The Triple Threat 4.01.07: The WrestleMania Preview Edition
Posted by Sean, David, Alex on 04.01.2007
Are you ready for WrestleMania 23 yet? Well, you will be after our big preview in this column. Also don't miss our thoughts on last nights Hall of Fame ceremony as well.
Hello everyone, the grand day is finally here and as you count down the hours, minutes, and seconds until 7ET/4P, we have thoughts on the Hall of Fame ceremony last night and a big match by match preview of tonight's glorious show. What do we think of the matches? And who's going to win? Find out our opinions in this edition of the Triple Threat.
Thoughts on the Hall of Fame Ceremony
Alex Mattis: I always love these, the DVD's that is. They edit too much on TV, but it is still fun to see. It was great to see Dusty up on stage. I loved when Sabu covered his face so the audience couldn't see him smiling, props to that man for still trying to preserving kayfabe. Overall, it was a good event, not as good as last years, but good nonetheless. It officially made me ready for WrestleMania.
Side Note: Seeing the constant WM promo's during the HOF made me remember how stupid the "All Grown Up" theme is. It's just really, really lame.
Sean Garmer: I agree with Alex, that the DVD's are awesome and I love each one. This year's show was cool I, think King had the line of the night with "The billionaire that goes bald, when he wants to stroke his finger through his hair, they are going to have to use a whole in their pants to do it." It was great seeing Larry the Axe talking about his son, who was truly perfect. Also reminding us all, the tragedy of his death, parents should never have to outlive their children, and that's a sad fact that was shown last night. Seeing the Sheik get inducted by RVD and Sabu was a cool moment, and seeing Sabu show emotion may never be seen again. I had two of my favorites ever get inducted last night and my eyes welled up when they started showing the video for JR. For the longest time he was my idol, and still is today, because it's still my dream to be an announcer one day for some sport. The way he tells stories about the matches and his passion is unequaled. He loves what he does, and, he does it better than anyone ever has. I was very happy to see him get inducted. The best part had to be the greatest talker in wrestling ever, get on stage, and give a promo one more time. Not only that, but he gave props to others while he was up there, and that's something you have to commend him for. I love all the legends, and the Hall of Fame is always my favorite part of Wrestlemania, because they honor those that paved the way for those here now. It makes me happy to be a fan and seem them take their place in the glory halls of Wrestling/Sports Entertainment.
Side Note: I like the theme for Wrestlemania this year, it shows that your childhood dreams can come true if you work hard and excel in what you want to do. They are now all grown up and getting to do what they love. On the contrary, after it was said many times, I noticed how bad WWE sounds when World Wrestling Entertainment is said out loud. Now get ready for Wrestlemania folks because here comes our preview.
The Triple Threat Wrestlemania Preview
The matches are in the order that I think the card might wind up.
Match #1 ECW Tag Team Match- New Breed (Marcus Cor Von, Elijah Burke, Kevin Thorn, & Matt Striker) vs. ECW Originals (RVD, Sabu, Sandman, & Tommy Dreamer)
David Martell: This match is probably one of the most low profile matches on the card and I wouldn't be surprised if its the first match of the PPV. This match is hard to determine if it would be good or not but every wrestler performing in the match has wrestled there opponents so many times in the last few months that they had to build some kind of chemistry. I do expect this to be the downfall of the old and in with the new. Who ever wins this match is really going to shape how ECW is going to look in the future. I hope what ever happens its for the better.
Prediction: New Breed
Alex Mattis: My belief is that this will be the most solid match of the under card. If given time this 8-Man tag could be very solid and tell a good story. Everyone on the New Breed is at least decent in the ring. Van Dam of course is excellent, Sabu is still entertaining, Dreamer can brawl, and the Sandman is always fun. As an old school ECW mark it's going to be pretty cool to see Tommy Dreamer and Sabu making their WrestleMania debuts, the E hasn't made a big enough deal about this on their ECW show. Anyway back to the match, the New Breed will most likely go over, and this will begin the official phasing out of anything that had to do with the original ECW.
Prediction: New Breed
Sean Garmer: This one could be all kinds of fun. RVD leading his team of soon to be released ECW Originals against Elijah Burke, Marcus Cor Von, and company. I don't know why they didn't make this extreme rules? I know they didn't want to infringe on the Money in the Bank but this would have added an extra dimension. They've severely killed this feud with the multiple match-ups they've had already. Why not? It would have given the originals something to work with, and made the match have an exciting element to it. I still expect this one to be good, especially, with that crazy Detroit crowd. I wouldn't be surprised to see some big ECW Original support. However, we know who's going to win here. I expect Cor Von and Elijah Burke to really shine through in this match up. Of course, you know RVD is going to step up his game, that's why I have some expectations for this.
Prediction: New Breed
Match #2 Great Khali vs. Kane
David Martell: This match, by far, is the WORST match on the card. People, don't expect this to be good at all. Kane has lost almost all of his wrestling ability that he had in the past and Great Khali never had any to begin with. This match is going to be filled up with several big boots, maybe a chop to the head, and some silly ass chain that Kane carries around. You might want to take a bathroom break on this one.
Prediction: Kane
Alex Mattis: This will be very hard to watch. If it were No DQ I would have more faith in it, but this will be a brawl that most likely won't exceed five minutes. I see Kane going over by count out, scaring away Khali with that hook, maybe a double count out, double DQ or something lame like that so that neither man "loses."
Prediction: Kane
Sean Garmer: Now we are getting to the one big sore spot of Wrestlemania. Poor Kane, ever the company man that does anything WWE asks of him. He has to face the scorn of wrestling, as we know it, Khali. I expect this one to be, as JR would say "bowling shoe ugly." There are rumors that Kane wants to take some time off, that he totally deserves. So, that leads me to think that Khali is going to get the win here. As David says, this might be a time for a bathroom break, because Kane is still alright, but you cannot do anything with Khali. I just hope this is short, because if not, we are in for some boring action. This is the only time I'm going to complain, because they could have had, Carlito vs. Flair, or some big match for the IC title, but instead we get a match I don't think anyone wants to see. Maybe this is part of Carlito's punishment for his laziness, but he probably didn't help himself by stating in a Canadian newspaper "I'm out of Wrestlemania… why? Because I'm not a politic and I don't kiss ass" I'm sure WWE is going to read this, so he might be in more trouble than before. Really, I don't know who to pick for this one, because they could just have Kane win, only to see Khali beat him up. I think WWE is about fed up with Khali too, I'll just toss a coin.
Prediction: Kane
Match #3 Money in the Bank Ladder Match- EDGE vs. Randy Orton vs. Finlay vs. King Booker vs. CM Punk vs. Mr. Kennedy
David Martell: this match may be the show stealer. I, love the MITB match because you can always expect cool spots and a lot of excitement. Last year, I went crazy when Ric Flair had his hand on the briefcase, so I'm hoping I'll be able to mark out once again this year. This match is jam packed with great wrestlers, young and old, trying to get to the top once more. To be honest I would like any of these guys, to get a chance at the top but in reality only one will be victorious. There are so many different fighting styles in this match and its going to be interesting to see how they all work together. I, expect to see Jeff Hardy do something crazy and for CM Punk to get some recognition from everyone after this match is over. Let's hope they give this match a lot of time because with 8 wrestlers out there, a short match could be horrible. This match is bound to be great, I'm already getting goosebumps.
Prediction: Mr. Kennedy
Alex Mattis: This should steal the show, as it did last year. Not much more you can say about it. I wish the E had something better for Orton and Booker, but I digress. I am ecstatic that CM Punk is going to WrestleMania, and actually has a chance of winning. This is Orton's last chance, in my eyes toward once again being world champ, if he doesn't win this I don't think he will get another shot or even main event for a LONG time. Hardy's, Finlay, Booker look incredibly unlikely to win. If Edge wins this after a month of doing nothing but insulting local sports teams I will be royally pissed. It's too hard to tell who is going to win, there are three: Orton, Kennedy, and CM Punk, it's just too close to call, so I'll go with my personal favorite.
Prediction: CM Punk
Sean Garmer: I concur that this will probably steal the show, because they got too much experienced and young talent in this one, this should not be anything short of great. That's the one problem I see them having, is that the first two were so good, and throw in the four team Ladder Match in December, and that's a lot to live up to. However, with the Hardyz, EDGE, and Finlay in there I'm sure there's enough Ladder match experience to come up with some pretty creative stuff. I just hope it doesn't end up all clustered. Four people stand a chance at winning this thing in EDGE, Orton, CM Punk or Kennedy. EDGE has been unable to wrestle lately with a hurt jaw, but there's always that prospect, that he is undefeated at Wrestlemania, and that they don't want to end his streak just yet. If he did win, that would make him 6-0 and four of those would be in multi man matches. Randy Orton is under the WWE doghouse again due to the steroid stuff, but WWE does have him in a storyline against EDGE. He could win, make EDGE jealous, and they have a match against each other at Backlash. Now, Meehan, suggested that EDGE win, and use the MITB that same night against either champion, which would be something similar to what was rumored last year, with Ric Flair winning the MITB and then using it against Triple H. However, this time Orton would cost EDGE his shot, causing the two to finally feud. They only have eight matches on the card and that would leave plenty of time available for something like this to happen. It would also destroy the two year legacy of the MITB. That whoever won, was to become champion, and destined for big things in WWE. I'd rather this not happen, in fact, EDGE and Orton could have had their own singles match on the card. EDGE has past history with HBK or Cena, so either way, it would make sense storyline wise too. The fact of the matter is, if they wanted to do this, it would make more sense to do it with Mr. Kennedy. Kennedy is the big favorite to win this year because he's been in big feuds almost the entire year, he's got the mic skills, and his wrestling skills have continued to develop. He has major history with Undertaker, and what a big deal it would be for Kennedy to win at Wrestlemania, by cashing in the MITB that night, and over the Undertaker as well. I wouldn't have a problem with Kennedy ending Taker's streak, only if Taker is considering retiring soon, but that would be awful to Taker to have him be a transitional champion like that, after all his year's of service. If Kennedy wins, he will probably cash in the MITB against Undertaker at some point, or he moves to RAW to face Cena or HBK. CM Punk winning would be a huge surprise and all the smarties out there would love it. Let's face it though, CM Punk has been in and out of the dog house and he's way too young to be put in that position. The only way it would work, is if he didn't cash in the MITB until about as late as EDGE did the first time around, after he's been built up on RAW or SmackDown. With that New Breed vs. CM Punk feud looming, I just don't see it happening. Finlay is a dark horse, but he and Booker are there as match veterans that deserve a spot at Mania. Hardyz are not going to win, but will have some crazy spots in the match. I'm going with Kennedy for this one.
Prediction: Mr. Kennedy
Match #4 United States Championship- (Champion) Chris Benoit vs. MVP
David Martell: This match could end up being the biggest surprise on the card. MVP has been showing a lot of improvement since he started on the Smackdown brand several months ago. Working with someone like Chris Benoit in a high profile match is the best possible thing you can do, for an up and comer, like MVP. If done right, this could make MVP a star, lets hope that it does. I am pretty excited to see how this works out and I hope the best for MVP. Don't take any breaks on this match folks, its going to be one worth watching.
Prediction: Chris Benoit (Still Champion)
Alex Mattis: I am very happy Benoit was added to the Mania card, he deserves to be on there, but the opponent he is being matched up with, is not at Benoit's level. From what I have seen of MVP, he is terrible and his gimmick is even worse. However, Benoit has carried bad people to good matches, so I, assume that Benny will be working hard in this one, but if this MVP guy has some skill, this is his chance to prove to everyone that he deserves to be there.
Prediction: Chris Benoit by tap out (Still Champion)
Sean Garmer: I listened to a radio interview with Benoit (the same one where he bashed TNA) he called MVP a future star of WWE. These two have apparently been having some killer house show matches and if they let MVP go off, this one could be a sleeper match. Benoit is always great and can do some carrying if he has to, but I have faith that there is a reason WWE's been doing this gimmick with MVP. Think about it, He hasn't lived up to anything he says he is on television, then at the big show he finally delivers, gimmick accomplished in my view. Obviously, Benoit knows something about MVP that we don't, and I have faith that this will deliver because Benoit is in it, and because this will have to go long, so WWE can't do too much restricting on MVP. Benoit is used to this, and I expect to see him put over MVP here too.
Prediction: MVP (New Champion)
Match #5 Battle of the Billionaires- Hair vs. Hair Match- Special Referee: Stone Cold Steve Austin- Bobby Lashley (w/ Donald Trump) vs. Umaga (w/ Vince McMahon)
David Martell: This match is probably the biggest match on the card publicity wise. Some people out there are going to be buying Wrestlemania just for the chance that maybe Trump will get his head shaved. With all the hype going into this match, I really hope it lives up to it. This could either be a good match or a bad one, depending on how well these two can work together. Both have a power-house type style so it will be interesting to see one of these big men get taken down. Either way, I, think everyone will enjoy just seeing Stone Cold out there in the ring and maybe even handing out a few stunners. In the end some one will get there head shaved.
Prediction: Bobby Lashley (Vince McMahon's head gets shaved bald)
Alex Mattis: This should be a fun brawl, with Stone Cold as the ref the entertainment value of this match skyrockets, as he will most likely let a lot of shit go. Umaga is a solid performer, I just can't get past the horrible gimmick, and Lashley is getting better, but still not great. Regardless this should just be an all around fun match, with the power vs. power angles, and we might even see some comedy spots with Trump and Vince, as long as I see a stunner, I'm happy. Anyone with common sense knows who's winning.
Prediction: Bobby Lashley (Vince McMahon's head gets shaved bald)
Sean Garmer: No doubt that this one has got all the media buzzing. Who in fact will get their head shaved bald? For the casual fan they are buying this hoping that they could see the improbable, Donald Trump bald. We know it's probably not going to happen, just because "The Donald" has a huge image to uphold in Hollywood. I'm sure there will be just as much delight in seeing the evil Vince McMahon get his head shaved too. Let's focus on the match for a second. Both of these men have similar styles, but Lashley does have an amateur background and I expect to see some of that in this one, only because this one is probably going to go a while. Both Umaga and Lashley have improved wrestling wise as the year has gone by and I expect a fun, possibly, good match out of these too. There is a chance of a similar styles clash, but I'm sure Vince and Stone Cold will think of something to keep it entertaining. The end result, is not in doubt, but the big things this will do for Lashley and publicity wise for WWE, are the reason why this exists in the first place.
Prediction: Bobby Lashley (Vince McMahon's head gets shaved bald)
Match #6 Women's Championship- Lumber Jill Match- (Champion) Melina vs. (Playboy Cover Girl) Ashley
David Martell: Its good to see the Women's title being defended at Wrestlemania but this match might not turn out to be Wrestlemania quality. Melina has shown that she is a good wrestler but Ashley has a lot of work to go, before she becomes something special. I hope that this match shows me something but I don't expect this to be that great, and mostly it is going to be kept short.
Prediction: Ashley (New Champion)
Alex Mattis: Good opportunity for a smoke break, bathroom break, snack break, etc. This will be hard to watch, Ashley is just plain awful…AWFUL.
Prediction: Ashley (New Champion)
Sean Garmer: I'm going to give this one a chance because Melina can wrestle, and Ashley showed that she is improving with her performance on RAW. Again, the fact that Melina is on the "fire watch" will also provide another reason for Melina to make sure she performs up to snuff. Also, don't think that Wrestlemania 21 is not creeping into Ashley's head. Christy's bad performance there cost her job (and she had just signed an extension with the company.) Ashley also wants to make sure she does well enough to prove she should stay with WWE, after posing nude in Playboy. WWE is using the Lumber Jill stipulation to get all the Divas on the PPV, but it could also help make the match more entertaining. It won't be Mickie vs. Trish Stratus, but at least it will keep it from being Candice vs. Torrie. I, say WWE is going to finish their punishment of Melina by making her lose the belt, but I think the match could surprise us.
Prediction: Ashley (New Champion)
Match # 7 World Championship- (Champion) Batista vs. (14-0) Undertaker
David Martell: This match is kind of hard to say if it will be good or not. Now Batista is far from a good in ring wrestling wise, but he's had some good matches in the past when someone is telling him everything to do. With someone like the Undertaker leading the way this match could actually be something everyone will enjoy. Undertaker always seems to bust his ass off in these high profile matches and I think that once again he's going to make something good happen. To be honest, I do hate Batista because I believe he has no heart for the business and it seems as if he is not trying at all to become a better in ring performer but I will give him a chance, just because this is Wrestlemania and you never know what's going to happen.
Prediction: Undertaker (New Champion)
Alex Mattis: This is the WrestleMania main event in my, and many others, eyes. SmackDown hasn't headlined since WrestleMania XIX I think it's time the E gives them the ME spot. As much as I don't like Batista, I have faith in this match, but if Batista is the one who ends the Undertaker's streak I would think the E would be turning Batista heel, regardless Batista is NOT the one who should end the streak of the Undertaker. I believe Taker will celebrate the 10 year anniversary of winning the title at WrestleMania 13 by winning the title at WrestleMania 23.
Prediction: Undertaker (New Champion)
Sean Garmer: It's official this is not the main event of Wrestlemania 23. This is probably a front office decision due to Batista's backstage issues, as no one can argue that Undertaker doesn't deserve his time to shine. Also the match quality will be better with Cena vs. HBK, and you can't forget to mention that the crowd reaction will be equal to that of Cena vs. HHH last year, As was evident at the Hall of Fame last night. Batista promised in an interview with Sports Illustrated that they would tear the house down at Wrestlemania. That is left to be seen as Batista has been erratic in matches. He's also lost his passion and seems to be on his way out soon. However, as David pointed out, he has done well when in the ring with a ring veteran, and he will be in there with the master. Undertaker always brings his A game to Wrestlemania and I expect nothing less from the Deadman, especially since it is expected that he will win the title and continue his undefeated streak. Honestly, nothing really bothers me in wrestling anymore, but if Undertaker loses his streak to Batista, you will see me rant and rave for the first time ever. If they do something where Batista keeps the title but Taker wins by DQ, I'm still going to be angry due to hating DQ's at Mania. I agree with Alex this should have been the Main Event, just because I believe the Royal Rumble winner, should get the main event as has been the tradition. I'm going to hold my reservations on this, but hopefully, the ending will be sweet.
Prediction: Undertaker (New Champion)
Match #8 WWE Championship- (Champion) John Cena vs. Shawn Michaels
David Martell: I think this match could be the best match on the card when its all said and done. A lot of people doubt Cena's ability, like our good friend Alex here, but when Cena is in a PPV environment he always seems to pull out all the stops. Shawn Michaels, on the other hand, ALWAYS makes his Wrestlemania matches special. I, expect there to be a lot of excitement between every wrestling fan in this match and I will even go on to say that, there WILL be a Wrestlemania moment to remember in this match.
Prediction: Shawn Michaels
Alex Mattis: Should be a fun match, the Detroit crowd should make things fun. I don't think this should go on last, hopefully it won't. In terms of quality, I'm not to sure how this one is going to be, but HBK can carry, so maybe it will surprise me. I don't want to break this down too much because I don't know what to expect. So, I'm just going to have to wait and see what happens.
Prediction: John Cena
Sean Garmer: Sorry to tell you Alex, but this will be on last. HBK is my favorite ever and there is no doubt he delivers at Wrestlemania. The crowd will be heavily involved and could help make this thing great on its own. Cena, whether you like him or hate him (I'm one of those that like him because he does more for WWE than most will ever know) he seems to come up big when it counts and has changed some of his moveset to fit with the type of match he is in. Being in there with Shawn Michaels there will be even more pressure on him to deliver but I have faith that he can do it. When it comes to the end result, this one could go either way. I have a feeling we are going to have a repeat of last year with Cena coming out on top, but I would love to see HBK get the title one more time. It would certainly make me extremely happy to end the night on that note, but either way, as long as the match is a great one, I don't care who comes out as champion. If they want to do a MITB deal, Cena will probably wind up winning, overall, I think we can agree this is a huge draw, and when we look back at it, could be seen as an epic encounter. This one will be fun and I'm sure will have us at the edge of our seat. It sucks for Alex, that again, the main event involves two men he hates, but oh well, you can't blame WWE for wanting to get the more buys. I hope this one ends up a good one.
Prediction: John Cena
Shout Out's to our 411 Crew
Are you ready for Wrestlemania? Not yet? Well if our preview wasn't enough for you, go read what the rest of what the 411 Staff thinks about Wrestlemania 23 It's in three parts too because it was so big.
The 3R's "The Franchise" Larry Csonka and Geoff Eubanks, just like you like them. Complete with a look at Wrestlemania 22 as well.
Truth B Told Bayani Domingo has those Asian girls looking good. Alex did that interview by himself, we didn't even know about it until later. Bayani talks about the four big matches at Wrestlemania and what they mean for each superstar involved. Also, what does he think is the real main event? Is Lashley and Kennedy ready for the big time? And who would be the big surprise at Wrestlemania? You have to read his column to find out.
Remember that Hidden Highlights is out there too. Go read JT & JP's column that show's you all the little details of a wrestling show. I can't link them because they come out at the same time I need to turn this column into the system. So there is a link here in spirit.
Meehan Skips the news this week in favor of Wrestlemania thoughts. It was a very fun read and I felt like I learned something new about Wrestlemania after reading. So you should read it too, so that you can be a learned fan. Also he has some special feedback from a former WWEECW wrestler. Here's a hint: What do you have to at school every few weeks, take a …. Don't believe me? Go read his column now.
Don't forget about High/Low Road Sat & Uncle Trunx discuss the New Breed vs. Originals match at Wrestlemania 23.
Shining the Spotlight Michael Weyer talks about how Steroids have affected wrestling in years past and what's the outlook on it now.
Top Ten Julian Williams is here with his Top Ten Wrestlemania Matches.
Also. don't forget to check out all those Wrestlemania Roundtables because the Staff put a lot into them and worked their butts off to put them all up on time.
Special shout out to the Andy Clark who's doing the Shimmy on Monday.
There is something you should know about
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Now! Time for Feedback
Our first piece of feedback this week comes from our loyal follower John Bryant Bateman He has a dream match and some different questions for us.
you see Last week I was talking to Shawn.......Shaun.........Sean >< damn it. I had a match I was going to reveal this week. it's a 6-way tag team Ladder match, in reminensce of the Armageddon ladder match. this will invovle AJ Styles & Johnny Nitro,CM Punk & Samoa Joe, Christopher Daniels & and finally: Marcus Corvon & Shelton Benjamin, Rey Mysterio & Mistico and finally Jeff Hardy & EDGE
Also: What do you guys think about TNA refusing to release VKM from their contract and about the fact that TNA is giving a one-shot deal to the Heartthrobs, the Dicks and giving a rumored full-time job to the Bashams. and finally: it's rumored that Jeff Jarrett will be the 5th & Final Member of Team Angle and he will be coming back as a Face. what are your thoughts on this possibility?
David Martell: That match would probably be one of the biggest spot fests of all time. There are a lot of different styles there, but in the end I think Punk and Joe would come out the victors with their power and their superior wrestling ability. Now, on to your questions, I really don't know why TNA won't let them go, they really don't need them on the show and dropping them will give some of the younger guys some more TV time. I don't really like the Dicks or the heartthrobs so it is good they only got one shot deals but the Bashams on the other hand, are a good tag team. So it would be smart to keep them around. I don't know how to feel about Jarrett being a face, its going to be interesting to see how the fans will react to his return. Let's see what happens. Thanks for writing.
Sean Garmer: Ok first of all, there is no way in the world this match would work. That is way, too many people for one Ladder Match. Eight wrestlers in total, is pushing it to a big cluster that could end up bad. 12 Wrestlers is way, too much and I'll repeat it, unless they used two rings, could not happen. Therefore, there would be no point in breaking this down, because it is impossible without becoming a complete washout. Onto your questions, TNA refuses to release VKM because Russo likes them, he doesn't want them to go to WWE and make Vince more money having a New Age Outlaws tag team that would certainly sell merchandise, not to mention they could have a big DX deal again. Also proving that the old ex WWE wrestlers (not guys like Tomko) should not have been signed in the first place because they will inevitably make more money where they were created. It makes sense business wise for Russo to hang on to them, but do something with them that isn't this Christy Hemme stuff. My philosophy is always either, you get all you can out of them before they go, or if they really don't want to be there, release them. Seriously, I wouldn't want sour apples in my lockeroom, that already has crazy Kurt Angle and The boss Jeff Jarrett in it. Russo runs the chance of them upsetting the lockeroom when it isn't needed.
It's good for TNA to sign the Bashams as long as they are serious about keeping the tag division, because right now it revolves around two teams and that's close to getting very old. I'll give Jarrett credit, he knows how to piss people off and has his character down to a T, and when he doesn't screw up his matches with all this outside stuff he's good. However, I can't buy Jarrett as a face, it's never worked. The only reason I could see it working is that, Jarrett will force himself down the crowd's throat until they accept him. That is not good for TNA either.
Our #1 fan Jeremy Robertson questions why he doesn't feel bad if he missed wrestling.
Just dropping a quickie this time. I recently purchased Eric Bischoff's Controversy Creates Cash (very cheap!! lol) and want to get back to that. But I have to agree with something Alex said this column. It is complete horseshit that they made Benoit tap to Cena...It seems that the WWE is slacking and just making me not want to watch. No, that is not right. I just don't feel bad if I miss it, like I used to. Back in the day I couldn't miss a show or I'd go crazy...now...not so much. I just feel like...meh... I can go online and see what happened. I don't like having that thought in my head. I want to think "Damn, I can't miss wrestling." Something needs to happen. Oh, and I loved the interview section of the column. It'd be cool if each of you got to interview someone each column, or every other column or, hell, whenever you got the chance. So definately some kudos to that. Well, I guess its not a quickie anymore, oh well.. lol. I'm sure you guys love reading this as much as I love reading the column. Adios guys, and I look forward to the next column.
David Martell: I was also very pissed when Benoit tapped to Cena, because its Benoit, the submission master! Cena doesn't deserve to get a tap out win over Benoit, I don't care how popular he is. Wrestling is in a down time right now but that doesn't mean it wont get any better. There is a lot of great talent out there but it seems like they don't know how to use them. Make new stars and you can make things better. Also, stop hiring steroid pieces of shit and start hiring some true talent. Hopefully, things will improve in the future and make us excited to watch wrestling every time it comes on once again.
Sean Garmer: Of course we love reading your stuff Jeremy, you are our #1 fan after all. I do know someone I could interview, we went to high school together, but I talk to him every now and then, I wouldn't feel right just asking him out of the blue for an interview. Well I've distanced myself from wrestling mainly for religious issues, because I felt that it consumed so much of my life, that I left God and my family behind for it. I cannot do that, but I get what you are saying. That's not a cool thing that they made Cena look strong at Benoit's expense and it makes you not want to watch, but I think the Cena vs. HBK feud overall has been great. They redeemed themselves this week I, thought. I'll see you tonight Jeremy, and enjoy Mania 23.
Another one came from someone that's never sent us anything before in Reichou Shinsake He responds to my comments about second or third generation guys not needing steroids.
Hi, One of you guys mentioned that as a third-generation wrestler, Randy Orton wouldn't have to stoop to using steroids. This may be completely barking up the wrong tree, but when you look at the baseball players who have been linked to steroids, many on the list are related to past major leaguers. Barry Bonds (son of Bobby), Gary Sheffield (nephew of Dwight Gooden), third-generation baseball player Bret Boone (grandson of Ray, son of Bob, brother of Aaron), Gary Matthews, Jr., Jerry Hairston, Jr., the Giambi brothers, the Canseco brothers, ... Wouldn't you think that those players would genetically be good enough to make it in the big leagues without steroids?
Maybe Orton, like some of the aforementioned baseball players used the juice because of internal or external pressures to live up to the family legacy. Maybe Orton used steroids because growing up in the industry, his family has connections with the people who can help Randy use shortcuts. Or maybe it's all a coincidence. Maybe every athlete other than Sonjay Dutt is on the gas and they're all just waiting to get busted. I don't know. Just thought I'd pitch an idea about steroid use by descendants/relatives of sports stars.
Thanks for listening.
Sean Garmer: I responded to him in an email and here's what I said: "Well that guy was me. Hey man, thanks for the feedback. I don't know if you read our column every week, so I thought I'd respond to you. I like your list of Baseball players to prove your point, that's some smart reporting there. Also, I know this may not be a blood relation, but Willy Mays is Bond's Godfather. To your issue, you would have a total point if wrestling were a "real" sport. However, what I, meant is that Vince tends to favor Second or Third Generation wrestlers. Like Orton, Carlito, Murdoch, and Harry Smith, they already have an edge up on the competition because of their past lineage. They've also hung around, in my opinion, because of that in some form or fashion, especially, Carlito and Orton who have pissed WWE off plenty of times. I hope you understand what I'm trying to express here. There's always pressure on everyone to look the part because of the way Vince likes the big guys, but his past lineage also gets him a pass on that too."
So here's his response to that "Sorry if my email sounded contradictory; I do enjoy your column and I definitely don't want to sound like I was taking up for Orton or other descendants of wrestling families who have made big mistakes with their careers. I was just kind of weirded out by how many steroid accusations came at people who would seem to have enough of an edge without them. No reasonable person could disagree that the 2nd/3rd generation stars have a huge advantage. Not only do you get the luxury of knowing that they're related to people who have excelled in that field (would you rather draft one of Archie Manning's kids or Ryan Leaf?), but in wrestling, you have the built-in storylines to boot. And with a creative staff like WWE's, they'll need new talent like the Hart Foundation to come in with a pre-existing storyline or else they'll end up dressing like cheerleaders, vampires, etc... Thanks for your reply.
Sean Garmer: I usually don't do email responses unless it is a case like Reichou's where he's never appeared in our inbox before, and I think he might be one of those one and done readers. I appreciate the feedback and that you enjoy our column. Now onto your response, It is rather surprising that guys like Rey Mysterio (who is still a question mark) and Randy Orton would be accused of taking steroids. Orton like, I said before has already served a suspension for his actions, so that one shouldn't be too much of a surprise. In wrestling, having it in your blood goes a long way to making you a star. That name will give you instant recognition and make promoters want to push you because they can use that past lineage. In sports it doesn't always work out that way, Peyton Manning is a Superbowl Champion, but Eli has yet to amount to much of anything. Also, using the Ryan Leaf response isn't right in this sense. You are using post knowledge to make that decision, at the time Ryan Leaf was drafted there were scouts saying he could be better than Peyton. Yes you have a better chance of getting a good player if you go with past lineage, but let's use Jarrett Payton as an example, he hasn't done anything yet? And he's the son of one of the greatest rushers in NFL history. In baseball, that happens a lot too. You are, probably right to a point about the WWE creative staff, but having a pre-existing storyline would help anybody. Thanks for reading man, and it's been fun bantering with you.
Finally, Luke Matheson is back with a thank you for us.
Hey guys, Just a quick hit to say thank you for putting my comments into your column. This is the first time any of my feedback has ever been used so I was surprised but very happy when I read them in there. Your answers were also appreciated and also helped to clear things up. I understand now where Alex is coming from as he is a more traditional wrestling fan, where much of what goes on in WWE is more entertainment oriented which takes away from the wrestling.
I have to say I also have given ROH a crack and what I have seen impresses me. The focus on wrestling is done well and the promotion, also seems to make the few titles they have seem ultra important. They also seem to explain their feuds better then WWE in most cases.
Anyway guys thanks once again for explaining each of your views.
Luke Matheson
Sean Garmer: This one came in a little late for me to send it to the other two. Well you are very welcome, and you can send us feedback any time you want. We don't always get a lot of feedback, but recently, probably because it's Wrestlemania time we have been getting more. So, we welcome anything that comes into our mailbox. Other guys, like Larry Csonka, Randle, Hidden Highlights, get so much, that they probably can't always answer everyone, especially Csonka because he does tons of things for the website. I do a lot of stuff around here along with going to college, however, my only job is passing classes and doing my stuff for the website, I don't work like, most of the other writers do. It also does not compare in the slightest to what Csonka, Ashish, or the zone editors do. I'm glad you understand where Alex is coming from now, and I'm always glad we added him to the column (because originally it was just David and I) but since we always seemed to have more agreeable opinions back then, it didn't work as great as I wanted it to. So, when Alex asked, I wanted him, because he brought a different viewpoint to the column and that has helped us immensely. Now, David and I tend to disagree a little more due to nothing really, irritating me about wrestling anymore, well, except for Vince Russo. ROH is a very good promotion and I've always respected them for putting wrestling first. I can see why Alex enjoys it, and it is great to put a tape in or watch a match on the net, to see where our stars of today and the future came from. They have done a better job of having actual feuds recently, but no one does the big match like WWE. Thanks again for responding, and enjoy Wrestlemania Luke.
Well that is all for this week folks. Thanks everyone for reading. Well let us know what your opinions are with some feedback. It's always good to have someone else to argue with besides these guys. Thanks everyone for the feedback, it's greatly appreciated, and let's us know, people read this column on 411. We've all been waiting for this night, so go enjoy it with a few friends and watch the 23rd Superbowl of Professional Wrestling. Don't forget to send us your opinions on Wrestlemania 23. We would also like your opinion on something, did you like our preview? If so, please let us know, because I've been thinking about doing something like this for all the WWE PPV's. Next week our column returns to normal, along with a match-by-match review of Wrestlemania 23. Enjoy Wrestlemania everyone, and we will see you here next week. Ciao Triple Threaters.
If you want to send us your thoughts or comments send them to triplethreatsda@hotmail.com
