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Monday, April 03, 2023

Wrestlemania 39 Night 2 Undisputed WWE Universal Championship -- Roman Reigns (c) vs. Cody Rhodes

The crowd at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles was on the edge of their seats as Roman Reigns defended his WWE Universal Championship against Cody Rhodes, who was looking to capture his first singles title in WWE. The match started with Rhodes relying on his amateur wrestling background and speed advantage to control his powerhouse opponent in the early portion of the match. However, Reigns soon showcased his power by catching Rhodes mid-air off a springboard attack and planting him with a powerbomb.


The action spilled to the outside as each man power-slammed the other on the ramp, and it was at this point that Solo Sikoa, Reigns' cousin, made his presence felt by intercepting Rhodes ringside, allowing Reigns to take over. Sikoa quelled Rhodes' immediate comeback by tripping him against the ropes, and Reigns took advantage by delivering punishing blows to Rhodes.


Rhodes delighted the crowd later in the match by countering the champion and driving him through an announcers' table with a backdrop. From that point on, it was the Rhodes show as he delivered signature moves like the Cody Cutter and a suicide dive that had the crowd roaring with approval. However, Sikoa continued to be an asset to Reigns and a thorn in Rhodes' side, whipping Rhodes with his own weight belt. The referee continued to miss Sikoa's interjections, but assessed the situation and ejected The Bloodline's enforcer from ringside.


An argument between Reigns and the referee primed Rhodes for another comeback. He cracked Reigns with a super kick and landed Cross Rhodes, his finishing move, for a deep two-count. A uranage slam by Reigns and a pedigree from Rhodes both had the referee with his palm inches from a three-count. The big moves only continued from there, with Reigns cold-cocking Rhodes with a nasty-looking Superman punch as Rhodes bounced off the ropes in pursuit of a Disaster Kick.


Rhodes showcased his own savvy counter, sunset flipping over a potential match-ending spear before tying up the champ in a figure four leg lock. Rhodes' indomitable spirit persisted as he kicked out following a piercing spear from Reigns. The challenger's defiance angered "The Tribal Chief" as Reigns began laying in closed-fist punches. Rhodes appeared lifeless trapped in the vice-like squeeze of Reigns' guillotine choke, but he endured and broke free of Reigns' grip.


Rhodes roared to life, punching away at Reigns but accidentally kicking down the referee during his spirited comeback. A double clothesline laid out both combatants and opened the door for shenanigans. The Usos, one night after losing the undisputed tag team championships to Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens, laid out Rhodes with superkicks and a 1D. The crowd popped as loud as had all night when Zayn and Owens arrived to even the odds.


Owens hit Reigns with a stunner and Zayn got a measure of revenge on the champion with a Helluva Kick that sent shockwaves through SoFi Stadium. Rhodes crawled over to Reigns and covered the champion just as the referee recovered. It was a long two-count, one that allowed Reigns to kick out in the nick of time. Rhodes channeled the spirit of his late father, "The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes, clocking Reigns with jabs and a bionic elbow that the live audience greatly appreciated.


Rhodes appeared to have the match won with two consecutive Cross Rhodes, but interferences by Paul Heyman and Sikoa allowed Reigns to hit the match-winning spear. The crowd was stunned as Reigns pinned Rhodes for the win, but it was a truly fantastic outing that had the crowd in the palm of the superstars' hands. Grade: A+



Wrestlemania 39 Night 2 Edge vs. "The Demon" Finn Balor (Hell in a Cell)

The heated and long-standing rivalry between Edge and "The Demon" Finn Balor finally came to a climactic end in a Hell in a Cell match. There was no slow start to this highly physical encounter as both superstars immediately began exchanging hard kendo stick shots. In a gruesome moment, Edge used kendo sticks to wedge Balor against the cell, leaving him vulnerable. However, Balor retaliated by kicking Edge through a table that he had set up in the corner.


The match only grew more chaotic as Edge introduced a ladder, which ended up opening a cut on Balor that required medical attention. Despite the setback, Balor managed to make a comeback and hit Edge with a Coup de Grace. However, Edge quickly cut him off with a ladder-assisted Edgeuction.


The intensity escalated even further as Balor attempted to hit Edge with a Coup De Grace from a catwalk around the perimeter of the cell, but ended up crashing through a table after Edge dodged the move. Despite being in immense pain, Balor managed to kick out of Edge's spear. However, Edge was relentless, pummeling Balor with a kendo stick and steel chair before ultimately putting him away with a con-chair-to.


Overall, the match was an absolute spectacle, befitting of the intense rivalry and the Hell in a Cell stipulation. The slower pace allowed fans to emotionally invest themselves in the action, and the performance was strong enough to signify the end of the feud. Edge emerged victorious via pinfall, earning a grade of B+.

Wrestlemania 39 Night 2 Snoop Dogg vs. The Miz

In an unexpected turn of events, Snoop Dogg arranged a match between The Miz and Shane McMahon. Unfortunately, McMahon sustained an injury early on in the bout, which led to a spontaneous match between Snoop and Miz. The iconic rapper landed two solid right hands and even paid tribute to Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson with a People's Elbow before pinning Miz for the win. Despite the unclear circumstances surrounding McMahon's injury, Snoop's performance stole the show and was far more entertaining than the planned match between McMahon and Miz. Snoop emerged victorious with a pinfall, earning a grade of B-.

Wrestlemania 39 Night 2 Raw women's championship -- Bianca Belair (c) vs. Asuka

At Sunday night's event, the Raw Women's Championship match between Bianca Belair and Asuka was nothing short of a spectacular display of athleticism and skill. Despite a lackluster buildup and following a tough act, both competitors fought with intensity and passion.


Throughout the match, there were numerous thrilling moments, with both wrestlers exchanging momentum and pulling off impressive moves. Asuka impressively countered Belair's handspring moonsault with a triangle choke, and Belair expertly executed a suplex after rolling through a submission attempt.


The match also saw both superstars putting their bodies on the line, with Belair landing a powerful sit-out powerbomb on Asuka ringside. The chemistry between the two wrestlers was undeniable as they seamlessly exchanged maneuvers and avoided each other's signature moves.


Belair ultimately emerged victorious after she lifted Asuka into a KOD for the pinfall. While the match lacked the same level of drama as the SmackDown Women's Championship, the seamless teamwork and impressive display of skill between Belair and Asuka were truly top-notch. Overall, the match was given a grade of A-.

Wrestlemania 39 Night 2 Intercontinental championship -- Gunther (c) vs. Drew McIntyre vs. Sheamus

The Intercontinental Championship match between Gunther (c), Drew McIntyre, and Sheamus was marked by intense friction between McIntyre and Sheamus as both pursued the title. Gunther capitalized on their rivalry by encouraging them to fight each other, but McIntyre got the upper hand by delivering a Claymore Kick to Gunther. However, Gunther proved himself as "The Ring General" by directing the action and bludgeoning both challengers. The fans were treated to a hard-hitting match with plenty of chops and forearms that left Gunther's chest black and blue.


Sheamus earned a standing ovation from the crowd after subjecting McIntyre to over 25 Beats of the Bodhran, which continued until McIntyre collapsed. Sheamus nearly won the championship with a Celtic Cross and a Cloverleaf on Gunther, but the friction between him and McIntyre continued to simmer. Sheamus betrayed McIntyre by breaking up a pinfall after a Brogue Kick, and the two friends exchanged blows but couldn't keep each other down. Gunther capitalized on their rivalry by powerbombing Sheamus onto McIntyre and then powerbombing McIntyre for the win.


The match exceeded expectations and told a compelling story of betrayal and rivalry between McIntyre and Sheamus. Sheamus was the MVP of the match, as he tried to complete his trophy collection in the latter stages of his career. Gunther looked like an intelligent killer who took advantage of the chaos around him. Overall, this was the match of the weekend, and Gunther retained the Intercontinental Championship by defeating McIntyre and Sheamus via pinfall. The match deserves an A+ grade.

Wrestlemania 39 Night 2 Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez vs. Natalya and Shotzi vs. Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler vs. Chelsea Green and Sonya Deville

The women's showcase match lived up to its branding as the participants took turns flaunting their skills for the SoFi crowd. Raquel Rodriguez displayed her incredible strength by easily tossing around her opponents, while Natalya thrilled the audience with a double sharpshooter on Sonya Deville and Chelsea Green. However, Liv Morgan halted Natalya's momentum with a devastating codebreaker off the ropes. In a surprising turn of events, Ronda Rousey found herself face to face with her nemesis Shotzi, and wasted no time in locking in an armbar for the quick submission. Although the match didn't quite match the excitement of the men's showcase, it still proved to be a strong effort from the women. Rousey and Shayna Baszler emerged victorious, defeating Natalya and Shotzi, Morgan and Rodriguez, and Deville and Green via submission. Overall, the match earned a respectable grade of C+.

Wrestlemania 39 Night 2 Brock Lesnar vs. Omos

In a rare spectacle, Brock Lesnar faced off against the formidable Omos, whose exceptional size and strength dwarfed even Lesnar. From the start, Omos effortlessly tossed Lesnar around the ring and executed a powerful slam, leaving Lesnar struggling to keep up. Despite Lesnar's initial bursts of energy, Omos continued to dominate the match until Lesnar finally managed to turn the tables with a series of German suplexes, followed by his signature F-5 move which sealed the victory.


However, some fans felt that the match lacked a bit of back-and-forth action and could have benefited from more momentum swings. Although Omos' size and power were on full display, his lack of defense and durability made him look weak towards the end of the match. Some viewers argued that Omos could have believably kicked out of at least one F-5, given his unique physique. Despite these criticisms, Lesnar emerged victorious via pinfall, earning a respectable B grade.

Sunday, April 02, 2023

Wrestlemania 39 Night 1 Undisputed tag team championships -- The Usos (Jey Uso and Jimmy Uso) (c) vs. Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens

The main event of the night featured the Undisputed tag team championships between The Usos (Jey Uso and Jimmy Uso) and Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens. The match started with an emotional showdown between Zayn and Jey Uso, with the crowd cheering for Zayn's initial attacks. However, the champions quickly took control, and the audience erupted when Owens got the hot tag, delivering a frog splash to Jey Uso and laying out Jimmy Uso ringside.


The match continued with high-flying moves and near falls, keeping the crowd on their feet. The Usos temporarily removed Owens from the equation by slamming him through the announcer's table and then planted Zayn with a 1-D. However, Zayn kicked out, and Jey Uso relentlessly attacked him, repeatedly slapping him in the face. Owens made another hot tag, hitting both brothers with pop-up powerbombs, and delivering a Helluva Kick to Jimmy Uso and a stunner to Jey Uso.


Despite this, Jey Uso remarkably kicked out, and the crowd showed their appreciation with "This is Awesome'' chants. The Usos hit Owens with their finisher, but Zayn landed three consecutive Helluva Kicks to Jey Uso for the three count, securing the win for Zayn and Owens and making them the new undisputed WWE tag team champions.


This match showcased excellent storytelling, particularly with the rise and fall of Zayn as part of The Bloodline and his tale of revenge. It was a fitting headliner for WrestleMania, and congratulations to all involved for a rare showcase of the tag team division on the grand stage. The match receives a Grade: A+

Wrestlemania 39 Night 1 Pat McAfee vs. The Miz

After the women's match, The Miz and Snoop Dogg made their way to the ring to pump up the already lively crowd. Snoop suggested that Miz should have a match, which Miz agreed to, leading to Pat McAfee's return to accept the challenge. Initially, Miz tried to back out, but the match was officially made. McAfee wasted no time in taking the fight to Miz and wowed the crowd with his signature high spots, including a backflip from the top rope. As Corey Graves cheered on Miz, the WWE star attempted to leave the ring, but he was met with boos from San Francisco 49ers' George Kittle, who was at ringside. In response, Miz shoved Kittle, prompting the NFL player to jump over the guardrail and deliver a clothesline. McAfee then executed a swanton from the top rope onto Miz outside the ring before tossing him back in for the final blow. McAfee sealed the deal with a punt and scored the pinfall in a light-hearted segment that gave the crowd a chance to catch their breath before the main event. Overall, the match was entertaining, earning a solid B grade.

Wrestlemania 39 Night 1 SmackDown Women's Championship -- Charlotte Flair (c) vs. Rhea Ripley

The SmackDown Women's Championship match pitted Charlotte Flair against Rhea Ripley. Ripley had been seeking revenge against Flair for a while, and her Royal Rumble revenge tour culminated in her becoming the champion at WrestleMania. Despite Flair's established career, Ripley's combination of strength and intelligence proved too much for her to handle. Flair put up a good fight, but ultimately Ripley emerged victorious, surviving Flair's spiked DDT. The latter part of the match was filled with big moves and close calls. Flair landed a moonsault outside the ring, but Ripley retaliated with a headbutt and Riptide combo in the ring. She then dropped Flair face-first into the corner post and finished her off with a top rope Riptide. Overall, the match was well-executed, with both competitors showcasing dynamic attacks and creative counters. Despite the lackluster build-up, the match exceeded expectations, and Ripley was the right woman to win. While the match may have gone on for too long, it was still a spirited and strong showing from both wrestlers. Ripley claimed the SmackDown women's championship in a Grade A performance

Wrestlemania 39 Night 1 Rey Mysterio vs. Dominik Mysterio

WrestleMania match between Rey Mysterio and his son, Dominik Mysterio, was filled with entertaining theatrics and surprising twists. Dominik arrived at the arena in handcuffs, embracing his prison-hardened character. He even wore his father's famous Halloween Havoc mask, taking a jab at his dad. However, Rey upped the ante by entering the arena with Snoop Dogg in a low-rider, paying tribute to his late friend Eddie Guerrero.


Initially, Rey dominated the match, even spanking his son with his belt to the delight of the crowd. But Dominik gained control by distracting his father and attacking him after throwing a drink at his sister. However, his antics were short-lived as his mother quickly put him in his place. Rey regained the upper hand with a 619, but the Latin World Order (formerly Legado del Fantasma) intervened, leading to a back-and-forth between the Mysterios.


Dominik got his revenge by hitting his own 619 but couldn't seal the deal with a pinfall. He tried to use a steel chain to finish his father off, but musician Bad Bunny, sitting ringside, intervened and snatched the chain. This distraction allowed Rey to hit a 619 and a top rope splash for the win.


Overall, the match was a rare and entertaining blend of present and past pro-wrestling elements. The entrances were memorable, the family drama added to the tension, and the surprise appearance of Bad Bunny added to the excitement. The company can now build on this match to create a tag team match featuring Mysterio and Bunny against Judgement Day. Rey Mysterio won the match by pinfall, earning an A grade.

Wrestlemania 39 Night 1 Becky Lynch, Lita & Trish Stratus vs. Damage CTRL (Bayley, Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky

Becky Lynch, Lita, and Trish Stratus went up against Damage CTRL consisting of Bayley, Dakota Kai, and Iyo Sky. Damage CTRL played the role of irritating heels and constantly mocked their Hall of Fame opponents. Lita was cornered and bullied by the trio for an extended period until Stratus got the tag and turned the tables. Stratus moved quickly around the ring and with the help of Lita and Lynch, executed a handspring head scissors on the outside, throwing Kai into her allies ringside. The tag team champions paid tribute to Team Xtreme by performing the Hardy Boyz's Poetry in Motion-Top Rope Leg Drop combo. Damage CTRL's biggest moment was when Sky cleared the field with a moonsault to the outside. However, the fan-favorites prevailed and performed their greatest hits en route to victory, with Stratus hitting a Chick Kick, Lita landing a moonsault, and Lynch planting Bayley with a Man-Handle Slam off the top ropes for the win.


The match was positioned after two hot contests, the fatal four-way tag team and Rollins vs. Paul matches, providing a cooldown for the crowd. Lita and Stratus appeared slightly labored, especially Lita, which was understandable. The flow of the match didn't quite click throughout, but everyone gave an honest effort. In the end, Lita, Lynch, and Stratus defeated Damage CTRL with a grade of C.

Wrestlemania 39 Night 1 Seth Rollins vs. Logan Paul

At WrestleMania, Seth Rollins and Logan Paul brought fans an unforgettable experience with their elaborate entrances. Paul mocked the audience with a modified version of Shawn Michaels' iconic entrance, ziplining to the stage while shouting through a wireless microphone, accompanied by a life-sized bottle of his Prime beverage. In contrast, Rollins paid tribute to Hollywood, donning an outfit resembling a red carpet while a conductor led the crowd in chanting his theme song.


Despite Paul's previous impressive performances in WWE matches, Rollins initially struggled to respond to Paul's surprisingly effective offense. However, Rollins eventually hit Paul with three consecutive suicide dives after dodging a top rope move. Although Rollins attempted a pedigree, Paul countered with a right punch for a close two-count. Rollins swiftly followed up with a powerbomb for his near fall. Later, KSI revealed himself as the Prime mascot and interfered by throwing Rollins across the announcer's table. Rollins retaliated by pulling KSI onto the table as Paul leaped from the top rope. Rollins nearly clinched the match with a pedigree, but Paul kicked out. The two traded near falls until Rollins hit Paul with a super kick from the top rope, followed by a stomp to secure the victory.


Paul played his role as a celebrity-turned-superstar perfectly, portraying a sublimely dislikeable character in every match he's in. Rollins exhibited masterful ring generalship, and seeing KSI get planted through a table was immensely satisfying. Overall, Rollins vs. Paul was an outstanding match and may have been the highlight of WrestleMania. Rollins emerged victorious via pinfall, and the match deserved an A grade.

Wrestlemania 39 Night 1 Braun Strowman & Ricochet vs. The Street Profits vs. Alpha Academy vs. The Viking Raiders (Men's Showcase)

The men's tag team showcase was a sight to behold, as each competitor showcased their remarkable athleticism and strength. Gable executed a remarkable roll-through German suplex on Strowman, while Ivar attempted a moonsault. Strowman also impressed with a massive splash off the top rope, and the entire field worked together to create a unique and exciting twist on the overused "Tower of Doom" spot.


As the match drew to a close, Strowman appeared to be unstoppable, bulldozing through his opponents with his signature Strowman Express. However, his momentum came to a screeching halt when he collided with Dawkins, who was waiting for him on the outside of the ring. Ricochet then thrilled the crowd by executing a breathtaking springboard shooting star press on the outside of the ring. In the end, Dawkins and Ford teamed up to defeat Ricochet and Strowman, Alpha Academy, and the Viking Raiders, with Dawkins pinning Ricochet after Ford landed a huge frog splash to his back.


While some may have underestimated the potential of this showcase match, the superstars involved more than delivered. The fast-paced action, impressive displays of athleticism, and memorable moments all contributed to an outstanding match that deserves high praise. Overall, the men's tag team showcase was a definite A-grade performance by all involved.

Wrestlemania 39 Night 1 United States Championship -- John Cena vs. Austin Theory

The United States Championship match between John Cena and Austin Theory showcased Theory's youth and athleticism against Cena's experience and veteran skills. Cena initially dominated the match, using his technical prowess to outsmart Theory. However, Theory picked up the pace and landed some impressive moves, including a blockbuster and shotgun dropkick.


Despite Theory's efforts, Cena capitalized on his opponent's inexperience and trapped him in an STF submission hold. Theory resorted to biting Cena's hand to break free, but Cena regained control. Cena attempted an Attitude Adjustment, but Theory managed to wriggle free, causing the referee to take a spill. Cena transitioned into another STF hold and forced Theory to tap, but the referee was incapacitated, and Cena let go of the hold, thinking he had won.


Taking the easy way out, WWE allowed Theory to capitalize on the situation and defeat Cena with A Town Down. While the match was solid, it was not one for the history books. Theory retained his United States Championship title with a pinfall victory over Cena.

Overall, the match deserves a grade of B.