That Wasn't The Wrestling Thread, That Was CGI!

[cyclone]

Please WWE, don't bury the Shield....... Please be smarter than that......

 

[The Sage]

Wade Keller of the Pro-Wrestling Torch newsletter and PWTorch.com released an exclusive report about The Rock today and his relationship with the current WWE locker room. There’s been mixed reports about how The Rock is fitting in during his current WWE Championship run and Keller has published probably the most comprehensive report to date.

During The Rock’s third WrestleMania Season Tour with WWE, there are still feelings of resentment toward him in some circles of the locker room.

Rock addressed that in a Twitter post Saturday night. “Thank U WWE Superstars for the awesome welcoming me back & getting the ‘big picture’ plan. You’re true locker room leaders! #RoadToMania,” Rock tweeted.

Not all are on-board with the “big picture plan,” which is essentially that Rock’s return makes everything in WWE bigger and makes everyone more money. This is especially the case after Rock’s in-ring return at the Royal Rumble, which received mixed reviews backstage. The following is an exclusive break down of sources of resentment in the locker room.

- At the Rumble, there was some resentment toward Rock because they felt he was not in great ring shape for his first match back in WWE. Now there’s pressure on Rock to come back at the Elimination Chamber in two weeks in better cardio condition. Also, the pressure is on to be in-shape for WrestleMania in April, but the issue for Rock is that Mania is one month before he films “Hercules,” which is a role that he has to look jacked for.

- Wrestlers with an eye for how other wrestlers perform have noted that Rock wasn’t moving around much in the ring with C.M. Punk. The main point of emphasis is that Rock did not bounce or spring off the ropes as much as he used to. Rock is 40-years-old now, is carrying muscle mass, and there was ring rust at the Rumble PPV. At 40, it’s starting to be noticeable and it’s more difficult to shake off the ring rust.

The Rumble PPV match could be passed off as Rock holding back for the Chamber, especially knowing it would be a re-match against Punk. But, there is no hiding ring rust.

- Rock is said to have no allies from the current locker room. Rock has isolated himself behind-the-scenes, which is due to how he feels he’s been treated since returning to WWE and so that he can tend to other business affairs. But, there are also stories of how Rock has gone out of his way to talk to wrestlers and offer advice. It’s a touchy situation, almost on a case-by-case basis how certain wrestlers receive him, which has led to mixed feelings about Rock’s presence in WWE.

Rock senses it. According to backstage sources, Rock feels like he’s being scrutinized by the current locker room. After his memorable pre-match promo during the Rumble PPV, Rock carried himself like, ‘How do you like that everyone who doubts me?’ There was an extra spring in his step, which some observers took as either adrenaline before the match or arrogance. As an “outsider,” it came across like Rock telling people, ‘Don’t forget that I can do that. Now, you step up and do it.’

- Another source of locker room resentment is the feeling that Rock is using his planned WWE Title run as a marketing tool for his movie career. Wrestlers feel like Rock is telling lapsed wrestling fans that he’s “part of WWE again” and he still likes wrestling, so come see my latest movie. Essentially, the relationship is mutually beneficial for both Rock and WWE, which will be getting plenty of mainstream exposure when Rock starts promoting his 2013 slate of movies.

http://wrestling.insidepulse.com/20...-the-feelings-of-the-current-wwe-locker-room/

 

[the_ultimate_evil]

Wade Keller of the Pro-Wrestling Torch newsletter and PWTorch.com released an exclusive report about The Rock today and his relationship with the current WWE locker room. There’s been mixed reports about how The Rock is fitting in during his current WWE Championship run and Keller has published probably the most comprehensive report to date.

During The Rock’s third WrestleMania Season Tour with WWE, there are still feelings of resentment toward him in some circles of the locker room.

Rock addressed that in a Twitter post Saturday night. “Thank U WWE Superstars for the awesome welcoming me back & getting the ‘big picture’ plan. You’re true locker room leaders! #RoadToMania,” Rock tweeted.

Not all are on-board with the “big picture plan,” which is essentially that Rock’s return makes everything in WWE bigger and makes everyone more money. This is especially the case after Rock’s in-ring return at the Royal Rumble, which received mixed reviews backstage. The following is an exclusive break down of sources of resentment in the locker room.

- At the Rumble, there was some resentment toward Rock because they felt he was not in great ring shape for his first match back in WWE. Now there’s pressure on Rock to come back at the Elimination Chamber in two weeks in better cardio condition. Also, the pressure is on to be in-shape for WrestleMania in April, but the issue for Rock is that Mania is one month before he films “Hercules,” which is a role that he has to look jacked for.

- Wrestlers with an eye for how other wrestlers perform have noted that Rock wasn’t moving around much in the ring with C.M. Punk. The main point of emphasis is that Rock did not bounce or spring off the ropes as much as he used to. Rock is 40-years-old now, is carrying muscle mass, and there was ring rust at the Rumble PPV. At 40, it’s starting to be noticeable and it’s more difficult to shake off the ring rust.

The Rumble PPV match could be passed off as Rock holding back for the Chamber, especially knowing it would be a re-match against Punk. But, there is no hiding ring rust.

- Rock is said to have no allies from the current locker room. Rock has isolated himself behind-the-scenes, which is due to how he feels he’s been treated since returning to WWE and so that he can tend to other business affairs. But, there are also stories of how Rock has gone out of his way to talk to wrestlers and offer advice. It’s a touchy situation, almost on a case-by-case basis how certain wrestlers receive him, which has led to mixed feelings about Rock’s presence in WWE.

Rock senses it. According to backstage sources, Rock feels like he’s being scrutinized by the current locker room. After his memorable pre-match promo during the Rumble PPV, Rock carried himself like, ‘How do you like that everyone who doubts me?’ There was an extra spring in his step, which some observers took as either adrenaline before the match or arrogance. As an “outsider,” it came across like Rock telling people, ‘Don’t forget that I can do that. Now, you step up and do it.’

- Another source of locker room resentment is the feeling that Rock is using his planned WWE Title run as a marketing tool for his movie career. Wrestlers feel like Rock is telling lapsed wrestling fans that he’s “part of WWE again” and he still likes wrestling, so come see my latest movie. Essentially, the relationship is mutually beneficial for both Rock and WWE, which will be getting plenty of mainstream exposure when Rock starts promoting his 2013 slate of movies.

http://wrestling.insidepulse.com/20...-the-feelings-of-the-current-wwe-locker-room/

Wow so the locker room is pissed at a part timer more interested in his acting character is essentially taking they're lively hood from under they're nose

Ahh sure I bet they're all just smarks that just don't see the big picture in the "entertainment" aspects

 

[UnionJack]

Dunno how that article makes me feel, I feel a little sad for Rock if he trying to talk/help to people and they just brush him off.

Rock doesn't need WWE to help with his movie career as he as clearly done well for himself over the past 10years with at least a film a year.

Sure some of the lower tier stars won't be getting a push/screentime but WWE could release 50% of its stars and no one would notice.

 

[spidey-dude]

its hard to comment on since the mixed reports seem to be completely different with come saying he doesnt talk to anyone and others saying he is going out of his way to talk to people...

some jealousy is to be expected I guess since he has come back for a 3 month stint and been made champ, but he has been in their position and managed to make himself a legend in the business to the point where he can come in for a 3 month stint and be a big deal

agree with Union Jack in that Rock doesnt need WWE to promote his movies

 

[UnionJack]

Agreed its not like he is an actor coming in fresh and getting this massive push, he worked his ass off years ago to get into the position.
HHH puts himself in those positions too with his awful feud with Punk which killed some of his run.

WWE is stale thanks to Cena and while they gave Punk a year long run, that really means nothing since he was a cheap heel for most of that, looked over for main events at PPV's for good ol'John boy.

Also an interview I read with Sammartino saying how the product is good now as its family friendly and has no more profanity and such .... come on old man this stuff isn't fun. There is room to make the product appeal to all, not just little kids. WWE has enough shows that it can have the major ones aimed at the higher ages and the others more cartoon and kid friendly.

Pretty much caught up on Raw was an alright show, good to see Miz get the F5, still no idea why he is being kept around there are enough mid-carders, most with more in-ring skills.

 

[OnTheAir]

I loved Melina as well, she was like a modern Sherri Martel, she could talk and work, you could see it even when she managed MNM, she made that team into stars.

Melina catches SO much flack from the IWC. If she really has the terrible attitude that people say she does, then I certainly understand why. But I think she is one of the best divas of the past decade. Good talker, good worker, unique look compared to the other divas, best diva entrance (from the paparazzi to the splits), and to be completely superficial, I thought she was hot. I've seen some dudes online call her a horse face...whatever, I thought she was pretty and has a killer body. (Dat @$$!!! Damn, I miss bra & panty matches!)

A modern Sheri Martel is a very appropriate comparison, in my opinion...you nailed it!

 

[RetroNaz]

No offence to the guys that miss out TV time because of the Rock being back on the air, but if most of them weren't bland, plain cardboard cutout characters then they wouldn't have a problem. There's nothing or nobody that can hold my interest in WWE these days except a very small few, and they certainly dont need to worry about the Rock getting in the way of a pay day or title push (long term).

Why aren't these people pissed with Cena?

 

[Metallo]

I'm sure some will disagree with me, but he was from a different era, never left his city and the length of the reign more so than the quality of it was the big deal.

Certainly not the greatest but one of the all time great (WWWF, WWF)WWE Champions. I'd call Bruno the first true peoples champion well before others started using that phrase becuase he was such a hero to the common men and women, especially certain ethnic groups. Despite being a bear of a man he came off as more of a man of the people with an inspiring background. To give an example: as heroes I'd say if Hogan and Rock fought FOR us Bruno IS more like one of us.

The thing that made me LOL over his HOF video is calling him THE greatest. Period. They've called Michaels, Hogan, Austin, and Flair THE greatest at various times too. Its just amusing how they throw it around so much.

Looking at it through the modern lense I always felt Bruno and Supersrtar Graham could have drawn even more money together with Vince's jr's promotional machine behind them. They were polar opposites in so many ways that that are ideal for a great heel/face rivalry. Both powerful men but Sammartino looked like your hard working blue collar/manual labor mans man. Graham looked like an arrogant beach tanned gym rat adonis. Bruno was humble. Superstar was cocky. In some ways it could have been the prototypical rivalry we've seen so much of in the business over the years. Next to Buddy Rogers Bruno and Graham are two guys Vince Jr clearly looked to for bits of inspiration when molding what he wanted certain faces and heels to be.

The Only way I see Shield even winning at EC is if for some reason Orton turns heel but I don't think Orton will be in the match. But isn't there a rumor going around of Sheamus vs. Orton at WM? They might set that up some way some how.

I don't know about the Shield themselves but Orton turning heel and leading the Shield would benefit him greatly. At least until The McMahons get the ego driven itch to bury the whole Heyman crew just like they did Legacy.

Was the WWWF a smaller draw than the NWA in those days? In a sense, yes, seeing as how the WWWF was a part of the NWA at the time. I think they left the NWA in 1982 or 83 after Vince Jr bought the company from Vince Sr and changed the name from the World Wide Wrestling Federation to the World Wrestling Federation.

I always thought the WWWF left the NWA, went back, then left again? I could be totally wrong though. I always assumed the name change happened sometime around 1980 before Vince jr bought the company.

You're right about HHH. Much more of a traditionalist and even though he's not always been up front with his contemporaries he's always respected the guys who made it big before the 80s. That would have been the time when he was very young and a fan so it makes sense. he probably still sees those guys on another level of respect.

Trish, Lita and Mickie, the rest have to fight for spots.

I loved heel Hogan mainly because I was never a fan even as a kid, I didn't hate his stuff pre-92 but come 93 he was on my ****list and his heel run was great because it felt closer to the real Hogan at least as far as his business personality.

Always respected Taker, didn't like any of his matches much until 96 and am one of the few who liked him better as a biker than as a supernatural reaper. I still recall Goldberg's title win in 98, one of my favourite memories as a fan, but he's basically the Wizard of Oz, once the curtain was pulled back there was nothing to see.

Goldberg didn't have much to show in the ring or even the mic but he had something you can't teach: the it factor. That destroyer aura and mistique. He was just like Lesnar in that department. he had the look just not the physical gifts of Brock.

Thats why Ryback is so stupid to me. I'm sure he's a great guy but you can't teach that mystique Goldberg and Lesnar have. Either you have it or you don't. Not all muscle men are credible as intimidating destroyers. Its about more than just the physical but a feeling that radiates off them. Goldberg could just STAND there and have it.

That was the period when Mankind/Foley brought out the best in so many people and got to show you another side of them. Like Piper Foley didn't really change his stye but the guys who worked with him had to get on HIS level. Sting, Michaels, and HHH all benefitted from working with him. Taker probably came off looking better than anyone because when he worked Foley he got to show that he was more than a lumbering big man. He upped his intensity and diversity of moves and his pace in the ring.

Did Foley ever work Jake Roberts? In WCW maybe? That would have been something to see. I was amazed to learn that Bret Hart never worked Jake once in his entire career which is crazy since I know Jake wrestled in Stampede for a little while.

Melina catches SO much flack from the IWC. If she really has the terrible attitude that people say she does, then I certainly understand why. But I think she is one of the best divas of the past decade. Good talker, good worker, unique look compared to the other divas, best diva entrance (from the paparazzi to the splits), and to be completely superficial, I thought she was hot. I've seen some dudes online call her a horse face...whatever, I thought she was pretty and has a killer body. (Dat @$$!!! Damn, I miss bra & panty matches!)

A modern Sheri Martel is a very appropriate comparison, in my opinion...you nailed it!

I feel the same way about Melina. Probably the most underrated member of the group of women to rise to the top after the Trish/Lita era of divas. Melina was right behind Mickie as far as overall talent IMO. Temendous felxibilty and agility. Good worker. Good talker. One of the best managers in WWE in the last 8 years probably.

And Hunter knows I used the the Sherri Martel comparison first! I always said she and Morrison could have been the Sherri/Shawn Michaels of their era. Thats why I got a laugh out of that time at a Surv Series when Shawn slid out of the ring and Melina thought he WAS John Morrison for a second before they were both horrified.

She was good looking and while not THE best lookig diva ever she had what someone like Kelly Kelly was totally lacking in: A sizzle or kind of sex appeal in her in ring personality.

 

[Metallo]

Wow so the locker room is pissed at a part timer more interested in his acting character is essentially taking they're lively hood from under they're nose

Ahh sure I bet they're all just smarks that just don't see the big picture in the "entertainment" aspects

Ya gotta respect Jericho even more. Comes back with Punk and has a great match all the while preparing and building Punk for Elimination Chamber. Soemthing he needs since he had to do the build up by himself last night. Punk going over Jericho in a damn good effort is the kind of stuff you do to build up PPV's.

Then Punk took the stick afterwards and continued it.

Depite all the sh** Jericho had to deal with in WCW and WWF/E instead of using that as an excuse to put others through the same he's clearly made a pledge to take his experiences and learn from them for the better of others. What he's doing is probably to the detriment of his own career too. Instead of trying to claw to the top through politics he's letting himself be jobbed. In Vince's eyes thats made him an asset in a sense but also lowered his star value (that wasn't huge to begin with).

Vince may see it as weakness but it also shows strength. Jericho has that much confidence in his abilities that he doesn't care and is willing to use his experience to help others. Thats how the business keeps going. You pass something down. Its like making an investment. Michaels knew it in his second run too. Flair knew it. Making Sting was an investment that paid off for over 20 years. Having that kind of ability takes real talent.

No offence to the guys that miss out TV time because of the Rock being back on the air, but if most of them weren't bland, plain cardboard cutout characters then they wouldn't have a problem. There's nothing or nobody that can hold my interest in WWE these days except a very small few, and they certainly dont need to worry about the Rock getting in the way of a pay day or title push (long term).

Why aren't these people pissed with Cena?

For the same reason they aren't as pissed with Jericho (some rumors say that some talents were at the rumble). Love or hate Cena at least he is there. With the talk about the big picture Cena is there working that hard assed schedule even if he is overexposed and pushed into the spotlight. He's committed. He doesn't go out there and take it easy or phone it in Not that Rock is but everything Cena does he is willing to put the work in.

Jericho is also a part timer but when he's there he's ALL THERE. He's not just there one night then gone, there then gone. He's fully committed to his short returns. Did you see Jericho's match last night? The guy was in rare form. I can't say he showed up with ring rust part timer or not. Thats not always easy to pull off. The talent appreciates it a bit more when the bigger stars are at least in the trenches with them for a tough fight.

When an "old timer" like Bret Hart comes back and all those guys are saying "I want to tap out to the sharpshooter! No I want to tap to it!." These kids...fighting to see who is going to lose to a retired star. Or when Piper comes back and you read all the stories of the young guys crowding around monitors in the back to hear him talk like only he can. They don't brush him off. Theres a reason Punk respects the hell out of Piper and vice versa.

Its why Sting is so respected in TNA. "Part timer taking a spot"...but Stings put the effort in to let the locker room KNOW how much he cares about and respects everyone else. Before his own HOF induction Sting openly said he felt he didn't deserve it an put over Samoa Joe, AJ Styles, Robert Roode, etc. as guys who did way more to carry TNA than he did over the years. He said they deserved that HOF spot first before him. Sting went out of his way to let the fans know that. Thats humilty and respect at work. You give it to get it.

Its why it seemed like almost every young guy on that roster WANTED to job to Ricky Steamboat or take his arm drag when he came back. Steamboat got a plum PPV spot against Jericho a few years back but he's also in the trenches with those kids every day trying to help then in a hands on way. Not some intangible big picture way but working with them in ways they can see.

I'm not saying Rocks the only one at fault here. Both sides have to make the effort to bridge the gap. But as a leader, a veteran, if Rock wants to make this work he has to try. He's the one with the experience to know how that locker room atmosphere works better than any of those kids back there. He had to deal with the same kinds of issues when he was younger when even more veterans were around. Thats what true veteran leaders do. Thats what Sting does. Thats what Undertaker does. Its what Bret Hart does. They make that effort to bridge the gap with the newer generation of talent. If he wants to lead WWE to new heights like he claims well then start LEADING. Its about more than money too. Like I said Rock can't do it alone though. The other guys in the back have to extend their hands too. If Rock is putting in ALL the effort he can and the other side isn't trying in kind the its not his fault. At least he tried and did the right thing.

 

[Mrs. Sawyer]

Melina catches SO much flack from the IWC. If she really has the terrible attitude that people say she does, then I certainly understand why. But I think she is one of the best divas of the past decade. Good talker, good worker, unique look compared to the other divas, best diva entrance (from the paparazzi to the splits), and to be completely superficial, I thought she was hot. I've seen some dudes online call her a horse face...whatever, I thought she was pretty and has a killer body. (Dat @$$!!! Damn, I miss bra & panty matches!)

A modern Sheri Martel is a very appropriate comparison, in my opinion...you nailed it!

Agreed. I heard a lot a out her being difficult though. I still feel she's the best diva the WWE had after the departure of Trish/Lita/Mickie. Thinking about it, its sad how WWE treats the females in addition to trying to bring up females who are just eye candy alone.

 

[the_ultimate_evil]

its hard to comment on since the mixed reports seem to be completely different with come saying he doesnt talk to anyone and others saying he is going out of his way to talk to people...

some jealousy is to be expected I guess since he has come back for a 3 month stint and been made champ, but he has been in their position and managed to make himself a legend in the business to the point where he can come in for a 3 month stint and be a big deal

agree with Union Jack in that Rock doesnt need WWE to promote his movies

no one said he needed them to promote his movies. but this is a common thing with the rock when he first came back he never even tried to get along with the new guys requesting a private dressing room and only coming out for his spots.

look i'm not as die hard anti rock as some of the guys in here but i can really understand where the locker room is coming from, when a part timer shows up and takes over 30 minutes of a show just so he can sing a couple of poor parody songs is bull. and yeah i know people say vince has final but i call bull on that rocks got as much if not final pull of how his return goes. like we're constantly reminded if he doesn't want to play ball he says so and goes back to hollywood


ohh and to ever said it melina isn't fit to lace up Sensational Sherri's corset. sorry but no sherri constantly knew how to keep the spotlight on her performer and worked the crowd superbly. IMO melina while reasonably decent in the ring only ever went out to make herself look good unless it was someone who actually was being pushed, outside of her control.

maybe i'm just being bias but i never liked or had any respect for anyone from MNM

 

[Bad Superman]

It's been a while since my last post. I've been watching bits and pieces of RAW and from what I've seen, this are my two cents regarding the next two Wrestlemanias:

Wrestlemania 29 Prediction:

While I want the Streak to remain, if Taker decides to end it, there's no one better than CM Punk. If Punk faces The Undertaker (there are rumors of Taker skipping WM because health issues). If Punk ends the streak it would solidify his status as a Mega Heel. If Taker decides not to compete, he might be taking time to heal for his final match . . . . .WM XXX.


Wrestlemania 30 Prediction:

I know I'm a year early, but this is my Wrestlemania XXX prediction for it's Main Event:

John Cena VS. Undertaker

It will be Undertaker's farewell match and of course, if Punk doesn't end it, the Streak remains against Cena. WWE would be insane to book Cena to end the Streak. IMO, it would make Cena one of the most hated wrestlers in history and that could hurt his character more than it would benefit it. This is, without a doubt, a BIG money match and Taker's last WM appearance. WWE could build a huge send off for the Dead Man. It doesn't get any bigger than Wrestlemania XXX and it would be the perfect time and place for Taker's final match.

Bottom line:

Cena Vs. Taker at WM 30 is a lock.

 

[Metallo]

no one said he needed them to promote his movies. but this is a common thing with the rock when he first came back he never even tried to get along with the new guys requesting a private dressing room and only coming out for his spots.

look i'm not as die hard anti rock as some of the guys in here but i can really understand where the locker room is coming from, when a part timer shows up and takes over 30 minutes of a show just so he can sing a couple of poor parody songs is bull. and yeah i know people say vince has final but i call bull on that rocks got as much if not final pull of how his return goes. like we're constantly reminded if he doesn't want to play ball he says so and goes back to hollywood

Vince might ****e out his own daughter to keep a celebrity happy. He's been shown to prostitute his company and his roster plenty of times when an outside mainstream star came in just so he could get a taste of that mainstream acceptance himself.

I figure is a mainstream movie star AND a top wrestling star all in one package asked Vince to do something he has enough stroke to get a lot of what he wants.

We can go all the way back to Wrestlmanias gone by with Studd and the Fridge or Bam Bam and LT. Piper was one of the few guys to tell Vince to f*** off when it came time to humble himself to Mr T. I llike T...but Piper had a point if T was being that much of an a**.

ohh and to ever said it melina isn't fit to lace up Sensational Sherri's corset. sorry but no sherri constantly knew how to keep the spotlight on her performer and worked the crowd superbly. IMO melina while reasonably decent in the ring only ever went out to make herself look good unless it was someone who actually was being pushed, outside of her control.

I can't disagree with part of that. As good as Melina was she wasn't as good as Sherri when it came to the manegerial aspect of promoting their client first and foremost. I remember even when Sherri went off on somebody like Warrior putting Savage over was always the primary focus.

Sometimes Mercury and Nitro would get obscured by Melina's a** take the spotlight. When an a** looks that good though its hardly surprising.

Agreed. I heard a lot a out her being difficult though. I still feel she's the best diva the WWE had after the departure of Trish/Lita/Mickie. Thinking about it, its sad how WWE treats the females in addition to trying to bring up females who are just eye candy alone.

We can thank Johnny Ace and Vince for that. Ace wanted nothing but plastic barbie pin up models and Vince never really gave much of a damn about puttign the effort into the division after Trish Stratus left. He wanted to repeat the Trish formula but half assed the process.

Melina supposedly had a lot of issues with people but I still think she was a damn good performer despite all that. I felt she and Mickie could have had a great rivalry for their time as top divas but WWE never really put the machine behind it. They worked very well together and their agility always made for dynamic matches. They were two peole that could "keep up" with each other. Maybe if they'd been doing Cena and Batista at the same time we could have gotten a top level diva program again. Seems like thats what it takes for a woman in WWE to get a strong push.

 

[PyroChamber]

I think there's always going to be certain opinions when it comes to Melina.

I personally like Melina I even liked her face run (with the exception of all the crying) but when you constantly hear stories about her behind the scenes, particularly with the whole Batista and Trish situations, it's going to make people think about her a certain way to where it'll make you wonder who wants to deal with her. Hell, is she even still wrestling?

Also, it's kinda funny when you think about it; you can have two hot, athletic, and capable women in the ring who actually know how to wrestle yet the mind of some wrestling fans will be like "get these women out of the ring, I wanna see the guys go at it".

 

[Pink Ranger]

Melina had potential to be good, but to coin a phrase, she was her own worst enemy. She largely sealed her own fate, and I don't miss her that much.

Now Mickie James, that was someone the WWE should have never let leave. Her connection to the crowd at the time with the WWE, or now with TNA, is something no WWE diva right now can even begin to match. The divas division would be a totally different picture right now if she was still in it. I would even say she's better than Victoria/Tara, overall.

 

[PyroChamber]

Melina had potential to be good, but to coin a phrase, she was her own worst enemy. She largely sealed her own fate, and I don't miss her that much.

Now Mickie James, that was someone the WWE should have never let leave. Her connection to the crowd at the time with the WWE, or now with TNA, is something no WWE diva right now can even begin to match. The divas division would be a totally different picture right now if she was still in it. I would even say she's better than Victoria/Tara, overall.

Sometimes I feel like the WWE were just looking for a reason to get rid of Mickie, so the whole "she was always late" thing was all they could come up with because she was more over than any Diva at the time and they release her just like that.

I don't watch TNA really so I don't know how well they're using here there.

 

[kane9321]

Melina catches SO much flack from the IWC. If she really has the terrible attitude that people say she does, then I certainly understand why. But I think she is one of the best divas of the past decade. Good talker, good worker, unique look compared to the other divas, best diva entrance (from the paparazzi to the splits), and to be completely superficial, I thought she was hot. I've seen some dudes online call her a horse face...whatever, I thought she was pretty and has a killer body. (Dat @$$!!! Damn, I miss bra & panty matches!)

A modern Sheri Martel is a very appropriate comparison, in my opinion...you nailed it!

i feel the same..but towards (victoria) good talker and worker..Hell she and (mickie james)are the reason why i watch tna

 

[Pink Ranger]

Sometimes I feel like the WWE were just looking for a reason to get rid of Mickie, so the whole "she was always late" thing was all they could come up with because she was more over than any Diva at the time and they release her just like that.

I don't watch TNA really so I don't know how well they're using here there.

Mickie gets a fairly reliable pop every time she appears in front of a crowd no matter how she is used, whether it's a knockouts championship match or an in-ring paper airplane folding contest. The only other female wrestler who could get that was Trish Stratus.

 

[OnTheAir]

no one said he needed them to promote his movies. but this is a common thing with the rock when he first came back he never even tried to get along with the new guys requesting a private dressing room and only coming out for his spots.

look i'm not as die hard anti rock as some of the guys in here but i can really understand where the locker room is coming from, when a part timer shows up and takes over 30 minutes of a show just so he can sing a couple of poor parody songs is bull. and yeah i know people say vince has final but i call bull on that rocks got as much if not final pull of how his return goes. like we're constantly reminded if he doesn't want to play ball he says so and goes back to hollywood


ohh and to ever said it melina isn't fit to lace up Sensational Sherri's corset. sorry but no sherri constantly knew how to keep the spotlight on her performer and worked the crowd superbly. IMO melina while reasonably decent in the ring only ever went out to make herself look good unless it was someone who actually was being pushed, outside of her control.

maybe i'm just being bias but i never liked or had any respect for anyone from MNM

I'm a fan of the Rock. Have been since the Nation of Domination days. I actually miss the cocky, self-absorbed Rock character of the late 90s. Although Hollywood Rock was cool too.

It saddens me to hear all of the criticism he is receiving from the locker room and comment boards like this one. I'm not saying it's not justified...I'm just sad that we have reached this point.

Everyone's complaints are true. The matches haven't been good. The promos have been much more miss than hit (the final pre-Rumble promo on Raw sticks out as his best since returning, in my opinion). And yes, he is taking up tv time that could go to the regulars (although he wasn't there last night and Ziggler still didn't make it on-air, even though he wrestled in the dark main event).

If Rocky isn't going to put over the younger talent (which is unusual for him...he's never avoided jobbing in the past), then the best use for him would be to have nostalgia runs with other part timers (Taker, Jericho, Triple H, Brock) just to pop a rating or buyrate.

Again, I like the Rock. I'm happy to see him when he shows up. Maybe it's nostalgia. I had no problem with Cena jobbing to him last year, as he's the one regular who could take the loss and not get damaged by it. As a Punk fan, I didn't want to see Rocky win the title. The house show thing doesn't bother me. I'm from a generation where the WWF would sometimes run three house shows on the same day. Not every city/town got to see Hogan. Check thehistoryofwwe.com. Sometimes the C show would be headlined by the equivalent of Sgt. Slaughter vs. Tony Garea. But I still didn't think it was time to end Punk's streak. He should have held the title until at least Wrestlemania. If Rocky did require a title run as part of his deal to return, then shame on him.

I want to see this work...there has to be some type of "happy medium."

Regarding Melina, no she is certainly not in Sheri's class. I'm of the opinion that Sheri is the GOAT for women workers. I just think Hunter Rider and Metallo are right: Melina is a simiar type of character. Just like Cena is no Hogan, but he is still this generation's version.

 

[OnTheAir]

i feel the same..but towards (victoria) good talker and worker..Hell she and (mickie james)are the reason why i watch tna

Yeah, I'm a big Victoria/Tara fan. Talented woman.

 

[Metallo]

Melina had potential to be good, but to coin a phrase, she was her own worst enemy. She largely sealed her own fate, and I don't miss her that much.

Now Mickie James, that was someone the WWE should have never let leave. Her connection to the crowd at the time with the WWE, or now with TNA, is something no WWE diva right now can even begin to match. The divas division would be a totally different picture right now if she was still in it. I would even say she's better than Victoria/Tara, overall.

Mickie could have been the next great female star in WWE but because she didn't fit Vince's vision he never really put the machine behind her as strongly. Even though she was incredibly over he let the division slowy erode in importance during her time in WWE instead of keeping it strong. Every woman needs the support of the company to be a bigger star.

Mickie and Victoria went to TNA and put on brilliant matches together but in WWE they never gave them the same opportunities or allowed them to do that as much. Mickie had lots of great workers to work with but WWE never bothered to do enough to put them all together in the right combinations or give them the time or focus.

Its happening again with AJ Lee. She gets hugely over and WWE doesn't run with it. Doesn't fit Vince's plan. To hell with the idea that she could have helped the divas draw a bit more money with their contribution to the show.

I think there's always going to be certain opinions when it comes to Melina.

I personally like Melina I even liked her face run (with the exception of all the crying) but when you constantly hear stories about her behind the scenes, particularly with the whole Batista and Trish situations, it's going to make people think about her a certain way to where it'll make you wonder who wants to deal with her. Hell, is she even still wrestling?

Also, it's kinda funny when you think about it; you can have two hot, athletic, and capable women in the ring who actually know how to wrestle yet the mind of some wrestling fans will be like "get these women out of the ring, I wanna see the guys go at it".

Thats always been funny to me too. I mean...fans who totally dismiss womens wrestling even when its great. I could understand if it were all the barbie doll wrestling WWE seems to be pushing now (porn alone renders that pointless) but during that 2001-2006 Divas period? That a some damn good wrestling for men OR women. TNA had it the same way for the first 3 years of their womens division.

Womens wrestling is never going to be the main focus in any major federation but it could have its place and its niche in them. It can be an important supporting part of making an overall more entertaining show just like tag team wrestling or cruiserweight wrestling. Diversity on the card breaks up the routine. Hot chicks who can fight like hell in that ring and put on incredible athletic showcases? To me thats the best of both worlds. It offers twice as much to be interested in as the mens matches. As big a fan as I am of folks like Michaels, Hart, Edge, Taker, Austin etc....I'd much rather be looking at Sarita, AJ Lee, or Melina's ass while watching great match. Its a nice bonus. Sorry, Vince.

i feel the same..but towards (victoria) good talker and worker..Hell she and (mickie james)are the reason why i watch tna

I always felt Victorias biggest weakness was she wasn't the best talker. She could talk ok but it took more effort than someone like Mickie or Trish who were more naturals. But she's still one of the best female wrestlers WWE has ever seen and they wasted her. I was always a big fan of hers and I still am. Amazing worker. She's kind of like Jericho in the sense that she's SO good in the ring that it went against her in WWE and she was used to carry/put over lesser talents. They knew they could put her with anyone and she'd make them look great.

Her strength in the ring was that she brought a lot to the table as a worker. She had good ring psychology. She could brawl, she could mat wrestle, she could do power matches, and she could do some high flying because she was pretty agile. A very versatile, physically competative woman and she wasn't afraid to go all out when allowed to. Thats why she's always been able to match up so well with so many different kinds of opponents. She's also got the best protected finisher of any women I've ever seen in the big US promotions. Once she hits it and pins somebody I've NEVER seen anyone kick out of it.

Like I said before she and Mickie have gone to TNA and put on clinics. That falls count anywhere/hardcore match they did in their first big series there? Not sure if any two women in WWE or TNA have topped that in the last 5 years. They went out there and threw down as hard as most of the guys that night. The whole series of matches was fantastic even when the creative/storyline parts weren't. They reminded me of the heyday of WWE's divas division.

Regarding Melina, no she is certainly not in Sheri's class. I'm of the opinion that Sheri is the GOAT for women workers. I just think Hunter Rider and Metallo are right: Melina is a simiar type of character. Just like Cena is no Hogan, but he is still this generation's version.

When it comes to the "character" part of the business Sherri Martel may have been the best woman to ever work in it. She was just so damn good. Great talker. Even when she managed or was a valet she'd take bumps or risks you just didn't see women trying much back then.

Every man she managed gained form it career wise. Makes me wonder if she would have been a better fit for Rick Rude than Heenan was since Rude thought Heenan took his heat. Sherri was also the perfect counter to Miss Elizabeth.

Melinas scream always made me think of Sherri because Sherri would sometimes do grating things like that as a heel to get heat.

 

[Van Petrol]

And Hunter knows I used the the Sherri Martel comparison first! I always said she and Morrison could have been the Sherri/Shawn Michaels of their era. Thats why I got a laugh out of that time at a Surv Series when Shawn slid out of the ring and Melina though the WAS John Morrison for a second before they were both horrified.

That was classic!

 

[TheFuture]

Melina was a good performer who could talk and put on a good match but I don't think she's at quite the level of Sherri Martel. I mean Sherri added so much to the likes of HBK and the Macho Man, whereas I don't Melina did all that much for Morrison.

It really does sound she was poison backstage too, there's way too many negative stories about her to not be true.

 

[Van Petrol]

Melina was an excellent performer, no doubt about it, and was one of my favourites during her time in the E, but I thought both her and Morrison needed a lot of work on their promo delivery and work.