All Elite Wrestling

[Hero!]

If you all had to bet, does Punk show up Friday night? Or does he show up on Dynamite before the ppv, or at the ppv?

Gotta be tomorrow. That card for tomorrow is LIIIIIIGHT. Leaving that room for CM Punk.

[Bert]

Let's just say hypothetically the event isn't meant to be for Punk. Who is it for? Why have your 2nd show have a special name? Why book a venue nearly double the size of your ppv venue and announce it last minute? None of it makes any logical sense otherwise. That's not even getting into Darby saying be at Rampage in Chicago if you feel you're the best in the world.

[PurePlayer]

I think going alllll the way back to WrestleMania 3's build up with Hogan and Andre signing the contract, it's just been the WWE's thing. It's no different than boxing or MMA, the press conference, the weigh in, the face off, the only thing we're missing is the actual contract signing being shown.

No other wrestling company really do this it's really a WWE thing. Sometimes it can be cool, sometimes it can be a dud.



I think it works for a big match or feud but when you have 3 in the span of 2 weeks then it gets to be boring and silly. Reigns and Cena is the type of match that could have one but even that was ass backwards

[PurePlayer]

Gotta be tomorrow. That card for tomorrow is LIIIIIIGHT. Leaving that room for CM Punk.

I think there were 3 matches announced for the show like last week.

however, i suspect two of them will be really short.

[Nash Diesel]

So who's going to be the one to finally beat Sting? Ever Rise couldn't do it. Tony Starks and Roid Rage Cage couldn't do it.

Was Sting's issue with WWE that they wouldn't let him beat up and comers? That was Big Show's problem. He didn't want to put over anyone that wasn't already an established main eventer despite him having no issue for years doing the job for everyone from Rob Conway to The Rock. But lose to Keith Lee? Pfft.

Never really been a fan of Sting and it got worse when he was in TNA and rarely would lose, especially to younger talent. Now he just no sells powerboms through tables when not too long ago he was damn near crippled taking a move into some soft turnbuckles.

Born again these nutz

[Bert]

I think there were 3 matches announced for the show like last week.

however, i suspect two of them will be really short.

They just announced them last night. Jades match will be super quick. Poor Kiera Hogan.

[Nash Diesel]

Let's just say hypothetically the event isn't meant to be for Punk. Who is it for? Why have your 2nd show have a special name? Why book a venue nearly double the size of your ppv venue and announce it last minute? None of it makes any logical sense otherwise. That's not even getting into Darby saying be at Rampage in Chicago if you feel you're the best in the world.

Why not just come out and say he's going to be there if everyone is so worried that if he doesn't show you all will explode on site?

I will admit, I did have my venues mixed up as I assumed the ppv was being held at the larger of the 2.

Seriously though, why all the prancing around? Is this because TNT told them to stop the surprise debut stuff so this is them saying it but not saying it? We know he's coming, but that's also what kind of makes this lackluster for me as a big CM Punk fan. Some of you guys will go ape shit straight through a show no matter what happens, everything is awesome, every botch was intentional, every glitch in a storyline was purposely done by the master of EWR.

[PurePlayer]

So who's going to be the one to finally beat Sting? Ever Rise couldn't do it. Tony Starks and Roid Rage Cage couldn't do it.

Was Sting's issue with WWE that they wouldn't let him beat up and comers? That was Big Show's problem. He didn't want to put over anyone that wasn't already an established main eventer despite him having no issue for years doing the job for everyone from Rob Conway to The Rock. But lose to Keith Lee? Pfft.

Never really been a fan of Sting and it got worse when he was in TNA and rarely would lose, especially to younger talent. Now he just no sells powerboms through tables when not too long ago he was damn near crippled taking a move into some soft turnbuckles.

Born again these nutz

Didn't sting put over Nick Aldis and Bobby Roode? He also lost to RVD, Hardy, Mr Anderson. Sting would also beat those guys but he lost his fair share. It's not like you saw Austin and Taker losing any less than he did.

To answer your question, Darby Allin would be by guess.

[Nash Diesel]

didn't sting put over Nick Aldis and Bobby Roode? He also lost to RVD, Hardy, Mr Anderson. Sting would also beat those guys but he lost his fair share. It's not like you saw Austin and Taker losing any less than he did.



RARELY lost in TNA. I never said he didn't lose. I definitely didn't bring up Austin and Taker, what the fuck do they have to do with anything? lol.

So again, who's going to finally beat Sting? Austin could come out of retirement and beat him I guess.

[PurePlayer]

RARELY lost in TNA. I never said he didn't lose. I definitely didn't bring up Austin and Taker, what the fuck do they have to do with anything? lol.

So again, who's going to finally beat Sting? Austin could come out of retirement and beat him I guess.

Sting is a top guy and a legend. I am comparing him to the likes of Taker and Austin in regards to where he was on the card. Those type of guys don't lose often. Sting absolutely put guys over when he needed to.

[Nash Diesel]

Sting is a top guy and a legend. I am comparing him to the likes of Taker and Austin in regards to where he was on the card. Those type of guys don't lose often. Sting absolutely put guys over when he needed to.

So did Austin and Taker but that's a completely irrelevant conversation when talking about Sting. Especially when Austin didn't even wrestle when Sting was in TNA, correct? Now if you want to talk about the 80's and 90's start up a thread.

It's such an apples and oranges comparison. Especially when my comment about TNA wasn't really anything to focus on in the AEW THREAD. I guess I don't see too many guys in their early 60's in the WWE beating talent half their age. Maybe if Kevin Nash came back and stuck Keith Lee, Ricochet, Priest, and Riddle, no sold their finishes, etc. we would be able to talk about "Well look at the WWE guy!" But there's nobody you can truly look at it in the WWE, or really anywhere but AEW, where a 64 year old guy who claimed he was too crippled to continue is beating talent that could be his grandchildren, no selling most the offense, etc.

So again, who's going to be the one to beat Sting?

[Bert]

Sting and Taker are the only two guys I can think of who could get away with no selling that table powerbomb. Well, maybe The Fiend, Rip.

[PurePlayer]

So again, who's going to be the one to beat Sting?

has to be Darby right?

[Bert]

So did Austin and Taker but that's a completely irrelevant conversation when talking about Sting. Especially when Austin didn't even wrestle when Sting was in TNA, correct? Now if you want to talk about the 80's and 90's start up a thread.

It's such an apples and oranges comparison. Especially when my comment about TNA wasn't really anything to focus on in the AEW THREAD. I guess I don't see too many guys in their early 60's in the WWE beating talent half their age. Maybe if Kevin Nash came back and stuck Keith Lee, Ricochet, Priest, and Riddle, no sold their finishes, etc. we would be able to talk about "Well look at the WWE guy!" But there's nobody you can truly look at it in the WWE, or really anywhere but AEW, where a 64 year old guy who claimed he was too crippled to continue is beating talent that could be his grandchildren, no selling most the offense, etc.

So again, who's going to be the one to beat Sting?

So you like 2.0? I mean I like them too but it's unlikely they rise(lol) above mid card tag team status. I don't think losing to Sting and Darby really hurts them.

If someone is going to beat Sting it should mean something. If Flair comes in and teams up with Andrade like it sounds like than have Andrade beat Sting with Flairs help.

[Nash Diesel]

has to be Darby right?

It would make sense.


So you like 2.0? I mean I like them too but it's unlikely they rise(lol) above mid card tag team status. I don't think losing to Sting and Darby really hurts them.

If someone is going to beat Sting it should mean something. If Flair comes in and teams up with Andrade like it sounds like than have Andrade beat Sting with Flairs help.

I can't stand them. The one guy looks and sounds like a Young Buck flunky, his tag partner is completely non-existent. It was just another example of Sting beating up young talent.

The downside is that I don't think beating Sting now will mean something. The last match Sting had that was of worth was the Rollins match, and that was solely based on the fact it was a WWE title match. Everything since has just been a joke. I could understand winning the tag match, it was his return. But he's practically invincible now. Broken Matt Hardy was more realistic than 64 year old Sting being able to carry his own against today's talent.

Fuck Sting.

[Nash Diesel]

Sting and Taker are the only two guys I can think of who could get away with no selling that table powerbomb. Well, maybe The Fiend, Rip.

You know what I'll never understand is why Sting is in the same conversation as someone like The Undertaker or even The Fiend. These are 2 supernatural characters, Sting is not. Unless I'm missing something. I get he had a close friendship with Robocop but he didn't did anything mystical as The Crow, that was a look, the gimmick he was doing didn't really incorporate any of the supernatural elements of Eric Draven.

Let's clean it up and add Hulk Hogan to the mix. Hulk would've taken the powerbomb and immediately Hulked up lol

[Bert]

So what do you think about my idea of Andrade with Flair beating Sting?

[PurePlayer]

I think he had some supernatural moments in WCW in 1999 and 2000 from what I remember. I could be wrong. That time period for WCW was all over the place.

[Psycho666Soldier]

Why not just come out and say he's going to be there if everyone is so worried that if he doesn't show you all will explode on site?

I will admit, I did have my venues mixed up as I assumed the ppv was being held at the larger of the 2.

Seriously though, why all the prancing around? Is this because TNT told them to stop the surprise debut stuff so this is them saying it but not saying it? We know he's coming, but that's also what kind of makes this lackluster for me as a big CM Punk fan. Some of you guys will go ape shit straight through a show no matter what happens, everything is awesome, every botch was intentional, every glitch in a storyline was purposely done by the master of EWR.

Why can't you just be excited that Punk is probably showing up tomorrow?

[Nash Diesel]

So what do you think about my idea of Andrade with Flair beating Sting?

Naw. It really doesn't matter when you think about it. By the time he loses he'll be 65 years old. The last image a lot of fans have of him is wearing a t-shirt getting bucklebombed then retiring a few months later. He fucked his legacy imo, at least in the hardcore bubble of wrestling fans. Casuals probably don't even remember what Sting did after joining the nWo Wolfpac. They were chanting "you still got it" to Sting when he wrestled for WWE despite having only been gone for maybe a year from TNA-where he had been for 10 years beating everyone from Kurt Angle to Chris Daniels?

Andrade beats Sting....as long as they don't try to pretend Flair found ANOTHER "next Nature Boy" that wouldn't suck. Do we end the story of Sting with arguably his biggest nemesis getting the last laugh? Sting loses, but Darby wins a big match against Andrade via help from Sting ending on a high note getting 2 guys over while ending a 30+ year story on a high? That'd be dope.





I think he had some supernatural moments in WCW in 1999 and 2000 from what I remember. I could be wrong. That time period for WCW was all over the place.

I don't want to go back and watch but I do remember the stuff with Vampiro, ICP, the Demon. There was their version of the Buried Alive match.

Ok then I take all that back, I tuned that shit out. Funny because at that time I was literally fucking pissed at WCW and would only watch to see what Kevin Nash was doing and/or ICP. It just all sucked. I also forget Nash actually had a couple reigns after the fingerpoke of doom loss but they sucked too. Roided up Macho Man putting lipstick on Nash...wtf. I actually didn't really give a shit about wrestling during this time it was getting a little ridiculous.

That WWF undercard held it together the same way WCW's undercard held Nitro together during the nWo angle.

[Nash Diesel]

Why can't you just be excited that Punk is probably showing up tomorrow?

Because I don't just pretend that everything is exciting that AEW accomplishes. CM Punk showing up tomorrow night at 10pm will get the same energy a Marko Stunt dropkick will get from someone like you.

It's ok to question things.

[Bert]

If you want to make a point you shouldn't use someone who everyone in the thread hates to try to get it across.

[Hero!]

I’m excited for cm punk

[Nash Diesel]

If you want to make a point you shouldn't use someone who everyone in the thread hates to try to get it across.

Well you had one left so we might as well end it with this. You would have an excuse for whoever or whatever I would have put there so Marko Stunt, Kenny Omega, Matt Hardy, Jungle Boy, Jericho's shit match with Juventud you thought was intended to bring back fans from 1996, take your pick my guy :)

And I already made my point the other day about CM Punk, and just now. My excitement is there but it's not what it could be. I have at least 5-10 years of fandom and disappointment on most of you children and I definitely don't have time to BODY AEW gatekeeper fans every other post ;)

[Nash Diesel]

I’m excited for cm punk

You're excited about Karl Anderson.

[Bert]

Well you had one left so we might as well end it with this. You would have an excuse for whoever or whatever I would have put there so Marko Stunt, Kenny Omega, Matt Hardy, Jungle Boy, Jericho's shit match with Juventud you thought was intended to bring back fans from 1996, take your pick my guy :)

And I already made my point the other day about CM Punk, and just now. My excitement is there but it's not what it could be. I have at least 5-10 years of fandom and disappointment on most of you children and I definitely don't have time to BODY AEW gatekeeper fans every other post ;)

Nah. I would question your sanity if Kenny Omega or Jungle Boy don't excite you though.

You don't think Jericho vs Juvie was meant to get people who used to watch wrestling to watch it? Then why do it?

Turning a negative into a positive with the whole being old thing, I dig it.

[PurePlayer]

I am extremely pumped at the possibility of CM Punk coming in and then Daniel Bryan. the AEW crowd reminded me a lot of the attitude era. It feels like the NXT takeover crowds did as well. Not sure why NXT isn't going into an actual arena for Takeover. Seems like a missed opportunity there. The Capitol wrestling center sucks

[Nash Diesel]

I am extremely pumped at the possibility of CM Punk coming in and then Daniel Bryan. the AEW crowd reminded me a lot of the attitude era. It feels like the NXT takeover crowds did as well. Not sure why NXT isn't going into an actual arena for Takeover. Seems like a missed opportunity there. The Capitol wrestling center sucks

Covid. And now Vince hates NXT because they lost the Wednesday Night War to AEW.

[Psycho666Soldier]

Because I don't just pretend that everything is exciting that AEW accomplishes. CM Punk showing up tomorrow night at 10pm will get the same energy a Marko Stunt dropkick will get from someone like you.

It's ok to question things.

:lol:

Alright dude

[Bert]

https://youtu.be/rFgKHamlRa8

I need to ask Tainted Eclipse when he's going to add this to his top 100 matches list. 2 Stunts. 10 stars.

[PurePlayer]

Covid. And now Vince hates NXT because they lost the Wednesday Night War to AEW.

can't be because of covid. they are running live shows everywhere now.

[Nash Diesel]

:lol:

Alright dude

CM Punk could come out tomorrow night and Karl Anderson Marko Stunt and the second someone shit on that segment you would be there to defend it.


can't be because of covid. they are running live shows everywhere now.

NXT isn't.

[Badger]

I enjoy both products but also think there’s hyperbole from fans on both sides (in general I mean, not just here). I think in his own Nash-like way that’s what he’s getting at. Both have their strengths and weaknesses. AEW has that more chaotic “anything can happen” feel but with physicality sometimes I feel they go over the top to the point I worry WWE has a more polished feel and the in-ring product for the most part has been outstanding. Creativity and storylines though (aside from Reigns and RK-Bro and some NXT storylines) it does really suck so can’t blame people for tuning off.

I’m trying to keep grounded when it comes to Punk’s debut and see what he brings to the table. There’ll probably be some of it to begin with in his promos but if he and creative go over the top with the WWE bashing then it’s going to sound like a broken record.

#Swissneutral. I like both.

[Bert]

975,000

[Hero!]

Punk already trending on Twitter, haha

[Bert]

Happy Punk-Mas Eve everyone. Stole that from Twitter.

[Donald]

Thank goodness I'm Drewish. Gonna spend the next eight nights watching Drew Gulak matches.

[Badger]

Thank goodness I'm Drewish. Gonna spend the next eight nights watching Drew Gulak matches.

You gotta give him his Drew.

[Bert]

https://i.imgur.com/ZuQk3MG.jpg

What could he be talking about?

:dunno:

[Badger]

It’s like a furious wank waiting for a climax.

#CMSpunk

[Bert]

I think someone finally figured out why it's called The First Dance.


https://youtu.be/mbCdm_uqIPk

Dango is ALL ELITE

[Nash Diesel]

I enjoy both products but also think there’s hyperbole from fans on both sides (in general I mean, not just here). I think in his own Nash-like way that’s what he’s getting at. Both have their strengths and weaknesses. AEW has that more chaotic “anything can happen” feel but with physicality sometimes I feel they go over the top to the point I worry WWE has a more polished feel and the in-ring product for the most part has been outstanding. Creativity and storylines though (aside from Reigns and RK-Bro and some NXT storylines) it does really suck so can’t blame people for tuning off.

I’m trying to keep grounded when it comes to Punk’s debut and see what he brings to the table. There’ll probably be some of it to begin with in his promos but if he and creative go over the top with the WWE bashing then it’s going to sound like a broken record.

#Swissneutral. I like both.

Is there really anyone who posts in this thread besides Donald who doesn't like AEW? My praise runs deep for AEW. It's not a WWE v. AEW thing for me. I prefer to watch late 80's early 90's wrestling. Whether that's NWA, WWF, All Japan, AAA, etc. I just love wrestling, so I'm going to be honest about what I see.

Anyone who suggests differently about me take a trip to the Raw thread.

Here's my thing. Raw and Smackdown get almost double the viewership that AEW gets. People can talk about people turning off Raw but the numbers for AEW haven't exactly grown. They didn't start out at 4-500,000 viewers and climb to 8,9, a million+. I'm just glad they've remained consistent because we need variety on tv. But we're acting like CM Punk coming back and increasing viewership by a 100,000 is a big win. It's where they're at a month from now, or even a few weeks.

I'm actually excited for Bryan Danielson AND CM Punk to be on the same show even at this stage of their careers.

[Badger]

Is there really anyone who posts in this thread besides Donald who doesn't like AEW? My praise runs deep for AEW. It's not a WWE v. AEW thing for me. I prefer to watch late 80's early 90's wrestling. Whether that's NWA, WWF, All Japan, AAA, etc. I just love wrestling, so I'm going to be honest about what I see.

Anyone who suggests differently about me take a trip to the Raw thread.

Here's my thing. Raw and Smackdown get almost double the viewership that AEW gets. People can talk about people turning off Raw but the numbers for AEW haven't exactly grown. They didn't start out at 4-500,000 viewers and climb to 8,9, a million+. I'm just glad they've remained consistent because we need variety on tv. But we're acting like CM Punk coming back and increasing viewership by a 100,000 is a big win. It's where they're at a month from now, or even a few weeks.

I'm actually excited for Bryan Danielson AND CM Punk to be on the same show even at this stage of their careers.

Whether you mean to or not, you do come across as someone who seems to quash someone every time they get too excited about AEW. I do agree that sometimes people get carried away with things and WWE is still the main game in town which I think everybody knows and are realistic that they won’t catch WWE in the near future but let these guys have their fun rather than quash their fun double quick.

[Badger]

Plus in Donald’s defence, though he’s an old school WWF fan kind of guy, he is paying more attention to it plus I think his criticisms are more of a joke. That’s the Donald way.

[Nash Diesel]

Whether you mean to or not, you do come across as someone who seems to quash someone every time they get too excited about AEW. I do agree that sometimes people get carried away with things and WWE is still the main game in town which I think everybody knows and are realistic that they won’t catch WWE in the near future but let these guys have their fun rather than quash their fun double quick.

I do the same thing when 3pupp gets excited about Nikki Cross being the next John Cena.

I don't see you coming to his aid lol. Here it's the same 4 people making the excuses, you can't have a single honest thought that is slightly negative without listening to excuse after excuse. I typically just avoid it and carry on. Trust me, if I wanted to, I could come in here and laugh at how over the top Hero and Bert are when watching the show. But they're children who grew up on John Cena and pretending they're under the MNW when they were 7.

Fuck their fun, what about mine? Instead of blindly pretending everything WWE or AEW does, be realistic. The show gets barely a million views, and hasn't grown for shit in 2 years. Relies heavily on the WWE's past main eventers and even older main eventers from the 80's and 90's. But we'll shit on Goldberg, an actual draw, but praise Christian, who most casuals couldn't name with a gun to their head and 100 choices. Sting goes over every young talent like nothing, but we're mad that Tucker got released...............

[Badger]

I do the same thing when 3pupp gets excited about Nikki Cross being the next John Cena.

I don't see you coming to his aid lol. Here it's the same 4 people making the excuses, you can't have a single honest thought that is slightly negative without listening to excuse after excuse. I typically just avoid it and carry on. Trust me, if I wanted to, I could come in here and laugh at how over the top Hero and Bert are when watching the show. But they're children who grew up on John Cena and pretending they're under the MNW when they were 7.

Fuck their fun, what about mine? Instead of blindly pretending everything WWE or AEW does, be realistic. The show gets barely a million views, and hasn't grown for shit in 2 years. Relies heavily on the WWE's past main eventers and even older main eventers from the 80's and 90's. But we'll shit on Goldberg, an actual draw, but praise Christian, who most casuals couldn't name with a gun to their head and 100 choices. Sting goes over every young talent like nothing, but we're mad that Tucker got released...............

I did say I do agree with you that people sometimes get carried away, but I do also think generally the people in here are learned and smart enough to know that AEW is a long way off to catching up but you know, they are growing and I do hope one day they become real competition. They’re already aware and don’t need a wet blanket constantly pointing it out even if that wet blanket gets dry on this fun.

Just chill and let’s all bask in the wrestling love.

[Nash Diesel]

I did say I do agree with you that people sometimes get carried away, but I do also think generally the people in here are learned and smart enough to know that AEW is a long way off to catching up but you know, they are growing and I do hope one day they become real competition. They’re already aware and don’t need a wet blanket constantly pointing it out even if that wet blanket gets dry on this fun.

Just chill and let’s all bask in the wrestling love.

This thread isn't immune to voicing opinions that aren't 100% positive. Keep that same energy when people are praising WWE. I don't see you over in the Raw thread calling my comments about Nikki ASH a "wet blanket"

I'm chill, bask in wrestling love not just one promotion because you think you need to white knight this shit.

[Badger]

This thread isn't immune to voicing opinions that aren't 100% positive. Keep that same energy when people are praising WWE. I don't see you over in the Raw thread calling my comments about Nikki ASH a "wet blanket"

I'm chill, bask in wrestling love not just one promotion because you think you need to white knight this shit.

Actually Nikki Ash Diesel, I was thinking if you entered the Royal Rumble Game of Death and lost, I’d know what to call you. ;)

[Bert]

No one is mad Tucker got released but I guess you can't help but make strawmen.

[Badger]

Braun Strawman.

Cheap pop for Donald

[Nash Diesel]

Actually Nikki Ash Diesel, I was thinking if you entered the Royal Rumble Game of Death and lost, I’d know what to call you. ;)

The day I enter the Royal Rumble Game of Death is the day that Bert doesn't take everything said on the internet as serious as heart attack. Or when you face me in Wilfred's.

Badger-just so we're clear. I didn't think YOU were sad that Tucker got released. His mom was though.

[Bert]

https://i.imgur.com/m99T5kD.jpg

[Nash Diesel]

Braun Strawman.

Cheap pop for @Donald (https://forums.rajah.com/member.php?u=69606)

LMFAO holy shit that was incredible.

[Badger]

The day I enter the Royal Rumble Game of Death is the day that Bert doesn't take everything said on the internet as serious as heart attack. Or when you face me in Wilfred's.

Badger-just so we're clear. I didn't think YOU were sad that Tucker got released. His mom was though.

I was Nosh Diesel for a month. I think at the very least it’s only fair you enter that or PPV Predictions, lose and be Nodger for a month with my glorious avatar.

Or Bodger.

[Bert]

https://twitter.com/MATTHARDYBRAND/status/1428565159157682178?s=19

What could it mean?

[Nash Diesel]

https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/pressofatlanticcity.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/6/3f/63fffc88-a3ca-11e3-bbe8-0019bb2963f4/53161ab8ec23c.image.jpg?resize=500%2C600

[Psycho666Soldier]

CM Punk could come out tomorrow night and Karl Anderson Marko Stunt and the second someone shit on that segment you would be there to defend it.



NXT isn't.

That's what was funny. You don't actually get a thing about my tastes.

[Nash Diesel]

That's what was funny. You don't actually get a thing about my tastes.

Are you even excited for CM Punk or are you just pretending to be so you don't look like a weirdo to your other AEW gatekeeper buddies? Serious question. I mean, you're both quitters so you have that in common.

[Psycho666Soldier]

Are you even excited for CM Punk or are you just pretending to be so you don't look like a weirdo to your other AEW gatekeeper buddies? Serious question. I mean, you're both quitters so you have that in common.

I actually hate wrestling. I only watch to emasculate my self-worth.

[Tainted Eclipse]

just imagine if punk wasn't there tonight

[Hero!]

just imagine if punk wasn't there tonight
Defrost would pee himself with excitement

[Bert]

So what's the menu tonight, boys?

Ice cream bars and Pepsi?

[Hero!]

Wings and Trulys

[Defrost]

Defrost would pee himself with excitement

Bwahahahaha

[Nash Diesel]

Pizza burgers from Maid Rite and Moon Mist Faygo

[Morrison]

leftover domino's and diet lemon snapple.

[Morrison]

and probably some tastykake's.

[Bert]

Pizza burgers from Maid Rite and Moon Mist Faygo

What the hell is Moon Mist? I've had Cotton Candy Faygo, it's my favorite.

Red Baron pizza and Diet Dr Pepper for me tonight.

[PurePlayer]

going out to eat for some seafood before the show and getting stuffed on clams and crab. I'm west coast time so i need to find a way to stay away from twitter until 10pm PST. going to be torture

[Tainted Eclipse]

leftover domino's and diet lemon snapple.

I will never buy one of those fucking plastic bottle Snapples

[chatty]

Well I just listened to a snippet of a Tony Khan interview and he all but confirmed Punk for tonight. Basically said everyone knows what's happening tonight and they won't be disappointed.

[Morrison]

I will never buy one of those fucking plastic bottle Snapples

i only ever get the big 64oz bottles, which never came in glass, as far as i know.

[Defrost]

Well I just listened to a snippet of a Tony Khan interview and he all but confirmed Punk for tonight. Basically said everyone knows what's happening tonight and they won't be disappointed.

Cabana may be disappointed

[Tainted Eclipse]

book a punk/cabana blood feud

[Bert]

Cabana may be disappointed

He said they were at least cordial to each other in an interview I heard.

[Defrost]

He said they were at least cordial to each other in an interview I heard.

Was that after they sued each other or before?

[Bert]

Was that after they sued each other or before?

This was after the trial with WWE and I guess they sued each other after that? Or was it at the same time? The timeline is confusing to me. I guess it was the busted open interview.

https://youtu.be/nBPJOSn2AXY

[Defrost]

This was after the trial with WWE and I guess they sued each other after that? Or was it at the same time? The timeline is confusing to me. It was the Bubba the love sponge interview, not sure of the date.

It was after the WWE trial

[Bert]

It was after the WWE trial

I figured the timeline out.

Busted Open interview was in June and it was announced Colt was suing him in August. So maybe they're not even cordial now. :dunno:

[Bert]

https://i.imgur.com/3cm4zLQ.jpg

I like this shirt.

I'm wearing this one.
https://www.prowrestlingtees.com/pub/media/catalog/product/cache/image/e9c3970ab036de70892d86c6d221abfe/c/m/cmpunk1026_1.png

[Fanny Batter]

The big question is do they run with Punk and/or Bryan on top? It's a tough one because they'll undoubtedly be the biggest stars they have with Jericho, with the added benefit that A: Bryan is still the best wrestler on the planet and B: Punk got out before his star really dimmed and has the intrigue of whether he's still got it. Do you build them for a year before putting over the future or do you strike while the iron's hot and put Darby et al over off the bat when the stars are at their peak? AEW have never really been in this position before, but the Jericho-Moxley title trajectory would suggest that one or both of them might be touching the world title before the game is up.

For me, Hangman still has to be the guy to beat Omega. Maybe do that at the next PPV, the anniversary of their first match. Then Punk's got to go heel and run Straight Edge saviour against Hangman's anxious alcoholic cowboy. That's the money for me. Bryan can bounce about having wicked matches then eventually go on a "one last run" tour up to a title match, then go full Bob Backlund in defeat. The money is in eventually running both as heels and putting over Hangman, Jungle Boy and Darby.

[Nash Diesel]

The big question is do they run with Punk and/or Bryan on top? It's a tough one because they'll undoubtedly be the biggest stars they have with Jericho, with the added benefit that A: Bryan is still the best wrestler on the planet and B: Punk got out before his star really dimmed and has the intrigue of whether he's still got it. Do you build them for a year before putting over the future or do you strike while the iron's hot and put Darby et al over off the bat when the stars are at their peak? AEW have never really been in this position before, but the Jericho-Moxley title trajectory would suggest that one or both of them might be touching the world title before the game is up.

For me, Hangman still has to be the guy to beat Omega. Maybe do that at the next PPV, the anniversary of their first match. Then Punk's got to go heel and run Straight Edge saviour against Hangman's anxious alcoholic cowboy. That's the money for me. Bryan can bounce about having wicked matches then eventually go on a "one last run" tour up to a title match, then go full Bob Backlund in defeat. The money is in eventually running both as heels and putting over Hangman, Jungle Boy and Darby.

Can they get booed by this crowd?

[Tainted Eclipse]

not right away, but the AEW crowd is very accommodating in giving the "right" reaction. after a good face run to start off where they get the chance to cheer for punk and danielson like they want to, with the right heel turn and the right program they will boo them i'm sure.

[Nash Diesel]

not right away, but the AEW crowd is very accommodating in giving the "right" reaction. after a good face run to start off where they get the chance to cheer for punk and danielson like they want to, with the right heel turn and the right program they will boo them i'm sure.

I'm trying to think of anyone who's actually successfully turned heel in this company. Matt Hardy? The Elite don't really get booed but I also wouldn't consider them on the god level of CM Punk or Daniel Bryan.

I think Darby could be someone the fans go along with a turn. Nut shot to Stingk, skateboard to the back of Daniel Bryan's melon soft skull.

[Fanny Batter]

Yeah they'll boo them. Both got great heat in WWE within a year of being outrageously over as faces. They're both too good at the role not to.

Has there ever been a bigger testament to bad WWE booking that THAT CM Punk turned heel on THAT John Cena a year after the Pipe Bomb? Book that year properly and Cena turns heel to desperately win his title back from Punk and you build to Cena vs. Punk 3 at Wrestlemania 29. Brock vs. Rock in the co-main, Undertaker vs. Jericho, count the money. The most nonsense Wrestlemania of all time. Used The Rock and Brock Lesnar's first few matches in 8 years to put over John Cena and Triple H :lol:.

[Morrison]

as much as everyone has been chomping at the bit for punk to return, there is without a doubt an underlying resentment underneath it all that could be tapped into for a heel turn.

beyond that, aew has been pretty good at booking and building their faces properly, so the crowd is actually willing to boo and jeer the heels.

[Fanny Batter]

They book smart TV too. It's pretty clear to me that Christian's eventually turning on Jungle Boy for example, but they're in no rush and will feel impactful when it happens. Realistically if Full Gear is, say:

Omega defending against Hangman Page
Miro defending against Moxley
Punk vs. Black in a #1 Contender's bout
Danielson vs. MJF
Christian defending against Jungle Boy
Young Bucks defending against Allin/Sting
Britt defending against Thunder Rosa

Then you do the biggest non- WWE big 4 buy rate since Brock's return maybe?

[Hero!]

If my erection has been lasting for more than four hours should I watch this live?

[Defrost]

I would recommend the emergency room for that

[Hero!]

No time, it’s almost Phil o’clock

[Bert]

No time, it’s almost Phil o’clock

http://stillrealtous.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/punk-1.gif

[chatty]

I dunno who I'd put them in a feud with off the bat tbh. I'd imagine they'll probably just go for Punk v Omega and hope he's able to go without too long getting rid of the rust.

MJF could take a loss now but he's got so much heat I'm not sure it's the right time yet. Think there's more money on building him a bit longer.

You have Black but that seems way too early.

Cody heel turn could work but no idea when he's back, if he's gonna continue with Black and losing on his turn prob ain't a good idea.

Could do Miro but again feels like he's just getting on a good run.

Maybes any of PAC/Penta/Fenix as they can give you a great match but have no real push to lose.

Quite interested to see which way they go, roster is full of faces since in the last year all of Inner Circle, Brian Cage, Dark Order, Lance Archer have all turned face.

I'm still not sure whether Death Triangle are faces or heels, they seem to change every few weeks.

[mr sabu]

don't really give a shit about punks return

i will how ever tune in once bryan shows up

[VHS]

I can't remember the last time WWE had the kind of buzz AEW has going into tonight's show. Fingers crossed they nail this. Nobody is giving any thought about Smackdown tonight.

[Bert]

https://youtu.be/7-ojK2tyF34

[Jarrod1983]

Ok I'll check it out. I can get TNT with Sling app so I'm in. Very curious about Punk.

[Tim]

Im super curious to see Punk but none of these potential matches are wetting my appetite. Maybe Punk or Bryan can take one of the AEW’s guys and make them mainstream or into their Flair or Sting (and no Darby and his daisy dukes and stockings isn’t the next Sting).

[Morrison]

or into their Flair or Sting (and no Darby and his daisy dukes and stockings isn’t the next Sting).

what does this even mean?

[Hero!]

what does this even mean?

dum dum shit

[Bert]

https://youtu.be/6du36kkpotc

LESS THAN FIFTEEN MINUTES.

[Bert]

3 MINUTES

[Jarrod1983]

Oh yeah, crowd is ready! I've been following Punk since his RoH days. It's very exciting to have him back.

[Tainted Eclipse]

picked up a bottle of pepsi for the occasion

[Stocky]

Lets Go!!!

[Bert]

UP NEXT

[Bert]

HOLY SHIT THAT POP

[Stocky]

Best kept secret!!

[Hero!]

ITS CLOBBERING TIIIIMEMMEJEJENEN!!!!

[Jarrod1983]

He looks ready to go!!!!

I love how Vince doesn't own Cult of Personality so it gets used here.

[Tainted Eclipse]

the pop lived up to the hype thats for sure

[Stocky]

Getting that emotional look edge had.

[JuveLeo]

BAHHHH GAWDDDD

[Tainted Eclipse]

that was incredible

[Jarrod1983]

Punk's as over in Chicago as Al Bundy.

[JuveLeo]

Man, I haven't been this pumped since probably The Rock came back in 2011

[Tainted Eclipse]

couldn't possibly have been better

[VHS]

Incredible :yes:

[Defrost]

Honestly I got the snake biting the old man vibes off that promo. I think he may be heel sooner than you'd think.

[Jarrod1983]

That made my arm hair stand up. Great segment.

[Hero!]

Perfect.

[Jarrod1983]

Honestly I got the snake biting the old man vibes off that promo. I think he may be heel sooner than you'd think.

Heel or face just glad he's back.

[Bert]

Literal chills man.

[Stocky]

Dark Knight returns old man batman promo.

[mr sabu]

lets see how punk moves the needle in the rating for this ep of rampage.. im guessing 1.4 mil

[kdestiny]

Getting that emotional look edge had.

Exactly my thoughts.

[JuveLeo]

Can't wait for that new show featuring Cody and Brandy..........

[Jarrod1983]

Cargill looks like a jacked Lisa Turtle. She's in shape. Never seen her before. Match was short but liked what I saw.

[JuveLeo]

Cargill definitely has the look, but still very green. I think she can become a huge star if she works on her ring ability though.

[Jarrod1983]

Moxley's tune is Wild Thing? Major League awesomeness.

[Stocky]

With all these theme songs its like AEW: The Musical tonight.

[Bert]

With all these theme songs its like AEW: The Musical tonight.

Just missing Orange Cassidy.

[BGMaverick]

Incredibly pristine rollout for Punk. The moment felt huge and everything about it came out aces. The moment now sets the standard for quote unquote moments for AEW, and is right up there with some of the best in wrestling altogether. Goes without saying that he had the crowd in the palm of his hands. He spoke his mind and aired his grievances in a crafty way, and spun things forward in a way that created excitement. The way Allin was revealed was fantastic and the camerawork for most of this was framed quite well.

Needle moved.

[Hero!]

Allin’s face paint tonight was superb.

[nick p]

the only thing that compares to CM Punk joining AEW is when Hogan went to WCW in 1994

[mth]

Punk's debut was awesome. Hell of a moment. Crowd was loud and hyped AF and the man just basked in it and felt it. Promo was pretty good, too. Good on ya, AEW.

[HHHnFoley_Rulez]

The reaction was..... unbelievable.

I just wish Vicky Guerrero had introduced him.

[Ringo]

That was special. Perfect debut for CM PUNK IN AEW, rest of the show was enjoyable too. Punk/Allin seems like a good choice for Punk's first match.

[Tyson]

HOLY SHIT THAT POP


that was incredible


Incredible :yes:


That made my arm hair stand up. Great segment.

Co-sign on all of this. That pop was fucking insane.

I was ambivalent towards Punk’s AEW debut, am definitely curious now to see how this plays out. If given an open mic and the desire to put people over, Phil Brooks should have some executives in Stamford absolutely shitting themselves; the rub Darby got by being the first person name dropped is/was career changing. If this is what it takes for that big company to pull its head out of its ass, I’m all for it.

Can someone explain how he’s allowed to use the name/merch/theme song, aren’t those trademarked by WWE? They’re usually pretty cognizant of getting ownership of important details like that.

[Badger]

What a pop for the dude. Cool that they’re still using Cult of Personality for his theme.

[virms]

Co-sign on all of this. That pop was fucking insane.

I was ambivalent towards Punk’s AEW debut, am definitely curious now to see how this plays out. If given an open mic and the desire to put people over, Phil Brooks should have some executives in Stamford absolutely shitting themselves; the rub Darby got by being the first person name dropped is/was career changing. If this is what it takes for that big company to pull its head out of its ass, I’m all for it.

Can someone explain how he’s allowed to use the name/merch/theme song, aren’t those trademarked by WWE? They’re usually pretty cognizant of getting ownership of important details like that.

The name is his. He's had it forever. The song belongs to In Living Color who is all about punk using it as a theme. I'm guessing punk negotiated one hell of a contract with wwe and his designs are his and his alone. I'm sure we will find out Monday or Tuesday where the wwe feels they are at with the merch. The name and theme they have zero rights to.

Last minute edit: wwe had to pay in living color money to play that song on TV. I would imagine punk will have a generic theme on the network sooner than later.

[WWXChairman]

Looks like the biggest mistake was cancelling WWE Backstage. Not sure this would have been able to happen if that show still existed.

[Hero!]

It would have. Punk never worked for WWE, he worked for FOX.

[virms]

Looks like the biggest mistake was cancelling WWE Backstage. Not sure this would have been able to happen if that show still existed.

Sure it could have. Punk was signed to fox and not wwe so there would be no issue going to aew when his contract ended. That show was year to year as far as I remember but I doubt it had a specific clause in it that said he couldn't wrestle.

[Bert]

I heard on a podcast and it sounded like true info but could be made up that the Punk WWE backstage deal was supposed to lead to him coming back to WWE but WWE originally said to Fox that he wanted too much money and Fox said pay what you feel he's worth and we'll pay the rest because they wanted him on Smackdown. WWE then came back and said they actually just didn't want to have to deal with him being in the locker room so no deal ever happened. I'm personally much happier to see him in AEW, especially with Danielson coming soon.

[Badger]

https://www.webisjericho.com/cm-punk-ice-cream-bar-wrappers-selling-on-ebay-following-his-aew-debut/

:lol:

[Bert]

People selling the "I was there" shirt for tons on ebay.

I don't know why you'd want it besides to resell eventually, you weren't there.

Meanwhile shopaew is still being so hammered that I can't even buy the regular shirt.


https://youtu.be/XM8xcyPAxXw

[Hero!]

Collectors items are a big market, my guys. People buy ticket stubs and event-exclusive shit all the time

[Bert]

https://youtu.be/qrmzwjcQt_g

I just love Simon Miller.

[Morrison]

The name is his. He's had it forever. The song belongs to In Living Color who is all about punk using it as a theme. I'm guessing punk negotiated one hell of a contract with wwe and his designs are his and his alone. I'm sure we will find out Monday or Tuesday where the wwe feels they are at with the merch. The name and theme they have zero rights to.

Last minute edit: wwe had to pay in living color money to play that song on TV. I would imagine punk will have a generic theme on the network sooner than later.

most of his designs are just the flag of chicago and generic sxe symbology. wwe can't own it.

[Bert]

https://twitter.com/WrestlingWCC/status/1428946147721334784?s=19

[Tainted Eclipse]

i've watched punk's entrance on youtube definitely more than 10 times today

[Romford Pele]

Fuck that was amazing , what a fucking pop.

[Bert]

i've watched punk's entrance on youtube definitely more than 10 times today

Oh ok, so it's not just me. Phew.

[Jarrod1983]

Watched it a few times for sure today.

It's definitely taken the little zing I had off of SummerSlam.

[Bert]

If anyone is still wanting the new ringer shirt I was able to get one from prowrestlingtees.com like an hour ago. Hopefully it's here by All Out but I'm doubting it lol.

[WWXChairman]

Sure it could have. Punk was signed to fox and not wwe so there would be no issue going to aew when his contract ended.

Well yeah, but we're not talking about that. We're talking about before his contract ended.

[virms]

Well yeah, but we're not talking about that. We're talking about before his contract ended.

We have no idea what that contract entailed. It wasn't a wrestling contract so it's safe to say he could have done both and Punk actually came out and said they have been negotiating the deal for years now. That would tell me he wasn't tied down exclusively to fox. I mean not only did he do movies in that time frame but when you have an exclusive contract with someone like wwe you typically can't negotiate other deals until your contract is up.

[Supernovametalstar]

For me, Hangman still has to be the guy to beat Omega. Maybe do that at the next PPV, the anniversary of their first match. Then Punk's got to go heel and run Straight Edge saviour against Hangman's anxious alcoholic cowboy. That's the money for me. Bryan can bounce about having wicked matches then eventually go on a "one last run" tour up to a title match, then go full Bob Backlund in defeat. The money is in eventually running both as heels and putting over Hangman, Jungle Boy and Darby.

This is the logical choice, I think. Hangman is one of the "AEW Originals", and the ending to Omega logically suits this. As does a fued with Punk in the manner you described. I fear it might run a little too close to what Punk and Jericho did, but I bet they could make it worthwhile without feeling like a retread.

After seeing that reaction for Punk, I don't think there's any way he's not a face for at least a year. I dare say JR was right, that was Jordan-esque. AEW is shining like a bright star right now, so let's hope they don't burn out fast like one, too.

[Supernovametalstar]

Two things I wanted to add:
Jurassic Express and Private Party are insane, and I hope no one got hurt. Some of the moves they were doing made me audibly say "shit" when I saw them.
I like that Justin Roberts had a different variation for announcing JE as winners. Every ring announcement doesn't have to be long and drawn out or monotone and standard. I like that bit of playful variety he added there. Minor, I know. But sometimes it's the little things.

[xizor]

His 269 other posts determine that is a lie. Looks like this is first post since 2014 though.


EFed was my jam. Its the first actual question related to wrestling. BUT, you are right... I lied. lol. I just wanted to fit in...... ;). I enjoyed CM Punks debut. It just feels like whatever for me. The people loved it and the pop was nice, but what is next? I feel the same for Brock at SummerSlam. It does make you interested but at the end of the day whats next? People are interested but WWE gets so much shit for relying on older talent, but AEW does not..... It just feels cool to shit on WWE, but from a casual fan the product is not that bad. I just wonder what Punk brings when he isnt held back or suppressed. It was fun to watch but is it going to be compelling TV for months/years? He already mentioned WWE in a jaded way.... Who freaking cares after 7 years and why have anger?

[Bert]

EFed was my jam. Its the first actual question related to wrestling. BUT, you are right... I lied. lol. I just wanted to fit in...... ;). I enjoyed CM Punks debut. It just feels like whatever for me. The people loved it and the pop was nice, but what is next? I feel the same for Brock at SummerSlam. It does make you interested but at the end of the day whats next? People are interested but WWE gets so much shit for relying on older talent, but AEW does not..... It just feels cool to shit on WWE, but from a casual fan the product is not that bad. I just wonder what Punk brings when he isnt held back or suppressed. It was fun to watch but is it going to be compelling TV for months/years? He already mentioned WWE in a jaded way.... Who freaking cares after 7 years and why have anger?

It's all good dude. I'm not trying to scare you away, the more people posting the better. AEW uses their older talent better is the largely held opinion, I believe. Their older talent are also capable of more than 5 minute matches which helps with public opinion. Did you like Summerslam? What did you like about it? How do you feel about Bianca losing in like 2 minutes ala Kofi with Brock.

He didn't mention WWE by name he just said he was sick. He actually made a point of talking about pro wrestling and leaving pro wrestling when he left ROH and I've actually seen people upset about him ignoring including WWE in that, even though we all know it's "sports entertainment." It kind of seems like he can't win. Either he mentions WWE too much or not enough. Also, if you didn't listen to the Art of Wrestling podcast you should because the doctor for WWE was totally negligent and he could have died from improper treatment. Add to that not being allowed any time off, getting your release papers on your wedding day, and being sued for talking about the improper treatment on a podcast which he ended up spending tons of money on because he was fighting a billion dollar company and I think you would be a little jaded too. It still seems like he's largely focused on moving forward, being positive, and giving back. He didn't want to talk about anything negative on the post show media scrum when people were asking how he was getting along with people he may have had issues with in the past for instance.

[WWXChairman]

We have no idea what that contract entailed..

Exactly, that’s why I said we can’t be sure.

[BGMaverick]

Ol' Meltzer couldn't help himself with that qualifier at the end in regards to Punk's reaction: "It was awesome. I thought it was one of the loudest reactions I've ever seen...as far as an American wrestling show went."

[Bert]

https://i.imgur.com/p2yzQm5.jpg

[Jarrod1983]

It's all good dude. I'm not trying to scare you away, the more people posting the better. AEW uses their older talent better is the largely held opinion, I believe. Their older talent are also capable of more than 5 minute matches which helps with public opinion. Did you like Summerslam? What did you like about it? How do you feel about Bianca losing in like 2 minutes ala Kofi with Brock.

He didn't mention WWE by name he just said he was sick. He actually made a point of talking about pro wrestling and leaving pro wrestling when he left ROH and I've actually seen people upset about him ignoring including WWE in that, even though we all know it's "sports entertainment." It kind of seems like he can't win. Either he mentions WWE too much or not enough. Also, if you didn't listen to the Art of Wrestling podcast you should because the doctor for WWE was totally negligent and he could have died from improper treatment. Add to that not being allowed any time off, getting your release papers on your wedding day, and being sued for talking about the improper treatment on a podcast which he ended up spending tons of money on because he was fighting a billion dollar company and I think you would be a little jaded too. It still seems like he's largely focused on moving forward, being positive, and giving back. He didn't want to talk about anything negative on the post show media scrum when people were asking how he was getting along with people he may have had issues with in the past for instance.

Yeah with everything he's gone through I thought Punk looked healthy and seemed ready to go. Can't wait for his in ring return.

[Nash Diesel]

Pretty dope. The stage dive was the highlight. I'm digging that his first match (I assume) will be Darby @ the ppv. I also dig that Punk said he didn't really go above and beyond training, still going to do the same stuff that brought him to the dance. I'm wondering if he'll incorporate more of what he learned while training with Duke Roufus, maybe a little more polished striking.

[virms]

Rating for rampage is looking to be 1.16 million viewers. Up 57%

[Nash Diesel]

Rating for rampage is looking to be 1.16 million viewers. Up 57%

I'm curious how much of an increase we'll see with Dynamite. I'm very interested to see how they build toward him v. Darby.

[Tyson]

Going to be interesting to see how Darby works this.

The hardcore fans, please feel free to correct me. Based on the AEW thread, Allin has been booked to-date as a strong face and here he’s definitely not the more popular of the two. When you watched him in the rafters during Punk’s reveal/speech, he didn’t look overly enthused or enthralled; even during his one minute promo, he didn’t portray the fanboy “Happy to see Punk in AEW” vibes.

I’ll be tuning in Wednesday.

[Sasori]

Darby's usually understated like that. He's more fired up in the ring.

[Bert]

PWInsider is saying Cole didn't re-sign with WWE and the Young Bucks have a new bio about seances, he was killed off on BTE. It will be nuts if we see him on Dynamite on Wednesday.

[Dreyski]

Cornette on Punk's entrance:
"It wasn't the way I would have done it. It was actually a lot better. It was perfect."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2gAToqXvmlM

[Dreyski]

i've watched punk's entrance on youtube definitely more than 10 times today

The thing that struck me most recently was that the commentators didn't say a word for almost the first two minutes, which really added to the occasion. Can't see Vince allowing Cole etc. to do the same in similar circumstances.

[chatty]

Going to be interesting to see how Darby works this.

The hardcore fans, please feel free to correct me. Based on the AEW thread, Allin has been booked to-date as a strong face and here he’s definitely not the more popular of the two. When you watched him in the rafters during Punk’s reveal/speech, he didn’t look overly enthused or enthralled; even during his one minute promo, he didn’t portray the fanboy “Happy to see Punk in AEW” vibes.

I’ll be tuning in Wednesday.

He's basically booked like a half sized Sting, mysterious type character. But more emphasis on being hardcore and taking mad bumps, plucky underdog emo.

[Nash Diesel]

The thing that struck me most recently was that the commentators didn't say a word for almost the first two minutes, which really added to the occasion. Can't see Vince allowing Cole etc. to do the same in similar circumstances.

He allows it all the time. 2 weeks ago on Smackdown we sat through 20-30 minutes of Cena and Roman talking without hearing Michael and Pat.

[Defrost]

Gabe's burner account went nuts on Adam Cole and then was deleted. So he's totally headed here.

[Bert]

Gabe's burner account went nuts on Adam Cole and then was deleted. So he's totally headed here.
Gabe Sapolsky? What did he say? How do you know it was his burner account?

Also,
https://i.imgur.com/PYpfNQU.jpg

[Nash Diesel]

Game changer (related to Adam Cole's signing)

[Hero!]

Gabe's burner account went nuts on Adam Cole and then was deleted. So he's totally headed here.

which account was the burner?

[Nash Diesel]

Bobby Lashley asked "Who's Next?" I don't see why the answer shouldn't be Adam Cole.

[Hero!]

AEW Rampage on TNT Friday was watched by 1,129,000 viewers total.
P18-49: 692,000 (0.53), higher than all but the debut episode of Dynamite in 2019.

[BGMaverick]

Very solid number.

[PurePlayer]

love the idiots on twitter celebrating smackdown having better numbers when it's at 8pm on fox.

[Nash Diesel]

love the idiots on twitter celebrating smackdown having better numbers when it's at 8pm on fox.

As opposed to the idiots bragging every week that 1 million+ is a great number?

Perspective. We're supposed to take AEW getting 1.3 million as a great number but we should shit on Smackdown for getting 2.2?

I mean, you guys wanted a war, back in 1997-1998 you would've been on the AOL chats doing the same thing. IWC for life!

[Nash Diesel]

AEW Rampage on TNT Friday was watched by 1,129,000 viewers total.
P18-49: 692,000 (0.53), higher than all but the debut episode of Dynamite in 2019.

1.3 for the first quarter with Punk. The rest of the card fucking sucked I was pissed I sat through it thinking maybe something more would happen with Punk.

[Bert]

As opposed to the idiots bragging every week that 1 million+ is a great number?

Perspective. We're supposed to take AEW getting 1.3 million as a great number but we should shit on Smackdown for getting 2.2?

I mean, you guys wanted a war, back in 1997-1998 you would've been on the AOL chats doing the same thing. IWC for life!

Is it time for you to make up ratings that TNA never had again?

[Nash Diesel]

Prelim numbers for Smackdown were 2.2 million viewers in case anyone was curious.

[PurePlayer]

As opposed to the idiots bragging every week that 1 million+ is a great number?

Perspective. We're supposed to take AEW getting 1.3 million as a great number but we should shit on Smackdown for getting 2.2?

I mean, you guys wanted a war, back in 1997-1998 you would've been on the AOL chats doing the same thing. IWC for life!

I am not saying any of those things. just saying to compare the two is what is stupid though.

[Dreyski]

He allows it all the time. 2 weeks ago on Smackdown we sat through 20-30 minutes of Cena and Roman talking without hearing Michael and Pat.
In ring promos are a bit different than walking down the entrance aisle, but I think you knew that. Check out Lesnar showing up again, and Cole's reaction to it.

[Nash Diesel]

In ring promos are a bit different than walking down the entrance aisle, but I think you knew that. Check out Lesnar showing up again, and Cole's reaction to it.

Lesnar wasn't gone for 7 years.

[Nash Diesel]

I am not saying any of those things. just saying to compare the two is what is stupid though.

Why not? AEW fans constantly compare the 18-49 demographic ratings being higher than Raw. Yet their overall ratings are less. Despite what Squirt thinks, that is a real thing that happens. Demo God for example.

I get that it hurts when WWE smarks shit on AEW smarks but it's going to happen.

[PurePlayer]

Why not? AEW fans constantly compare the 18-49 demographic ratings being higher than Raw. Yet their overall ratings are less. Despite what Squirt thinks, that is a real thing that happens. Demo God for example.

I get that it hurts when WWE smarks shit on AEW smarks but it's going to happen.

The Raw and Dynamite shows are in the same timeslot but different day and neither are on broadcast tv. That is an even playing field.

Here one show is on 8pm on Fox and the other is a brand new show at 10pm on a Friday. Big difference.

[Nash Diesel]

The Raw and Dynamite shows are in the same timeslot but different day and neither are on broadcast tv. That is an even playing field.

Here one show is on 8pm on Fox and the other is a brand new show at 10pm on a Friday. Big difference.

Whatever excuse you want to use.

[Bert]

Tell us more about how good TNA ratings were. Hello? Is this thing on?

[Nash Diesel]

Hero!

https://memegenerator.net/img/instances/58248907.jpg

[Bert]

I just enjoy pointing out when people make shit up to back their argument, like those TNA ratings you said were competing with RAW.

[Nash Diesel]

PurePlayer I take what I said back. You're right. It's not fair to compare Smackdown and Rampage when looking at how you compare Raw and Dynamite. I can get on that wavelength for this discussion.

I will also say that whether you're on Fox, USA, TNT, people will tune in if the product is good. You're going to see fans go to bat for WWE even if they're big AEW fans. For me there have been a couple times where I was like, if I post something negative do I want to waste my time today defending my points? That's not just about this thread, I didn't win any new friends shitting on Nikki ASH. Or wanting to wait a couple more days before I shit on WWE's booking of Summerslam (why are we not talking about Lashley v. Goldberg's finish????????????????????????????????????????)





Prelim numbers for Smackdown were 2.2 million viewers in case anyone was curious.


This final number is down 6.03% from the overnight viewership that was released on Saturday morning, which was an average of 2.237 million viewers. This number is up 0.86% from last week’s final SmackDown viewership of 2.084 million viewers.

[Nash Diesel]

You know what really bothers me is that Adam Cole is going to AEW instead of Raw to dethrone Lashley. It's the kind of shift in not only the in-ring style but the visual. If you can't see Adam Cole as the WWE champion working with Drew, AJ Styles, and many others I guess we'll see what happens in AEW.

Could HE lead the Dark Order?

[Defrost]

which account was the burner?

That fake Kobashi stan one

[Bert]

https://youtu.be/kjWoThIDLTU

[HHHnFoley_Rulez]

TV production seems intense... I wonder what Kevin Dunn shouts... "3 - 2 - 3 - 2 - 3 - 2 -3 - 2 - 3... ok and cut away whilst they do a move, beautiful."

...I presume he handles that shit, anyway. They never seem that busy when the heel goes in to shout at them for playing a VT.

[Bert]

It's fascinating and something I would never want to do.

The guy was breathing heavy before they even started.

[BGMaverick]

It's fascinating and something I would never want to do.

The guy was breathing heavy before they even started.

I would love doing that job haha.

[Bert]

I would love doing that job haha.

You wouldn't be able to focus on the wrestling and stories going on at all though.

[VHS]

TV production seems intense... I wonder what Kevin Dunn shouts... "3 - 2 - 3 - 2 - 3 - 2 -3 - 2 - 3... ok and cut away whilst they do a move, beautiful."

...I presume he handles that shit, anyway. They never seem that busy when the heel goes in to shout at them for playing a VT.

I wouldn't be surprised if Dunn uses software that automatically thinks which camera to cut to and when. Because the amount of times WWE has missed or degraded moments because of the amount of cuts they do is astounding. It feels like the show is run artificially most of the time.

[Morrison]

that danielson tease from punk was fucking perfect.

[Bert]

that danielson tease from punk was fucking perfect.

I came here to say this.

[JuveLeo]

Billy Gunn looks ridiculous for his age. Dude has to be pushing 60 and it an absolute tank.

[Nash Diesel]

Billy Gunn looks ridiculous for his age. Dude has to be pushing 60 and it an absolute tank.

Genetics and juice. Obviously dude takes care of his body but that juice definitely helps.

He needs to work with Mox on getting him back in shape that dude looks like shit. Don't even try to blame the kid.

[Sasori]

Black took Cody's entrance. Brilliant.

[Defrost]

That was certainly two hours of TV

[BGMaverick]

You wouldn't be able to focus on the wrestling and stories going on at all though.

Agree to disagree lol.

That segment in the video above is not the same as a match, right? The spotlight video above shows he's working off a set calling for the shots while watching all the cameras at once where they're actively seeking out reactions. Don't get me wrong, it'd be stressful but I feel that situation is much more frantic. This was a completely wild environment, where they had no idea what was going to happen. I imagine most entrances are relatively routine, because you don’t have a crowd losing their minds like this one. Same goes for most matches. You’re generally cutting between three or four cameras the entire time, not ten of them, and you also kind of know what to expect. The space is more compact because you are pretty confined to working within the scope of where the performers are.

Also, that director’s putting trust in the camera operators. For example, the crying guy is noticed by the person running the camera, the director notices it, and calls for it to be put on air. You don’t hear a lot of direction being given to the people running the cameras. He’ll tell them to go wide or to get in tighter but that’s about it.

I’d say he went a little too heavy on cuts sometimes but he found a lot of gold because the shots could just breathe. You can just see it. You also know when you see crap. It's like an Offensive Line/Lineman in football. If they're doing their job, you don't notice them. If they screw up, you see it from a mile away.

There’s so much attention to detail to it, and he needs to keep a clear view of what shot would be best at any given moment. That kind of stuff excites me so I don't have the same concerns as you lol.

[mth]

Loved the "Yes" chant and response/Bryan tease from Punk. :yes:

[Ringo]

An unusually dull episode of Dynamite at a time where a lot of eyes are on the product. Feel like they should've gone the extra mile to really grab some of the more casual viewers but it actually went the other way. Still, some solid stuff and was cool to see Punk again. The Bryan tease was a great moment. Kind of looking forward to getting All Out out of the way (Punk's return match aside) so we can move on to some fresher, more interesting stuff.

[JuveLeo]

Genetics and juice. Obviously dude takes care of his body but that juice definitely helps.

He needs to work with Mox on getting him back in shape that dude looks like shit. Don't even try to blame the kid.

Oh, I know he's on the sauce lol. Still pretty impressive at his age though.

Yeah, Mox and Eddie Kingston lol

[Nash Diesel]

Oh, I know he's on the sauce lol. Still pretty impressive at his age though.

Yeah, Mox and Eddie Kingston lol

Mox looks like he gets drunk off his ass before every match. Man it feels like he fell the fuck off the map. I feel like Mox might turn heel on Darby and Sting, why else would he be working against Ever Rise for the last few weeks?

Billy Gunn's son is undefeated, 24-0, zero title shots. Whassupwitdat?

[Badger]

Only bring up rankings (besides the pre-match graphics) when it’s convenient for storylines lol.

He could at least be more cannon fodder for Miro though since he’s faced mostly nobodies in his reign so far though.

[Nash Diesel]

Only bring up rankings (besides the pre-match graphics) when it’s convenient for storylines lol.

He could at least be more cannon fodder for Miro though since he’s faced mostly nobodies in his reign so far though.

Why do all the sons of former wrestlers look like assholes? Billy Gunn Jr, Brock Anderson, Cody, Brian Pillman Jr, they should all be heels but they're all babyfaces.

[VHS]

The images of Wheeler's arm, man. I've never seen that happen to someone, holy shit. Hope he's only teasing about this being the end of the road and he makes it back soon.

[PurePlayer]

The images of Wheeler's arm, man. I've never seen that happen to someone, holy shit. Hope he's only teasing about this being the end of the road and he makes it back soon.

aren't they wrestling next week?

[Nash Diesel]

aren't they wrestling next week?

Yeah but he also tweeted something yesterday that implied he might be done but I don't think that's what he truly meant.

[Bert]

The images of Wheeler's arm, man. I've never seen that happen to someone, holy shit. Hope he's only teasing about this being the end of the road and he makes it back soon.

https://twitter.com/CashWheelerFTR/status/1430713639401578496?s=19

Yeah. Ow.

[Sasori]

An unusually dull episode of Dynamite at a time where a lot of eyes are on the product. Feel like they should've gone the extra mile to really grab some of the more casual viewers but it actually went the other way. Still, some solid stuff and was cool to see Punk again. The Bryan tease was a great moment. Kind of looking forward to getting All Out out of the way (Punk's return match aside) so we can move on to some fresher, more interesting stuff.

According to people who were there, they taped Dark, Dynamite, and Rampage in the same night. The opinion is that they didn't want to load up Dynamite and burn out the fans before taping Rampage.

[Nash Diesel]

According to people who were there, they taped Dark, Dynamite, and Rampage in the same night. The opinion is that they didn't want to load up Dynamite and burn out the fans before taping Rampage.

Shit if they taped Dark that's 13 matches right there.

[Bert]

Back over a million for Dynamite.

[mr sabu]

Good number..

Expected a bit higher (1.4) but still a good number.

Once bryan debuts ill watch aew more.

[virms]

Watched my first aew show last night. There are definitely people that shouldn't be on TV yet so maybe with this influx of talent they can shift someghings around to get a pure solid show from top to bottom.

Moxley is morphing into bully ray.

That tall Billy Gunn kid looks older than his dad.

Punk making that Bryan reference :heart:

Black is a billion times better in aew. A billion.

It's so bizarre to see Christian in the main event picture. I almost feel guilty enjoying it due to how he was treated for decades in the wwe.

I think jericho looks like he's about to die. God he looks terrible and he just doesn't have the same energy as a face. Maybe he's doing that as part of the angle. Dunno.

Paul Wight sounded really out of it as well.

[Nash Diesel]

Watched my first aew show last night. There are definitely people that shouldn't be on TV yet so maybe with this influx of talent they can shift someghings around to get a pure solid show from top to bottom.

Moxley is morphing into bully ray.

That tall Billy Gunn kid looks older than his dad.

Punk making that Bryan reference :heart:

Black is a billion times better in aew. A billion.

It's so bizarre to see Christian in the main event picture. I almost feel guilty enjoying it due to how he was treated for decades in the wwe.

I think jericho looks like he's about to die. God he looks terrible and he just doesn't have the same energy as a face. Maybe he's doing that as part of the angle. Dunno.

Paul Wight sounded really out of it as well.

Moxley=Bully Ray lol. Moxley is my favorite AEW wrestler pre-CM Punk but he has looked like shit since his wife got pregnant.

[Tempest]

Not watched Dynamite for ages. Lost interest in all wrestling shows when they were crowdless to be honest and stuck to recaps. Punk pulled me back.

I giggled when Punk went to walk out down the middle. I love that he's back and have watched his return entrance about a billion times already. I think this is the paint by numbers build up (which is fine by me) after his return, but the best is obviously yet to come.

On Moxley: I haven't seen him for a couple of months to be honest but he looks like he has lost all interest since I last saw him. Plus I fucking hate that 'Wild thing' theme.

Oh and Jericho. He was why I got hooked. I have seen bits of him recently and he has looked like time is catching up. But I do think part of that is that faces tend to try and be more spirited than heels by nature and he can't do that anymore. But then he can do no wrong for me

[Badger]

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQU4bcoX0rQsoQcUJbGvtXwBXzzSig92 ZPO-w&usqp=CAU

[Tempest]

That made me feel like when my mother used to be waiting up to shout at me when I'd sneak into the house hammered.

[Badger]

Just need Rabbi to come back and we’re all sorted.

Good to see you back bud if albeit just a cameo x

[Tempest]

I often lurk, but I've been bored with the products for a good while now and rarely feel it worth commenting on.

Plus I post on my phone when I do and autocorrect makes me spend more time editing than when I used to drunk post

[VHS]

Always good to see you around, Tempest.

Punk joining AEW swiveled me too, and my attention is now almost fully on AEW. It's been a long, long time since it felt like things were brewing and stewing. They've done a great job not spoiling the moments by letting it breathe and letting Punk just... do his thing. They're baking this cake to perfection.

[xizor]

It's all good dude. I'm not trying to scare you away, the more people posting the better. AEW uses their older talent better is the largely held opinion, I believe. Their older talent are also capable of more than 5 minute matches which helps with public opinion. Did you like Summerslam? What did you like about it? How do you feel about Bianca losing in like 2 minutes ala Kofi with Brock.

He didn't mention WWE by name he just said he was sick. He actually made a point of talking about pro wrestling and leaving pro wrestling when he left ROH and I've actually seen people upset about him ignoring including WWE in that, even though we all know it's "sports entertainment." It kind of seems like he can't win. Either he mentions WWE too much or not enough. Also, if you didn't listen to the Art of Wrestling podcast you should because the doctor for WWE was totally negligent and he could have died from improper treatment. Add to that not being allowed any time off, getting your release papers on your wedding day, and being sued for talking about the improper treatment on a podcast which he ended up spending tons of money on because he was fighting a billion dollar company and I think you would be a little jaded too. It still seems like he's largely focused on moving forward, being positive, and giving back. He didn't want to talk about anything negative on the post show media scrum when people were asking how he was getting along with people he may have had issues with in the past for instance.


Way late response and I wouldn't get scared away. You are right, no mention by name, but his promo was geared towards his grievances with WWE. We have all listened to his interviews or read his view point. I think at this point, especially when he says he is long in the teeth and not as angry, why even touch on it? Wrestling fans know why he left. Your peace is done, fuck WWE. It just becomes so redundant to bash the WWE as if it wasn't a place that made you money, promoted you as a top guy, and gave you everything you wanted when you held them up for money. Your main issue was never closing a Wrestlemania or having an ice cream bar? Seriously? It just comes off as a entitled and not sure its warranted. The guy can draw, no doubt, but is he the mega star he thinks he is? Time will tell. I have a question is CM Punk the must see new addition today with or without his time in WWE? To circle back, my opinion is it makes no sense to bash a place that you made quite a bit of money and created your platform with. WWE fucked up with Punk, fine, but lets also realize they help as many of their current and former talent as possible with personal issues. Some of the shit Punk went through might because of how he deals with situations. I was never a CM Punk fan, but I am interested in what he can do for AEW and its fun to see the fans this excited for wrestling.

I edited this post realizing I didn't answer your questions.

I have a hard time with Sting, I watch him no sell a two person power bomb and double person scorpion deathlock with a 1 second tap... I don't know that AEW does older talent better then WWE and I feel AEW gets a pass compared to WWE. Sting moves just as bad as Goldberg and looks just as slow. I did enjoy Summerslam and will agree the whole show was not great, but I was entertained. I am kind of an old school wrestling fan and like the bigger than life wrestlers. Bianca losing quickly was questionable, but if the WWE can flesh out the storyline and create something good from it, then I have no problem, but if the goal is to have Becky Lynch run through the division I get the anger from fans. I don't get upset with booking decisions immediately, I wait to see the payoff and at the end if it becomes stupid or makes no sense, then yes I understand the frustrations. No wrestling company is exempt from stupid booking decisions, it just seems WWE is the only one that gets ran through a gauntlet for their choices.

[VHS]

Right on to all of that, Xizor. Dig your style.

Sting has always had this kind of... invincibility around him when he’s not wrestling. When he was taking down the NWO, he would no sell like he was God. Now, now that he’s older and doing the same thing sometimes... it begs one a little harder to switch their brain off.

[Donald]

Fun Fact:

The average age of wrestlers wrestling at All Out (2021) is 37 (not including pre show or the Young Bucks opponents who are TBD)

The average age of wrestlers who wrestled at SummerSlam (2021) is also 37 (not including pre show)

Oldest wrestler is Goldberg, youngest is Dominick Mysterio.

Also Charlotte is older than Jinder.

[Hero!]

Poor Fuego exists only to be killed each week.

[Badger]

Chalk to me maybe not knowing enough about his background but why has he been made a loser all the time? Is it just his shtick throughout his career or something?

Although sometimes losing streaks can work if there’s a big pay-off at the end when he finally does get a win (eg Barry Horowitz).

[Bert]

https://i.imgur.com/BLwVUWW.jpg

Makes sense. I already knew about the 2.0 and Gangrel part.

[Bert]

https://youtu.be/MdBK4GX_xDY

:lol: when Punk was saying Kazarian didn't know the right PPV.

[Hero!]

Chalk to me maybe not knowing enough about his background but why has he been made a loser all the time? Is it just his shtick throughout his career or something?

Although sometimes losing streaks can work if there’s a big pay-off at the end when he finally does get a win (eg Barry Horowitz).

he’s literally a jobber who came in during the pandemic tapings as a friend of Sammy. He takes a good ass kicking and endeared himself to the fans on BTE and Sammy’s Vlog. The big “storyline” of Dark was him finally hitting the Tornado DDT, which Cody built up as being this legendary move that no one could do like Fuego. So his 2 big spots have been the moment he hit the tornado ddt on QT and the crowd popped, and his 1 win against Ryzin. Crowd loves this bastard, he’s almost the AEW version of James Ellsworth or Colin Delaney. He’s Alabama’s most famous Luchador!

[chatty]

https://youtu.be/MdBK4GX_xDY

:lol: when Punk was saying Kazarian didn't know the right PPV.

It's weird seeing CM Punk as a smiley happy baby-face. I'm stoked for him as he genuinely seems to be in a good place, looks healthy and seems to be enjoying himself.

Think I miss pissed off angry grumpy Punk already though.

[chatty]

Way late response and I wouldn't get scared away. You are right, no mention by name, but his promo was geared towards his grievances with WWE. We have all listened to his interviews or read his view point. I think at this point, especially when he says he is long in the teeth and not as angry, why even touch on it? Wrestling fans know why he left. Your peace is done, fuck WWE. It just becomes so redundant to bash the WWE as if it wasn't a place that made you money, promoted you as a top guy, and gave you everything you wanted when you held them up for money. Your main issue was never closing a Wrestlemania or having an ice cream bar? Seriously? It just comes off as a entitled and not sure its warranted. The guy can draw, no doubt, but is he the mega star he thinks he is? Time will tell. I have a question is CM Punk the must see new addition today with or without his time in WWE? To circle back, my opinion is it makes no sense to bash a place that you made quite a bit of money and created your platform with. WWE fucked up with Punk, fine, but lets also realize they help as many of their current and former talent as possible with personal issues. Some of the shit Punk went through might because of how he deals with situations. I was never a CM Punk fan, but I am interested in what he can do for AEW and its fun to see the fans this excited for wrestling.

I edited this post realizing I didn't answer your questions.

I have a hard time with Sting, I watch him no sell a two person power bomb and double person scorpion deathlock with a 1 second tap... I don't know that AEW does older talent better then WWE and I feel AEW gets a pass compared to WWE. Sting moves just as bad as Goldberg and looks just as slow. I did enjoy Summerslam and will agree the whole show was not great, but I was entertained. I am kind of an old school wrestling fan and like the bigger than life wrestlers. Bianca losing quickly was questionable, but if the WWE can flesh out the storyline and create something good from it, then I have no problem, but if the goal is to have Becky Lynch run through the division I get the anger from fans. I don't get upset with booking decisions immediately, I wait to see the payoff and at the end if it becomes stupid or makes no sense, then yes I understand the frustrations. No wrestling company is exempt from stupid booking decisions, it just seems WWE is the only one that gets ran through a gauntlet for their choices.

Sting went over a couple of jobbers though, Goldberg has went over most of WWEs top talent including Broxk after he ended the streak, The Fiend when he was on the best run of his career and champion and Kevin Owens when he was champ and set to headline Mania.

The old dudes can still get wins but it how you do it. Goldberg a had a negative impact with his victories, Stings haven't.

[mr sabu]

bryan at all out..

prepare the final countdown

[Donald]

I'm just curious to know the reason Vince and company are just letting talent go without a care in the world. Letting talent go so easily. Guys like Miro, Matt Hardy, and Andrade I could see as not doing anything for AEW in terms of viewership grabs, but WWE should have done everything to keep Daniel Bryan, Bray Wyatt, and Aleister Black. Those guys are exciting.

I'm beginning to think that it may be WWE not being around in 5 years. Maybe Vince is preparing to sell and he's letting go enough talent that whoever takes over after him is going to fail.

[Nash Diesel]

I'm just curious to know the reason Vince and company are just letting talent go without a care in the world. Letting talent go so easily. Guys like Miro, Matt Hardy, and Andrade I could see as not doing anything for AEW in terms of viewership grabs, but WWE should have done everything to keep Daniel Bryan, Bray Wyatt, and Aleister Black. Those guys are exciting.

I'm beginning to think that it may be WWE not being around in 5 years. Maybe Vince is preparing to sell and he's letting go enough talent that whoever takes over after him is going to fail.

I think the WWE just realized they have an extremely bloated roster for one. For two I'm sure there were some releases that went beyond budget cuts. I also think some wrestlers just can't be bought by the WWE both financially and creatively. I'm sure they threw a lot of money at Daniel Bryan but what he wants to do with the rest of his career couldn't be done working for WWE. He had a 2nd chance at life in wrestling and in the twilight of his career he wants to end it the way he started it.

AEW has the money to pick up every Tom, Dick, Harry, and Sherry that they want, no matter what organization they're with. I also think that there are going to be moments in AEW just like in WWE where they go, fuck, we have too many people. WCW and TNA had the same exact problem. Go on the Network and go put on a Nitro from 1996-1997. The card has like one match that has any storyline whatsoever, usually the main event. Everything else is just thrown together, no story, just cold match after cold match because they had 200 people on the roster.

[Tyson]

I think the WWE just realized they have an extremely bloated roster for one.

Remember how, pre-pandemic, Vince handed out contracts/extensions to everyone under the sun? Well this is the end result.

The only two releases that I’ll never understand are Braun and Bray: two homegrown talents in the prime of their careers that moved merch, were legit names, had main events and title reigns on their resumes. The company spent a shitload of time and money building those two up, only to release them out of the blue like that? Latest rumour has Adam going to Impact; spending a year in the indies with his boys until somebody in Stamford picks up the phone is a decent option, I guess.

I totally understand Bryan walking away from WWE, you nailed it in your post.

[Nash Diesel]

Remember how, pre-pandemic, Vince handed out contracts/extensions to everyone under the sun? Well this is the end result.

The only two releases that I’ll never understand are Braun and Bray: two homegrown talents in the prime of their careers that moved merch, were legit names, had main events and title reigns on their resumes. The company spent a shitload of time and money building those two up, only to release them out of the blue like that? Latest rumour has Adam going to Impact; spending a year in the indies with his boys until somebody in Stamford picks up the phone is a decent option, I guess.

I totally understand Bryan walking away from WWE, you nailed it in your post.

After listening to this clip, Bray Wyatt's release doesn't come across too shocking and it's something I felt played a factor. The guy just isn't there. They've probably used the "He sells a ton of merch" excuse to the point where now it doesn't really matter. The WWE own that property anyway so anything moving forward, such as the new Christmas themed Fiend Funko Pop, they'll bank on it for eternity.

But listen to this and it does make sense. The creative issues, the injuries, all the time off in general....


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=orwMtazd08o

[WizoOzz]

Go on the Network and go put on a Nitro from 1996-1997. The card has like one match that has any storyline whatsoever, usually the main event. Everything else is just thrown together, no story, just cold match after cold match because they had 200 people on the roster.

Nope.

Before the Network was dumped into Peacock, I was trying to rewatch Nitro and Raw from the beginning of Raw, and then watch ECW for the first time. The switch to Peacock put a wrench in that since I lost momentum without being able to access all of it from the jump and eventually stopped giving so much of a shit about wrestling.

In the thick of 1996, ECW was telling the most interesting stories at the time, WCW had probably the best actual wrestling on their shows, and WWF were absolute shit. WCW may not have had the most compelling storylines going on all the time, but there were stories being told. They had the NWO, and while there were times that matches would occur without real storyline behind them, it fed into the NWO which **was** a storyline that fans paid attention to.