Sunday 24 February 2013

UFC 157 - A historic night at the Honda Center

History was made tonight in UFC 157, as it featured the first ever Women's UFC bout, and co-main events with huge implications in the UFC. The crowd at the Honda Center in Anaheim, CA had a great night, and it was history-making.

Embedded image permalinkIn the first of the co-main events, Bantamweight contenders Urijah Faber and Ivan Menjivar had a rematch from an MMA bout in 2006, with title implications. Following some great action in stand up and on the ground, Faber was eventually able to win with a standing rear-naked choke, and possibly puts himself in line for a title shot at Interim Champion Renan Barao, and exciting prospect.

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The two top contenders of the Light Heavyweight Division, Dan Henderson and Lyoto Machida collided where the winner would be in line for a title shot. The bout did not live up to expectations, with some lack of strikes throughout the rounds, and not many significant moments. However, Lyoto's extra strikes in Round 3 and Round 1 were able to win him the rounds, and therefore he won by Split Decision.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BD2EPQECUAAiNMi.png:largeHistory was made. Two female MMA fighters trail-blazed at the Honda Center, as Ronda Rousey and Liz Carmouche contested for the UFC Women's Bantamweight Championship. They got into the action immediately, and it was an extremely entertaining fight. Rousey was in trouble in the middle of the round, but was able to get out and then attempted for the armbar. After several attempts to stop it, Rousey was able to eventually lock it in and win. This fight was a great example to the World of Women's MMA, and the future of Women in the UFC can only be better. Liz Carmouche was Rousey's toughest opponent to date, and she will be back again. With the popularity of Women's UFC heavily increased following this fight? What is next?

The fights were very entertaining at UFC 157. Machida vs. Henderson may not have lived up to all expectations, but the main event was epic. They deserved the main event spot, and this is a huge day for MMA as a whole and female sports. UFC 157 was significant for the events ahead to unfold. Will Faber take on Barao? Will Machida be the next Light Heavyweight Champion? Who is Ronda Rousey's next opponent?

Saturday 23 February 2013

WrestleWeek - Your Weekly Round-Up For All Things WWE! Edition 3 (18th Feb. onwards)

With just six weeks until the Grandest Stage of Them All, The Road to WrestleMania went through the Elimination Chamber. This week was a week of big WrestleMania implications, a week where we saw a new title belt unveiled, almost a change of Champion, and much more. Things are only getting more intense, as we approach WrestleMania, and it already is shaping up to be nothing short of epic. Why? Recap the events from this week in WWE, in WrestleWeek!
  
WWE Elimination Chamber - 17th February 2013
The Elimination Chamber. Renowned to shape careers, and at that night in New Orleans, shaped the foundations of WrestleMania. With a shocking Elimination Chamber win by Jack Swagger, a night which saw all titles retained, and an epic encounter for the WWE Championship. Click here for more Elimination Chamber coverage. 

WWE Monday Night RAW - 18th February 2013
Monday Night RAW was coming off a very significant night at the Elimination Chamber, and entering to begin was John Cena. John Cena was focused on his blockbuster WrestleMania match with The Rock for the WWE Championship. As John Cena addressed the WWE Universe, he was interrupted by CM Punk, who provoked John Cena into a challenge. John Cena challenged CM Punk to a match, of which the winner will face The Rock at WrestleMania. CM Punk had managed to slither his way back into the title picture, and will have the opportunity to headline WrestleMania next week, when he faces John Cena. The stakes have never been higher.

Mark Henry made quick work of Sin Cara in singles competition, but in the aftermath, as Henry prepared to induct Sin Cara into the Hall of Pain, he was interrupted by The Great Khali. Mark Henry did not want anything to do with him, and retreated. This is not the last time we will see these two in a confrontation.

After the controversial ending to their match at Elimination Chamber, The Miz and Antonio Cesaro did battle on RAW, with No Disqualification. Things quickly got out of hand, with both utilizing weapons to cause each other pain. The Miz took chair shots, and strikes from kendo sticks, but was still able to pull through, and defeat Antonio Cesaro with the Figure-Four Leg Lock. Could this put The Miz in line for another title shot?

Alberto Del Rio had a tough challenge against Dolph Ziggler, of who utilized Big E Langston to gain an advantage. Despite this, Alberto Del Rio was able to overcome, and reversed a DDT into a Cross-Arm Breaker, making the Show Off submit, two weeks in a row. The encounter was all but over, as Big E Langston entered the ring and attacked Del Rio. Ziggler saw an advantage to cash in his Money in the Bank contract, until Del Rio's personal ring announcer, Ricardo Rodriguez snatched it out his hands and ran away. He was eventually caught, but by the time the briefcase made it back to the ring, Del Rio was aware, and rattled Ziggler with an enzuigiri. Del Rio's title had been saved, for now.

Elimination Chamber winner Jack Swagger had a controversial 'State of the Union' address next on RAW. Accompanied by Zeb Coulter, the Real American launched verbal attacks sending shockwaves through the WWE Universe. And after, Jack Swagger made an example of Daniel Bryan, by submitting him with the Patriot Act following a decent match.

On RAW, Paul Heyman's words came back to haunt him. As he previously said he would do "anything" to make The Rock lose his Champion's advantage at WrestleMania, Mr McMahon challenged Heyman to a fight, next week on RAW. Will McMahon finally get his hands on Heyman? What chaos will ensue?

The Shield made their debut on RAW, by triumphing over Chris Jericho, Ryback and Sheamus. They managed to once again make a stand, and Ryback, Jericho and Sheamus were left beaten again. Tensions are running high between Ryback and Sheamus, what will be next?

More cracks appeared in the partnership of Daniel Bryan and Kane, as Randy Orton defeated Kane. The match came about when Kane said he doesn't like snakes, and the Viper, Randy Orton showed why, by defeating Kane with an RKO after he was distracted by Daniel Bryan.
The Rock celebrated his WWE Championship victory, by concluding RAW with a great celebration, and revelation of something new.  The Rock celebrated in grand fashion, by entering with a great band, and addressed the WWE Universe. The Rock said "I'm going to WrestleMania as WWE Champion, but I'm not going with THIS" and pointed to the title belt. The Rock was going to reveal a new title belt, something that didn't look like a toy, something that represented the greatness and heritage of the title, and something, that didn't spin. The Rock revealed the NEW WWE Championship belt...The Rock wore his new innovative title, and then, as The Rock prepared to announce who he wanted to face at WrestleMania, John Cena entered. He looked down the ring, and stared at The Rock, who he would possibly face at WrestleMania. Then, CM Punk attacked John Cena behind his back with the old title belt, leaving Cena unconscious, leaving The Rock on edge, and leaving CM Punk ready for the huge match, with WrestleMania implications, next week on RAW. Who will go on to face The Rock at WrestleMania?


WWE Main Event - 20th February 2013
The feature of this week's Main Event was an address from The Big Show to the WWE Universe. The Big Show quickly got angry, and challenged anyone in the locker room for a match. The Uso brothers answered the call, and Big Show made quick work of them. It quickly escalated into a Gauntlet match, as Brodus Clay was next to collide with The World's Largest Athlete. Big Show put Clay away by countering a splash from the corner and delivering a KO punch. Then, another behemoth answered the call. It was The Great Khali. Khali was a challenge for The Big Show, but after a KO outside the ring, Khali was unable to answer the 10 count, and lost. After the match, The Miz attacked Big Show, and Big Show retreated. Will Big Show be getting revenge on The Miz?

WWE SmackDown - 22nd February 2013
http://gyazo.com/66fe62a620a27bce6364435a2bc0ad7e.png?1361582309World Heavyweight Champion, Alberto Del Rio began the show addressing Jack Swagger. He was offended by his comments, and even had a good counter-point. Del Rio called out Swagger, but he did not answer the call. Instead, The Viper, Randy Orton answered. He made his way to the ring and said he wanted to get his hands on Jack Swagger. As the two disputed, general manager Booker T came out to announce two matches that would happen on SmackDown. The first, Randy Orton vs. Jack Swagger and second, Champion vs. Champion, Alberto Del Rio vs.Wade Barrett!

Damien Sandow was in pursuit of success in singles competition, as he faced Sheamus. But a hard fought battle came to an end with a Brogue Kick. Damien Sandow's brutality was evident throughout the course of the matchup, but eventually The Great White took control and put an end to it. Very compelling contest.

Randy Orton was to get his hands on Jack Swagger, after his loss in the Elimination Chamber match. Following a brutal contest that went in and out the ring, Randy Orton was still unable to get the job done, and after a thumb to the eye, Jack Swagger was able to roll-up Orton for the pin, and 'steal' yet another victory at the expense of The Viper, which left Orton irate.

The main event of the night saw Intercontinental Champion Wade Barrett collide with World Heavyweight Champion Alberto Del Rio in a "Champion vs. Champion" match. Jack Swagger was also ringside to observe the match, leaving an eery atmosphere, and leaving the World Hvt. Champion on edge. The match started off at quite a pace, with Del Rio using his athleticism and kicks to combat Barrett, meanwhile he used brutality and a smash-mouth style. Wade Barrett was distracted by Ricardo Rodriguez, and the distraction got to him, as he was caught with a high-flying move as Del Rio went over the top rope. Alberto took a hard crash to the floor, as Barrett pushed him off the top rope. Barrett was to capitalize on this for quite a long spell in the match by punishing The Mexican Aristocrat. Del Rio tried to string together some offense, but Barrett was able to use his power to stop this happening. Del Rio was eventually able to gain some control, and it developed into a back-and-forth match, which saw Barrett come very close to winning. Barrett went for the devastating Bullhammer Elbow, but Del Rio was to counter and lock in the Cross-Arm Breaker. Barrett tapped out, and Del Rio stood victorious, while Swagger looked on. The stage was set, Swagger and Del Rio know the challenge that lies ahead in six weeks at WrestleMania.

Opinion
Elimination Chamber was very enjoyable to watch, but some matches did lack in some aspects, but overall the event was enjoyable. The match between CM Punk and The Rock was an epic match, and this really has set up for a great WrestleMania. I'm unsure of where WWE will pursue the Swagger/Del Rio storyline, following Swagger's arrest midweek. RAW was a good show, but some matches were boring, and I found Swagger's promo quite dry and pointless, and it was also pretty controversial. Quite a mediocre Main Event, but the concept of the gauntlet match and how it panned out was better than expected. SmackDown had some great matches, I particularly enjoyed Del Rio vs. Barrett. Like every week, it always leaves me questioning one thing... What happens next?

Conclusion
With just six weeks till WrestleMania, many significant events ensued in the week. Next week's RAW is sure to be great, with HUGE WrestleMania implications with the Punk vs. Cena match! As we get even further down The Road to WrestleMania, things are getting BIGGER, MUCH BIGGER. And that's a wrap. Thanks for reading WrestleWeek.


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Twitter: @iNisarKhan
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Monday 18 February 2013

WWE Elimination Chamber 2013 - Results, Coverage and More!

The Elimination Chamber. Renowned for shaping careers, known to make legends, and this time, to pave the way on the Road to WrestleMania. It was a very entertaining night in New Orleans, which witnessed a shocking win in the Chamber match, a dramatic end to the main event and much, much more. The Road to WrestleMania is at full speed now, and it was boosted at the Elimination Chamber. Great night of WWE.
  

AlbertoDel Rio successfully defended his World Heavyweight Championship by submitting The Big Show.
Del Rio managed to tackle the colossal task very well in the opening contest of the night. From the ring of the bell, The Big Show was straight at Del Rio, attacking him savagely, and unleashing fury over the weeks of which Del Rio had embarrassed him. Del Rio had several offensive flurries throughout the matchup, and used his agility and speed to try and outwit The Big Show. On one occasion, Alberto had the Cross-Arm Breaker locked in, and The Big Show was able to lift up Del Rio and slammed him to the ground. It in fact took Del Rio three attempts, before he managed to submit The Big Show, and as The Big Show tapped, the WWE Universe were left shocked. Del Rio had triumphed over The Big Show, and stood in glory, still World Heavyweight Champion.


The Miz came close to ending a very long US Championship reign for Antonio Cesaro.
Cesaro came in with the advantage following The Miz's injured left shoulder, but The Miz put up a great fight. Antonio Cesaro's victory came not when he hit The Neutralizer, but an unintentional low-blow that Charles Robinson felt was substantial enough to disqualify The Miz. It looks like we have not seen the end of this rivalry, these two should cross paths again in the near future.


Jack Swagger shocked the WWE Universe by his Elimination Chamber triumph.
It was an extremely entertaining and exciting match. Daniel Bryan and Chris Jericho began the match, and had some compelling action inside the Chamber. Following entrances into the match from the other superstars, we eventually had six men in the ring, and chaos ensued. Mark Henry started off dominant, making quick work of Daniel Bryan and Kane, eliminating them from the match. It was not the ideal night for Team Hell No, as their friendship underwent more damage, and neither were successful in the Chamber match. The WWE Universe were left gobsmacked, when Randy Orton was thrown into the glass as such a force, that he smashed through it. Later on in the match, there was another incredible moment, as Jack Swagger and Chris Jericho double suplexed the 416 lbs World's Strongest Man! It took three superstars in total to eliminate the favorite Mark Henry, first Jack Swagger and Chris Jericho double-teamed on him, before a Codebreaker into a thunderous RKO, and Mark Henry had been eliminated. We were down to three, Jericho, Orton and Swagger. As the three did battle in the squared circle and within the confines of the Chamber, an irate Mark Henry forced his way back into the structure, and attacked the remaining three with colossal World's Strongest Slams. Mark Henry had to be restrained by WWE officials and SmackDown managerial staff, but Mark Henry had left his mark in the Chamber. Randy Orton eliminated Chris Jericho with an RKO, before Jack Swagger saw an advantage and got a roll-up pin on Orton, securing a place to headline WrestleMania 29, everyone was not expecting. Jack Swagger will now go on to challenge Alberto Del Rio for the World Heavyweight Championship at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on April 7.


The Shield managed to overcome three of WWE's top superstars, in an enthralling six-man tag team match. Shield wins at Elimination Chamber
The Shield's tactics seemed to work, by beating down John Cena among others. The Shield managed to maintain control for the majority of the contest, but chaos ensued in the latter part of the match. The action spilled to the outside, but eventually, the Ryback was preparing for Shellshocked on Seth Rollins, when Roman Reigns speared Ryback and Seth Rollins fell on him for the three count. Ryback had lost via pinfall, and was absolutely outraged about it, as he stormed of after the match. Even the Super Team of John Cena, Ryback and Sheamus could not get the job done, The Shield are a force to be reckoned with.


The Rock and CM Punk faced off in the main event in what was an epic and dramatic encounter.
The match had huge WrestleMania implications, and  The Rock was disadvantaged too, because if he was Disqualified or counted out, he would lose the title. CM Punk's strategy was evident, he looked to win it the easy way, by provoking The Rock to the extent of slapping and spitting on him. It almost worked, as The Rock had to be restrained by the referee. CM Punk then tried to get The Rock counted-out, by performing the Rockbottom (The Rock's signature move) on The Rock, and he almost lost by countout, but The Rock was able to make it in time just before it was too late. There was some very compelling action in this match, it surpassed the quality of the previous encounter at the Royal Rumble. CM Punk showed heart and courage, by kicking out of both The People's Elbow and Rockbottom. The drama ensued when the referee was knocked off the apron. CM Punk then delivered a GTS to The Rock, and pinned him. It was for more than three seconds, but as there was no referee active at that time, the match was still on. When he attempted a second GTS, The Rock went for the People's Elbow, and the replacement referee injured his ankle. It all concluded when The Rock Rockbottomed CM Punk, retaining his WWE Championship. The Rock will now headline WrestleMania, for the WWE Championship, against John Cena.
 

And there you have it. The Road to WrestleMania is continuing, more buidling blocks have been laid for the big event in April, and it was a dramatic night of epic proportions, and huge WrestleMania implications. This has just escalated the excitement for WrestleMania, and the buzz around the WWE Universe is evident. WrestleMania is coming.


Image Credit - WWE.com - No copyright infringement intended.
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Saturday 16 February 2013

WWE Elimination Chamber 2013 - Preview, Predictions and More!

It's the final event before WrestleMania, and it's shaping up to be an amazing one. With a jam-packed card, WrestleMania implications and more, Elimination Chamber is going to be monumental on the Road to WrestleMania. The Elimination Chamber will be a significant turning point for many superstars, it's going to be a great night in New Orleans...

Brodus Clay and Tensai vs. Team Rhodes Scholars - LIVE on the Elimination Chamber Pre-Show
The unlikely pairing of Brodus Clay and Tensai could be working. Ever since the night on RAW Roulette, when Tensai shocked the WWE Universe by dancing with Brodus Clay and all the Funkateers, the team have went from strength-to-strength. Although they do not have a team name yet, these two huge men could be a force to be reckoned with. Their opponents, Team Rhodes Scholars in fact disbanded a few weeks ago, but are once again teaming up. Cody Rhodes and Damien Sandow refer to themselves as best friends, and they do have great tag-team instincts.
PREDICTION: Brodus Clay and Tensai dominate Team Rhodes Scholars, embarrassing them but giving a good feel to the start of the show.
Will Tensai and Brodus Clay's momentum continue? Will they be able to score the victory? Or will Team Rhodes Scholars hand out another important lesson? Find out in the Elimination Chamber Pre-Show LIVE on YouTube, Facebook and WWE.com! (12:30pm GMT/ 7:30pm ET)

Antonio Cesaro vs. The Miz for the United States Championship
The rivalry between Antonio Cesaro and The Miz has quickly intensified. It all started on Main Event, when The Miz (who was on commentary) had enough of Antonio Cesaro's constant bashing of the American people. The rivalry has quickly developed over the past few weeks, and now the rivalry takes a turn into the United States Championship. Antonio Cesaro has been the United States Champion since SummerSlam, but The Miz is looking like one of the biggest threats to his reign thus far. The Miz has got his one-ups over Cesaro in the past, but this week on RAW, Antonio Cesaro attacked The Miz during his match against Cody Rhodes. The brutal attack by Cesaro left The Miz with an injured shoulder, possibly giving Antonio Cesaro an advantage in the match. However, on SmackDown, The Miz showed that he was ready, by defeating Cody Rhodes with the Figure-Four Leg Lock.
PREDICTION: Antonio Cesaro retains his United States Championship and the rivalry continues.All the numerous run-ins, the fights and trash talk, it all could be settled at the Elimination Chamber. Will The Miz put an end to Cesaro's dominance? Or will Cesaro be standing tall again?


Alberto Del Rio vs. The Big Show for the World Heavyweight Championship
This rivalry has become personal. Alberto Del Rio has previously beaten The Big Show twice this year in a Last Man Standing match. The first was on SmackDown early in January, and the second was following a brutal Last Man Standing match at the Royal Rumble. This time round, things are different. Things have got personal, and this time, Del Rio must submit or pin The Big Show to retain, something of which he has never done before. Alberto Del Rio has quickly gotten under the skin of The Big Show, from trashing his bus, throwing orange paint all over him, beating him up in a hotel, trying to beat him up in a parking lot... This rivalry has been stretched out all over, and not only on Del Rio's part. The Big Show had also repeatedly attacked Ricardo Rodriguez - a long time friend of Del Rio - and Del Rio wants to avenge Ricardo. The Big Show, who is in a furious mood, will be a huge challenge for Alberto Del Rio. Both of these men will be determined for a victory at the Elimination Chamber, it is all about vengeance this Sunday. The rivalry has been very enjoyable to watch, and the final match completes a great trilogy and rivalry.
PREDICTION: With WrestleMania round the corner, it's hard to predict the outcome of this match, and another loss for The Big Show would be damaging, but the prediction is that Del Rio wins, Big Show attacks him after, then Dolph Ziggler cashes in.
Will Alberto Del Rio be able to avenge his friend and retain the title? Or will The Angry Giant's fury engulf Del Rio's title reign at the Elimination Chamber?

Mark Henry, Jack Swagger, Chris Jericho, Randy Orton, Kane and Daniel Bryan in an Elimination Chamber Match for No.1 Contender Spot for the World Heavyweight Championship
It is one the most barbaric and punishing structure to ever be in the WWE. The Elimination Chamber, six men, one opportunity to headline WrestleMania. The brutality of this match speaks for itself, with history of pain in that Chamber. The careers take a turning point this Sunday at the Elimination Chamber. Elimination Chamber matches are always entertaining, the possibilities of events just increase the excitement. Mark Henry is probably the favorite in this match, after making a dominant return, already putting Rey Mysterio on the shelf and inducted many more into the Hall of Pain. But maybe the others could have a tactic to all eliminate Mark Henry? This has happened in previous occasions, and because of the danger that Mark Henry brings, that could be a solution. The World's Strongest Man however still is probably the biggest pick to win. But how about Jack Swagger? The All American American returned a few weeks ago and has made quick work of his opponents, bringing a new attitude and arsenal of moves. Both of the Tag Team Champions, Kane and Daniel Bryan will also be in the Chamber, will they be able to coexist, or will the opportunity get in their way? Could they possibly team up till the end? How about Chris Jericho? Jericho has lots of experience in this type of match, and definitely has the credentials to win? And then there's Randy Orton. The Viper seeks career redemption in the Chamber match, as getting back into the title hunt is a big objective of his. With the unpredictability of who wins this Chamber match, it's going to be very exciting. There are many combustible elements in the match, many previous and current rivalries all intertwined. But rest assured, these superstars are going to go all-out to headline WrestleMania, which means putting their bodies on the line. Expect shockers, expect OMG moments, expect the unexpected in this Chamber match.
PREDICTION: This match is definitely hard to predict. Mark Henry or Chris Jericho win.
Who will triumph in brutality at this Chamber match? Who will make it to WrestleMania? Who's career will be shaped forever? It all goes down in this Elimination Chamber match!


John Cena, Sheamus and Ryback vs. The Shield
It maybe All-Star Weekend in the NBA, but Ryback, Cena and Sheamus have assembled an All-Star team for themselves. For months, The Shield have sent destruction through the WWE, attacking numerous superstars and putting the WWE on edge. They significantly attacked Sheamus, John Cena and Ryback. The trio had enough, and challenged The Shield to a six-man tag team match at the Elimination Chamber. Then, over the past weeks, Cena, Ryback and Sheamus attacked The Shield in similar ways which they did to them. At Elimination Chamber, they look to put an end to The Shield, and defeat them. It will be an interesting match, a big challenge for all competitors.
PREDICTION: The Shield shock them with an addition of their group or outwit their opponents to win.
Will the all-star team put an end to The Shield? Or will the objective be succeeded, the Shield from Injustice?


The Rock vs. CM Punk II for the WWE Championship
FINALLY... The Rock is WWE Champion. After his historic win at the Royal Rumble, things between him and CM Punk have just intensified. An irate CM Punk challenged The Rock to a rematch a few weeks ago, and CM Punk has constantly said that he is still WWE Champion, and that he beat The Rock. CM Punk will have to prove it in New Orleans, when he challenges The Rock for the WWE Championship. We are in for another classic. The great match at the Royal Rumble goes to Part 2, and the WWE Universe is very excited for this match. This past week on RAW, The Rock was addressing the WWE Universe, and he was interrupted by CM Punk. CM Punk made his way to the ring. A brawl ensued between The People's Champion and Straight-Edge Savior, and as The Rock went for The People's Elbow, Paul Heyman tripped him up, and CM Punk delivered an ice-cold GTS. CM Punk looked confident and ready for this match as he appeared on the titantron on SmackDown, and The Rock delivered a bold statement. The Rock and CM Punk are ready for this match, but there is one BIG issue. The Rock has lost his Champion's advantage, if he is disqualified or counted out, The Rock will lose the WWE Championship. CM Punk knows what he needs to do, anger The Rock and win the title, as The Rock gets Disqualified. Things are intense, but dramatic as we head into this match. It is going to be a match of huge proportions, that will set the stage for WrestleMania.
PREDICTION: CM Punk gets The Rock disqualified, with the involvement of another superstar, setting up a triple threat at WrestleMania...
Will CM Punk be able to recapture his coveted Gold? Or will The Rock be heading to WrestleMania? Watch Elimination Chamber Sunday February 16 LIVE from New Orleans!

The match card for Elimination Chamber is STACKED. It's going to be a great night from New Orleans, the final event before the Grandest Stage of Them All, WrestleMania! This sets the stage very well, many things will be shaped, careers are defined, and the WWE Universe are treated to a superb night, the Elimination Chamber. It's unmissable! New Orleans, get ready!

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Friday 15 February 2013

WrestleWeek - Your Weekly Round-Up For All Things WWE! Edition 2 (11th Feb. onwards)

With the Elimination Chamber this Sunday, a lot of interesting events were to unfold this week in the WWE. The Road to WrestleMania continues, and the entertainment is getting better!
 
WWE Monday Night RAW - 11th February 2013
This week's edition of RAW was LIVE from Nashville, and there was a lot going on. With just a week until Elimination Chamber, things were to reach boiling point, and it set the scene ready for the Chamber. The Rock, the WWE Champion was also LIVE on RAW!

http://www.wwe.com/f/styles/photo_large/public/photo/image/2013/02/RAW_1029_Photo_012.jpgPaul Heyman announced via Tout prior to the show that he had the 'Announcement of a Lifetime' and would kick off Monday Night RAW. Paul Heyman shocked us all when he announced that he would be leaving the WWE, and this was his last ever night on RAW. Paul Heyman explained why he came to this decision, and said it was for the benefit of CM Punk. During Heyman's leaving speech, CM Punk entered the ring, and managed to talk Paul Heyman out of resigning. He was successful in his job, and Heyman did not resign.

The first contest of the night was between two huge behemoths, The Great Khali and Mark Henry. The match only lasted for a minute or two, but was dominated by Mark Henry, finishing with yet another thunderous World's Strongest Slam to Khali, inducting another victim into the Hall of Pain. But Henry wasn't done. As Hornswoggle and Natalya aided Khali, Mark Henry got back into the ring and slammed Hornswoggle. Mark Henry has made his presence known just a week into his return.

Chris Jericho had the opportunity to have himself entered into the Elimination Chamber match that will take place this Sunday, but he had to defeat Daniel Bryan to do so. There was some pulsating action between both competitors, a match that went through the ropes, out the ropes, back and forth, and was just awesome. The contest came to an end when Chris Jericho hit his Signature move, the Codebreaker, putting Daniel Bryan out for the pinfall. Chris Jericho had secured a spot in the Elimination Chamber match.

John Cena, Sheamus and Ryback prepared for their pivotal six-man tag team match at Elimination Chamber this Sunday, by defeating 3MB. They dominated each of the men in 3MB, and finished it in great fashion with well timed bodyslams/signature moves. They looked more than ready to take on The Shield this Sunday.

Following a humiliating SmackDown for The Big Show, he was in a horrendous mood on RAW. Earlier on in the day, he knocked out both Alex Riley and Yoshi Tatsu for mocking him. Then he was in the ring, and Matt Striker was conducting an interview with the #1 Contender for the World Heavyweight Champion. Big Show immediately threw a punch at Striker which knocked him out cold. An irate Big Show restrained himself from talking to the WWE Universe, and stormed out the ring. The Angry Giant just got angrier.

Associated by Zeb Coulter ringside, Jack Swagger secured a spot in the Elimination Chamber match after an outstanding performance against 'Long Island Ice Z' Zack Ryder. Swagger made a bold statement with his victory, and looks to go one step further by winning the Chamber match this Sunday.

The Miz and Cody Rhodes squared off for the first time ever on RAW, in a match where we saw some great action, and of course the involvement of Antonio Cesaro, the United States Champion who was ringside. The Miz was taking control outside the ring, before Antonio Cesaro interfered and attacked The Awesome One. This rivalry just stepped up even more.

Brodus Clay and his new associate Tensai, overcame the team of Primo and Epico with a dominating performance. The sheer size of Clay and Tensai easily outmatched Primo and Epico, and a win was secured, before things got funky, with yes, another dance...

The Shield made their way to the middle of the ring to send a message to John Cena, Ryback and Sheamus. They made serious warnings to their opponents, they talked about 'Rectifying 10 years' which Cena had ruined, they looked ready to take on their opponents at the Elimination Chamber. After sending a bold message, they called out Sheamus, Cena and Ryback. They awaited the arrival, until the lights went out, and Ryback, Cena and Sheamus attacked The Shield with the same tactic The Shield used. They attacked them up to the stairs in the arena, chaos ensued in Nashville, as Cena and his partners stood tall. All was set for the Elimination Chamber. Justice? This is just a taste to what is coming our way this Sunday.

Damien Sandow made his way to the ring next, bashing on the Grammy Awards, and Nashville. This got a negative ovation from the crowd. Damien Sandow wasn't to be laughing at the end of the night however, as he faced Alberto Del Rio, and within a minute was found in the Cross-Arm Breaker and tapped out, the World Heavyweight Champion Del Rio looks ready for the Chamber, and he will need to be. Del Rio was confident that he would be going to WrestleMania.

The Intercontinental Champion,Wade Barrett was ready for action next, but as he walked backstage, he was attacked by NXT Rookie Bo Dallas. Wade Barrett and Bo Dallas have had an ongoing recent feud, and Dallas wanted to avenge an attack from Barrett a few weeks ago. Barrett however was still able to get to the ring, and take on long time rival, Kofi Kingston, a man of who he took the Intercontinental Championship from on New Year's Eve. Wade Barrett and Kofi's match was entertaining, and came to an end when Kofi was caught in the apron and hit with a bullhammer elbow.

The final spot in the Elimination Chamber was up for grabs, as Kane squared off with Dolph Ziggler. The Chamber match was shaping up to be a great one, and an addition of either of these superstars would enhance it even further. Dolph Ziggler escaped the ring at one point to take a break from the flurry of Kane's offense, with the backing of Big E Langston and AJ Lee ringside. The match stretched out for long, as Ziggler tried numerous times to put the Big Red Machine away, but for a long period of time, the determined efforts were not enough to get them to the Chamber, that is until AJ tried to distract Kane off the top rope. AJ fell of, but was caught by Big E. A concerned Ziggler turned straight into a chokeslam, and Kane was rolling to the Elimination Chamber match.

And FINALLY... The Rock has come back to Nashville! Concluding the show was WWE Champion, The Rock, who came back to a city of which was special to him, the place where he had his first ever wrestling match, at a flea market for 40 bucks. But now, years later, he stands back in Nashville, as the WWE Champion! The Rock had funny stories to tell the WWE Universe, but it all came in relevance to one thing, that his dream had been achieved, and that he was the WWE Champion. Then he was interrupted by former WWE Champion, CM Punk, who will face The Rock this Sunday at the Elimination Chamber. CM Punk said he would get that title back, and as he made his way to the ring, a brawl was to ensue. CM Punk and The Rock fought in the ring, and The Rock gained control. He was preparing for the People's Elbow, when Paul Heyman tripped up the WWE Champion, and CM Punk capitalized to give The Rock a GTS, all reminiscent of RAW 1000. The stage was set, CM Punk would be going in with the momentum, but he was focused to capture the WWE Championship he lost just a month ago.

RAW this week had some good matches, a few good segments, but the rest of the three hours was quite lack-luster. Despite this, the excitement for Elimination Chamber is still very high.

WWE Main Event - 13th February 2013
The feature of this week's edition of Main Event was Chris Jericho's "Highlight Reel" talk show, for the first time ever on Main Event. Initially, The Miz was supposed to be the interviewee, but after being injured at the hands of Antonio Cesaro on RAW, he was not able to turn up. As a replacement, Chris Jericho interviewed World Heavyweight Champion Alberto Del Rio. The two speculated about the possibilities of them facing off at WrestleMania, and even talked about Mexican wrestling heritage with a bit of Spanish. They were interrupted by Dolph Ziggler, the holder of a Money in the Bank briefcase which entitles him to have a shot at the World Heavyweight Championship any time, any place, any where. Ziggler confronted Del Rio and Jericho, and stated that HE was the next Champion. Del Rio had enough, and wanted to shut up Ziggler, so challenged him to a match.

Alberto Del Rio and Dolph Ziggler had an excellent match, some very good action taking place, and there is a possibility that we could see this again, but with title implications. With some interference from AJ and Big E Langston, Ziggler came very close to a victory. In the concluding moments of the match, Ricardo Rodriguez was chased up the ramp by Big E Langston, before it culminated in the ring, as Ziggler tapped out to Del Rio's devastating submission, the Cross-Arm Breaker. An excellent match on Main Event that increases excitement for the Elimination Chamber this Sunday.

We were then expecting to see CM Punk on Main Event to discuss about the Elimination Chamber match with The Rock and his actions on RAW, instead we got Paul Heyman in the locker room, who stated Punk's intent to win the title this Sunday.

And that was Main Event, featuring only one match, it was still quite entertaining, but would have been better if CM Punk was on the show also. Some good entertainment with the match of Del Rio vs. Ziggler.


Friday Night SmackDown! - 15th February 2013
The #1 Contender for the World Heavyweight Championship, The Big Show opened up SmackDown. After being embarrassed one week ago by Alberto Del Rio, Big Show was not in a good mood. As Big Show unleashed some of his fury, and said what he would do to Del Rio on Sunday, he was interrupted by Chris Jericho, a man of who he has had a lot of history with. The possibility of them facing each other at WrestleMania cropped up, but things got heated quickly. General Manager Booker T came and announced a huge match, that Chris Jericho would face The Big Show later that night on SmackDown, a great match in store.

The first match of the night was a rematch from last week's main event on SmackDown, as The World's Strongest Man Mark Henry faced off with The Viper, Randy Orton. The intensity between the two was even higher this time round, with the Elimination Chamber just round the corner. Randy Orton gained some early control over Henry, but after, he lost control and was near-dominated with some glimpses of resistance. The match came to an end when Randy Orton was behind the barricade, and got a steel chair out to hit Mark Henry, and lost via Disqualification. Randy Orton continued his attack with the chair, but then Henry blocked the shot, and finished Orton with a thunderous World's Strongest Slam, and Mark Henry made a bold statement to all his Elimination Chamber opponents this Sunday.

WWE Champion, The Rock was on SmackDown next, and with just two days before he defended his WWE Champion against CM Punk, and the events that ensued on SmackDown, The Rock had a lot to say to the Straight-Edge Savior and the WWE Universe. CM Punk appeared on the large screen in the arena and interrupted The Rock, and CM Punk looked pretty confident for Sunday. CM Punk said he 'wanted' The Rock to lose control in the match, and therefore 'beat himself' by getting disqualified and losing the Championship to CM Punk. The Rock ended on a bold statement, leaving CM Punk and Heyman somewhat nervous for Sunday, a great promo to set up for the PPV.

The 3MB were in tag action vs. the newly formed unique tag team of Brodus Clay and Tensai. Brodus and Tensai made quick work of the 3MB, before The Shield ambushed the pair and launched a brutal attack that ended in a colossal powerbomb to Brodus Clay. The Shield looked ready for the Elimination Chamber.

After an inconclusive ending to their match on RAW, Cody Rhodes and The Miz squared off again. The Miz had his left shoulder heavily taped due to an assault by Cesaro on Monday, but he managed to defeat Cody Rhodes with the Figure-Four Leg Lock. The Miz definitely showed that he was prepared to face Cesaro on Sunday.

After decimating him on RAW, Jack Swagger was once again in action with Zack Ryder. Zack Ryder tried to pull of some offense but was no match for Jack Swagger, who continued to manhandle Ryder. Swagger particularly targeted the ankle, before setting up a Jackknife Powerbomb, and putting Ryder away by making him tap out to the Patriot Act. Jack Swagger looks determined to win the Elimination Chamber match this Sunday.
It was then time for the main event of SmackDown, Chris Jericho vs. The Big Show - a match of title proportions. Big Show began with a dominant display over Y2J, but as the match progressed, there were many openings for Jericho, with cunning moves and athleticism to outwit The Big Show. But as Jericho got back into the match, Big Show was able to take control yet again. Jericho continued to solider on, including kicking out of a Spear from The Big Show. The Big Show was very impressive over Jericho, and dominated for the majority. Chris Jericho even attempted the Walls of Jericho submission, but to no avail! It came to an end when Jericho ran at the Big Show, and ran straight into a HUGE knockout blow by The Big Show, a one punch KO that put his opponent on Sunday, Alberto Del Rio, on alert. As Alberto looked on from the ramp in concern, things were intense for the Elimination Chamber, as SmackDown drew to a close.

Opinion 
"Elimination Chamber was very well hyped up this week in WWE, quite a few enjoyable matches on the show. But the best match of the week would be Chris Jericho vs. Daniel Bryan, an excellent match, and good job that the WWE Universe will see more of it at the Elimination Chamber match on Sunday. RAW had some great segments and matches, but some were very boring, and lack-luster. Overall, it was a good show. Main Event sounded much better on paper, than it did actually on the show. It had potential to be a great show, but with just the one match wasn't as good. SmackDown was a good ending to the week, but featured too many rematches from RAW for one's liking. Good setup for Elimination Chamber overall, and I am really looking forward to the event."
http://www.wwe.com/f/styles/photo_large/public/photo/image/2013/02/RAW_1029_Photo_203.jpgConclusion
It's safe to say that the Road to WrestleMania is in full swing. With Elimination Chamber this Sunday, and a stacked card lined up, a lot of interesting things have unfolded this past week. But now the question lies... Who will go through the Elimination Chamber and go to WrestleMania?

Thanks for reading WrestleWeek edition 2! Image credit to World Wrestling Entertainment, no copyright infringement intended. Follow my Tweets @iNisarKhan and keep checking this site.