The Jobber Blogger #32 - TNA: IMPACT WRESTLING - 24/1/13January 28, 2013 by

Well what can I say about Impact this week? I watched it on my Laptop without great speakers and to say this should have been a Pivotal part in the Storyline of Taz joining the Aces and Eights and Christopher Daniels once again earning a shot in the Main Events. But instead we got a filler pre-taped throw together show. I don't like being negative, but this week's show just felt like "something" to make do till you get to the good UK Shows next Month.

Till then, I guess this will do?


What better way than to kick this show off, than to have a full recap of the events that happened last week? And no, I don't mean a Video "Previously on Impact" I mean it was a full segment. Showing a good deal of what went down, though Brooke falling out of her clothes seemed to have been cut... But we did finally get Bully's real motive revealed!

Bully, at last, numerous arguments, countless beat downs, and worst of all making out with Brooke Hogan, he finally got to hold hands with the Hulkster!


We eventually got treated to a lovely Aces and Eights Party, as Taz joining them elevates them to new heights. With his amazing connections through commentary and un-active participation with the Company. So some guys ride Bikes up and down in the parking lot, as Devon, Doc, and company stand at the side cheering them on. This is the problem, Biker gangs, I get it, it's cool. Sons of Anarchy isn't my favourite TV Show for no reason, but they're an active gang. These guys are Wrestlers, whom we have never seen on a Bike, so the fact they are a Biker gang is still sort of ridiculous. Either way, the cool factor is still intact, even if they are starting to struggle to be relevant.

Taz leads the Aces and Eights out to the ring, ditching his snazzy suits for the Scruffy Biker Look. I don't think everyone who turns Heel needs to cut a Promo explaining why, can't they just, do it? It seems there is no real reason why anyone would join Aces and Eights. At least, non that they've revealed thus far.

Basically Taz joined them because,... why not? That is fundamentally his entire argument. Of course, he spiced it up with a lovely bit of "Higher Power" this and "Vision" that. Also Taz worked himself out a great contract when he signed with TNA. Apparently no one can touch him, no one can lay a finger on him, he is effectively "Bullet Proof". Why would he work that into his Colour Commentary Contract I don't know. Though, illogical Commentary Contracts aside, Taz holding power in his Contract could throw the management. Which is what I'm sure they were getting at, having Taz on their side is relevant to Legal Leverage. It just, doesn't make any sense in the grand scheme of things.

But Taz certainly put everyone on notice, so be warned... now he will be slightly harsher to your matches when he calls them! And don't you dare cross him, or else he'll make JBL's "slip of the Brain" look like Childs Play!

Slip of the Brain!


Velvet Sky vs. Tara (w/Jesse) - Knockouts Championship  

Jesse cut a nice promo backstage getting Tara all rallied up for her match. By comparing her to Velvet Sky's Action Figure, only being 8" tall, plastic, and "likes Dead Pigeons or something". How many superstars on the Roster now seem to not watch the product back? Does anyone have a clue what's going on any more?

The first thing you'll notice is that Velvet looks like Velvet again. Yes she's back to the sleazy attire and ditched in the Cat-suit. Though it was never the Cat-suit I had a problem with (though I'm not crazy on it) it was the hair and make-up. She seems to look like Velvet again, which is good, it makes it easier to get behind her.... from a fan perspective of course.

Pretty much the entire commentary for this match revolved around Tenay and Todd asking questions about The Aces and Eights directed at Taz. Says a lot really.

Either way, Jesse continues to get involved which eventually leads to Tara taking the win and retaining her Knockouts Championship.


Joseph Park graces the ring, claiming that he has finally realised that the Courtroom isn't where he belongs. It's right here in the Impact Zone, officially becoming an active Member of the Impact Roster. Of course, Park is a great Character and still a great Crowd Pleaser. But the success of an un-athletic Lawyer having 3 weeks of Wrestling Training and getting on the Roster, without even the help of Gut-Check, does seem like a strange message to be putting out there. But anything that gives us more Joseph Park and pushes this Storyline with Abyss and Aces and Eights into full gear, should make everyone of us happy!

With Open Fight Night being next week (In Manchester England) Joseph is going to think all week long and decide on an opponent to face!


Kenny King and Zema Ion vs. Rob Van Dam and Christian York

RVD acts the proverbial Sacrificial Lamb, as he is beaten down by both King and Ion leaving York the one growing restless on the outside.

Ion missed with a 450 Splash that gave the opening for York to get the Hot-Tag. Personally having your Champion as the one who gets his ass kicked, and the "New Guy" being the Savoir seems like the wrong way round. That's the problem with Face Champions, it's like Jeff, he gets his ass-kicked every week, by everyone. But will always find some way to win. When Aries was in his first Heel Run, he was Dominate, despite being Heel, he didn't cheat, he just battled through everyone, as a Champion. That's what is missing currently.

Either way, King takes out York, but it is Ion who steals the victory capitalising on King's offense.


Bully Ray with Brooke Hogan make their way to the ring.

Bully is looking for Taz on Commentary, but he had to take a "Phone Call" apparently. The problem is, Taz took this Call and left before Bully came out. Which means Taz is avoiding Bully, I get it. But aren't they supposed to play the whole "this isn't a Scripted show" gimmick. Surely Taz pretending to have a Phone Call in advance because he knew Bully was up next ruins the whole realism aspect? Wouldn't it have been better if Taz claimed to have a Phone Call after Bully's music hit, and quickly ran. If Bully is so annoyed, why is he operating on a Schedule, it's these little things that sort of bug you. Aces and Eights operate on a Schedule... why the hell do they do that? They're supposed to be causing havoc, not just causing some havoc when TNA let them have air time. How does that work?

So Brooke wearing very little, clearly didn't learn a lick from last week's Wardrobe Malfunction. Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice, you'll lose viewers.

Anyway, Bully apparently expected this behaviour out of Devon, but not out of Taz! Bully basically wants to tear through the Aces and Eights, but to do so he needs Hogan to lift his Suspension! Again, surely being suspended means, you can't come to the Arena, he's already there. He wants to fight, what does Winning a Match prove? Can't Bully just go and kick the crap out of them anyway? They're not hard to the find, the back entrance to the Arena leads to their Club House... they're the guys outside stood watching some dudes no-one has even seen before Ride Bikes in the Parking Lot. Bully got Married on the show without having his Suspension Lifted... figure that one out?

Anyway, Hogan was so freaked out by Bully rubbing his hand across his face, he took the Week off again. So Sting had to come out and declare Hogan has only gone "Half Way" and walking Brooke down the aisle isn't enough, he needs to reinstate Bully!

Logic ahoy!


Bobby Roode vs. Hernandez (w/Chavo Guerrero)

The build up to this match was great, having Roode and Aries both debating between each other who should face Hernandez. With Roode claiming Aries was the quicker, the speed guy, who can out manoeuvre Hernandez. But Aries claimed Roode being the Strength guy should fight Hernandez, given that he is also the longest reigning and most dominant Champion in the Company history, but Aries did beat him!

Aries eventually admitted his Title Victory was a Fluke, which gave Roode the confidence and ego to go out and face Hernandez.

Both Aries and Roode shine when they are together for comical segments, I just don't know if pairing them up and holding them down for a Tag-Team Run is the best idea given where they both got to in their Singles Career's the last year and what they meant to the Industry and most importantly TNA.

Taz makes his way back from his Phone Call to join Tenay and Todd on Commentary. Pretty much anything storyline wise with Taz and the Aces and Eights is done off camera. Which can be seen as an "interesting move"... or better yet.. kind of sucky.

Hernandez was gaining the upper hand on Roode, ready to dive out of the ring when Aries ran down and got Roode out of harm's way. Still, it seemed Roode later picked up the win with a Bulldog of all things... bizarre ending to a match.


Kurt Angle issues a Challenge to Mr. Anderson ahead of Open Fight Night, a Rematch from their LockDown Cage Match a few years back.

Angle doesn't know where Anderson's loyalty lay when it comes to The Aces and Eights, but Anderson came out to stare down Kurt and obviously have a brawl. Interestingly though, Anderson is wearing a Full-Patch on his Cut, rather than a Prospect, which sort of makes you feel like we've missed something important happen there. When did he get patched in? Why did he? He's not done anything of late, he didn't take out the likes of Sting like Doc had to. He didn't even get involved fully with them. But.... logic has taken a back seat on this week's show... so there it is.

Anderson is later seen backstage with Devon, where he is worrying about being locked in the Cage with Angle next week on OFN. Though apparently a "Plan" is set in Motion to help him out with the situation.... a Plan you say!

This is what happens when you give Idiots the Tools to Create and the Internet!!!!


Christopher Daniels vs. Jeff Hardy - TNA: World Heavyweight Championship

This marks Daniels' first shot at the Heavyweight Championship since December of 2009. And for a big Title Defence match, you'd imagine they would plug that a little more... nope!

Taz has now switched to full-blown Heel mode, quickly just changing his opinions in the typical fashion. Last week he was still praising Jeff Hardy, now he's a Biker, and all of a sudden "Jeff is selfish, needs to be beaten down!" with all of his "Puppets of the night!" Don't get me wrong though, I'm sure Jeff and his sway over the Crowd and the willingness of Management will all play into Aces and Eights issues. But, it's just the Suddenness of it all. Still, Jeff being kept out of travelling to the UK Tour due to his Criminal Record, and keeping him off of TV for a Month, could also play as great momentum for a faction like Aces and Eights trying to use the biased hypercritical decisions of Management to over-throw the company.

Jeff lands an impressive Front Suplex from the Ropes, and his Hurricanrana Counter to Daniels' second Angels Wings attempt was great. Which left Daniels open to the Swanton Bomb as Jeff retains the Championship.

This is where Taz has a question for Jeff, and makes his way down to the ring, which is where you expect something pretty big to happen, for a good logical reason to keep Jeff off of TV.

But instead someone from Aces and Eight's hits Jeff in the back of the leg with a Hammer and runs off. Yep... that's it.


Big finish! Draw the Curtain! The Show is over!

Well... I've seen worse, but it did feel like a Filler in comparison. The UK Tapings were great, so I hope they come across Impressive once all put together for the Aired Television Shows!


See you from Impact in Manchester!





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The Jobber Blogger #31 - TNA: IMPACT WRESTLING - 17/1/13January 19, 2013 by

So for us in the UK, TNA's Road to Lockdown Tour is creeping up fast. Hitting our shores next week with House Shows in Ireland and Scotland and then finally in Nottingham before the big back to back TV Tapings in Manchester and London England. A whole Month's worth of TNA TV is coming from the UK in February, and I for one can't wait for it!

Not only will it be refreshing to be out of the Impact Zone, but of course, The Jobber Blogger will be in attendance!

So Impact rolls around, and being hot off the heels of Genesis, is all hell ready to break lose? And what of that Wedding? Bells, Presents and Cake.. Oh My!



Let's start with some big news! Bully Ray is backstage getting ready for his Wedding when the "Extreme Guests" arrive. Up first is Spike Dudley, or Brother Runt as he was known in TNA. Certainly been a while since we've seen him, and he is looking older than Bully!

For me though the bigger news came from the fact that Tommy Dreamer was in attendance. What the hell? Of course, I'm not going to go all Crazy because Dreamer is there, I'm not a huge fan of him. I like him, I'm just not a huge fan. But he had a short run with TNA and didn't want to resign. Given all of the lawsuits and carry on between TNA and WWE it was a surprise to see Dreamer make his return on RAW for the Slammy awards a few weeks back. More surprising then is that he turns up back on TNA for Bully's wedding. I highly doubt we'll see him again after this, but you never know. To say everything is all over the place with lawsuits, and neither Company really wanting to blend the lines together, it seems odd to have Dreamer jumping between the two in such short notice.

Either way, it was certainly nice to see them all together.


Jeff Hardy makes his way out to the ring pretty much to just talk about the fact he won. It's the usual carry on, to be fair though, it makes sense for a Heel to come out and Brag, but a Face to be "I won.. wasn't that match good?" Just seems a little odd. Either way, we all know why he was out, and that's to build interaction between him and Christopher Daniels going into next week's Championship Match!

On a negative side, Kaz's second "Kaz'aMania" shirt still isn't available to buy. I'm not fully convinced if Kaz'aMania sounds better than Kaz'Mania.

But on a lovely Positive note, he did give me my due to let me use my Original Banner once more, for a little section I like to call:

Kaz and Daniels were very straight to the point, with Daniels hoping to win next Thursday. And personally.... I'm leaning toward that outcome myself. There is only one Silver Lining to Bad Influence not being in the Tag-Team Title Picture, and that's to have them in the Main Event Scene! Seems like a bit of an odd Swap Around, but we'll get to that a little later!

The Thursday Night Delight himself: Christopher Daniels, continues to irritate the Champion when of course, they fight. Remember what I said about knowing how a fighting segment will end up, given the fact they're wearing Street Clothes or Wrestling Attire? Of course, some guys just wear Wrestling attire, and on the very odd occasion they do Wrestle in Street Clothes. Still, Bad Influence start to attack Jeff, when The Cowboy James Storm (yet again mixed up in Tag-Team Warfare) gets himself involved to lend a helping hand.


Bad Influence vs. James Storm and Jeff Hardy

I'm still not sure on how Storm will play into all of this. But I don't see Kazarian and Daniels being one of those "Power Struggle" Teams. I think they both are at a level where they will support the other. Which is refreshing to see. Possible out-come, Daniels beats Jeff, Storm faces Daniels for the Championship, AJ Screws Storm. I highly doubt when we see AJ back, he will go over after Daniels.

I always have this discussion with my friend about Jeff, he is not a fan, and obviously I am. And I was thinking, if I was watching Jeff for the first time, or if Jeff was a new comer on the scene, would I be impressed, would I get behind him, like I do just by default because I've been a fan for so long. And the answer is yes.

Jeff has developed a lot in the ring, and sure his style is still Reckless rather than Spot On Accurate, but his offensive flurry of Moves has increased. His speed at which he Wrestles has increased. Jeff has shown this year alone at what level he is capable of Competing on. Jeff vs. Aries from BFG and Final Resolution, both were fantastic. Jeff vs. Kurt at Lockdown and even No Surrender the year before, both fantastic Matches.

The match came to a close with Jeff landing a surprise Twist of Fate on Kazarian and picking up the win. This of course didn't last long when Daniels attacked Jeff from behind, and Angles Wing'ed him face first into Jeff's Custom Belt. Why the hell does he have Two Belts?


Gut Check

First things first, TNA is bringing the Gut Check's to a higher level than even I thought.

The Competition is a long way from over, introducing The Gut Check Challenge!

Sure I don't really have a clue what they're planning, voting for your favourite, they go to the Spot light more so. Something along those lines. Anyway, for a full break down visit:


The new Gut Check formula is exciting. Basically seeing as there are Two Competitors the Judges decide behind the scenes which one of them is going to be Eliminated first out, and the Remaining Competitor gets to have the usual "Vote" in for a TNA Contract.

Thankfully they did the right thing and Eliminated Brian Cage. Not that Cage was bad, but I just didn't connect with him, nor did he "shine" in a way that I felt was different.

This left Jay Bradley up for Voting. And I had this horrible feeling he wasn't going to get through.

Bradley even on his own, seems a perfect fit for The Aces and Eights. So let's get this out of the way.

Taz said No, Al Snow said Yes (though he never really says no, he's a yes man) and Bruce Pritchard also said Yes giving Bradley the Contract.

Now the fans seemed to Hate Bradley. To be fair, he has done nothing to really warrant such a Negative Reaction. But the fact he drew such a Reaction speaks Volumes for him.

I don't often really care for all of the Gut Check Contenders, but something about Bradley makes me want to see more of what he can do. He could be a great Heel, and who doesn't love the Heels?


Christian York vs. Kenny King

Well after their match at Genesis when King dropped York on his face and he couldn't fight Van Dam blah blah blah. They had a match, with York wanting to extract Revenge!

Well, York's dive on to Kenny from inside the Ring to catch him before he made his Entrance was really impressive. In fact, that sums up the match over all. Clearly they both have a lot of potential, and I think it's awesome that they are competing together on Impact at the level where the Fans know who they are, and get behind them. Still, York just is lacking that extra pinch of something to take him to the Level TNA seemingly are Pushing him to be on.

King however, still the total package and thank fully with a handful of Trunks, Rolls up York to steal the Win. His rather odd giggly laugh aside, I am please that King won!



Sting makes his out to the Impact Zone to call out The Hulkster on request of Bully Ray.

Yes, there was this rather strange backstage segment where Bully pleaded with Sting to talk some sense into Hogan. And in Sting's words he said he would "because of what you mean to me". Because of what you mean to me? What the hell does that mean? Don't worry I'm not going for the basic immature line of implying anything homosexual

More, what exactly has Bully done to gain that level of acceptance with Sting. Either way, Hogan made his way down to the ring.

Apparently the Internet and Social Media has been a blaze, telling Hogan not to trust Bully. Well... it might not be quite as direct as that. But yeah, the current trend on the t'inter'webs is that Bully is involved with The Aces and Eights. So I take this as Hogan is responding to that.. which is kinda cool.

Not as cool as that time I got him to say Debacle... sure it was probably a Coincidence.. but who knows right?

What do you mean you know!

Who are you to crush my dreams!.... And what dreams!!!!

Basically, Hogan has been watching too much Most Haunted and other Ghostly Gathering shows and decided he has a Vibe, not that Bully is a ghost. But he can now sense things. But after countless attempts of Sting trying to get Hogan to walk Brooke down the isle, he left with the infamous "I always do the Right thing, Brother!".... "Jack!"... Sure I threw that in at the end... If I'm going to be in the press I need to misrepresent actual quotes... obviously!


Gail Kim vs. Velvet Sky - #1 Contenders Match

Yes, Apple has invented a Tool so extraordinary it is going to change the Wrestling Business forever!

Behold, the iPad!!!

So now if you get screwed in your matches, and you watch it back and think... Damn... I got screwed! And the Ref's are probably out cold from Warming up to Ref the matches. You know, given that the slightest physical interaction knocks them out for hours. So you don't need to pick and choose your time to get Management or Ref's to look at the Matches with you, you take the Footage to them!

And thus Gail complains at Taryn's lovely Refereeing  Botch, not noticing Gail's foot under the rope. I always find it funny if you're not unconscious, why bother wasting energy to move your foot, when you could kick out. Unless you're trying to save energy... but then, if it was Energy you were bothered about, then perhaps Kurt Angle could assist?

Anywho, Gail got her re-match against Velvet.

Now this is where I stand with Velvet, behind the scenes, she looks good! On the new Behind the Scene's Valentine's Day Video, she looks very pretty! But for some reason out in the Impact Zone, she looks like a Retro 50's Hooker.

There is just something about her hair, and about her make-up... that just look.. odd. Pair that with the Cat-Suit.. and it's bizarre. It's as if she was a 50 year old ex porn star returning for one more pay check in The Dark Knight Returns: Catwoman Spin-off.

Anyway, turnabout is fair play, when Gail hits with "Eat-Defeat" but Velvet gets her foot under the bottom rope, and Taryn notices. Gail complains about it, and then Velvet strings together a nice serious of moves and finishes it off with her "In Yo' Face!" For the win.

What is it with these women and strange body-part gyrating, named finishing moves. Eat-Defeat, In Yo' Face, Ass-Tastic.

If the guys adopted this, you'd have AJ Styles hitting you with "Suck on my Ass" then Austin Aries takes you out with "Drop on Yo' Head, Y'all" then Bobby Roode takes you out with "Balls in yo' face!"

Come to think of it, I think two of those moves are Joey Ryan's.


Everything is being set for the Wedding when Bobby Roode and Austin Aries crash the scene.

They hadn't been invited to the Wedding, but I think that's a bit harsh, so I'll send them invites to the Wedding of my Cats. I don't actually have any Cats, they're my neighbours.. but I don't think they'd object, least I'd hope not... took a lot of digging to find the bastards!

Once again, they proved their Dominance over the last year, with Bobby Roode being "The longest Reigning and Most Dominate Champion in TNA's History", "And then I beat Him!" - Aries!

Funny enough, they do actually raise some good points which I hadn't thought about. TNA "taking a step 10 years in the past" having Chavo Guerrero and Hernandez as Tag Team Champions, RVD as the X-Division Champion, Devon as the Television Champion and of course Jeff Hardy as the World Heavyweight Champion.

Coincidence....I think not.

Somehow I feel the landscape of TNA, mainly the Champions and the take-over of Aces and Eights seemingly featuring older Stars, fired Stars from other companies, and "potentially" Second Generation Wrestlers, is all connected. Of course, Hogan, Sting, Bully fighting them, makes little to no sense.

So then something happened I have been expecting for a while. Chavo and Hernandez interrupt them, thus forming a Tag-Team Feud. Granted, Aries and Roode have been great together of late, and changing the landscape, especially in the Main-Event scene is refreshing. But the last thing I want is for the top two guys on the Roster to be kept in the Tag-Team Division. Roode has been there, broke free, elevated to being the best thing in the Industry, to then slowly go back down, find a new partner and be back where he started.

Still, with such Credible guys like Aries and Roode, it makes Chavo and Hernandez come across rather expendable. Though more moments like these from Chavo, and I'll look forward to seeing him on a weekly basis "there is a reason why you two are no longer Champions of the Country!"

And Chavo... there is a reason why you're not in the main events.... and that's it.



Hogan and Sting sit in the office, talking about Bully, and personally it was really good! Why they didn't do this earlier in the show rather than having it in the ring, I don't know. Though perhaps it was to try and pull in anyone not watching, to tune in.

Hogan claims Bully isn't a Bad Guy, but he knows this business, both he and Sting do, and Bully is one of them. But all he wants to do is protect Brooke from it. Which is where Sting had the clever line of "perhaps you've trained her so well, that she can see something in Bully, you can't".



Either way, it's time for the Wedding, and Bully, with the "Extreme Groomsman" await Brooke. Who at first enters all by her lonesome. Which we all knew Hogan would turn up! And he did! Huzah and Cake all around!



And well.. what can be said, it was typical Wedding stuff. With the "I do's" the rings, the vows, the "feelings crap!" and what not. And I was waiting for something to happen... we all knew something would happen, but what. And that Bellator MMA Countdown in the bottom Right Corner is ticking and ticking, and you're thinking... Do Something!! We're running out of time!

And then it happened.

No wait, that's later on.

First, Taz took the mic, (I do love Taz, great Character work also, we'll get to that) He had two Questions for Bully.

Clearly everyone was Complaining for him to disrupt the entire thing.

Question number one "Are you sure you want to do this?!"

I've been Tweeting Bully that for Weeks, seriously....

Question number Two! "is it just me, or is it Hot in here?"

My heart Sunk at this very second... I suddenly had Visions in my head... and I could hear this strange Beating music.... And Taz started to Strip... I thought... what the hell am I watching, and all I could think about was Taz, fist Pumping in the Air and out-dancing Rob Terry....

But Thank Fully, he just took off his Jacket, and the Crowd actually gave out at a good reaction, making me think... what?

Then Taz turns to reveal he is wearing an Aces and Eights Patch, and then the Aces and Eights Strike and beat everyone up.

Now, this is a side complaint, but Jay Bradley, who would be perfect in Aces and Eights (based on Swagger, Character and Look) gets a No from Taz. That got me thinking... and I checked my notes (I make notes, I don't just make this stuff up) And that time when Taz flew his Rocket Buster Boots to the ring and Choked out Earl Hebner before the Gut Check decision of Wes Briscoe. But Taz voted No for Wes.... and Everyone knows at this point Wes is going to show up in the Aces and Eights... so this will be interesting to say the least.


Anyway, I've been mocking Brooke in every article... even last week... and just a few Paragraphs above this. But on a serious note... I've never fully realised what she can mean to this business, and to this feud. She has dedication, and she has power!

For when she noticed the Aces and Eights attack, taking out her Father, taking out Bully and everyone in sight, she took to action, such cunning, such quick thinking, such Power!!! She took to action Quickly Undressing and Revealing herself to the world, and The Aces and Eights Ran like hell! They Ran like anyone would have done in their situation, no one needs to see that!

And so going forth, she will be TNA's greatest asset in fighting the war!

Also there was this horrible segment earlier on with Dixie and Brooke getting all emotional, well... attempting to get all emotional, it... it brought me to tears, like that time I looked at the Poster for Two Headed Shark Attack.... THE MOVIE!!!

The Tears are flowing!

But in all seriousness, this was a good ending, and I look forward to see where this goes. Interesting side note, Todd joining Taz and Tenay on Commentary... you think that wasn't planned. Fully expect Taz not to be on Commentary for a while.


And Tune in next week, where I'll try and find the time to Write this up as quickly as possible!


Till then, get the hell out of my sock draw and watch some darn Wrestling!





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The Jobber Blogger #30 - TNA: GENESIS - 13/1/13January 16, 2013 by

Well we've reach another mile-stone. Not a huge mile-stone mind you, but it's always exciting when you hit another 10 posts. The Jobber Blogger is #30 issues in and going stronger than ever.

TNA: Genesis is the first PPV of 2013 and the first PPV of the new schedule. I still find it bizarre that Genesis is kept anyway. My thoughts on this matter are that come 2014, Genesis may well be replaced. Obviously, Lock-Down / Slammiversary and Bound For Glory are all main stays and pivotal events in the year of TNA. This makes Genesis feel a little expendable, and I'd be in favour of a Themed PPV kicking off the Year with some bigger stipulations in place.

That being said, 2013 kicks off in a good way, but that doesn't mean Genesis is without its flaws.

TNA: GENESIS - 13/1/13


Matt Morgan and Joey Ryan vs. Chavo Guerrero and Hernandez - World Tag Team Championships

Genesis kicks off with a Championship match, and much respect, as Matt Morgan was reportedly injured at the first "One Night Only" Taped PPV Special the night before, and to most people's surprise worked the Match, and played it well despite earlier reports of him struggling to even walk.

I've said it since the get go, but there's something just unlikeable about the pairing of Morgan and Ryan. Namely that of Morgan should be in a completely different position, rather than yet another Tag-Team run, and since his return he has had a much stronger persona, they need to milk that, and push Morgan. Ryan on the other hand is equally just as talented by himself, and Joey can fit into any other type of scenario and carry himself well, and continue to stand out.

Something I did take a note for, which is rare this happens. But Chavo got the legal tag, but only the Ref didn't see it, and so he stops Chavo from getting in the ring, Morgan and Ryan double team Hernandez, usually thing. But Morgan and Ryan swapped so Brian Hebner rather than counting the pin-fall actually kicked Morgan out and got him to swap back with Ryan. Normal they just have a go at the Heels and shrug it off that they didn't see the tag. So, kudos to that.

But this got me thinking, TNA is standing tall right now as "The" company that is changing the game. I'm not saying change what works, but certainly add to it. How many times have we seen the tired and predictable format's for Matches. Again these can be tweaked to keep us on our toes, but how revolutionary would it be, for TNA to develop "new" ways to pace and Wrestle a match.

An interesting bit of Trivia was that Hernandez is apparently a "Tag-Team Expert" what with having 6 Tag-Team Championship Reigns with 4 Different Partners. It's a nice play to give him credibility, but in reality it means he's a guy they don't know where to place on the Roster, so he gets mashed into Tag-Teams and Factions. And yes, those types of pairings can work ever so well, but some guys just won't excel in other areas. And with Hernandez's Power-Bomb on Joey Ryan to close out the match, it gets me to thinking the same thing I've thought before. Hernandez isn't great, full-stop, but he's hazardous. Joey landed really badly, and for someone with a Career as bright as Joey's it's scary to see him take a fall like that at the hands of someone like Hernandez. This brings me back to when Hernandez dropped Douglas Williams with The Boarder Toss that put Williams out of Action for quite some time. If TNA are going to clean up their roster, then unfortunately Two People I feel could go, are Hernandez and Chavo Guerrero.

Thankfully Ryan and Morgan didn't win the belts, and even better the match ended with Morgan starring down Ryan in a look of disdain. Hopefully this leads to their split and Morgan to become a force within the ranks of TNA.


Samoa Joe vs. Mr. Anderson

This was a Card-Filler match, but it has good grounds on which to stand, given Anderson's involvement with Kurt being injured at the hands of Aces and Eights on Impact. Anderson is starting to shine again in my book, he's always been someone with Talent, but often becomes stagnant and stale. But currently Andersons' few weeks back on Impact have shown him care less, have more attitude, and seemingly change from just relying on the gimmick factor or mention of swear words.

Personally I think Anderson is someone who could rise to the top again if he keeps up this gimmick, and I think a full heel turn would work, with or without Aces and Eights. Joe is someone else who I feel is just sort of filling in a gap, where his best work would be outside of it. He's never been the one to really care about the well-being of others. I think Joe operating on his own terms to take out Aces and Eights and therefore being a Mutual Partner with the same goal, would play in his favour better than just having him as a straight forward "Good-Guy" in this current alignment.

Joe and Anderson though both put on a good match, that saw its conclusion when "Knox" from Aces and Eights distracted Joe, leading to Anderson taking advantage and picking up the win.



Christian York vs. Kenny King - X-Division Tournament Finals

This is my problem with Christian York, when he first debuted on the Scene following Gut-Check, I was rather happy with him. But since then, he's just been the same. I have an issue with Wrestlers being "Generic" that's my main issue with the Competition, they looks similar, one entrance theme blends into the next, there is no gimmicks, no style, no difference, or at least very little. Wrestling's greatest moments have been built around Two Guys who can not only Wrestle, but have that Persona that draws you into their battle. Christian York on the surface looks different, but he's also rather bland. He barely says anything, and when he does it's a by the numbers play by play of Wrestling's greatest "I'm going to win / I'm going to kick your ass" etc. In the ring he brings very little momentum, very little excitement, least now when he seemingly does the same with each bout. That isn't to say he isn't packed with potential. He has a great look, he is talented in the ring. In my eyes, he's not X-Division Material. Dale Oliver usually does a great job with all of TNA's Entrance Theme's but I feel York's is just a little flat, it doesn't have any sort of "Impact". I honestly feel if you set him a Character, an attire that matched that persona, and he played the Matches and Promo's to that gimmick, York would be a top contender. Currently he's drifting along, and with TNA's current Push, it's starting to turn me against him. And this X-Division Tournament is a perfect example of why I'm being turned against him.

For a contrast, the very second Kenny King's music hits, it's different, it's catchy, engaging. He is not what you're expecting, he dances around and his energy and enthusiasm just pulls you in, that you want to see what he can do. The way King wrestles is a style I've hardly ever seen before, the way he links the Chain-Wrestling grapple holds together, added this his Arm-Toss to close out the flurry, followed by flawless Kip-Up is never short of impressive, no matter how many times I've seen it. He's different in the ring, confident on the mic and one of the most talented performers on the Roster, yes he's a new comer, but he has come in with an Ability higher than a lot of guys.

York takes the win, which isn't surprising. But on a side by side comparison, King is far superior.

But I don't have a big issue with him losing the match. What bothers me more is that York was pushed as "the fighter". We all know how Wrestling works, and unfortunately someone Wrote this "Fighter" spirit for him, and for me, that puts me off of him a great deal. I didn't buy into his struggle. They did the same thing with pushing Jeff to win the Bound for Glory series. And trying to put a guy over, and pushing him this way, against such talented foes, makes me dislike them. York needs to find a "personality" that isn't as harsh as it sounds. He needs that basic Wrestling Persona, and build on it.


Christian York vs. RVD - X-Division Championship

I like a good Tournament, and I especially like it when you need to fight the Champion in the same night, even better, straight after winning. However before Van Dam hit the ring, King dropped York with a reverse Death Valley Driver, which was the base for York's "fighting come-back".

The ref hinted at throwing out the match and giving up. Van Dam didn't want to attack him, but York battled to his feet. But by that point I just kind of wanted RVD to kick him around a lot. York puts up a fight, but in the long run has little offense on RVD who takes the win.

Again, I don't want that to say York has no potential, he just needs to find that persona. And the guys who make the name for themselves rather being pushed in your face is what sells in the long run. York needs to do that.


Joseph Park vs. Devon

I guess Park is being treated like a Wrestler now, even having his own Entrance Theme and Video. He had 3 weeks of Wrestling Training, and he did actually "Wrestle" for parts of the Match, well, a tiny bit with a few moves thrown in. I don't know exactly how to take the match. Devon is the Sergeant at Arms for Aces and Eights, but he wasn't when Park was Kidnapped. There has been very little interaction between Park and Devon.

I still think Park is fantastic with Characters and Character Acting. His portrayal of Joseph is excellent and the way he carries that Character with Physical Traits whilst competing is what engages the Crowd. And Joseph as a Character pulls the crowd in.

However, it was the standard Joseph Park match only he Wrestles slightly, eventually gets busted open, goes Crazy for a short period of time, stops and loses. We've seen this, and this didn't push forward the Storyline of Aces and Eights, let alone the bigger Story of Park finding his inner "Abyss". It just felt a bit flat of a match, didn't have anything major riding on it, or even after events from the bout. The sooner TNA really start kicking up the gears on these stories, the better. They've laid a great lot of Ground-Work but now they need to act on that, rather than dragging it out.


Gail Kim vs. Miss. Tessmacher - Knockouts #1 Contenders Gauntlet Match

I said a few weeks ago I love Stipulation Matches and Tournaments. And here is a fantastic Gauntlet match. Something that is very rarely done in Wrestling these days, so it's a great way to balance a refreshing match with the Potential of the Knockouts Division.

With History in place, Gail Kim became the first ever TNA: Knockouts Champion back at Bound for Glory in 2007 by winning a Gauntlet Match.

Tess was as impressive as ever, but I can't help but feel she has been told to be more "Racy". I could be wrong, it might be her doing. She was never not racy, but the whole Hip-Gyrating and Humping aspects seem to be a constant with her now. To me, I was drawn to her because she was purely used in seductive ways, to become a credible Wrestler and really focus on that. Her matches were getting better and better. And now it seems she's playing to a more "ratings" Gimmick of Competing.

Either way, Gail wins and Eliminated Tessmacher.

Gail Kim vs. ODB

ODB is obviously someone who is very upfront about more racy controversial content. But that's who she is, and she's never altered that. Plus you can tell, that's her doing, and she exploits it.

Gail was constantly impressive through-out this match, but using the Cheating tactics also eliminates ODB.

Gail Kim vs. Mickie James

Mickie is always great to watch Perform, and even more so when she's with historic opponents like Gail and Tara. Though Mickie's ring attire did strike me as being  a little odd. Is that a picky thing to mention? She just seemed more "street clothes" than Wrestling ready. Either way, Gail again cheats to defeat Mickie.

Gail Kim vs. Velvet Sky

Does it sound bad if I still talk negative of Velvet? She just doesn't seem the same since returning. She has changed her make-up and hair, and although she dressed less Trashy in the ring... she looks far more trashy then before. The Cat-Suit is no bad thing, but something about her current ideas just don't click for me.

Also the bigger problem is that Velvet wins, and makes rather quick work of Gail. This is a problem purely because Velvet just isn't that great in the ring. I mean, I give her credit. But when compared to Tara, Gail, Mickie, Tessmacher, she just isn't on that level. Even Angelina and Madison, far better in the ring. So to have Velvet defeat someone of Gail's stature after defeating everyone else, just seems cheap to me. On the plus side, Gail got her foot under the bottom rope, so this might lead to future matches, and other opportunities for Gail.






Christopher Daniels vs. James Storm - #1 Number One Contenders Match for the World Heavyweight Championship

It was a late addition that this match would decide The Number #1 Contender, which makes you question aspects of it. However the very fact Christopher Daniels was even competition at this level, in this landscape of TNA is exciting.

Kazarian was at ring-side having just gained his "Official Managers Licence". For more interesting facts, this marked the first Pay Per View One on One match between James Storm and Christopher Daniels. Going back to typical Wrestling Formats, Daniels plays the typical Heel and works on Storm's arm for a good portion of the match. But when Storm gets his stride, this seems to play very little in how well he can compete. Which bugs me slightly, he didn't ignore the fact, but you could at least approach moves a little more Gingerly, and seem to feel the effect of delivering the offence.

But both of them pulled out some high spots in the match, including a Return for "The Eye of the Storm" which has been awhile. But whether you like Daniels or not, he is always on top form in terms of Competing. And "BME" really is the Best Moonsault I've ever seen.

I have to be honest, I half expected AJ to make a return and screw Storm out of the match. But instead Storm was setting up for the Last Call Superkick when Kazarian got involved, climbing on to the ring Apron. Storm nailed Kaz with the Last Call leaving himself open for Daniels to take advantage, and also take the victory. Making Christopher Daniels the Number #1 Contender for the World Heavyweight Championship.

That in itself is crazy to think about, but I'm excited to see Daniels make an appearance in the Heavyweight Title Picture. This though of course sets the tone for the Main Event with only really one possible out-come. Should Storm have won, it could be anyone he would face.



Bully Ray makes an appearance on the show with Brooke Hogan purely to talk about themselves getting married. But, wasn't Bully suspended? That wasn't lifted. But he seems to be there anyway. It's an odd thing to plug, but I guess they want people to watch the Wedding next week. Which I'm sure is going to have some sort of implications of where all this is heading.



Doc vs. Sting

This is another odd match. Surely a "Falls Count Anywhere" or "No DQ" stipulation would really just spice this up a bit. Sting doesn't want to get revenge on Doc by beating him in a match, he wants him to suffer at his hands, like Sting did thanks to Doc.

Either way, they fight before the match is officially underway and they go out in the crowd when Sting is attacked by two members from The Aces and Eights.

Everything after that was just pretty standard. They missed a beat by not having Sting return with a presence, and they missed another opportunity by not letting Sting and Doc through-out the Rule Book and really change the pace of the PPV and "Fight" it out. We saw nothing of Sting really wanting to get revenge.

And thus Doc and Sting become the worst part of the PPV, despite the potential it could have had.

Sting defeats Doc and then The Aces and Eights show up at the end of the Match and surround the ring. Bully runs out to Stings aid, which is when they all run off. This further cements Bully's involvement. But Sting could have come back crazy, focussed, dangerous, he could have been Brutal, and really taken the fight to Doc, The Aces and Eights could turn up in the middle of the Match, Bully could scare them off, then Sting ends the match in a highly impactful way. But it just seems to be missed opportunities thus far for Stings return.


Austin Aries vs. Bobby Roode vs. Jeff Hardy - TNA: World Heavyweight Championship - 3-Way Elimination Match

Something I didn't think of, but since November 2011, only Three Men have been TNA Champion, and all of them were competing in this match. That's a cool bit of information that makes this match more important, almost an end of the feuds.

The first thing that really stood out to me, was just how awesome Bobby Roode looked. The Presence he carries, the Robe, his Music, his Attire in this match. He is the total package of a Main-Event Star, of a Champion.

As expected the first part of the match was Roode and Aries really working together to eliminate Hardy. And they beat the high holy hell out of him , and Jeff seems to be determined to remain at the top for Best Seller in TNA, the falls he takes from the Ropes and to the floor just look horrid.

The match really raised its game when Aries was on the Shoulders of Bobby Roode looking to hit a High-end Impactful Back Suplex on Jeff from the Top Rope. But instead it was Jeff landing his Whisper in the Wind on Aries, taking down both he and Roode.

Though it annoyed me slightly when Roode held Jeff in the Corner, for Aries to connect with his ever so impressive Corner Drop-Kick followed up the devastating Brain Buster, and Jeff kicked out. After everything he has been through, I fully expected him to lose based on the abuse he seemed to have endured and the pure force of Aries' assault. It was one of those "impressive kick-outs" that they just shouldn't have kicked out from.

Speaking yet again of Changing the formula, we all expected Roode and Aries to end up fighting it out. With Roode encouraging Aries to hit the 450 Splash on Jeff whilst he had him down, to then Move Jeff out of the way and Aries crashing into the canvas. Roode then hit Aries with the Northern Lights Suplex, but Aries kicked out. It was the perfect "Screw-Job" which didn't work.

Eventually Aries got Roode in a Back-Slide, and Jeff added to it with his Reverse Split-Leg Pin, and together they held Roode down and got him eliminated. Leaving Aries and Jeff battling it out for the Heavyweight Championship.

After numerous attempts, Jeff finally hits Aries with the Twist of Fate but from the Apron, with Jeff taking all of his Momentum to the floor and Aries bouncing off of the Ropes and Ring Apron leaving him prime for the Swanton Bomb and Jeff picking up the win and retaining his Championship.


It was a great end to Genesis, and that's what counts on any PPV, the World Title should be contended, and it should be the biggest and best match on your card. And it was.


It's certainly going to be interesting to see where Jeff and Daniels go with their Championship Match up and coming on the 24th of January.

Genesis did have its miss steps and flaws, but overall it was a good PPV, and the Morale backstage was supposed to be high, and that's nothing but good news. TNA are heading in the right direction, when they flick the switch to put these Storylines into Full Gear, they'll have something special on their hands.


Remember to get all of your news on TNA: Wrestling by liking and following Total Nonstop Rewind on Facebook.





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The Jobber Blogger #29 - TNA: IMPACT WRESTLING - 10/1/13January 14, 2013 by

So we're just about half way into the first month of 2013, and already TNA: IMPACT Wrestling is shaping up for a fantastic year. This comes straight off of the heels of their fantastic announcement of changing the Pay Per View structure, and going from 12, once a Month, to only 4 a Year. I made a point to say they should do 6max. (In case you missed The Jobber Blogger's Podcast debut, you can check it out on CageAmateursUK's TNA Radio Special - Featuring British Bootcamp's The Blossom Twins)


So to hear they're moving to 4 a year is great news. PPV's come around so quick and fast at times it feels the build up just isn't there. Imagine the build up for something Months in advance, this makes the whole PPV feel so much more special. I'm calling it right now, WWE WILL change their Schedule in the first 6Months of 2013 or Announce it for 2014, Guaranteed! It was Eric Bischoff who set the 12 PPV's a Month in the late 90's with wCw, a move which paid off when PPV's we're the corner stone of Money Making in a lot of Sports genres and especially for Professional Wrestling. The landscape has changed, and I bet my lucky Dime (I actually got it yesterday) that Bischoff was at the front of this change to. Not only that, but from April onwards there will be a Special 3Hour Impact airing on the first Friday of every month. It's a taped special thus far, but it will still be awesome! TNA = Change + Innovation + Daring + Refreshing = Future!

Whether you love the product or not, TNA is doing things that are changing the Industry, something which the competition hasn't been capable of doing in a very long time. And what do you know, they're picking up on it, and that is being replicated by them. It's innovations like these which are going to alter Wrestling for the foreseeable future, and people want to ask is it worth paying Hogan and Bischoff.... simple.... You bet it is!


For those who might be new to Reading The Jobber Blogger, I adopted the American Date format with the infamous 1/3/13, which clearly makes little sense to anyone who can read dates properly. As we're not in March. But still, Thursday Nights are Impact, and so I represent that, despite the fact I can't watch them on a Thursday..... yet.

It's been reported this week's show took a little dive in the Ratings in comparison to last week's boom. But it drew an average for Impact, so it's no worse either. And the show was actually much stronger, but the show before the PPV usually is.

Impact kicked off with Sting, Kurt Angle and Samoa Joe making their way to the ring. Now it's common knowledge for those whom read this, and for those who are lovely and "Liked" Total Nonstop Rewind on Facebook!

But TNA did seem to miss a beat when it concerns the Return of Sting. Sting is one of those guys who has a Character you can pull ratings with, you can make goose bumps with. And to have him just "be there" without any gimmick around his appearance, is a miss step. They seemed to be on the right track, given the Promo Build Up's, the older Make-Up and even the Bat dropping from the Rafters. But he's come back just as Sting, as he was before, leading the fight. They could have resurrected this Icon with such an ominous presence, and it's a real shame to see them miss that opportunity. Perhaps it's still coming, perhaps we'll never see it again.

Either way, Sting with his Backup "Shocker and Killer" make their claims about The Aces and Eights, but interestingly Angle calls out Mr. Anderson, to see where his alliance is placed.

I don't think we've really seen Anderson since before Bound for Glory, when he was going to be Sting's partner, till he was taken out by Aces and Eights and replaced with Bully Ray. Which is what the fuel for Anderson is based off of. It's an extra layer of story I had forgotten about. Which means Anderson being kept off of TV and his current position in the Story, seems to have been planned. As much as I want to see Anderson fully turn Heel, and join up with The Aces and Eights, I just feel he's going to be the "Mole".

The tension between Anderson and Kurt builds as they both close out the segment in a brawl... Who would have guessed that? At least the security still hasn't been used in a long time! Good move! Sick of those guys.


It seems I may have been overly harsh in the past where it Concerns Brooke Hogan. But for the sake of all those Socks I happen to wear on my rather cheap but overly large prosthetic Spock ears, I do actually like Brooke. I don't have a big problem with her being a part of TNA. But it's the use of her Mainstream attention, and her connections, and singing / acting Career that really gripes me. Because... she seems to have really done and achieved... well nothing. But perhaps I was wrong, perhaps I miss judged the reach of Two Headed Shark Attack, and that song she released which was only Downloaded by Hulk for his Ringtone. For she really isn't afraid to show off her stretch and power, arriving in Style at the Impact Zone.



Zema Ion vs. Kenny King - X-Division Tournament Semi-Finals

King and Ion face off to face Christian York at Genesis, with the winner taking on RVD in the same night for the X-Division Championship.

York and Kash put on a good match last week, but King and Ion put on a clinic.

Zema still hasn't quite captured the whole package for me, but you can't down play his in-ring skills, for he is fantastic. And as great as Ion is, Kenny King is just... better. I called it, King is the guy to watch out for in 2013, and watching him in action is why I feel that. The guy is immensely talented, and his size allows him to Transition to Main Event status, as a top player instantaneously.

As expected, King takes the win (also Kenny's finisher is fantastic too!) moving him to fight York at Genesis in what should be another great bout.


Jesse and Tara vs. Robbie T and Miss. Tessmacher

Well this was an odd one for sure, Robbie E was trying to get Tess to team with him, when she agreed, only if she could team with a winner like Bigger Robbie T. There is a nice twist to place the Robbie's on a face team. Though they were never "heels" just unlikable, well aside from myself I guess. This bugs me a little, only because I don't want them to break up Robbie E and Robbie T, but also because Robbie E is far superior. In terms of Character work, in ring skills. I like Rob Terry, but he's a little bland. He's just the "Big Muscle Guy" that's as far as he goes thus far. If he developed a great character, he could be a force, he doesn't and hasn't. Aside from the rather embarrassing Dancing guy.

Saying Robbie T doesn't have skills in the ring, would be incorrect, he just isn't flawless, or really engaging. Or at least, in my opinion. Either way, his Powerbomb on Jesse was impressive which led to the victory.

Which is when it happened again, I seemed to Black out, right on queue with that strange Dance Music.... Wishful thinking strikes again, as Robbie T and Tessmacher Dance around the ring rather provocatively. However, all is not lost, for when Robbie T kisses Tess and she collapses on the floor afterward, Taz hit gold with his comment. Todd "Pass out with Passion" Taz "I've been there".


Gut Check

TNA's change to the PPV's isn't the only new addition thus far. No, TNA change the theme of Gut Check, having 2 Competitors trying out for a Contract with TNA. Rather than just having 1 guy, vs. a TNA Wrestler. This seems fair, this is more interesting to watch. It's a good Move from TNA to give Gut Check that added boost, and eliminating any of that "Garret Bischoff" nonsense from before.

This month is Jay Bradley and Brian Cage, going one on one for that TNA Contract. I know Bruce Pritchard, Al Snow and D'Lo Brown are on hand as Talent Scouts trying to find the new Wrestling Stars, but something tells me one of them has a very "Set imagine" of what they're looking for.

Sure one's got more Muscle, and the other's better. But from a Look a Like point of view, it seems to be an evenly matched pairing.


Jay Bradley vs. Brian Cage

On the surface, I don't know if these are their real names, but Jay Bradley is a cool name, Brian Cage sounds like he's trying too hard. Both Johnny and Luke Cage would not be happy, also they are not related, any of them.

More importantly to mention though, is that both of them are capable of putting on a good match. And the crowd were invested in it, that's important, I was invested in it. But Cage was portrayed as the Baby Face, but for me, it was all about Bradley. He has a good look, he has a good character thus far, and he has a great attitude. Plus I look at both of them, and I suddenly want to place them in the TNA Locker-room, and I'm not saying Cage wouldn't fit, but he isn't someone I look at and instantly think, he could go here, he can do this. Bradley on the other hand, is not only a perfect fit for a faction like Aces and Eights (which could be a factor) but as a Character, you can place him in matches, in stories.

So I am pleased to tell you all (if you didn't know) Jay Bradley takes the win!


The Aces and Eights can at last celebrate, for Knox can finally drink his beer!!! Huzah!

But it's Anderson in the corner yelling for attention, when things take a turn for the interesting!

As he wants to take out Kurt Angle (or seemingly wants to) which is when it's Club Business time!

The main part of their Club Business is Knox trying to earn his rightful spot at the Table, as Doc did before. It's not known exactly what his name is, but they did refer to him as "Knox", which he could call himself, or "Knocks" I suppose. Either way, he fits perfectly with The Aces and Eights and I'm glad he is there. Not to mention rebranding smaller stars from WWE who didn't get any opportunities and introduce them slowly through this Faction is a great way to build them up into TNA guys.



Joseph Park makes his return to Impact Wrestling, which his first appearance on the show, he couldn't get through the Door. Which I don't know if that was him breaking Character or not, but it was funny! Either way, after 3 Weeks of Training, he's happy to be a Wrestler, and step in the ring once more.

I am glad however that Hogan played on the fact that Park has done nothing in Wrestling School, thus breaking the hopes and dreams for anyone out of shape and in their 30's that 3 weeks Training will not make you industry ready. But it is clever planning, again from a Story point of view, when you consider the position Hogan was in before Park left, and everything with Brooke now. So Hogan's patience and tolerance is at an all time low, so he grants Park what he wants, another shot against The Aces and Eights.


I have said it multiple times over the past few weeks, I'm not really keen on the idea of anything developing between Roode and Aries, in terms of a Team. To have them as friends, as allies, but keep them as Singles stars in the Main Event, that's fine. And their Chemistry together is great, and their T-shirt gag before the match was the best example of this. Testing the Durability of their shirts, "seems much more durable than Hogan's at least".


Bobby Roode vs. Austin Aries  vs. Jeff Hardy and James Storm

Last week Hogan gave Jeff the chance to pick his own Tag Team Partner, and he did so in the Cowboy: James Storm. Whom seems to have really only been used to tell stories via Tag-Team matches of late.

The match was dominated by Aries and Roode who had the entire focus on them "working together" but trying to one up each other through-out the duration of the Match. Of course, it was Jeff who took the beating, and that's sometimes the Downfall of a Baby Face. Sure, he wins his important matches, wins the Championship, but he gets his ass kicked by everyone. Which seems to be the opposite of what a Champion should be. They should be a force, and that whoever goes up against them, should enter the underdog, on stature and position alone.

Either way, Storm eventually gets tagged in, but Daniels and Kazarian make their presence known getting involved in the match attacking Storm. This led to Aries hitting Jeff from behind with the Championship Belt and throwing the match out with a DQ. Leaving both Aries and Roode in a tug of war with the Title, for their Championship match at Genesis.

Which neatly brings us to the card for Genesis:


Matt Morgan and Joey Ryan vs. Chavo Guerrero and Hernandez - TNA: World Tag Team Championships

Gail Kim vs. ODB vs. Miss. Tessmacher vs. Mickie James vs. Velvet Sky - Knockout Championship #1 Contenders Gauntlet Match

Kenny King vs. Christian York - X-Division Tournament Finals

RVD vs. The Winner - X-Division Championship

Joseph Park vs. Devon

Christopher Daniels vs. James Storm

Doc vs. Sting

Jeff Hardy vs. Bobby Roode vs. Austin Aries - 3-Way Elimination - TNA: World Heavyweight Championship Match


The card for Genesis looks great, but there are still those "throw in" matches, which I hope they would eliminate given the fact they will only have 4 PPV's a year from now on. You'd imagine they could build up great matches through-out the Card.


Mr. Anderson vs. Kurt Angle

Anderson whilst still playing on his old gimmick brings a little bit of Freshness with his more "heel" persona. I want to see more of that, I want Anderson to care less, speak his mind more, he could be a real dangerous and controversial guy with his Words, more so than Aries.

Anderson though plays it safe on the outside of the ring, leaving Kurt to call him out "When did you become such a Bitch?" which leads perfectly to:

I doubt Hebner was told to tell Kurt that, but it made me laugh..... so there it is.

Anderson looks to be ready to get in the ring, when Knox "from behind" attacks Kurt with the Hammer. Kurt was then attended to by the EMT's. However the very fact it was mentioned as an Attack from Behind is great

Sting makes his way to the ring and calls out Knox.


Sting vs. Knox

It's a short match, more of a fight, Sting gets the Hammer from Knox early on. And eventually beats him in rather short time. This is when Sting takes the Hammer and attacks Knox in the same way Aces and Eights have been taking guys out.

Which is when things perhaps take a turn for the worse. You can read into that anyway you want, because it's meant in multiple ways.

The Aces and Eights make themselves known, with Brooke Hogan being captured by them, which I think she's had a part in this from the beginning, or Bully has... one or the other. Certainly Bully would be much better.

Either way, Sting stops the attack when Bully shows up. Earlier on in the show Brooke tried to get Bully reinstated by Hulk following his Suspension from last week but Hulk shot it down straight away.

Bully saves Brooke (which is half the reason why you can still link Bully to Aces and Eights, I hope he is).

Hogan once again declares how unhappy he is with Bully getting Brooke involved in all of this from the get go. Which is where things really take a turn for the worse.... but keep that "interesting" level there.

Bully proposes to Brooke, of course having reactions of Bully's real-life Wife would be incredibly funny. But, still, Bully and Brooke get engaged and plan to get Married next week. So much for all that Wedding Planning hassle, when it really just takes a week to get ready.

Still, the hope is to see something big go down, probably Bully getting closer to Power, and to Hulk, and then finally win his trust, and get The Aces and Eights fully into TNA eliminating Hogan all together.


But, if you enjoy Weddings in Wrestling, (Billy and Chuck... no?) then tune in next week!

I certainly expect, and hope, something big is going to go down! That's what we want damn it!

Till then, watch Genesis, and The Jobber Blogger will be back breaking down Genesis ASAP!

And don't forget to check out Total Nonstop Rewind!





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The Jobber Blogger #28 - TNA: IMPACT WRESTLING - 1/3/13January 5, 2013 by

Does TNA: IMPACT WRESTLING kick of the new year with a great show? Well, I'd like to say yes, and it does... but it's not without its issues. But like anything in life, you need to take it with a grain of salt, it's like eating salt. You can't have some salt without a grain of salt.

What the hell does that mean?

So I've decided my Jobber Blogger last week was perhaps a little negative, that's a lie. It was negative, and why you ask? Well, the show wasn't very good. Funny enough, and this is funny, it was one of the funnier ones to read. Well, that's what Fred the sock puppet said, he also said you smell bad and that I'm the King of the Spoons. Don't worry... he's long been dead!

Speaking of dead!

Myself, and my best friend (he's a real person, not a sock puppet, or some cake I was talking to yesterday) have started a New project known as TNR - Total Nonstop Rewind, where we hope to bring to you Monthly Podcasts breaking down everything that has happened this last Month in TNA Wrestling. As well as of course, The Jobber Blogger and up to date news on the world of Wrestling!

Be sure to check us out on Facebook!


Well there's another 5p in my pocket, in a few weeks time I'll have enough to get a Penny Sweet.... What Kind of World Is This!!!


Yep, the most unlucky show of the year, 13 / 13, It's like that new Star Wars game. New as in, it's in development, to be released later this year. Saying 13 is an unlucky number is utter lies, for it happened to be TNA's best Rated show since August! Let's get to the lickin'

Impact kicked off with the "IMPACT Wrestler of the Year" as Voted for by "you the fans" well I didn't vote for who won... but never mind.

Is it any real surprise who won? No it's not, and he is deserving to win.

Jeff Hardy won the "Wrestler of the Year" and while I think Jeff had a great year (see #26 for my "Best Return") I still wouldn't call him "Wrestler of the Year". Obviously I voted for Austin Aries, but really anyone of the nominees could have won, though perhaps not Storm. That's not to say he didn't have a good year, just not as pivotal in his Career like it was for everyone else involved.


TNA Continues their story of "Roode and Aries are so alike" as they both come dressed almost identical, and they both make their way to the ring to accept the Award in advance of the Winner being announced.

The continued feud between Aries and Roode is good news, not to mention having them be "similar" is fine, as long as it doesn't lose the integral parts of what made both of them so interesting on their own.

Still, even with winning Wrestler of the Year, Jeff seemed to be a little over-shadowed in everything that was going on. And the big surprising factor was Jeff Challenging both Aries and Roode to a 3-Way World Heavyweight Championship Match at Genesis. I say surprising factor, because it was obviously heading that way. Though I was partially confused as to whether Jeff was going to Challenge them with the Belt on the line, or if he was going to put the Trophy of Wrestler of the Year on the line, given that was the centre of attention. More on this later.. it gets better!


James Storm was trying to give off his thoughts on the Wrestle of the Year awards, when Kaz and Daniels stepped in. This week Daniels was the one impersonating the Cowboy, again... rather well! Do you know what the best part of this segment was though? Because it wasn't the impersonation, nor was it Storm's social media threats "I'll kick you in your Twitter", "I'll punch you right in your Facebook". Nope, after Storm's harsh words and challenge to a fight, it was Kaz's perfectly timed words of Wisdom, which brings me to:


James Storm vs. Kazarian

The first match of 2013, and I think Kaz's new shirt deserves a special mention:

Just as what would have been great last week, was to have good matches! Storm technically challenged Kaz and Daniels to this match, so surely some more creative ways to "Challenge" on Open Fight Night would be a good addition going forward.

Storm and Kaz both at the top of the Roster in my opinion for talented performers. Kaz especially is long over-due for a good push, currently his run with Daniels has been fantastic though, so if they see Gold again would be great. But I think it's only a matter of time before you give Kaz a good run with the Television Championship.

It seems of late, for great matches that really pull in the crowd, hit some high spots and deliver a great finish, you look no further than James Storm. Landing the Last Call SuperKick from Kaz diving off the Second Rope was great, leaving to Storm taking the Victory.

More interestingly though is the current issues between Storm and Bad Influence not to mention how AJ Styles will play into all of this. Keep your eyes peeled, like carrots for this one!


The Aces and Eights were heavily played on this Weeks show, and it's about time. Things are happening, and if they can keep this up on a regular basis, it will make the Story very relevant going forward. That doesn't mean unmasking them every week, but to have them causing chaos is what I want to see.

Mr. Anderson is still trying to be pulled into the Aces and Eights, and his Beard seems to tingle with possibilities.

My Beard Sense is Tingling..... what... wrong guy?

It's hard to say just how things with Anderson will play out, I think it could go either way to be quite honest, though I do think him with Aces and Eights might be more interesting to watch than just see him do what everyone is expecting... again. So long as it's done better than his brief and pathetic "Immortal" Heel turn. Also Devon has lost his Bat.... well Sting's Bat. I wonder why he mentioned that!?

Doc makes his way to the ring to call out Sting. He knows he is the marked man, and that Sting is coming back for vengeance. But after screaming for a while, Sting's bat falls from the rafters into the ring... that's about as exciting as it got. Though on a positive, Doc is good! I like his Character thus far, I'm glad he's with them, he suits the role.

Aces and Eights can take a lot of stick (or Bat) but I've said it many times before, when you see the Video Recaps and just what they've done. It's been an awesome story, and this is one of the best Video Packages thus far:

8min 11second mark


Christian York vs. Kid Kash

TNA has announced an X-Division Tournament leading into Genesis. York vs. Kash is the first of these, with Kenny King taking on Zema Ion next week. And the two winners meeting in the Finals at Genesis, with the winner taking on RVD in the same night.

I do like Tournaments, so it's going to be fun watching, though I do think it's going to come down to King and York, with probably York winning. Still, be interesting to watch it unfold, I am routing for Kenny King though... just saying.

York and Kash put on a good match, though as good as York seems to be, I do think he's still trying to settle into his groove on Impact. His matches haven't been as flawless as I'm sure they are capable at being. I also don't overly care for his "Character" and or, lack of. He has a lot of potential though, and I'm glad he's with TNA, and I hope he really hones his Craft.

Christian York picks up an impressive win, moving into the Finals at Genesis.


Hernandez (w/Chavo) vs. Joey Ryan (w/Morgan)

Yep, Matt Morgan was supposed to fight Hernandez, on a side note, I'm glad they didn't. Either way, his little "I've injured my arm" tom foolery caused me to waste precious space on my note-pad for I had to cross out his name, and put Joey Ryan! Damn you to Hell!

But anyway, having Morgan fake the injury and throw Ryan into the match was more interesting than I expected. In fact, the match was more interesting than I think anyone expected seeing as Morgan's fancy Sling broke by him moving his other arm. Top design that, I'm sure all those poor patients whom are wearing the sling for Legitimate reasons and finding that moving other parts of their anatomy causes the Sling to "Sling" off would be left with less than Humorous results. It's like the Hospital version of Carry on Camping.

Ffffwoooooahhhh, Get a load of that Arm!.... But seriously...someone paid for that?

I imagine the match was supposed to go longer than it did, but Morgan quickly needed to improvise, flexing his Muscles, what a reveal, what a cunning plan, what a devious little scoundrel! Though part of me wants this to be turned into a Gimmick, having Morgan turn up to all his matches with injuries that require Slings and Braces and Sticks to hold him together, and he moves the wrong part of his body and they go flying off, leaving Morgan ready to Fight! He's like the modern day Hulk Hogan, using fake injuries and Law Suits to BLUE-UP and blast out of his cast!

Either way, Morgan then ran into the ring and beat up Hernandez and Chavo. And finally they mention the Hogan / Morgan feud again, with every time Morgan looks intently at the Camera's he's staring right at Hogan! But, to be quite honest, it's probably a wasted notion, seeing as no-one in TNA actually watches the Product back, or so it seems.


Funny you should mention Hogan... yup, I am now talking to myself, that's what you get for Spamming so many people you get Warnings on Facebook, and or Blocked like my friend did earlier. Also did I mention we now have a Facebook page, with News, and Articles and soon to be Podcasts? Because we totally do!

So Hogan came out, and he wanted to apologise for his departure last week, he was so disgusted seeing his Daughter and Bully together he took a week off. I took two days off from my job because I had the flu, and I got fired... what a jip. And I wonder if he had to fill in one of those pesky "Return to Work" forms, in fact, that segment alone would be great TV. Dixie Carter going through the form with him, "and why didn't you attend work?" "well, you see Brother" "I'm not your Brother, I'm your business partner... and a woman" "Well let me tell you something Dude!" "also a Woman...." "Last week, was Last Week! But Now I'm Back Jack!" "My name is Dixie... why do all of your phrases involve a way to address men?" "PASTA-MANIA!!!" "are you saying, you don't have a valid reason?" "What Cha' Gonna Do!" "is that a No?" "What Cha' Gonna Do Brother!, When Hulkamania runs wild on you Dude!... WHAT CHA' GONNA DO!!!!" And he starts Ripping up the Form and Tearing his T-shirt off, and for some reason eating the couch....

Either way, the Aces and Eights should just kidnap Brooke and make out with her, and Hogan will quit, so it'd be easy pickings then.

Anyway, Hogan calls out both Bully Ray and Brooke Hogan to confront them on all that has been going on.

This is where it gets confusing, as I mentioned before, Jeff is at the front of trying to say weird things. Whereas Hogan tries to say more "cool" things.. and comes across really weird. For example, he goes off on one talking about the "Wrestling Code of Brotherhood" and how Bully broke this code. I guess this means, he just didn't man up and tell Hulk what was going on. But the basics of this speech came across. Which then ended with him having just one question..... Why?

Oh dear...

Well the first place my mind goes to, is the good ol "Why? (insert former good guy name here) why?" As in why did you turn heel type of scenario. So to me, this came across as Why, Bully Why? Did you make out with.... her?

Which just sounds incredibly insulting to poor Brooke... but we were all thinking it.

Or perhaps he meant, Why did Brooke make out with Bully?

Why did they not watch Impact last week and see how he knew about it?

Why did he take a week off because of it?

Why is he asking this question in the first place?

Why is this relevant to the Code, Brotherhood... thing... yes?

Why didn't he just tell him in the first place?

Why don't you think I trust you?


There are quite a few options of what this question might be, not just the One question Hogan stated it was.

And so what was Bully Ray's response to the question... Why?

"I have should have told you, it's all on me, all the heat is on me"

Well that answered nothing.

And so Hogan is so annoyed about breaking the Wrestling Code, he Suspends Bully indefinitely without Pay, and kicks Brooke out of the ring (not literally... though perhaps next time!)

Ahh, the good ol' Suspended Indefinitely speech. It's been a while my old friend. If only Bully Ray didn't have his face plastered all over the Genesis PPV Poster and he wasn't the only Superstar featured in the Advert which was shown about 5 times through-out the show, then perhaps I would think he wasn't going to be there, Ultimate Warrior got fired for not turning up to things he was booked at! Also Cheese on Toast is nice! ARGHHH BLUE-UP My Sling has come off, this Sh*t is going Down! Brother Jack Dude!

Jack Dude!!! It's a Sign!!!

Joseph Park is still at Wrestling School, OVW to be exact, one of the top Training Grounds for Wrestlers of the past 10 years. For both Major Companies in the industry. And he has been there, from scratch for 3 weeks and he's already got the "IT" Factor... apparently. Some poor kid is going to watch this and think it doesn't matter if I'm 35, and over-weight, and never done anything remotely physical in my life before, I can go to OVW (fat chance) and watch Wrestling and spend some time in the ring, and in 3weeks I might get a chance of being on Impact.

Obviously, this is just a skit, but there are some (for lack of a better word) idiots on the internet, who might take this for being legit. You will not get anywhere close, to OVW in 3 weeks. Years it takes, years!!!

Though the sooner they wrap this up, and get Park back on Impact the better!


Gail Kim and Tara (w/Jesse) vs. Mickie James and Miss. Tessmacher

You know when I wrote my "Best of the year" Article a few weeks back, and I put Tessmacher as Knockout of the year. I did mention she deserves a less degrading name. Since then, she has been doing more and more degrading things. I know she had her "Ass-tastic" move before, but she seems to have developed this strange obsession with humping things. I guess no-one is complaining, but still, perhaps the name is better suited than you might have thought.

What more can be said about this match? Other than two-weeks in a row, and I think the Knockouts have had the best matches on both Shows. Mickie was impressive as always, determined to gain attention for a future Knockouts Title match (I want Mickie to be Champ!) And Mickie picked up the win for her and Tess.

If they continue to perform on this level each and every week, I hope they might go back to having more than 1 Knockouts match / segment in the show, and perhaps let them Main-Event again. I keep pushing for that... Mickie vs. Tara - Knockouts Championship - Main Event! Do it!


Remember at the start when I was talking about the 3-way match for Genesis, and that I had more on this later, which gets better... well here it is!

Roode and Aries burst into Hogan's office and complained about having a 3-Way match. Which seems a little illogical, but I can look past it. Either way, Hogan was in no mood to listen to them, so to help them out, made it a.... wait for it.... Elimination Match!

Now perhaps this excites me more than it should.... but I looooooove Elimination Matches, I want more of them. Elimination Tag-Matches, 4-Way Dance, 6-Man, anything and everything. Specially if Championships are on the line, or stipulations, how long has it been since there was an Elimination Tables Match.. it's crazy! But I love them, also Two-out of three-Falls, they were fantastic... where have they gone! Do more Match Stipulations, and another Best of 5-Series!

So yeah, my interest in the main event has now gone up even more so, but so has the Odds of Jeff retaining his belt. Which I have no issues with whoever wins. But Roode maybe.. slightly more!


Devon and BSMF vs. Kurt Angle and Samoa Joe - Steel Cage

Okay, I guess this counts as a Stipulation Match... but I still want more!

Also for those unaware, BSMF is my nickname for now Revealed member of Aces and Eights... and it stands for Beer Soaked Mask Face... purely because he used to be holding Beer bottles... with no way of drinking them, without pouring it all over his face. I AM HILARIOUS Y'ALL!!

Kurt was ambushed by Doc on his way into the Cage which took him out of the match. And then the Dreaded Cage got it's revenge. Cage's are like Wrestling's "working with Animals" they never quite do what you want. And the almost comical time it took Doc to actually get the door closed let alone locked was most amusing. We all know Kurt is a tough guy, and for him to be rolling around on the floor for a good 5minutes longer was just the icing on the cage.

Joe battled Devon and BSMF by himself for a while, as Doc continued to attack Kurt outside. See, why don't Aces and Eights do this more often? They barely mess up any matches, why don't they cause chaos more often? Kurt tried to climb up the Cage, but was once again stopped, but this time Kurt took out Doc, and got the Key in the process, eventually getting into the cage.

Kurt gets busted open, but this doesn't stop him as much as it did waiting for Doc to lock the cage. Anyway, it was a good cage match, but the stipulation was only there for the ending... which was a little uneventful I'm sad to say.

Kurt and Joe pick up the win, which is when The Aces and Eights attack. Mr. Anderson is with them, but just stands on the outside for some reason, I'm sure we'll get more on this next week, but with around 9 guys or so, it stills seems odd they need just One more to take care of Hogan. And then all of a sudden, Sting was pretty much in the ring, just... there. The lights didn't go down, his music didn't hit, nothing weird happened. No he just strolled out in his T-shirt and started attacking people. It was the most flat return I think I've ever seen. Weeks they built this up, and it's like.... oh look he's already there... well.... there he is? So much for a big return, or old school anything.

Long story short, he attacks everyone with his Bat, and they all run off, leaving just conveniently Beer Soaked Mask Face in the ring with Kurt, Joe and Sting. So they unmask him. But the Camera-man didn't get a good shot of that also, he wasn't even looking at what they were doing in the ring. But I guess it wasn't shocking in the least to see Mike Knox as a part of Aces and Eights, though he doesn't have long hair, so it might be a little shocking to some.

I think he's a good fit with them, but he's not someone who I think made a lot of traction with his time in WWE, but I look forward to seeing his Aces and Eights character develop in the coming weeks.


Over all, it was a good start to the new year for TNA, just a shame they didn't plan (or seem to plan) anything for Sting... hopefully they can fix this next week. But sadly, I feel the best days are in the past. Not for Sting, but just for Wrestling to deliver those moments. And in my opinion, that is the one thing TNA can't seem to do yet, they don't have that "Big Moment" feel, where what they do really has an effect or an Impact, on the industry. But one day, I hope they do.


Tell then... it's ten.





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