onto the laps of the Mean Street Posse. “King, his kidneys could be in trouble.” “WHO?” I can’t stand either of them on commentary. Kane is dominating this match so far. Oh, Teddy Long’s our official here. Kane and Chyna versus Triple H and Pete Rose? Wow, I’ll give Kane an A for effort on that dive over the ropes. Triple H HAS to be one of the loudest guys in the ring—every punch is projected with a “BAUGH.” Chyna is here, and both men counter out of each other’s finishers. Playa, you’re the official; how can you not see the steps in the ring? The steps nail Kane in the skull—twice—no disqualification called. Chyna clobbers Kane with a chair—disqualification. Trips lays Kane out on the chair. Even in defeat, he looks strong with Chyna by his side. As much as I’ve joked during this match, I still think that it’s up there, in contention for match of the night. Kane defeats Triple H by disqualification (6.5 out of 10)
Singles Match for the WWF Women’s Championship Sable © vs. Tori Yay? Numerous people, Jim Cornette included, have said Sable is a bitch, while that may be false, her so-so ring ability and her mic work are awful. She doesn’t even have a pretty face; Brock Lesnar sure has a nice wife there. Tori’s attire looks like Giant Gonzalez meets Battle Kat. Again, no bell ring, but we’re just gonna go with, “the match started.” Tori gets some offense in on the outside. What an ugly apron dive Sable attempts. This is responded by an equally ugly clothesline by Tori. Tori and Sable trade botched roll-ups. Sable is only good for two things in my book—the left one and the right one. Just what this match needed—the ref is down. BOTCH-A-MANIA *clap, clap, clapclapclap*. Cheesus Crust (I’m hungry) that Nicole Bass has to be a man. I make masculine Chyna jokes but this masculine lady is no joke. Sable hits the bomb and it’s over. It saddens me that this got more time than Owen and Jarrett earlier. Sable © defeats Battle Kat Gonzalez to RETAIN the WWF Women’s Championship (2 out of 10)
Singles Match for the WWF European Championship Shane McMahon © vs. X-Pac I always liked Shane McMahon. I never liked Test. Both are out here. You know this PPV was a while ago because X-Pac isn’t being booed out of the building. For those of you counting at home, this is the third match without an opening bell. The ref doesn’t see X-Pac go acorn-first into the ring post, courtesy of Test. The phrase, “mean streets of Greenwich” is one of those phrases like “jumbo shrimp” where the two parts’ definitions cancel each other out. Shane pulls a subtle DX crotch chop while attempting the Corporate Elbow. It’s really legal to whip your opponent with your manager’s belt? X-Pac cleans house on the Mean Street Posse. It sucks that Shane’s wearing the WWF logo on his chest as it’s completely blurred on my screen. Cole mutters probably his best line with, “The Greenwich jewels are stinging!” Honestly, it was funnier hearing it than typing it out just now. X-Pac looked really loose with the superplex. Test attacks X-Pac—no disqualification. Gotta love the Attitude Era. Again, the Greenwich jewels are tainted as McMahon fails the Bronco Buster. The cavalry’s out as Triple H turns on X-Pac. While I do like what went down, I’m getting frustrated at the ever-growing number of Corporation members. This match had to be the hottest, as the crowd was really into it through and through. Shane McMahon © defeats X-Pac to RETAIN the WWF European Championship (6 out of 10)
Hell in a Cell Match Big Bossman vs. The Undertaker Putting match quality aside, the satanic Ministry-era Undertaker was my favorite incarnation of the legendary character. The build for this match and the things that the Ministry did had me expecting big things for this match (LOL). I always somewhat liked Bossman. He did a good job as a heel. This Undertaker theme with the demonic quotes is one of my favorites. I don’t like how Paul Bearer basically lost all his supernatural aura; he looks like a common man. Let’s add Bossman to the list of loud superstars too. He even calls the ref a son of a bitch. Bossman cuffs ‘Taker to the cell; how kinky. After one nightstick shot, the handcuffs are broken. Cole is now repeating lines word for word. Does a steel chair shot on a bulletproof vest still hurt? I’ll tell you what; the crowd trying to get noticed on hard-cam is more exciting than this match. I always loved that flying clothesline from Undertaker. There were about 20,000 attending this Wrestlemania; it’s crazy to think there was quadruple that this year. Tombstone ends it surprisingly early. The Brood coming down from the ceiling was so cool. I remember in Edge’s book when he said that he actually got stuck on the way back up and the cell almost got him. I don’t know how it didn’t kill him but the Bossman getting hung from the cell was damn scary. The post-match antics outweighed the match quality itself. Definitely one of the worst hell in a cell bouts of all-time. The Undertaker defeats Big Bossman by way of murder (4.5 out of 10)
No-Disqualification Match for the WWF Championship The Rock © vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin (Vince McMahon is apparently the Guest Referee) Thank Christ almighty Jim Ross is coming out to commentate this match. I guess we’re just gonna forget Mankind won a guest referee spot. The guy destroyed his body at the Hell in a Cell, yet Big Show’s chokeslam damn near kills him. Continuity. My music hits but Commissioner Michaels is out here with Mike Chioda. Apparently only Michaels can appoint an official at Wrestlemania. Color me confused; why pick Mike Chioda? Why aren’t you refereeing? Why isn’t Mankind here? McMahon peacefully exits the ring on Michaels’ orders; he’s always listened to Michaels and tonight is no different. I don’t think I can believe The Rock being billed as 275 pounds. Finally, a big pop as Stone Cold makes his way out here. He pushed a cameraman off the steps; you know he means business. I guess the crowd was saving themselves for this match because it’s already electric. Fighting in the crowd was always cool, but it’s really awkward to watch, either on TV with confined camera angles or in the audience. The Rock backdrops Austin knee-first onto the stage light in one of my personal favorite spots. Austin knocks Rock’s head on the Wrestlemania logo and it starts swaying. That’s gotta be scary for the crowd situated near it. The Rock always played the cocky heel to perfection. A couple elbows to Rock’s black heart and poor Carlos Cabrera’s announce table is wrecked. This is the third or fourth match where the same set of steps have been overturned. Poor Chioda is out but now Tim White is here. Referee count for this match: 4. Tim White’s out too; will we see referee #5? Hebner’s here, and the mind-boggling amount of officials increases. Why is Vince out here? Hebner is down, but it seems as though Mankind fled the hospital and ran his ass down here for this match. The crowd is hotter now than it’s been the entire night. The elbow drop with theatrics does not connect. I know it was over exaggerated, but I love the way Rock sold the Stunner. Austin wins and the crowd explodes. This was definitely match of the night, finally something I truly enjoyed on this card. Stone Cold defeats The Rock © to WIN the WWF Championship (8 out of 10)
Closing Thoughts I was seriously disappointed by Wrestlemania XV. This event was supposed to culminate so many legendary feuds and angles of the Attitude Era, and it didn’t live up to the hype. A lot of matches weren’t given enough time, a couple bouts should’ve been relegated to Raw (Brawl for All, Sable), and some contests just didn’t live to the hype. I’m taken aback because I feel this should be better, and I’m trying to make excuses for it in my head to justify the crap I’m giving it. But overall, averaging in match quality, build, atmosphere, etc. Wrestlemania XV earns a 5.4 out of 10.
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Post by mikey1974 on Aug 9, 2013 10:44:14 GMT -5
glad to see you back!
and I agree 100%. after over a year of hype since the WWF kicked into overdrive and the Attitude Era was running full steam ahead,this big "Ragin Climax" to all that had been building,in a word,sucked. if there's such a thing as an OVERBOOKED event,this was it. nearly every match didn't focus on the participants in the match,but some type of extracurricular activity.felt like a big commercial for Raw the next night. and for being a "Climax", only thing that WAS finished after the event was the Brawl for All.
I'm not joking when I tell you,in 100% seriousness,that I fell asleep halfway through watching this live. don't know what to say,other than it was boring the piss out of me. one good match on the whole show (Austin-Rock)...Christ....
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Dante, The Voc
Main Eventer
If I'm not online, I'm on the toilet
Joined on: Dec 5, 2010 9:48:02 GMT -5
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Post by Dante, The Voc on Aug 9, 2013 10:55:00 GMT -5
glad to see you back! and I agree 100%. after over a year of hype since the WWF kicked into overdrive and the Attitude Era was running full steam ahead,this big "Ragin Climax" to all that had been building,in a word,sucked. if there's such a thing as an OVERBOOKED event,this was it. nearly every match didn't focus on the participants in the match,but some type of extracurricular activity.felt like a big commercial for Raw the next night. and for being a "Climax", only thing that WAS finished after the event was the Brawl for All. I'm not joking when I tell you,in 100% seriousness,that I fell asleep halfway through watching this live. don't know what to say,other than it was boring the piss out of me. one good match on the whole show (Austin-Rock)...Christ.... Honestly I had to review the last 3 matches this morning because I was getting a combination of drowziness and a migraine through the first part of the event.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 9, 2013 12:53:08 GMT -5
I like XV. Good review though
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Post by Mike Giggs' Munchies on Aug 9, 2013 17:37:38 GMT -5
Its strange how the hottest ever era of wrestling had pretty average/poor WMs. 14 is ok, 15 wasn't great, 16 wasn't great. 17 was obviously fantastic, and if you include 18 and 19 in the Attitude Era then they were great too (19 in particular), but its odd how WM has been generally good since 20 (minus a couple) but the product hasn't been half as hot.
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Post by cordless2016 on Aug 9, 2013 21:01:41 GMT -5
the Undertaker feud seems to have really mattered to nash.he brings it up several times in his shoots.it seems that Bret was unhappy his match with Diesel at IYH:Rage In The Cage being used to further the feud. Nash apparently told him "this isnt about YOU its about OUR feud in a heated tone backstage" or so he says. I understand where Bret is coming from though. He busted his butt throughout 1995 w/ crappy feud after crappy feud and when he was finally put on top once again he was treated as a transitional champ until HBK was ready for it. His feud w/ Bulldog in December had almost no build and was an after thought to the overall HBK push and Taker/Diesel feud. Then when the WM12 main event was set Bret was treated as an old and broken down champ while Shawn was portrayed as the new dog on the block. Bret was not portrayed as a legit champ at all. Back on topic WM15 was always a letdown to me. Good builds but most of the matches were letdowns and the event set up feuds more than settle them like WM should. Austin/Rock was a sound match and entertaining but was easily the weakest of their 3 WM matches. Foley/Show was a slow and clumsy match that was hurt by Show's terrible booking after just one month in the WWF. Taker/Bossman was terrible. HHH/Kane seemed like a match from any old Raw. IC Title match wasn't much either. The tag title match wasn't even really a match. The hardcore title match and the X-Pac/Shane matches were decent but nothing to save this event IMO.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 10, 2013 2:42:43 GMT -5
I really like Austin vs Rock vs WM15 BUT their rematch at Backlash 99 totally eclipses it.
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Dante, The Voc
Main Eventer
If I'm not online, I'm on the toilet
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Post by Dante, The Voc on Aug 16, 2013 9:46:11 GMT -5
Wrestlemania 22 April 2, 2006 Allstate Arena Rosemont, Illinois
I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling 22. The last Wrestlemania to date to not be held in a stadium, a hot Rosemont crowd welcomes the show of shows all the way back in 2006. Raw begins its gradual rise above SmackDown, with Edge scorching his path to the main event picture. A hungry John Cena looks to prove his worth against the mighty Triple H, and Shawn Michaels seeks vengeance against the McMahon family. The blue brand is reeling following Batista’s injury and Eddie Guerrero’s tragic passing, but still has some hot contests. The Undertaker seeks a 14-0 Wrestlemania record and the satisfaction of putting Mark Henry in a casket, and Rey Mysterio looks to capture the World Heavyweight Championship.
Tag Team Match for the World Tag Team Championships The Big Show & Kane © vs. Carlito & Chris Masters For a relatively small venue (compared to the next seven years’), the stage gives off a great big-time feel. The superstar and diva banners around the nosebleeds add to the larger-than-life Wrestlemania experience. WWE really screwed the pooch with Carlito. This guy was a great character and he could work. Chris Masters is another guy that could have done SOMETHING more than be ‘there,’ especially in early-2011 when he really improved. Sucks to see what could have been. I loved the pairing of Kane and Big Show, but their downfall was something ugly. Why the Spirit Squad held the belts for seven months is beyond me. We also got the whole “May 19th” angle out of their separation; that could’ve done something for Kane’s career. Turn him heel instead of Show, the false Kane reminds the current Kane how much of a monster he was, rejuvenated monster Kane comes out of it. You know it’s Wrestlemania when Kane breaks out the leapfrog and a dropkick. Masters takes some of the loudest Show chops to the chest I’ve heard. “Car-li-to” chants echo in the arena as he goes apple-first onto the ropes. It really always looks awkward when Kane goes off the top. Big Show goes headfirst into the exposed turnbuckle, then takes an ugly double flapjack from the challengers. The Chicago (or Rosemont, same difference) crowd is hot early, surprise surprise. Masters reverses another awkward highflying Kane maneuver into the Masterlock. Big Show breaks it up by kicking both Masters and Kane. The match is breaking down as everyone’s scrambling to hit their finishers. Masters accidentally nails his partner off the top, setting him up for a chokeslam to Hell for the victory. Call me crazy, but I like this match. A tad short, but it wasn’t a bad way to start Wrestlemania. Big Show & Kane defeat Carlito & Chris Masters to RETAIN the World Tag Team Championships (6 out of 10)
Money in the Bank Ladder Match Bobby Lashley vs. Finlay vs. Matt Hardy vs. Ric Flair vs. Rob Van Dam vs. Shelton Benjamin Just going from personal memory, I considered this the worst of the Wrestlemania MiTB matches. Maybe after watching it again, my feelings will change. Poor Matt Hardy; the guy deserved SOMETHING after he came back white-hot the summer prior, but he got the short end of the stick. I used to have an idea that Shelton Benjamin could’ve been WWE Champion in late-2008, but that would’ve taken a lot of work to make him look credible. He could wrestle, no doubt, but I think he’d need a mouthpiece or something. I can’t say too much about Finlay but his credibility was slaughtered the moment he and Hornswoggle became a legitimate tag team. I pointed out a while back that RVD wore a similar singlet to tonights in his return this year; maybe lightning will strike twice (SPOILERS!)? Lashley never impressed me; not only was he in a crap feud with the McMahons but he took a title reign that CM Punk should’ve had (I’m a Punk mark by the way). Ric Flair shouldn’t be in this match; I feel this is just a last-ditch effort to put the guy on the card. The ladders come into play early as RVD flies into a ladder-wielding Hardy. Benjamin does his annual ladder senton; this year, however, it was not from the top of the ladder. The spot leaves the two old geezers left in the ring. This is short-lived, as Matt Hardy suplexes Flair from the top of the ladder! I seriously thought Flair did some damage to himself—that bump looked nasty. Serves him right for being in this match, I suppose. Why is there a steel chair in the corner already? Benjamin needs the help of Finlay and Hardy to nail the sunset flip off the ladder; “R-V-D” chants ensue. I do notice that Lawler’s commentary is actually tolerable, possibly because he’s been with JR for a while at this point. The crazy old man in the Speedo limps his way back into this match. We’re only a good blade away from this being a true Ric Flair bout. What was the reason behind his semi-push in late-’05—early ’06 anyway? Finlay clocks the guy with a shillelagh (somehow I spelled that properly on the first attempt) and he takes another bump off the ladder. I’m noticing the lack of RVD action here. Oh, the chair was there for RVD to hit the Van Daminator on the climbing Lashley. Moves like the Side Effect come off weird off the ladder. RVD capitalizes on the downed crowd by splashing (not even close to five-stars) Finlay as an E-C-dub chant arises from here in Phila…Chicago. I love each and every Shelton Benjamin springboard equally. Van Dam kicks Benjamin and Hardy off one ladder and retrieves the briefcase to win. This match was very good, don’t get me wrong, but I still think it’s at the bottom in terms of ‘Mania MiTB bouts (maybe WM 26’s was worse). Rob Van Dam WINS Money in the Bank (6.5 out of 10)
Singles Match for the WWE United States Championship Chris Benoit © vs. John “Bradshaw” Layfield JBL is going from the WWE Title match to the United States Title match at Wrestlemania in one year. The ramp lifting for vehicles to enter was an awesome touch and could’ve been used for future PPVs (not necessarily Wrestlemania anymore). Jillian looks like silicon from head to toe. Benoit always got a good pop (any more of my thoughts on him and I’ll ignite the whole discussion/argument/World War III on him). This match starts nice and quick with a lot of brawling elements. I feel like Benoit was never really the same, in and out of the ring, after Eddie died. Jericho said in his book Benoit was bawling, something he never did, at Eddie’s funeral, and that he didn’t seem himself in the time after. Benoit nails some impressive German suplexes on the doughy JBL. JBL does a very jiggly mockery of Eddie’s signature taunt. Bradshaw goes for the Three Amigos but Benoit breaks at two. Even in 2006, I can’t stand Michael Cole on commentary. I was watching a Val Venis shoot and he said in 1999, Cole thought he was better than JR would ever be. Benoit gets a hefty pop for a successful Three Amigos. Any time Benoit connects with the diving headbutt, it always looks like it takes more out of him than it does his opponent. The whole “clothesline reversed into crossface” finish was expected. Oh bravo! JBL rolls over in the crossface and uses the ropes to pin Benoit and capture the title! An underrated, short bout on a stacked card, you might want to re-watch this match again. I thoroughly enjoyed it. JBL defeats Chris Benoit to WIN the United States Championship (6.5 out of 10)
Hardcore Match Edge vs. Mick Foley I wish we did get Edge walking into Wrestlemania with the WWE Title, but I’m glad that this match took place. Edge’s one-off gear really fits the bill for the match. Joey Styles is putting over Edge’s 4-0 Wrestlemania record early. Edge turns Foley’s skull into cookie dough with some cookie tray shots. I loved the pairing of Edge and Lita, and I felt it really legitimized Edge as a mainstay in the main event. I guess Styles and King are calling this one; I would’ve much rather preferred Styles and JR. Foley wearing the barbed wire belt must’ve hurt like a mother, but was ingenious and cool nonetheless. The blood is coming right out the center of Edge’s sun tattoo. Lita gets involved, but Foley drops her, himself, and Edge over the top with the Cactus Clothesline. Foley’s got the steel step flip down to a T. Lita is perfect for this match because not only does she help Edge get heat, but she’s not afraid to take a bump. A sick laceration appears on Foley’s face after his beloved Barbie betrays him. Having extra weapons under the steps was pretty neat. I counted 28 thumbtacks in Edge’s back in one shot. Even the ref has an ugly look on his face. Wouldn’t wrapping him in barbed wire hurt Mr. Socko? Barbie claims another victim, as Edge gets rocked between the eyes. That bat has pints of blood on it. You could see Foley visibly shaking right before one of the greatest Wrestlemania finishes ever. Edge gets the win and is set in stone as a marquee wrestler. Phenomenal match, one of the best hardcore bouts I have ever seen, and in my mind, the match of the night. Edge defeats Mick Foley (8.5 out of 10)
Handicap Match The Boogeyman vs. Booker T & Sharmell And you’re trying to tell me SmackDown was superior to Raw at this time. Poor Booker deserves more than this, especially considering his World Title push in the coming months. Marty Wright really played the character to perfection. The arena is covered with red smoke; it’s distracting from this match (I don’t know if that’s good or bad). Insipid Tazz commentary is present throughout this match. The ring’s getting all ashy from Boogeyman’s back. It seems like Booker is going through the motions on this one (possibly because Boogey cleaned his clock with a nasty right hand). How does one wrestle with hundreds of worms in his pockets? The crowd lukewarm-ingly applauds as Boogeyman ends this one and stuffs more worms into Booker’s gullet. And that, ladies and gents, was the latest installment of, “Kill That Hot Crowd!” Boogeyman defeats Booker T & Sharmell (2.5 out of 10)
Singles Match for the WWE Women’s Championship Trish Stratus © vs. Mickie James This is Trish’s last Wrestlemania (not including the Snooki-filled WM 27 installment) and one of the better female ‘Mania contests. The Divas Title, despite being chosen over the Women’s Title, has yet to be defended at Wrestlemania. I always liked the psycho Mickie character. She was talented in the ring and her character was white hot. I would go so far as to say if WWE didn’t kick the bucket with the Divas division, Mickie could have been in discussion for the Hall of Fame after she retires. Mickie got a better reaction than Boogeyman. Trish starts this match off aggressively and hits a chop rivaling those of Ric Flair. The Chick Kick connects with the ring post and the challenger gains control. Ah, the Knee-D-T, what an underrated move. The crowd erupts with a “Let’s go Mickie” chant. In terms of psychotic Divas, a Mickie-AJ feud would be exciting. I would confidently say that Mickie plays the “crazy chick” better than AJ. Trish finds a way to headscissor Mickie from the ground. The crowd is booing the Trish comeback. Mickie kicks out of a fierce running powerbomb; the crowd is vocal again by the way. Mickie does what 17,000 in attendance wish to do and claws Trish with a grapefru…taco hold? She capitalizes with a Chick Kick to win. This was arguably the best female Wrestlemania match. The crowd was into it, there was great, hard-hitting action, and the right person won. Mickie James defeats Trish Stratus to WIN the WWE Women’s Championship (6.5 out of 10)
Casket Match Mark Henry vs. The Undertaker I love it anytime the druids make an appearance. I know they tried to make Henry look like a threat, but in 2006, it’s just not believable for him as a wrestler to beat Undertaker at ‘Mania (although from 2011 onwards, I can believe it). Also, him coming out to anything other than Three 6 Mafia doesn’t feel right. He wasn’t going 50 yards to the ring like nowadays, but ‘Taker’s theme still looped twice. Henry’s gone through his three moves—body check, stomp, and knee drop. Tazz can’t even keep up with Cole of all people on commentary. I hate these casket-pushing periods of the match; they’re very slow-paced and offer little action. “Henry sucks” chant are coming from the crowd. Mark hits the WSM but goes for a cover…in a casket match. They’re building up how ‘Taker hasn’t knocked Henry off his feet. If you somehow powerbomb the world’s strongest man, does that now make you the world’s strongest man? One tombstone later and Undertaker retains the undefeated streak. This was definitely one of the weaker matches on the card and in the Streak. Cole and Tazz’s commentary only furthered the lack of enjoyment while watching. Undertaker defeats Mark Henry (4.5 out of 10)
No Holds Barred Match Shawn Michaels vs. Vincent Kennedy McMahon The McMahon Family Prayer segment before this was absolute gold. Vince’s facial expressions in general are gold. Hell, the biased JR commentary is gold. “And Michaels with a stiff chop to the chest of McMahon; isn’t that just too damn bad.” Michaels hits McMahon over the head with the Muscle & Fitness magazine cover, and JR wants him to shove it up the corporate ass. Those damn Dudleys, err, cheerleaders, make their way in to protect their boss. Isn’t it funny that we got Dolph Ziggler vs. HBK in 2006 in this capacity, but never when Ziggler was “made?” Kenny goes ass-first on a missed leg drop and the Squad’s attack ends in vain. McMahon’s matches NEEDED to be no-disqualifications; he can’t legitimately wrestle, but he can fight and tell a story like no other. Michaels’ belt shots were brutal, even more so than McMahon’s. This is the last time I can remember Shane getting heat (I don’t count the 2007 McMahon/Lashley feud because no one really cared enough about it to boo Shane). A son willingly took his lips to his 60-year-old father’s tail for the sake of entertainment. Vince is busted following a ruthless chair shot; JR comments once again that it’s “just too damn bad.” The blood dripping off his head is forming a nasty puddle on the mat. Between that, Boogeyman’s ash and the blood from the hardcore match, the ring looks disgusting (also, TWO “no rules” matches on one card? What is this, ECW?). Shane’s expression to the ladder being pulled out is priceless. The “elbow drop from the 20-foot ladder onto the garbage can-wearing opponent who happens to be on a table” spot was really cool, and the DX crotch chops really sold the hatred Michaels had for Vince. A superkick that “knocked his teeth down his throat” and Michaels wins with the only cover of the match. This match told a great story and was really fun to watch. Arguably Vince’s best ‘Mania performance, Shawn Michaels once again puts on a clinic at Wrestlemania. Shawn Michaels defeats Vince McMahon (8 out of 10)
Triple Threat Match for the World Heavyweight Championship Kurt Angle © vs. Randy Orton vs. Rey Mysterio It’s strange to think this is Kurt’s last Wrestlemania to date. The “I Dare You” package before this was a perfect fit. P.O.D. gets zero reaction. Rey’s entrance, gear aside, was too long and lukewarm at best. On the other hand, Orton gets a great pop. Angle gets more of a reaction than both challengers combined, cheers and “You suck” chants, and gets some sweet pyro. This match starts off hot as Orton counters a Mysterio crossbody with a dropkick. Angle nails a German on Orton who flung Mysterio an extra foot with a German. The crowd is firmly behind the champion. Mysterio gets a series of jeers as he get in the action; the crowd’s mindset changes as Angle launches Mysterio up to Orton, ultimately hitting a top rope hurracarana. “Let’s go Angle” chants erupt, and Tazz has to remind us that the crowd is “a little on the weird side” tonight. Chicago turns a complete 180 when Angle reverses the 619 into the Angle Lock. This match has been hotter throughout than any other bout tonight. This audience really doesn’t want to see Mysterio win; any point in time where he gets offense in, they go dead and boo. Rey botches a 619; the capacity crowd accepts it with a “you f**ked up” chant. Does anyone really hate Chicago? Orton sells the 619 like a champ as Rey wins the belt to a surprisingly compassionate cheer. This match deserved some more time, dammit, but it was really good while it lasted. Rey Mysterio defeats Kurt Angle © & Randy Orton to WIN the World Heavyweight Championship (7 out of 10)
Playboy Pillow Fight Candice Michelle vs. Torrie Wilson The ring looks like what I’d imagine Heaven to resemble. Torrie used to use Michelle McCool’s theme? I didn’t know that. “Torrie, keep your dog. I want your cat,” a sign reads. Who’d have thought someone would bust out a suplex in this match? JR seems to have mellowed out to call this one. Both ladies are rightfully in their undergarments; I’d call it the highlight of this match. Torrie wins with a quick roll-up. Unfortunately, I have to be Mister Killjoy and rate this on its wrestling action, which was poor. I do think that I didn’t suffer while watching, however. Torrie Wilson defeats Candice Michelle (3 out of 10)
Singles Match for the WWE Championship John Cena © vs. Triple H What do you get when you put the two guys with the biggest strangleholds on Raw’s main title together? You get the main event of Wrestlemania, of course. The “low-rent, poor man’s Conan” makes his grand entrance in very regal fashion. Cena’s gangster entrance was only good because of CM Punk. Okay, jerky mark aside; I consider this the second-best of Cena’s special entrances (WM 25 was the best with the Cena lookalikes). Even in 2006, John comes out to a 50-50-split crowd. Trips gets a nice cheer for out-chain wrestling Cena. Stay classy Chicago, with your “F**k you Cena” chant. With this one-sided crowd you’d think Cena’s fighting CM Punk, Colt Cabana and Daniel Bryan in a four-way here. Conversely, I’ve never heard a smark crowd cheer for Triple H. JR seems somewhat uninterested in this main event; he even says that John Cena isn’t a bad wrestler. Chicago hates Cena I suppose; “you can’t wrestle” chants are erupting. The crowd is hot nevertheless. Trips takes a tumble to the outside (almost toppling a cameraman) after a strong Irish whip from Cena. The Game lands back-first onto the ramp; it doesn’t sound pretty. Right now Triple H is painting a pretty picture with his wrestling, overpowering the champion. One slobberknocker of a clothesline and the crowd gives the challenger a round of applause. Both men are down after Cena nails a strong desperation clothesline. The crowd is up in jeer as Cena attempts the Five Knuckle Shuffle, only for the King of Kings to get up and plant him with a spinebuster. Soon after, the champ hits a quick, makeshift Five Knuckle Shuffle and connects the STF(U). Triple H hits both Cena and the ref with a dastardly low blow. Cena’s skull greets the beloved sledgehammer; still, he kicks out at 2. Mike Chioda is selling his groin better than Cena is selling a sledgehammer right now. After a lengthy hold in the STF(U), Trips taps and Cena retains the WWE Title. This was a really good old-school style main event match. While it wasn’t the best match on the card, it surely held true to what a Wrestlemania main event should be. John Cena defeats Triple H to RETAIN the WWE Championship (7 out of 10)
Closing Thoughts Wrestlemania 22 wasn’t in front of 70,000 fans in a football stadium, but it surely felt like it. This event had some of the best Wrestlemania action. There were really hard-hitting and exciting matches, and every bout told a story very well. The crowd was hot throughout, something that even the Attitude Era crowd of Wrestlemania XV couldn’t attain. There were some underrated gems (Benoit/JBL, Cena/HHH) on the card, and it would’ve been a near-perfect Wrestlemania in terms of match quality had Undertaker fought someone different or Boogeyman/Booker was relegated to SmackDown. All in all, the aggregate total rating that Wrestlemania 22 earned was a 7.2 out of 10.
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Post by cordless2016 on Aug 17, 2013 11:09:49 GMT -5
I thought WM22 was just egh. Average event. Injuries, the death of Eddie Guerrero, and bad booking ruined this event IMO. Also it was clear in 2005 that Raw was being promoted as the top brand. They got more proven names in the 2005 draft and was simply pushed as the "A Show."
Show/Kane vs Carlito/Masters felt like any old match on Raw
MITB wasn't bad but it was basically between RVD and Hardy. Didn't see anyone else winning it.
Bradshaw and Benoit was a quickly thrown together match w/ little story and the match was nothing to write home about.
Edge Foley was good but I also think its somewhat overrated. Did its job in getting Edge over more but I don't think beating a retired legend made him a legit main eventer at that point. Best match of the night though I'd easily take Orton/Foley over this.
Booker/Boogeyman was a crap fest and this job fest is on par w/ the crap they put Booker through w/ HHH at WM19. I've said it hundreds of times and I'll say it again; Booker was treated like crap throughout his WWE run.
Trish/Mickie was actually pretty good. Sad when the women's match at a WM is in contention for match of the night.
Taker/Henry would have been better if Henry had the credibility that he does now. Sadly in 2006 he didn't and was one of the "weaker" opponents Taker had fought at a WM at the time. Typical big man match that they thankfully ended fast.
HBK/Vince was a big squash match against Vince but we had seen this plenty of times before w/ Austin, Taker, Rocky, and HHH. This type of match shouldn't have been at a WM IMO. Would have been better the following month at Backlash. I think it would have been better had it been a handicap match where we actually get a decently competitive match.
Rey/Orton/Angle was 10 minutes of solid action but due to terrible booking was cut short and didn't go on last. This was the match I was most looking forward to and was the start of Royal Rumble winners not being in the main event of WM. This should have been the main event and would have been match of the night had it gone longer.
Torrie/Candice was complete crap and the fact it went on after a world title fight made the booking even worse. This had no right to be at a WM event.
HHH/Cena was solid but I've never gotten into the matches these two have had together. The crowd though made this match memorable. At WM21 Cena was over like hell and the fans couldn't wait for him to defeat JBL. One year later and the fans were calling for his head. One of the best crowds ever.
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Deleted
Joined on: May 2, 2024 17:11:13 GMT -5
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Post by Deleted on Aug 17, 2013 11:38:25 GMT -5
I thought Taker/Batista was the best match of the night, and should have been the main-event. 100% this.
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