Wrestling is a big man’s game, and when you look at the documented history of WWE, names such as Stone Cold Steve Austin, Razor Ramon, Andre The Giant, The Rock, Bret Hart, and The Undertaker have several things in common: They’re tall guys who would never be mistaken as cruiserweights. The term cruiserweight was made famous by World Championship Wrestling, which made the division hot by showcasing world-class wrestlers who weren’t just heavyweights that the wrestling world were used to. The most infamous to come out of that division are Eddie Guerrero, Chris Jericho, Dean Malenko, X-Pac (Who was Synxx
Why The WWE Cruiserweight Division From The Beginning...
Why The WWE Cruiserweight Division From The Beginning...
- 6/14/2022
- by Jeffrey Bowie Jr.
- TVovermind.com
Welcome to this week’s review of WWE Monday Night Raw, right here on Nerdly. I’m Nathan Favel and we have King George on line one: [King George] – I don’t drink pee! [Me] – Okay. [Kg] – I don’t! [Me] – Okay. [Kg] – I was curious! [Me] – Okay. [Kg] – So what if it tasted like c–k?! [Me] – Ummmm… [Kg] – I’m not a fag! [Me] – What’s wrong with being a cigarette? [Kg] – You get smoked! [Me] – A lot of guys like that. [Kg] – My brother pounded me! [Me] – …Is there another caller? [Kg] – I don’t drink pee! [Me] – Kelloggs Frosted Flakes! …part of nutritious breakfast! [Kg] – Don’t bloody ignore me! [Me] – We’ll be right back! [Kg] – Of God! You f–king ignored me! Ahhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!! [Me] – We’ll be right back with more from Andy Dick! While you wait, please enjoy this review of Monday Night Raw!
[Author’s Note: Riddle, who has been accused of rape and not yet found guilty or innocent in a court of law, is on this show and if that alarms or upsets you, then viewer discretion is advised]. Match #1: John Morrison b. Ricochet The following is courtesy of wwe.com:
Ricochet and “Johnny Drip Drip” ran back...
[Author’s Note: Riddle, who has been accused of rape and not yet found guilty or innocent in a court of law, is on this show and if that alarms or upsets you, then viewer discretion is advised]. Match #1: John Morrison b. Ricochet The following is courtesy of wwe.com:
Ricochet and “Johnny Drip Drip” ran back...
- 7/7/2021
- by Nathan Favel
- Nerdly
Welcome to this week’s Aew Friday Night Dynamite review, right here on Nerdly. I’m Nathan Favel and we are atop the summit of Mount Fagynah to bury the remains of Necro-Vince in the mountains. We have some big matches to get to… Don West: Wait, Roberto! I sense a disturbance in the kayfabe! Me: It’s N… Mike Tenay: I do too! Stephanie McMahon: Get them! Cesaro: Affirmative! Don West: We have to get away from that MechMahonanoids! Mike Tenay: Aj! Do you have the drop on them? Aj Styles: I’m under attack from two more! Ricochet: Target acquired! Mustafa Ali: Eliminate target! Dw: Aj! No! Mt: We’re surrounded! Sm: My father belongs to me! Soon, he will be resurrected! The Monopologeddon shall be upon us all! Hahahahahahaha!!!!!!! Me: No! Sm: Fire missiles! Destroy everything! Me: No! You shall not stop us!
- 6/21/2021
- by Nathan Favel
- Nerdly
Welcome to this week’s Impact Wrestling review, right here on Nerdly. I’m Nathan Favel and we have the fallout from Violent By Design becoming the Tag Champions last week. It’s times like this that I’m reminded of the story of Stukanga Gaitoo. Stukanga Gaitoo was a farmer’s hand in ancient Mesopotamia, when the wind was dry and hot and cracked you across the back like a frayed whip. Stukanga loved the farmer’s daughter, but could not afford to marry her. So, when the moon rose upon the cusp of night, Stukanga returned to the farm and stole the wheat from the fields. Stukanga then sold the wheat to the rich merchant Makolinga. Makolinga bought it for half of what it was worth and made Stukanga very wealthy. Stukanga returned and lied about who had stole the wheat…and said that Makolinga had stolen the wheat.
- 5/28/2021
- by Nathan Favel
- Nerdly
Okay, okay… I know this is kind of typical for this time of year, but hear me out. I have a good argument for why WWE should being back the old WCW pay-per-view concept, Halloween Havoc, to their annual PPV schedule.
Back in the 80s and 90s (and the year 2000) World Championship Wrestling hosted a pay-per-view every October called Halloween Havoc. Occuring every year from 1989 until 2000, Halloween Havoc was the autumnal spooky show for WCW, a themed event that looked the part but didn’t feel too forced like PPVs of the modern-age like Hell in a Cell do. You see… Hell in a Cell used to be a gimmick match that was utilised during a specific feud that had become so heated that the Cell was the only way to contain the hatred between the two participants, but now, with the annual Hell in a Cell PPV, we know...
Back in the 80s and 90s (and the year 2000) World Championship Wrestling hosted a pay-per-view every October called Halloween Havoc. Occuring every year from 1989 until 2000, Halloween Havoc was the autumnal spooky show for WCW, a themed event that looked the part but didn’t feel too forced like PPVs of the modern-age like Hell in a Cell do. You see… Hell in a Cell used to be a gimmick match that was utilised during a specific feud that had become so heated that the Cell was the only way to contain the hatred between the two participants, but now, with the annual Hell in a Cell PPV, we know...
- 10/31/2019
- by Chris Cummings
- Nerdly
Welcome back folks. So, being a fan of wrestling means you see the same conversations and discussions going on between fans, discussions that never really change. In all the time I’ve been watching pro-wrestling, for twenty-seven years, the question “what’s the best PPV ever” has come up. It’s all about opinion, really. It’s all about choice. What one wrestling fan likes, another wrestling fan might hate, and visa versa. I, however, like to make things difficult for myself, and as seen as we now have the WWE Network (wonder how much it costs…) at our disposal, a wonderful and deep service, I can easily revisit a whole bunch of shows and compile a list of what I, personally, think are the ten best WWE (or WWF) Pay-per-views ever. I won’t talk about Ecw or WCW here, or New Japan Pro Wrestling, or Aew or any other promotion.
- 9/10/2019
- by Chris Cummings
- Nerdly
It’s been eighteen years since World Championship Wrestling closed its doors when it’s number one competitor, WWE, bought it after its decline in the early 00s. Before that all happened, however, and before WCW became a messy, awkward, strange shadow of what it used to be, it was a successful and entertaining product that was packed full of some truly influential and interesting concepts. So, I thought it might be fun to talk about Six things that WCW did that WWE could implement into their product today, and why it would be a good thing to do so. WWE, in 2019, has eight (soon to be nine) hours of weekly television to fill and PPV’s and Specials popping up monthly or more. That’s A Lot of content to write and produce, and sometimes it can result, as we’ve seen, in things getting stale, or seeming a little same-old.
- 9/9/2019
- by Chris Cummings
- Nerdly
Welcome to this week’s Ring Of Honor review, right here on Nerdly. I’m Nathan Favel and we have the beginning of a proper rivalry between Jay Lethal and Kenny King. It should turn out well…except if it doesn’t.
Match #1: Flip Gordon defeated Karl Fredericks The following is courtesy of rohwrestling.com:
Gordon seized control after a suicide dive, but Fredericks halted his momentum by turning Gordon’s attempted springboard move into a spinebuster. The Njpw Young Lion hit a Stinger Splash followed by an elbow drop for a near fall. Gordon rallied with a springboard dropkick and springboard neckbreaker. Gordon then hit a superkick and applied the Stf (Submit to Flip). Fredericks tapped out immediately.
My Opinion: 3 out of 5 - This was pretty good. Karl has some more work to do to really have a lot of talent available to him, but his potential is outstanding.
Match #1: Flip Gordon defeated Karl Fredericks The following is courtesy of rohwrestling.com:
Gordon seized control after a suicide dive, but Fredericks halted his momentum by turning Gordon’s attempted springboard move into a spinebuster. The Njpw Young Lion hit a Stinger Splash followed by an elbow drop for a near fall. Gordon rallied with a springboard dropkick and springboard neckbreaker. Gordon then hit a superkick and applied the Stf (Submit to Flip). Fredericks tapped out immediately.
My Opinion: 3 out of 5 - This was pretty good. Karl has some more work to do to really have a lot of talent available to him, but his potential is outstanding.
- 5/31/2019
- by Nathan Favel
- Nerdly
Welcome to this Raw review, right here on Nerdly. I’m Nathan Favel and we have some interesting news regarding Nxt on this show, so let’s get to it before Harry Potter farts himself to death.
Match #1: Braun Strowman def. Baron Corbin (Tables Match) The following is courtesy of WWE.com:
Baron Corbin can always be counted on for a good strategy, though without his friends at his side, his luck doesn’t tend to match up. Facing a very angry Braun Strowman in a Tables Match, the former General Manager-Elect of Monday Night Raw relentlessly worked the battered ribs of his longtime foe, stayed on the attack after a strong opening and kept the action as far away from any stray tables as he could in the hopes of whittling Strowman down to claim the win the win. It didn’t work, but it was enough to make things interesting.
Match #1: Braun Strowman def. Baron Corbin (Tables Match) The following is courtesy of WWE.com:
Baron Corbin can always be counted on for a good strategy, though without his friends at his side, his luck doesn’t tend to match up. Facing a very angry Braun Strowman in a Tables Match, the former General Manager-Elect of Monday Night Raw relentlessly worked the battered ribs of his longtime foe, stayed on the attack after a strong opening and kept the action as far away from any stray tables as he could in the hopes of whittling Strowman down to claim the win the win. It didn’t work, but it was enough to make things interesting.
- 2/19/2019
- by Nathan Favel
- Nerdly
Welcome to this week’s 205 Live review, right here on Nerdly. I’m Nathan Favel and we have a great night of wrestling to get to, so let’s do so before I get married to super-glue.
Match #1: The Brian Kendrick beat Mike Kanellis (with Maria Kanellis) The following is courtesy of WWE.com:
Although Mike Kanellis lost to Kalisto last week on WWE 205 Live, his performance impressed WWE 205 Live General Manager Drake Maverick enough to give The Opportunist another chance to prove himself. Once again, Kanellis squared off against a former WWE Cruiserweight Champion, The Brian Kendrick. With Maria Kanellis joining commentary, the match got underway with the two Superstars engaged in a showdown of technical prowess. Kanellis grew irate with Kendrick and was forced to recalibrate with encouragement from his wife. As the battle raged to the outside, Kendrick and Kanellis exchanged blows, and The Man with...
Match #1: The Brian Kendrick beat Mike Kanellis (with Maria Kanellis) The following is courtesy of WWE.com:
Although Mike Kanellis lost to Kalisto last week on WWE 205 Live, his performance impressed WWE 205 Live General Manager Drake Maverick enough to give The Opportunist another chance to prove himself. Once again, Kanellis squared off against a former WWE Cruiserweight Champion, The Brian Kendrick. With Maria Kanellis joining commentary, the match got underway with the two Superstars engaged in a showdown of technical prowess. Kanellis grew irate with Kendrick and was forced to recalibrate with encouragement from his wife. As the battle raged to the outside, Kendrick and Kanellis exchanged blows, and The Man with...
- 2/8/2019
- by Nathan Favel
- Nerdly
Welcome to this review of Ring Of Honor, right here on Nerdly. I’m Nathan Favel and we have a four way main event. That’s not a sex thing, by the way. We have four people fighting in the main event for a title shot. Get it? I don’t.
Match #1: Jeff Cobb defeated Luchasaurus – Proving Ground Match The following is courtesy of rohwrestling.com:
As per the rules of a Proving Ground Match, if Luchasaurus defeats Cobb or lasts the entire 15-minute time limit, he will receive a future shot at the Roh World Television Title. Immediately after the bell rang, the enigmatic Luchasaurus stunned Cobb with a spinning heel kick for a near fall. Luchasaurus tried to keep his momentum going, but when he charged Cobb in the corner, the champion caught him and hit a spinning suplex. Cobb followed with a superplex and standing moonsault for a near fall.
Match #1: Jeff Cobb defeated Luchasaurus – Proving Ground Match The following is courtesy of rohwrestling.com:
As per the rules of a Proving Ground Match, if Luchasaurus defeats Cobb or lasts the entire 15-minute time limit, he will receive a future shot at the Roh World Television Title. Immediately after the bell rang, the enigmatic Luchasaurus stunned Cobb with a spinning heel kick for a near fall. Luchasaurus tried to keep his momentum going, but when he charged Cobb in the corner, the champion caught him and hit a spinning suplex. Cobb followed with a superplex and standing moonsault for a near fall.
- 1/11/2019
- by Nathan Favel
- Nerdly
To celebrate the release of WWE: SummerSlam 2017 on DVD and Blu-ray we are giving away a copy on Blu-ray!
WWE’s second biggest show of the year and the biggest party of the summer…. It’s SummerSlam! Coming from the Barclays Center, the main event shakes the foundations of Brooklyn when Brock Lesnar defends the Universal Championship against Roman Reigns, Braun Strowman and Samoa Joe in a Fatal 4-Way Match. And “The King of Strong Style” Shinsuke Nakamura gets his first chance at WWE gold when he faces “The Modern-Day Maharaja” Jinder Mahal for the WWE Championship. Plus much more!
Second only to WrestleMania, SummerSlam is one of the most exciting and hotly anticipated events in the WWE calendar – and this year’s edition was earth shattering!
The Universal Championship Fatal 4-Way is simply electric, with four of WWE’s most powerful Superstars demolishing each other for a chance to...
WWE’s second biggest show of the year and the biggest party of the summer…. It’s SummerSlam! Coming from the Barclays Center, the main event shakes the foundations of Brooklyn when Brock Lesnar defends the Universal Championship against Roman Reigns, Braun Strowman and Samoa Joe in a Fatal 4-Way Match. And “The King of Strong Style” Shinsuke Nakamura gets his first chance at WWE gold when he faces “The Modern-Day Maharaja” Jinder Mahal for the WWE Championship. Plus much more!
Second only to WrestleMania, SummerSlam is one of the most exciting and hotly anticipated events in the WWE calendar – and this year’s edition was earth shattering!
The Universal Championship Fatal 4-Way is simply electric, with four of WWE’s most powerful Superstars demolishing each other for a chance to...
- 10/9/2017
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
I’ve often said that I find the history WWE Blu-Ray releases the best, so when one was released celebrating the Us Championship I was obviously looking forward to it. Although we often see people like John Cena dominating the belt these days it has one of the more interesting histories of any of the belts. WWE – The Us Championship: A Legacy of Greatness reveals just how varied this history is.
The fact that WWE now has a huge library of footage from all kinds of wrestling federations from the past allows them to pull out some real gems. These include matches that aren’t even complete, and don’t feature commentary. This is the case of Ric Flair vs. Ricky Steamboat with Andre the Giant as guest referee. Filmed in 1978 in Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling it is a nice addition for the history loving wrestling fan, especially those who love Andre.
The fact that WWE now has a huge library of footage from all kinds of wrestling federations from the past allows them to pull out some real gems. These include matches that aren’t even complete, and don’t feature commentary. This is the case of Ric Flair vs. Ricky Steamboat with Andre the Giant as guest referee. Filmed in 1978 in Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling it is a nice addition for the history loving wrestling fan, especially those who love Andre.
- 5/16/2016
- by Paul Metcalf
- Nerdly
WWE.com
It’s hard to believe it’s been ten years already, but as of this week a decade has passed since the wrestling world tragically lost one of the greats. Eddie Guerrero was a performer admired by fans and peers alike; someone who visibly gave his all each time he stepped in the ring and worked hard to entertain.
One of the most gifted workers to ever set foot in a ring, the former WWE champion and member of the vaunted Guerrero wrestling family was truly one of a kind. His death hit those within the industry and on the outside looking in quite hard, and his friends and family have continued to keep his memory alive in their words and actions. Still to this day no one can perform a frog splash in any arena in the world without the crowd breaking into chants of his name.
It’s hard to believe it’s been ten years already, but as of this week a decade has passed since the wrestling world tragically lost one of the greats. Eddie Guerrero was a performer admired by fans and peers alike; someone who visibly gave his all each time he stepped in the ring and worked hard to entertain.
One of the most gifted workers to ever set foot in a ring, the former WWE champion and member of the vaunted Guerrero wrestling family was truly one of a kind. His death hit those within the industry and on the outside looking in quite hard, and his friends and family have continued to keep his memory alive in their words and actions. Still to this day no one can perform a frog splash in any arena in the world without the crowd breaking into chants of his name.
- 11/17/2015
- by Brad Hamilton
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
Another month, another defunct championship history to delve into.
The Cruiserweight Championship is arguably the most poorly-booked, unfairly neglected championship in WWE/WCW history, as it provided some of the best in-ring action and some of the main excitement on shows, yet was almost always presented as a sideshow and rarely, if ever, the main attraction.
The first champion was crowned when Brian Pillman defeated Ricky Morton in a tournament final in WCW in October 1991. 40 different competitors would hold the belt over a combined 79 reigns. Superstars as varied as Chris Jericho, Oklahoma, Dean Malenko, Alex Wright and Rey Mysterio would be champion, again showing the mishmash attitude towards its booking.
One important note is that this is the history of the Cruiserweight Championship, established in WCW and then taken over by WWE. As such, it is this lineage that is looked at here, not the WWF Light Heavyweight Title.
Another month, another defunct championship history to delve into.
The Cruiserweight Championship is arguably the most poorly-booked, unfairly neglected championship in WWE/WCW history, as it provided some of the best in-ring action and some of the main excitement on shows, yet was almost always presented as a sideshow and rarely, if ever, the main attraction.
The first champion was crowned when Brian Pillman defeated Ricky Morton in a tournament final in WCW in October 1991. 40 different competitors would hold the belt over a combined 79 reigns. Superstars as varied as Chris Jericho, Oklahoma, Dean Malenko, Alex Wright and Rey Mysterio would be champion, again showing the mishmash attitude towards its booking.
One important note is that this is the history of the Cruiserweight Championship, established in WCW and then taken over by WWE. As such, it is this lineage that is looked at here, not the WWF Light Heavyweight Title.
- 10/6/2015
- by John Bills
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
While WWE fans may have been rejoicing when the Dudley Boys returned to WWE for the first time in a decade last month on Raw, it seems as though some of Bubba Ray’s former colleagues are not marking out with them.
Earlier this week Rene Dupree claimed that Bubba was unnecessarily stiff when working with La Resistance in 2003 and that the veteran gave him ‘half a dozen’ concussions, adding that Bubba punched Sylvain Grenier full force in the face (twice). It is not the first time that accusations have been levelled against Bubba, who had a reputation for being a bit of a bully back in the day.
And now former WWE star Rico, who worked for the company between 2001-2004, has come out and made similar claims. During an interview with the Pancakes and Powerslams show, Billy and Chuck’s stylist talked about his issues when working with Bubba.
While WWE fans may have been rejoicing when the Dudley Boys returned to WWE for the first time in a decade last month on Raw, it seems as though some of Bubba Ray’s former colleagues are not marking out with them.
Earlier this week Rene Dupree claimed that Bubba was unnecessarily stiff when working with La Resistance in 2003 and that the veteran gave him ‘half a dozen’ concussions, adding that Bubba punched Sylvain Grenier full force in the face (twice). It is not the first time that accusations have been levelled against Bubba, who had a reputation for being a bit of a bully back in the day.
And now former WWE star Rico, who worked for the company between 2001-2004, has come out and made similar claims. During an interview with the Pancakes and Powerslams show, Billy and Chuck’s stylist talked about his issues when working with Bubba.
- 9/9/2015
- by Lewis Howse
- Obsessed with Film
In the half century that WWE has been around, there have been many defining moments, many significant events, and many controversies, but by far the most memorable chapter in the company’s history is what became known as the Monday Night War.
Officially beginning on 4th September 1995 when WWE’s rival wrestling company WCW aired the first episode of Monday Nitro in direct competition with Vince McMahon’s established flagship show Monday Night Raw, the war lasted for five and a half years until McMahon bought WCW in March 2001, bringing a definitive conclusion to the most fascinating era in wrestling history.
Recognising that such a momentous period of history could never be done justice in a single documentary, WWE produced a twenty part series for the WWE Network examining the war in minute detail, and have now released the first ten episodes in this superb collection called The Monday Night War Vol.
Officially beginning on 4th September 1995 when WWE’s rival wrestling company WCW aired the first episode of Monday Nitro in direct competition with Vince McMahon’s established flagship show Monday Night Raw, the war lasted for five and a half years until McMahon bought WCW in March 2001, bringing a definitive conclusion to the most fascinating era in wrestling history.
Recognising that such a momentous period of history could never be done justice in a single documentary, WWE produced a twenty part series for the WWE Network examining the war in minute detail, and have now released the first ten episodes in this superb collection called The Monday Night War Vol.
- 8/25/2015
- Shadowlocked
WWE.com
Despite having a rocky start to his pro wrestling career, Mark Henry is in the midst of a run that has spanned 19 consecutive years with World Wrestling Entertainment. The World’s Strongest Man has come a long way from his early days as a member of The Nation of Domination, being handed several different gimmicks to varying levels of success before someone finally realized that taking a power-lifting monster like Henry and turning his character into a power-lifting monster was the right direction to go.
Henry has had to very distinct eras of his career, as comedy mid-carder Sexual Chocolate and as the caretaker of the Hall of Pain. Behind the scenes his colleagues speak highly of him and anyone who can last nearly two straight decades in the cutthroat political atmosphere within the WWE has to be tough and affable at the same time.
Mark took some...
Despite having a rocky start to his pro wrestling career, Mark Henry is in the midst of a run that has spanned 19 consecutive years with World Wrestling Entertainment. The World’s Strongest Man has come a long way from his early days as a member of The Nation of Domination, being handed several different gimmicks to varying levels of success before someone finally realized that taking a power-lifting monster like Henry and turning his character into a power-lifting monster was the right direction to go.
Henry has had to very distinct eras of his career, as comedy mid-carder Sexual Chocolate and as the caretaker of the Hall of Pain. Behind the scenes his colleagues speak highly of him and anyone who can last nearly two straight decades in the cutthroat political atmosphere within the WWE has to be tough and affable at the same time.
Mark took some...
- 8/20/2015
- by Brad Hamilton
- Obsessed with Film
For many wrestling fans the so-called “Attitude Era” was when WWE was at its best. This is something that I tend to agree with, with a heart full of nostalgia. This is why WWE Monday Night Wars: Vol. 1 – Shots Fired was a welcome trip down memory lane.
One thing I will say about the release though is that it is very much a WWE release. We are meant to see the McMahons as respectful business people who would never be like the likes of Ted Turner, a man who wanted to destroy the oh so saintly WWE. Just look at the history of “Sports Entertainment” to know that this is not the case. The McMahons did their own damage too.
To move back to Monday Night Wars, for people who used to sit flipping from WWE to WCW, this is the perfect release for you. Looking at the major events of the so-called wars,...
One thing I will say about the release though is that it is very much a WWE release. We are meant to see the McMahons as respectful business people who would never be like the likes of Ted Turner, a man who wanted to destroy the oh so saintly WWE. Just look at the history of “Sports Entertainment” to know that this is not the case. The McMahons did their own damage too.
To move back to Monday Night Wars, for people who used to sit flipping from WWE to WCW, this is the perfect release for you. Looking at the major events of the so-called wars,...
- 8/14/2015
- by Paul Metcalf
- Nerdly
WWE
The cruiserweight division was one of the highlights of WCW in the 1990s. When the nWo and the ‘surprise’ appearances by former WWE stars became tiresome, you could still rely on the fast-moving, high-flying cruiserweights for entertainment.
For years, the likes of Rey Mysterio, Eddie Guerrero, Dean Malenko, Juventud Guerrera, Billy Kidman and a host of others were presenting cutting edge professional wrestling night in and night out. It was the most exciting wrestling on prime time television and they often stole the show on PPV, too.
The WWE tried to compete, but their Lightheavyweight division, such as it was, had no chance of competing. The WCW guys were just in a different class altogether. When WWE acquired WCW in March 2001, however, they got the Cruiserweight Tite as part of the package and went about trying to revive the division.
With no history of being able to properly promote smaller wrestlers,...
The cruiserweight division was one of the highlights of WCW in the 1990s. When the nWo and the ‘surprise’ appearances by former WWE stars became tiresome, you could still rely on the fast-moving, high-flying cruiserweights for entertainment.
For years, the likes of Rey Mysterio, Eddie Guerrero, Dean Malenko, Juventud Guerrera, Billy Kidman and a host of others were presenting cutting edge professional wrestling night in and night out. It was the most exciting wrestling on prime time television and they often stole the show on PPV, too.
The WWE tried to compete, but their Lightheavyweight division, such as it was, had no chance of competing. The WCW guys were just in a different class altogether. When WWE acquired WCW in March 2001, however, they got the Cruiserweight Tite as part of the package and went about trying to revive the division.
With no history of being able to properly promote smaller wrestlers,...
- 8/13/2015
- by Lewis Howse
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
Ultimo Dragon is, sadly, a wrestler who doesn’t seem to get the kudos he deserves. History has been far kinder to WCW cruiserweights like Rey Mysterio, Chris Jericho and Eddie Guerrero, whilst Dragon is often left out of the picture (probably because he wasn’t a success in WWE like the other three).
But don’t let the lack of recognition fool you. When he was on, Dragon was as good as anybody else, be they cruiserweight or heavyweight. One of the first to truly blend the Japanese, Mexican and American styles, he was a hybrid wrestler of the highest calibre, a man who routinely had great matches and captured many championships in the process.
His WWE run seems to have eroded the memory of his superlative performances against the likes of Dean Malenko, Rey Mysterio, Psicosis and Eddie Guerrero, which is a shame. Ultimo was something...
Ultimo Dragon is, sadly, a wrestler who doesn’t seem to get the kudos he deserves. History has been far kinder to WCW cruiserweights like Rey Mysterio, Chris Jericho and Eddie Guerrero, whilst Dragon is often left out of the picture (probably because he wasn’t a success in WWE like the other three).
But don’t let the lack of recognition fool you. When he was on, Dragon was as good as anybody else, be they cruiserweight or heavyweight. One of the first to truly blend the Japanese, Mexican and American styles, he was a hybrid wrestler of the highest calibre, a man who routinely had great matches and captured many championships in the process.
His WWE run seems to have eroded the memory of his superlative performances against the likes of Dean Malenko, Rey Mysterio, Psicosis and Eddie Guerrero, which is a shame. Ultimo was something...
- 8/12/2015
- by Lewis Howse
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
George Murdoch, who was formerly billed as Brodus Clay in WWE and currently wrestles as Tyrus for Tna Wrestling, recently took part in an interview with The Two Man Power Trip Of Wrestling.
During the interview, Murdoch was asked to reflect upon his time spent with WWE.
Murdoch was questioned about performers not being given the opportunity to break-through and excel in WWE. His response was interesting, to say the least.
You see it happen all the time in the WWE. Guys who should no doubt be on the top of the card and be main eventers. Guys like Cesaro. There is no reason why he shouldn’t be on his second World Title run, guys like Jack Swagger, Big E the list goes on and on of guys that are there right now that could change the game. The Triple H factory as I call it seems...
George Murdoch, who was formerly billed as Brodus Clay in WWE and currently wrestles as Tyrus for Tna Wrestling, recently took part in an interview with The Two Man Power Trip Of Wrestling.
During the interview, Murdoch was asked to reflect upon his time spent with WWE.
Murdoch was questioned about performers not being given the opportunity to break-through and excel in WWE. His response was interesting, to say the least.
You see it happen all the time in the WWE. Guys who should no doubt be on the top of the card and be main eventers. Guys like Cesaro. There is no reason why he shouldn’t be on his second World Title run, guys like Jack Swagger, Big E the list goes on and on of guys that are there right now that could change the game. The Triple H factory as I call it seems...
- 6/13/2015
- by Ryan Droste
- Obsessed with Film
WWE continue with their volume releases of Ecw history with the third Ecw Unreleased release, hosted by Joey Styles, Stevie Richards and The Blue Meanie. I recall Ecw fondly in many ways, and it is fun to go back and look at some of the matches, wrestlers and storylines that made the grungy extreme promotion an underground (and eventually more than that) hit. With comments and introductions from the three hosts, this is a collection of matches and angles that will appeal, like the previous sets, to Ecw fans, and people looking to discover the history of hardcore.
There are some blinders in here, I have to say. But, with wrestlers like Dean Malenko, Eddie Guerrero, Cactus “Mick Foley” Jack, Lance Storm, Chris Jericho, Terry Funk and others, it’s easy to see why there is a high level of quality in some of the matches on offer. Ecw provided...
There are some blinders in here, I have to say. But, with wrestlers like Dean Malenko, Eddie Guerrero, Cactus “Mick Foley” Jack, Lance Storm, Chris Jericho, Terry Funk and others, it’s easy to see why there is a high level of quality in some of the matches on offer. Ecw provided...
- 4/16/2015
- by Chris Cummings
- Nerdly
Chris Jericho may be with WWE part-time, but some of us remember when he first made his debut in the company, and then realise just how long ago that was. Some of us even remember him in WCW, even as far back as the original Ecw and this is why WWE: The Road is Jericho: Epic Stories and Rare Matches from Y2J is fun to watch. The fact I only go back to Ecw though shows that this is how far back the release goes and its restriction to the WWE video library.
Instead of going for the normal documentary structure with added matches, WWE: The Road is Jericho: Epic Stories and Rare Matches from Y2J features Jericho talking about his memories of a match or an event in his career then leading into the match itself. Presenting himself out of character he talks about how he had...
Instead of going for the normal documentary structure with added matches, WWE: The Road is Jericho: Epic Stories and Rare Matches from Y2J features Jericho talking about his memories of a match or an event in his career then leading into the match itself. Presenting himself out of character he talks about how he had...
- 3/17/2015
- by Paul Metcalf
- Nerdly
When you think of the WWE, the first names that spring to mind are usually The Rock, John Cena, The Undertaker, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Cm Punk, Triple H, Hulk Hogan, Shawn Michaels and latterly Roman Reigns, but there’s one man who has quietly, despite his brash and outspoken manner, become one of the legendary cornerstones of the business today. That man is Chris Jericho, and The Road Is Jericho is a collection of his war stories and rare matches from throughout his career.
I make no bones about it, I’m a Jerichoholic. I've found his three autobiographies to be hugely entertaining, and definitely up there with Mick Foley’s in terms of quality wrestling tomes, so to hear some of the stories that he’s told in print come to life from the back seat of limousine that’s he being filmed in for this release is a treat,...
I make no bones about it, I’m a Jerichoholic. I've found his three autobiographies to be hugely entertaining, and definitely up there with Mick Foley’s in terms of quality wrestling tomes, so to hear some of the stories that he’s told in print come to life from the back seat of limousine that’s he being filmed in for this release is a treat,...
- 3/13/2015
- Shadowlocked
wwe
When a wrestler makes his debut in the WWE, they tend to take a while – a couple of years at least – to get to the level where they’re challenging for the top titles.
Moreover, even when they do reach that level, it’s generally because they’ve proven themselves to be great in-ring performers, technically proficient and hard working.
A lot of eventual big stars started out as midcarders.
Chris Jericho lost his first WWE match to Road Dogg and went on to feud with Chyna over the Intercontinental title. Rey Mysterio had to start off in the lightweight divisions of the WWE. Eddie Guerrero had to feud with the likes of Essa Rios for the European title before he became a big player. Then you had the likes of incredibly talented wrestlers such as William Regal, Dean Malenko, John Morrison and Shelton Benjamin who never really got...
When a wrestler makes his debut in the WWE, they tend to take a while – a couple of years at least – to get to the level where they’re challenging for the top titles.
Moreover, even when they do reach that level, it’s generally because they’ve proven themselves to be great in-ring performers, technically proficient and hard working.
A lot of eventual big stars started out as midcarders.
Chris Jericho lost his first WWE match to Road Dogg and went on to feud with Chyna over the Intercontinental title. Rey Mysterio had to start off in the lightweight divisions of the WWE. Eddie Guerrero had to feud with the likes of Essa Rios for the European title before he became a big player. Then you had the likes of incredibly talented wrestlers such as William Regal, Dean Malenko, John Morrison and Shelton Benjamin who never really got...
- 12/1/2014
- by K.J. Stewart
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
The goal of every man who laces up a pair of boots in the professional wrestling business is to be referred to as ‘The Man’. No, not in the same way as the great Bobby Heenan did to Goldberg and certainly not in the same vein as Sid Vicious.
This is the man who is considered the top draw on the card, the man responsible for selling out countless arenas all over the world. More often than not, this man is the champion. Unfortunately, such is the nature of the business, the amount of spots at the top of the card are few and far between.
Hypothetically, this should mean the absolute best of the best will occupy those spots while the rest of the roster, who will be restricted to early matches on the card, strive to reach their very high levels.
Sadly for a plethora of fantastic workers in this business,...
The goal of every man who laces up a pair of boots in the professional wrestling business is to be referred to as ‘The Man’. No, not in the same way as the great Bobby Heenan did to Goldberg and certainly not in the same vein as Sid Vicious.
This is the man who is considered the top draw on the card, the man responsible for selling out countless arenas all over the world. More often than not, this man is the champion. Unfortunately, such is the nature of the business, the amount of spots at the top of the card are few and far between.
Hypothetically, this should mean the absolute best of the best will occupy those spots while the rest of the roster, who will be restricted to early matches on the card, strive to reach their very high levels.
Sadly for a plethora of fantastic workers in this business,...
- 11/28/2014
- by Ross Tweddell
- Obsessed with Film
What does everybody want?
Head to the nearest man cave, give your boss a Stone Cold salute and spend the next six hours watching The Attitude Era Vol.2, the hottest set to be released since Sable’s handprint bikini. If you are old enough to order a Steve-Weiser, “Hello ladies” was your pick up line in college and you loved WWE before “Federation” became the new “F” word, then here is what you need to do. Take this all new collection, shine it up real nice, flip it sideways and stick it straight up… your DVD player!!
The Attitude Era is a time in WWE’s history that is highly beloved and well-remembered by fans of professional wrestling. A time when names like “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, The Rock, D-Generation X, The Undertaker and Kane, Too Cool, The Hardy Boyz, The Dudley Boyz, Val Venis, Mr McMahon, Mick Foley and...
Head to the nearest man cave, give your boss a Stone Cold salute and spend the next six hours watching The Attitude Era Vol.2, the hottest set to be released since Sable’s handprint bikini. If you are old enough to order a Steve-Weiser, “Hello ladies” was your pick up line in college and you loved WWE before “Federation” became the new “F” word, then here is what you need to do. Take this all new collection, shine it up real nice, flip it sideways and stick it straight up… your DVD player!!
The Attitude Era is a time in WWE’s history that is highly beloved and well-remembered by fans of professional wrestling. A time when names like “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, The Rock, D-Generation X, The Undertaker and Kane, Too Cool, The Hardy Boyz, The Dudley Boyz, Val Venis, Mr McMahon, Mick Foley and...
- 11/5/2014
- by Chris Cummings
- Nerdly
wwe.com
When Bret Hart signed a deal with WCW in late 1997, he inadvertently changed the face of professional wrestling forever. His employer at the WWF, Vince McMahon, went on to screw Bret out of his last match with the company, and subsequently gave rise to the Mr. McMahon character.
One of the most unfortunate things to come out of the whole ordeal (aside from desecrating on one guy’s career and putting a black mark on it forever) was the fact that Bret Hart was no longer able to feud with the burgeoning talent pool that the WWE was beginning to amount. Sure, Hart went to WCW, which was filled with guys of similar build and style like Chris Jericho, Eddie Guerrero, Curt Hennig, and Dean Malenko, but he was thrown straight into the nWo and never really worked with any of those guys a great deal.
Plenty of...
When Bret Hart signed a deal with WCW in late 1997, he inadvertently changed the face of professional wrestling forever. His employer at the WWF, Vince McMahon, went on to screw Bret out of his last match with the company, and subsequently gave rise to the Mr. McMahon character.
One of the most unfortunate things to come out of the whole ordeal (aside from desecrating on one guy’s career and putting a black mark on it forever) was the fact that Bret Hart was no longer able to feud with the burgeoning talent pool that the WWE was beginning to amount. Sure, Hart went to WCW, which was filled with guys of similar build and style like Chris Jericho, Eddie Guerrero, Curt Hennig, and Dean Malenko, but he was thrown straight into the nWo and never really worked with any of those guys a great deal.
Plenty of...
- 10/9/2014
- by Mark Riley
- Obsessed with Film
flickr
Well, if considering the lampooning nature of the 1990s in the pro wrestling industry, the idea that Ecw’s place in all of this as an outside instigator is incredibly important. As the “third” major American company, the idea that Ecw promoted hardcore and pure wrestling over classic portrayals of the business and cartoonish buffoonery (and excelled in doing so) pushed forth WCW’s attempts at indoctrinating cruiserweight wrestling into the industry, as well as then then WWF’s “Attitude Era.”
Insofar as Ecw poking fun at the competition, as well as the competition poking fun at them, the silliness is obvious and rather commonplace. However, the more intriguing issues to consider center around moments when Ecw’s wrestlers, wrestling or characters were directly lifted from the bingo hall on the corner of Swanson and Ritner in South Philadelphia and put on Raw, Nitro, Smackdown, Thunder or global Pay-Per-View.
Well, if considering the lampooning nature of the 1990s in the pro wrestling industry, the idea that Ecw’s place in all of this as an outside instigator is incredibly important. As the “third” major American company, the idea that Ecw promoted hardcore and pure wrestling over classic portrayals of the business and cartoonish buffoonery (and excelled in doing so) pushed forth WCW’s attempts at indoctrinating cruiserweight wrestling into the industry, as well as then then WWF’s “Attitude Era.”
Insofar as Ecw poking fun at the competition, as well as the competition poking fun at them, the silliness is obvious and rather commonplace. However, the more intriguing issues to consider center around moments when Ecw’s wrestlers, wrestling or characters were directly lifted from the bingo hall on the corner of Swanson and Ritner in South Philadelphia and put on Raw, Nitro, Smackdown, Thunder or global Pay-Per-View.
- 9/8/2014
- by Marcus K. Dowling
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
The mid to late Nineties were a fantastic time to be a wrestling fan. The WWE(F!) were in the midst of the Attitude Era, their most profitable period ever, with a stacked roster comprised of the likes of Steve Austin, The Rock, Mankind/Mick Foley, The Undertaker, Goldust and Degeneration X.
Their competition, WCW, were also going from strength to strength at this period of time, competing directly with Vince’s company and actually beating them in the ratings for a stretch. They had an equally talented roster made up of the likes of Sting, Nash, Hogan, Hall and Luger, not to mention the spectacular cruiserweight division filled with guys like Dean Malenko, Billy Kidman, Chris Jericho and Chris Benoit.
Fans who are old enough remember this period fondly as The Monday Night Wars, but the back and forth between WWE and WCW was only two third of the story.
The mid to late Nineties were a fantastic time to be a wrestling fan. The WWE(F!) were in the midst of the Attitude Era, their most profitable period ever, with a stacked roster comprised of the likes of Steve Austin, The Rock, Mankind/Mick Foley, The Undertaker, Goldust and Degeneration X.
Their competition, WCW, were also going from strength to strength at this period of time, competing directly with Vince’s company and actually beating them in the ratings for a stretch. They had an equally talented roster made up of the likes of Sting, Nash, Hogan, Hall and Luger, not to mention the spectacular cruiserweight division filled with guys like Dean Malenko, Billy Kidman, Chris Jericho and Chris Benoit.
Fans who are old enough remember this period fondly as The Monday Night Wars, but the back and forth between WWE and WCW was only two third of the story.
- 7/11/2014
- by Mark Bradley
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
This past Monday saw Chris Jericho make a surprise return to WWE. The news was out on the internet about two hours before the show, but for the most part it was kept a secret. During his Talk Is Jericho podcast released on Wednesday, he spoke about how his return was set up.
Jericho talked about how he always keeps in touch with WWE via text and email about a possible return. He has mentioned that on his radio show for months because he’s obviously a guy that is on great terms with them. He mentioned that a WrestleMania 30 return didn’t work. His ideas involved Daniel Bryan and Bray Wyatt, but obviously WWE went in other directions with both guys by having Bryan wrestle Hhh, then Orton/Batista and Wyatt taking on Cena.
He revealed that even though the WrestleMania 30 return didn’t work out, he...
This past Monday saw Chris Jericho make a surprise return to WWE. The news was out on the internet about two hours before the show, but for the most part it was kept a secret. During his Talk Is Jericho podcast released on Wednesday, he spoke about how his return was set up.
Jericho talked about how he always keeps in touch with WWE via text and email about a possible return. He has mentioned that on his radio show for months because he’s obviously a guy that is on great terms with them. He mentioned that a WrestleMania 30 return didn’t work. His ideas involved Daniel Bryan and Bray Wyatt, but obviously WWE went in other directions with both guys by having Bryan wrestle Hhh, then Orton/Batista and Wyatt taking on Cena.
He revealed that even though the WrestleMania 30 return didn’t work out, he...
- 7/2/2014
- by John Canton
- Obsessed with Film
For more than ten years, the Nwa and WCW promoted the event known as “The Great American Bash”, a show that celebrated American pride while bringing major matches to the forefront and presenting shows that featured some major moments in the history of professional wrestling.
This set, released in a 3 DVD or 2 Blu-ray set, features some of the biggest contests from various Bash events, with names such as Ric Flair, Sting, Dusty Rhodes, Ddp, Randy Savage, Chris Jericho, Eddie Guerrero and Bret Hart, among many others, making appearances. It is a stunning set for match quality and star-power and the choices of matches are very good.
United We Slam: The Best of The Great American Bash begins with early Bash events (1985) and ends with the most recent, and final Bash, from 2000. The way in which the set is laid out has both good and bad points about it. In one...
This set, released in a 3 DVD or 2 Blu-ray set, features some of the biggest contests from various Bash events, with names such as Ric Flair, Sting, Dusty Rhodes, Ddp, Randy Savage, Chris Jericho, Eddie Guerrero and Bret Hart, among many others, making appearances. It is a stunning set for match quality and star-power and the choices of matches are very good.
United We Slam: The Best of The Great American Bash begins with early Bash events (1985) and ends with the most recent, and final Bash, from 2000. The way in which the set is laid out has both good and bad points about it. In one...
- 6/27/2014
- by Chris Cummings
- Nerdly
WWE.com
In 1996 WCW made its most lasting contribution to the world of professional wrestling when it brought Cruiserweight wrestling to the U.S mainstream.
At a time when giants still dominated the landscape, the WCW Cruiserweight Division provided a stage for a lot of smaller performers to showcase their talents on a global scale. Without it some of the most successful names in the history of professional wrestling such as Chris Jericho and Rey Mysterio may not have become World Champions.
WWE still reap the benefits to this day; Seth Rollins, Dolph Ziggler and Daniel Bryan are among many who modelled parts of their style on WCW’s Cruiserweights. Two of WWE’s most highly regarded trainers, Dean Malenko and Jamie Noble, got their first major breaks thanks to the division. The former seven time Cruiserweight Champion Billy Kidman now holds an important position as one of the companies television producers.
In 1996 WCW made its most lasting contribution to the world of professional wrestling when it brought Cruiserweight wrestling to the U.S mainstream.
At a time when giants still dominated the landscape, the WCW Cruiserweight Division provided a stage for a lot of smaller performers to showcase their talents on a global scale. Without it some of the most successful names in the history of professional wrestling such as Chris Jericho and Rey Mysterio may not have become World Champions.
WWE still reap the benefits to this day; Seth Rollins, Dolph Ziggler and Daniel Bryan are among many who modelled parts of their style on WCW’s Cruiserweights. Two of WWE’s most highly regarded trainers, Dean Malenko and Jamie Noble, got their first major breaks thanks to the division. The former seven time Cruiserweight Champion Billy Kidman now holds an important position as one of the companies television producers.
- 5/28/2014
- by Michael Sanderson
- Obsessed with Film
Since WWE purchased WCW and the vast video library that came along with it, there have been numerous releases devoted to WCW related content, from the Goldberg set, to the Best of Nitro stuff, down to the Nwo release, but this is the first time WWE has taken a look at the best matches from the rich history of WCW’s Pay-Per-View’s. So here it is, volume one in the greatest matches from the PPV years of WCW.
WCW had some great PPV shows over the years of their existence. From Starrcade to Halloween Havoc, Superbrawl to Uncensored, Road Wild to Sin. Okay, ignore Sin, pretend I didn’t say that.
Here, in this 3 DVD/2 Bd set, you get over 20 matches ranging from 1987 until 2001 and the quality is, for the most-part, very high. From true wrestling greats, such as Ric Flair, Dusty Rhodes, Sting, Vader, Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage,...
WCW had some great PPV shows over the years of their existence. From Starrcade to Halloween Havoc, Superbrawl to Uncensored, Road Wild to Sin. Okay, ignore Sin, pretend I didn’t say that.
Here, in this 3 DVD/2 Bd set, you get over 20 matches ranging from 1987 until 2001 and the quality is, for the most-part, very high. From true wrestling greats, such as Ric Flair, Dusty Rhodes, Sting, Vader, Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage,...
- 4/30/2014
- by Chris Cummings
- Nerdly
WWE.com
A lot of people have been talking about Benjamin Morris’ 538 piece, “Are Pro Wrestlers Dying at an Unusual Rate?”
Like Morris, I am neither an actuarial scientist nor a demographer. So, our interpretations of the data should be taken with a grain of salt. My results were somewhat different from Morris’ due to a difference data set and changes in how we calculated actuarial predictions.
Differences in methodology from Morris
I also used Social Security Actuarial Life Tables, but my “expected mortality rates” for the age groups were not the same as Morris’. For each wrestler, I calculated what their age would have been as of today. Then, based on gender, I looked up the number of lives (out of 100,000) that were expected to still be alive and converted that to a percentage. His analysis looked at wrestlers who were on 20+ WWF PPVs through 2002. I went with a...
A lot of people have been talking about Benjamin Morris’ 538 piece, “Are Pro Wrestlers Dying at an Unusual Rate?”
Like Morris, I am neither an actuarial scientist nor a demographer. So, our interpretations of the data should be taken with a grain of salt. My results were somewhat different from Morris’ due to a difference data set and changes in how we calculated actuarial predictions.
Differences in methodology from Morris
I also used Social Security Actuarial Life Tables, but my “expected mortality rates” for the age groups were not the same as Morris’. For each wrestler, I calculated what their age would have been as of today. Then, based on gender, I looked up the number of lives (out of 100,000) that were expected to still be alive and converted that to a percentage. His analysis looked at wrestlers who were on 20+ WWF PPVs through 2002. I went with a...
- 4/22/2014
- by Chris Harrington
- Obsessed with Film
Copyright: WWE – The Best Of WCW Clash Of The Champions Blu-ray
Lex Luger liked to call himself the Total Package – a perfect blend of everything that makes a great pro wrestler. But that was only a gimmick, so what exactly does it mean to be the perfect package in wrestling?
In the modern era of sports entertainment, it’s no longer enough to rely on technical skill alone. Gifted stars such as Dean Malenko or William Regal are a testament to this. Superstars now need to be marketable commodities; they must have the right look, the charisma, the mic skills and that elusive “it” factor – as well as that aforementioned technical skill – if they want to be remembered amongst the true greats.
So who exactly has managed to tick all of the boxes? Who can we consider the best performers this industry has seen? And which Superstars really were the total package in professional wrestling?...
Lex Luger liked to call himself the Total Package – a perfect blend of everything that makes a great pro wrestler. But that was only a gimmick, so what exactly does it mean to be the perfect package in wrestling?
In the modern era of sports entertainment, it’s no longer enough to rely on technical skill alone. Gifted stars such as Dean Malenko or William Regal are a testament to this. Superstars now need to be marketable commodities; they must have the right look, the charisma, the mic skills and that elusive “it” factor – as well as that aforementioned technical skill – if they want to be remembered amongst the true greats.
So who exactly has managed to tick all of the boxes? Who can we consider the best performers this industry has seen? And which Superstars really were the total package in professional wrestling?...
- 3/26/2014
- by Elliott Binks
- Obsessed with Film
Throw a stick in the air and you’ll probably hit someone who can name a famous wrestler.
Here in the UK, everyone of my parents’ generation will instinctively utter one (or all) of the following names; Big Daddy, Giant Haystacks or Kendo Nagasaki. Conversely, anyone of my age will likely say The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin or The Undertaker.
Throw two sticks in the air and you’ll probably hit at least one long time fan who can reel off the names of literally hundreds of wrestlers. Throw three sticks in the air and, well, you’ll probably be escorted off the premises for throwing sticks in the air (it’s best not to push your luck).
Pro wrestling has given us more colourful characters, more dramatic storylines and, in my opinion, more exciting action, pound for pound, than almost any so-called “legitimate” sport. In the same way...
Here in the UK, everyone of my parents’ generation will instinctively utter one (or all) of the following names; Big Daddy, Giant Haystacks or Kendo Nagasaki. Conversely, anyone of my age will likely say The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin or The Undertaker.
Throw two sticks in the air and you’ll probably hit at least one long time fan who can reel off the names of literally hundreds of wrestlers. Throw three sticks in the air and, well, you’ll probably be escorted off the premises for throwing sticks in the air (it’s best not to push your luck).
Pro wrestling has given us more colourful characters, more dramatic storylines and, in my opinion, more exciting action, pound for pound, than almost any so-called “legitimate” sport. In the same way...
- 9/27/2013
- by Chris Quicksilver
- Obsessed with Film
The WCW was a promotion full of misused talent, the older stars kept the younger stars from blossoming into their full potential, However, there are many examples of WCW talent being misused in WWE, such as Dean Malenko, Ultimo Dragon, Scott Steiner and Perry Saturn, who were all misused in Vince McMahon’s company.
Yet despite this, there are a few examples of WCW talent reaching high levels of success in the WWE. So without further ado, I ask you to cast your eye over these WCW success stories.
5. Rey Mysterio
Rey Mysterio made his name in Mexico fighting the likes of Juventud Guerrera and Psicosis in fresh and innovative matches, emerging as the main draw of an influx of Mexican superstars coming over to the States to make a name and some money for themselves. He firstly appeared in Ecw first before making his debut in the WCW, taking...
Yet despite this, there are a few examples of WCW talent reaching high levels of success in the WWE. So without further ado, I ask you to cast your eye over these WCW success stories.
5. Rey Mysterio
Rey Mysterio made his name in Mexico fighting the likes of Juventud Guerrera and Psicosis in fresh and innovative matches, emerging as the main draw of an influx of Mexican superstars coming over to the States to make a name and some money for themselves. He firstly appeared in Ecw first before making his debut in the WCW, taking...
- 8/6/2013
- by Nathan Ritchie
- Obsessed with Film
One of the best things to come out of the Monday Night Wars was the cruiserweight division. The competition between the WWE and WCW forced each company to come up with new ways to retrain their viewership and gain new followers. WCW completely one-upped the WWE with its cruiserweight division. Even as the WWE tried to compete with its own Light Heavyweight Division, their roster paled in comparison to WCW’s. Whereas WCW at the time had Rey Mysterio Jr, Dean Malenko, Eddie Guerrero, Chris Jericho, and Ultimo Dragon tearing down the house on the undercard, the WWE had its poster boy for the division Taka Michinoku, who was just as exciting as his WCW counterparts, but they also had wrestlers like Brian Christopher, Scott Putski, and a handful of leftover luchadores they did very little with.
During the Invasion storyline the WWE made the Cruiserweight Title its go-to title...
During the Invasion storyline the WWE made the Cruiserweight Title its go-to title...
- 2/12/2013
- by James Martinez
- Obsessed with Film
It’s been a half decade since one of the WWE’s blackest days. An event that would truly change the landscape of the company and tarnish its all-important public image. As Raw’s 1000th episode approaches, it presents a perfect time to reflect on the past. It’s equally important to reflect upon, and learn from the negatives in the past, as well as to celebrate the positives.
Twelve years ago, Chris Benoit along with Perry Saturn, Dean Malenko and Eddie Guerrero arrived in the WWE as ‘The Radicalz’. It was a huge coup for the company at the time, and was one of the finals nails in the WCW coffin. They allowed some of their best and most technically gifted stars walk out the door. Chris Benoit was arguably the most gifted of the bunch.
He, and Eddie Guerrero (who may have been equally as gifted), quickly rose...
Twelve years ago, Chris Benoit along with Perry Saturn, Dean Malenko and Eddie Guerrero arrived in the WWE as ‘The Radicalz’. It was a huge coup for the company at the time, and was one of the finals nails in the WCW coffin. They allowed some of their best and most technically gifted stars walk out the door. Chris Benoit was arguably the most gifted of the bunch.
He, and Eddie Guerrero (who may have been equally as gifted), quickly rose...
- 6/26/2012
- by Dean Milner
- Obsessed with Film
WWE will release a brand new Ecw DVD this year titled “WWE: Biggest Matches in Ecw History”, which will feature the 25 greatest matches in the history of the company.
WWEDVDNews has got their hands on a release list from Shock Entertainment, the official company distributor in Australia, that has the DVD set listed with a release date of June 6th. Presumably that will also be released around the same time worldwide.
The set is listed as a three-disc DVD and two-disc Blu-ray release.
Shock have the synopsis;
“All new 3 DVD set, collecting The 25 greatest matches in Ecw History! Extreme Championship Wrestling ran from 1992 to 2001, founded in Philadelphia. Their weekly TV show ‘Hardcore TV’, ran from 1993-2000, and they also ran 21 Pay-Per-View events from 1997-2001.
Ecw was known for its hardcore and irreverent style, and it’s rowdy and raucous audiences. It launched Sports Entertainment legends such as Paul Heyman, Tommy Dreamer,...
WWEDVDNews has got their hands on a release list from Shock Entertainment, the official company distributor in Australia, that has the DVD set listed with a release date of June 6th. Presumably that will also be released around the same time worldwide.
The set is listed as a three-disc DVD and two-disc Blu-ray release.
Shock have the synopsis;
“All new 3 DVD set, collecting The 25 greatest matches in Ecw History! Extreme Championship Wrestling ran from 1992 to 2001, founded in Philadelphia. Their weekly TV show ‘Hardcore TV’, ran from 1993-2000, and they also ran 21 Pay-Per-View events from 1997-2001.
Ecw was known for its hardcore and irreverent style, and it’s rowdy and raucous audiences. It launched Sports Entertainment legends such as Paul Heyman, Tommy Dreamer,...
- 2/22/2012
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
United Kingdom Release Date: Out now
Discs: 2
Running Time: Approx 5 hours 29 minutes
Languages: English
Backlash 2001 - With his pride still smarting from the humiliating drubbing he received from The Undertaker at Wrestlemania X-seven, Triple H looks to restore his honour during Backlash 2001. To help avenge his defeat, Triple H teams up with ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin to take on The Undertaker and Kane in the ultimate grudge match. This, among other hotly anticipated matches, including Chris Benoit vs. Kurt Angle and Big Show vs. Shane, makes Backlash 2001 a must-see follow up to Wrestlemania 17.
Judgment 2001 - At the Arco Arena on May 20, 2001, not one person was mourning the Kings’ loss to the Lakers in the Western Conference Semifinals because everyone in attendance was anxiously awaiting the night’s marquee match: Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. The Undertaker. Adding to the drama of the match was the Taker’s realization that Triple...
Discs: 2
Running Time: Approx 5 hours 29 minutes
Languages: English
Backlash 2001 - With his pride still smarting from the humiliating drubbing he received from The Undertaker at Wrestlemania X-seven, Triple H looks to restore his honour during Backlash 2001. To help avenge his defeat, Triple H teams up with ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin to take on The Undertaker and Kane in the ultimate grudge match. This, among other hotly anticipated matches, including Chris Benoit vs. Kurt Angle and Big Show vs. Shane, makes Backlash 2001 a must-see follow up to Wrestlemania 17.
Judgment 2001 - At the Arco Arena on May 20, 2001, not one person was mourning the Kings’ loss to the Lakers in the Western Conference Semifinals because everyone in attendance was anxiously awaiting the night’s marquee match: Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. The Undertaker. Adding to the drama of the match was the Taker’s realization that Triple...
- 11/30/2009
- by Ryan Petty
- The Cinema Post
United Kingdom Release Date: Out now
Discs: 3
Running Time: Approx 8 hours
Languages: English, German, French
The Rise and Fall of WCW examines the storied history of World Championship Wrestling, from its beginnings in the territory system through Ted Turner’s acquisition and the savage battles with WWE for sports-entertainment domination in the 90s.
On this 3-dvd set, you will hear from the people behind the scenes and in the ring who witnessed and created the history of the promotion. Exclusive interviews from Jim and David Crockett, Goldberg, Dusty Rhodes, Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan and many more give us an inside view of the organization and the highlights and lowlights of its three decade existence, including the first Starrcade, Black Saturday, the emergence of the New World Order, the management turmoil, the ascension of Sting and Goldberg, the final night of its existence and so much more. Packed with extras, including more than 20 complete matches,...
Discs: 3
Running Time: Approx 8 hours
Languages: English, German, French
The Rise and Fall of WCW examines the storied history of World Championship Wrestling, from its beginnings in the territory system through Ted Turner’s acquisition and the savage battles with WWE for sports-entertainment domination in the 90s.
On this 3-dvd set, you will hear from the people behind the scenes and in the ring who witnessed and created the history of the promotion. Exclusive interviews from Jim and David Crockett, Goldberg, Dusty Rhodes, Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan and many more give us an inside view of the organization and the highlights and lowlights of its three decade existence, including the first Starrcade, Black Saturday, the emergence of the New World Order, the management turmoil, the ascension of Sting and Goldberg, the final night of its existence and so much more. Packed with extras, including more than 20 complete matches,...
- 11/30/2009
- by Ryan Petty
- The Cinema Post
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