wrestling / Columns

The Wrestling 5&1 06.02.12: AJ vs. Tiffany!

June 2, 2012 | Posted by Greg De Marco

Busy, busy week. So it’s all business…… BRING ON THE GIRLS!

Listen to the one year celebration, featuring Buggy’s final appearance!

Last Week: After a record 1,691 votes were cast, Kaitlyn barely retained her spot in the Hall of Bang, winning by 27 votes—just 1.6%!

Christy still sits at one win once the Heatwave is over. Can she make it to the Hall of Bang, where Kaitlyn is now safe…

This Week: Tiffany is the next contestant in our Heatwave Challenge. Her opponent is everyone’s favorite psycho (and CM Punk kinda digs psychos), AJ Lee!

Tiffany!

AJ!

The Choice Is Yours!

TIFFANY vs. AJ LEE
Take your pick and vote in the poll below!


Remember, you can vote multiple times—once every 12 hours.
And you can now track the results, too!

Cold Hard Facts:
22nd Triple Crown Champion in WWE History
Former World Tag Team Champion
Former United States Champion
Former Intercontinental Champion
Former World Heavyweight Champion

After an angle on RAW where Dolph Ziggler openly complained about “his spot” to Vickie Guerrero as both watched Randy Orton bask in the crowd’s support, Dolph Ziggler reignited discussions about his long-term outlook. Nearly everyone thinks Dolph Ziggler will have an amazing run at the top someday. The point of contention is simple: Is He Ready Now?

In-Ring Ability
I don’t think anyone can argue that Dolph isn’t among the best in-ring workers in the WWE. He’s mastered the over-sell to a Mr. Perfect level—and much like the aforementioned Curt Hennig, he does it in a manner that still allows you to suspend disbelief. You never hear reports that Dolph is hard to work with, too stiff, or dangerous in the ring. In fact, I’d go so far as to speculate that seeing your name across from Ziggler’s on the format makes many a WWE Superstar quite happy.

Promo Ability
While Dolph hasn’t been nearly as vocal in 2012, 2011 was a year that saw Dolph really excel on the mic. He exhibits a pace and delivery that allows him to control a crowd. He doesn’t look uncomfortable in the ring to cut a promo. If he has someone in the ring with him, they fade into the background—Dolph doesn’t need them when he’s out there.

Another area of promo ability that is rarely considered is guest commentary. Dolph Ziggler may not be CM Punk in the booth—but few are. Dolph’s ability to tell a story while remaining focused on the match in the ring is matched by few. Another great example of this is Cody Rhodes. Dolph exhibits an exceptional level of comfort when showcasing his promo ability—no matter the setting.

The “It” Factor
It may be a dirty word to some, but it’s a legitimate trait when evaluating someone’s main event potential. Do they have “it?” Dolph does. He can remain dormant for weeks, appearing only on WWE Superstars, but still elicit a great response from the crowd when his music hits on RAW. I liken it to a guy like The Miz, who can be completely off of RAW and still appear to be a top guy once he returns. It’s the complete opposite of a guy like Alex Riley, who sucks the life out of the arena when he enters.

Point One: Is Dolph Ziggler Ready? YES.
From my perspective, the answer is most definitely a yes. Dolph Ziggler has proven that he is ready to occupy a top spot in the WWE.

You Decide: Is Dolph Ziggler ready to be a main event guy in the WWE?

TNA Gut Check has been presented over the past two months, and it’s been “The Tale of Two Gut Checks” for me. Your mileage might vary, and you’ll definitely have a chance to share!

Alex Silva
Alex Silva’s Gut Check performance was a home run for me. His match didn’t resonate—at all. He was essentially squashed by Robbie E, and was going to be sent home without a contract until cutting a promo that turned the judges around. Was it the right decision? Time will tell. Silva has since run into some Visa issues, and hasn’t appeared on Impact Wrestling since earning a contract. In fact, he was barely mentioned until the judges brought him up this week when comparing the newest contestant to Silva.

What hasn’t been analyzed enough is Silva’s potential to make an impact on Impact Wrestling (pun fully intended). Silva is a raw talent, his time on OVW allowed him to develop a following and develop a good indie level character. But that isn’t ready for television yet. However, I am fully confident that he can improve and grow into a talent that can lead the X-Division.

Joey Ryan
Joey Ryan’s Gut check performance wasn’t a home run, it was an example of consistent work from a quality performer. He showed some offense in his match with Austin Aries (the current X-Division Champion), and also showed elements of his readymade character. In fact, he had just as good of a showing against Aries as Chris Sabin—a former X-Division Champion and solidified member of the TNA roster—did on the most recent live Impact Wrestling. Yet the judges didn’t find it impressive enough. Furthermore, they didn’t like that he lounged on the ropes—they didn’t like him displaying elements of his character.

Bruce Prichard commented that Joey Ryan’s 12 years in the business cemented his decision—and that it was “no.” That didn’t stop X-Division stars Austin Aries & Kid Kash. Some might point to the fact that Kash and Aries ascended to further heights during their years before coming to TNA. And that point is true. Joey Ryan himself has admitted it, and agrees with many (including myself) that it’s largely due to living in Southern California. Had Joey Ryan been on the east coast, he could have been at the top of many indies, including Ring of Honor, long before Adam Pearce brought him in as a complimentary player in The Embassy. The cost of flying wrestlers out from Los Angeles is a well-known deterrent that has long existed—and exists today. That’s the reason that Ring of Honor told TJ Perkins and The Young Bucks they could “have the summer off,” and it’s the reason that talents like Scott Lost and Chris Bosh retired without truly reaching their full potential.

And there’s the counterpoint to TNA’s ability to mold and develop Alex Silva. Where Silva is raw and pliable, Joey Ryan is established and polished. He can come in and immediately impact TNA’s X-Division (pun, once again, intended). In fact, if Austin Aries is getting pushed “above” the division, Joey Ryan is the guy who can be 2012’s Austin Aries.

Who Does TNA Need?
So after reviewing both men’s credentials and potential, which guy does TNA actually need? The answer here…is both. Alex Silva represents the future of the X-Division. As Angelina Love has proven before him, Visa issues can be worked out. He will be back in TNA once that happens. Joey Ryan represents the present day X-Division. The division is already devoid of talent after being “revamped” last year. The build to Destination-X could be a perfect way to build Ryan to take the baton after Aries gets “his main event,” likely against AJ Styles (if not, then Samoa Joe). So Alex Silva and Joey Ryan are both guys that fill needs for TNA. And right now, they have neither man in the fold.

You Decide: Should TNA have offered Alex Silva a contract? Joey Ryan?

So let’s assume that Dolph Ziggler is ready for the big time. Who are the best opponents to use to elevate him? Well, it depends on what you want to do with him…

Randy Orton
Was Orton slated to feud with Ziggler once Jericho was suspended? No one really knows, because Orton himself got suspended before we could build anything. But an argument could be made in that direction. Whenever Orton and Ziggler lock-up, it’s a great match. And Dolph Ziggler migh sell the RKO better than anyone. He doesn’t flop up and then down, he drops right down to his face, and lays there—out cold. If he WWE were willing to do it, Ziggler going over Orton clean could make him a star.

Jack Swagger
Then you have the obvious. Dolph’s former tag team partner. My cohost would love to explain to you that a good feud elevates both guys, and Ziggler-Swagger does not do that. So why do it? To put over Dolph. I’m not talking about an extended feud—but an Austin Aries-Bully Ray quick feud. Put Ziggler over in a big way, then move on. It could be a great way to make that transition to a face, as well.

Kofi Kingston
Kofi is an interesting option here. Because a great feud could really elevate both guys. And with RAW going three hours, they could have plenty of time to develop something special. And I think they could. Kofi cut some great promos when he was feuding with Randy Orton, and I could see the same against Dolph. I could also see a double turn—Kofi as a heel is very intriguing.

The Miz
This would solely be to turn Ziggler face and push him that way. Have Dolph go over someone like Swagger, then take his “Randy Orton” position on the ropes—the position he was looking at when he talked to Vickie. Enter The Miz, who isn’t happy about Dolph’s newfound confidence. Miz still has the ability to get a crowd going, and it would be a great way to turn Dolph without having to change too many aspects of his character—because as much of a dick as Dolph could be, the Miz would be worse.

So Who Should It Be?
While there are obvious choices like CM Punk and John Cena, Dolph Ziggler’s potential feud with Randy Orton had the most to offer. But with Orton suspended, my suggestion is Kofi Kingston. I think he has the most to offer in a feud with Dolph, and I really see both men being elevated here.

You get nothing and you like it!

(I was busy this week…)

Don’t like it?

Hate away. I can handle it!

Some of you are going to love this, and some will hate it. I don’t care, though. I’m adding a permanent spot in the column for the independents. The independent promotions are the future of the business. Without them, we wouldn’t make it another 20 years. It’s also a great way to see wrestling, up close & personal, for cheap. And you never know what star you might see grow right before your eyes. That’s what it was like watching CM Punk and Bryan Danielson in Ring of Honor, and now they’re feuding over the WWE Championship.

This week’s independent promotion is…
NEW ENGLAND CHAMPIONSHIP WRESTLING

New England Championship Wrestling has been putting on events since 2000, and is owned by a guy named Sheldon Goldberg. NECW is considered to be one of the top independents in the New England area, and was an early home to guys like Kofi Kingston and John Cena. Their June 8 show features the second installment of the best of seven series between NWA World’s Heavyweight Champion Colt Cabana and former champion “Scrap Iron” Adam Pearce.

You won’t find a feud on the independent scene that is as well built as this one. Seven Levels of Hate is the perfect combination of two guys who have known each other for years realizing that they make better enemies than friends. It’s also a great feather in the cap of the great career of Adam Pearce—as that career begins to wind down. And while this match alone sells the card, there’s more to see…

Six Man Tag Team War
NECW Tag Team Champions All Money Is Legal and Slyck Wagner Brown vs. Chase Del Monte & The Logan Brothers.

World Women’s Wrestling Championship
Alexxis Neveah (champion) vs. Adrianna

“The Statement” Elia Markolpoulos vs. “The Real Deal” Brandon Locke

Julian Star vs. Johnny Thunder

Giant Pharoah vs. Apocalypse

Plus “The Italian Superman” Tony Delfonzo in action.

Tickets for this event are $15 in advance and $20 at the door, and children under 12 are just $10. Advance tickets can be charged by phone at 1-800-838-3006 or purchased online at NECW.tv/events. The event is suitable for all ages.

For more information, visit NECW.tv.

Are you an independent wrestling promoter, wrestler or fan looking to get more exposure for your promotion? Send me an e-mail at [email protected] and I will check it out! Each week, one independent promotion will be featured in this column. Because independent wrestling is the future of the business.

It’s Buggy Nova’s last show as The Greg DeMarco Show celebrates one year with special guests “All Ego” Ethan Page and DeMarcette Scarlett Bordeaux!

The Greg DeMarco Show, presented by 411Mania.com/Wrestling and streaming all weekend at VOCNation.com. Greg and Patrick O’Dowd are joined by regular contributors Tony Acero, Justin Freemyer and Buggy Nova! Plus, you never know who might call in or stop by “The Snake Pit” (chatroom).

This week:
The Greg DeMarco Show celebrates one year on the air! You never know who might stop by as we take a look back at the past 12 months and a look ahead to the future. Plus, listen as we go back to some of our favorite moments from year one.

A1 Wrestling’s “All Ego” Ethan Page joins the program to discuss his career, working for A1 Wrestling, collaboration amongst independent promotions and more! Don’t miss our interview with this upcoming star.

DeMarcette Scarlett Bordeaux stops in to provide an update on her in-ring career, as well as serving as a valet and a manager. Has she heard about the calendar shoot? What’s next for this stunning beauty? Find out during the show, and listen as she’s given a brand new nickname by Greg DeMarco! Does she like it?

And it’ll be a bittersweet ending for Buggy Nova, who is making her last appearance on the program. Tune in to hear the crew wish Buggy well as she moves onward and upward!

Stick around for hour two as we talk plenty of wrestling with 411Mania’s RAW Recapper Tony Acero, old school week in wrestling with Justin Freemyer, and surprise visits from show favorites “The Greek God” Papadon, DeMarcette Barbi Hayden, and fill-in cohost Andy Critchell!

Click here to go to the show’s page, or listen here:

About the show:
The Greg DeMarco Show with Greg DeMarco & Patrick O’Dowd, presented by 411Mania and streaming worldwide through the Voice of Choice Nation—airs live every Tuesday at 10:30 PM eastern time and is heard by over 10,000 listeners throughout each week. Discussing current events in professional wrestling—including WWE RAW, WWE Smackdown, TNA, Ring of Honor and many US independent promotions and regularly featuring guests from Ring of Honor, Pro Wrestling Guerrilla, Chikara Pro, Dragon Gate USA, Evolve and countless other promotions, Greg and Patrick present opinionated analysis on the wrestling world that remains rooted in a love, passion and respect for the business. The show is presented live on Tuesday nights by 411Mania at http://www.411wrestling.com/wrestling and streams worldwide each Saturday through Monday via Bruce Wirt’s Voice of Choice Nation at http://www.vocnation.com. You can reach the show via e-mail at [email protected], Facebook by searching for “Greg DeMarco Show” or Twitter @gregdemarcoshow.

Also, check out this week’s star studded edition of the flagship VOC Nation radio show!

Stevie Richards was in studio to discuss the WWE wellness policy, his time in ECW, his relationships and friendships in wrestling, candid thoughts on current and former stars, and so much more.

Joey Styles joined the show to discuss the upcoming ECW Unreleased DVD which will hit stands on June 5th at wweshop.com. Joey talked about:

Being involved in the production of the DVD: “I had input on choosing the matches; I had input with creative services on choosing the classic, old school, red ECW logo which has never been sold on a tee shirt ever, either by ECW or WWE. I also had an input on the artwork and the inside packaging of the DVD.”

On being outspoken: “I have a reputation for speaking my mind. Sometimes it gets me in trouble, but it’s been good for my career so I’ll just keep doing it.”

On Paul Heyman’s Return: “I mentioned (before on VOC Nation) that Paul Heyman should be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. ECW had a profound influence on the WWE product. It’s great to have Paul back; who better to play a scheming, coniving, aggressive, ruthless character than Paul?”

On Helping Stevie Richards Get Over, and Stevie in General: (Stevie Richards was in studio at WNJC Philadelphia and thanked Joey for helping to get the Stevie Richards character get over) “We are long time friends and you are giving me way too much credit. You are the only person I know that is in much better shape at 40 years old than you were at 20 years old. I’ve known Stevie for 20 years, and I am absolutely puzzled on why he is not booked by some promoter every single day of the week…if you’re a promoter, get your money’s worth and book Stevie.”

On Stevie Richards Working in WWE Developmental: “Being a role model to the wellness program, living in Florida, being in great shape, and being great in the ring…Stevie would be a great addition to the WWE developmental team. I don’t have any infulence, but I’m sure that WWE management will hear this.”

On Michael Cole being moody and his overuse of Worldwide: “Tweet Michael Cole and tell him that you have a problem with him stealing your term…now that I said that, I better have someone else start my car because Michael Cole can be a pretty nasty guy.”

How to book Joey Styles for indy shows or events: “Wrestlingmarx is my exclusive booking agent. You can book me by going to wrestlingmarx.com.

Former WWE Diva Maryse surprised the VOC Nation crew by calling in to talk about her upcoming appearance at Legends of the Ring in Monroe, NJ on June 2. She talked about her start in wrestling, her relationship with the Miz, and much more.

On her relationship with the Miz and still being around WWE: “To this day, he still tells me that I was only in the WWE because of him. I still get to go backstage and hangout; I was at WrestleMania and all of the parties. My relationship with everyone is pretty cool, we are all friends.”

Chaz Mosh Warrington called on his way to kickball to talk about his appearance at Juggalo Championship Wrestling in New Mexico, and his previous work at The Gathering. Chaz and Stevie both speak candidly on the ICP fan base, and working in hostile environments. Chaz also speaks openly about working with the team of Nash, Hall, and Waltman.

On seeing Scott Hall: “It was fine. He was sober, and it was good to see Scott sober.”

On his Podcast: “The STD Podcast (Simply Tremendous Drivel) runs every Monday on http://vocnation.com. You never know what I’m going to say. I get together with my old partner Glen (Thrasher) and we tell stories from the road. I also answer fan questions. Send them to [email protected] or @chazmosh on twitter.”

Stevie Richards was in studio for the whole show, and answered some fan questions.

The VOC Wrestling Nation is live every Wednesday from 5PM – 7PM ET on 1360 WNJC Philadelphia, and can also be heard WORLDWIDE at http://vocnation.com. To hear this broadcast in its entirety, you have options:

– Visit http://vocnation.com and look for the VOC Wrestling Nation broadcast and simply press play.

– Download the show on iTunes by searching for VOC Wrestling Nation or by clicking this link: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/voc-wrestling-nation/id524862508

– Visit our podcast site that contains archived broadcasts of every VOC Nation Radio Network Show, including The VOC Wrestling Nation, The IT Factor, The STD Podcast with Chaz Warrington, The Greg DeMarco Show, From Baseball to Biceps, Just Guys, The Suplah, and more! http://podcast.vocnation.com.

Check out the show here.

April 28, 2012 was the night of Extreme Reunion. The night was marred with technical and in-ring difficulties. Sabu and Justin Credible were unable to appear due to their condition. Shane Douglas pretty much good booed out of the Philadelphia National Guard Armory. But it wasn’t all bad. The show also featured stars of today that would have fit the mold of ECW. Including the opening tag team match…

BLKOUT vs. The Dramatics
April 28, 2012, Extreme Reunion, Philadelphia, PA


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This week’s “&1” Model of the Week is actually the “Models” of the week, as we welcome back The Blossom Twins! Hannah and Holly are back home in jolly ol’ England, but are returning to the United States later this year. And when they do, they’ve already committed to an appearance on The Greg DeMarco Show!

Photo credits: Kayleigh Plant and Abi Lawrence

Get reading!

Randle’s Wrestling News Experience!
The News from Cook’s Corner!
Marsico presents The Wednesday Wire!
Kelly’s Sports Entertainment News Report!
Napier’s Handicapping the News!
Fact or Fiction!

Tony Acero presents The Low End Theory!

Plenty to talk about in the comments!
Think Dolph’s ready for the big push? Think he’s not?
Want to compare Joey Ryan and Alex Silva?
Hate the indies?
Wanna complain that I didn’t add pics of Scarlett Bordeaux & Leanne Marie?

Until next time…

Find me:

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