Get ready for an in-depth exploration of one of wrestling’s most enigmatic figures in the upcoming episode of “Dark Side of the Ring.” Season 5 presents “Brian Pillman Part One – Extended Cut,” airing at 9:00 Pm on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, on Vice.
This gripping episode delves into the fascinating life of Brian Pillman, a wrestler who rose to fame with his groundbreaking performances that blurred the lines between reality and fiction. Through interviews, archival footage, and expert analysis, viewers will gain insight into Pillman’s journey from obscurity to infamy.
From his early struggles to his meteoric rise in the world of professional wrestling, “Dark Side of the Ring” explores the highs and lows of Pillman’s career, shedding light on the complexities of his persona and the impact he had on the industry.
However, as Pillman’s star continued to rise, so too did the demons that ultimately led to his downfall.
This gripping episode delves into the fascinating life of Brian Pillman, a wrestler who rose to fame with his groundbreaking performances that blurred the lines between reality and fiction. Through interviews, archival footage, and expert analysis, viewers will gain insight into Pillman’s journey from obscurity to infamy.
From his early struggles to his meteoric rise in the world of professional wrestling, “Dark Side of the Ring” explores the highs and lows of Pillman’s career, shedding light on the complexities of his persona and the impact he had on the industry.
However, as Pillman’s star continued to rise, so too did the demons that ultimately led to his downfall.
- 5/7/2024
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
In the summer of 1996, the World Wrestling Federation held its annual King of the Ring tournament. After weeks of matches, the semis and finals were set for June 23rd, 1996, with Stone Cold Steve Austin facing Jake “The Snake” Roberts for the crown later in the night. Roberts, then known for working from a Christian angle, would cut a promo before the match doing just that. Just before Austin took the ring and pinned Roberts, he was tipped about the promo’s contents.
After the five-minute match, Austin stood next to the same man who tipped him off, Michael Hayes. And it was there that a legend and a catchphrase were born, and an entire industry was born again. With a mouth full of blood, Stone Cold Steve Austin told his defeated opponent: “You sit there and you thump your Bible, and you say your prayers, and it didn’t get you anywhere!
After the five-minute match, Austin stood next to the same man who tipped him off, Michael Hayes. And it was there that a legend and a catchphrase were born, and an entire industry was born again. With a mouth full of blood, Stone Cold Steve Austin told his defeated opponent: “You sit there and you thump your Bible, and you say your prayers, and it didn’t get you anywhere!
- 3/22/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
The platform will shut down at the end of the month, but will relaunch in Q1 2024 as the Premier Wrestling App.
Premier Streaming Network is getting a facelift for 2024 and a new brand identity to reflect its status as a go-to streaming destination for professional wrestling fans. The platform will shut down at the end of the month, but starting in the first quarter of 2024, the service will be referred to as the Premier Wrestling App, and will seamlessly transition content from its former platform to the new one with enhanced features. Best of all, most content will be free for all users.
Premier Streaming Network will be discontinued in Q1 2024 and rebrand as ‘Premier Wrestling App.’ The company will then seamlessly transition content to the new app, which will have new features Much of the Premier Wrestling App’s library content will then be available for free Sign Up $4.99+ / month premierstreamingnetwork.
Premier Streaming Network is getting a facelift for 2024 and a new brand identity to reflect its status as a go-to streaming destination for professional wrestling fans. The platform will shut down at the end of the month, but starting in the first quarter of 2024, the service will be referred to as the Premier Wrestling App, and will seamlessly transition content from its former platform to the new one with enhanced features. Best of all, most content will be free for all users.
Premier Streaming Network will be discontinued in Q1 2024 and rebrand as ‘Premier Wrestling App.’ The company will then seamlessly transition content to the new app, which will have new features Much of the Premier Wrestling App’s library content will then be available for free Sign Up $4.99+ / month premierstreamingnetwork.
- 12/21/2023
- by Jeff Kotuby
- The Streamable
Another week, another episode of Aew: Dark which this week features just four matches – matching this week’s Elevation. Let’s see what went down…
Match #1: Matt Taven def. Brian Pillman Jr.
My Thoughts: An impressive opening match with Brian Pillman holding his own against the more experienced Taven – which I honestly did not expect. Pillman, in the few solo matches he’s had recently, has shown a new side to his character and seems to have come on leaps and bounds with his skills too.
My Score: 3 out of 5 Match #2: Lee Johnson def. Blake Li
My Thoughts: It’s Lee versus Li in a squash match to the death… No, seriously, this was your typical Aew squash match. with Li getting at least one movie in before Lee took over and ended the match in swift fashion.
My Score: 1 out of 5 Match #3: Josh Woods def. Daisy...
Match #1: Matt Taven def. Brian Pillman Jr.
My Thoughts: An impressive opening match with Brian Pillman holding his own against the more experienced Taven – which I honestly did not expect. Pillman, in the few solo matches he’s had recently, has shown a new side to his character and seems to have come on leaps and bounds with his skills too.
My Score: 3 out of 5 Match #2: Lee Johnson def. Blake Li
My Thoughts: It’s Lee versus Li in a squash match to the death… No, seriously, this was your typical Aew squash match. with Li getting at least one movie in before Lee took over and ended the match in swift fashion.
My Score: 1 out of 5 Match #3: Josh Woods def. Daisy...
- 4/13/2023
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
Another week, another episode of Aew: Dark which this week features nine matches and is once again filmed at the Dark studios in Orlando, Florida rather than coming from on the road… Anyway, on with the review.
Match #1: Ar Fox & Top Flight def. The Wingmen
My Thoughts: What’s this? The Wingmen in a decent match shocker! I know that’s hard to believe given how they’ve been booked in forever… but it looks like the were given a chance to shine against Top Flight and Ar Fox, who also managed to draw out decent wrestling from the normally-comedic team. Surprising but superb start to this week’s show.
My Score: 3.5 out of 5 Match #2: Red Velvet def. Sofia Castillo
My Thoughts: What went on here then? Red Velvet has a good match on Elevation then we get this on Dark. In one match she looks strong and...
Match #1: Ar Fox & Top Flight def. The Wingmen
My Thoughts: What’s this? The Wingmen in a decent match shocker! I know that’s hard to believe given how they’ve been booked in forever… but it looks like the were given a chance to shine against Top Flight and Ar Fox, who also managed to draw out decent wrestling from the normally-comedic team. Surprising but superb start to this week’s show.
My Score: 3.5 out of 5 Match #2: Red Velvet def. Sofia Castillo
My Thoughts: What went on here then? Red Velvet has a good match on Elevation then we get this on Dark. In one match she looks strong and...
- 2/2/2023
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
Welcome back to another review of Aew Dark: Elevation, and yes, given how much wrestling we had to cover last week I missed last week’s show! This week features seven matches and a number of big-name stars! We’ve got Ian Riccaboni, Matt Menard and Jose the Assistant on commentary, so let’s get into the review…
Match #1: 10 def. Baron Black
My Thoughts: Baron Black jumped 10 before the bell and 10 totally no-sold it, along with everything else Black tried to throw at him. I do wonder what the plan is for 10… He is being head-hunted by Jose the Assistant on behalf of the Lfi, yet when he gets a decent singles match Aew throw Orange Cassidy into the mix?! Then he goes and has squash matches like this. What is the plan? What It It?!
My Score: 1 out of 5 Match #2: Eddie Kingston and Ortiz def. Russ Myers...
Match #1: 10 def. Baron Black
My Thoughts: Baron Black jumped 10 before the bell and 10 totally no-sold it, along with everything else Black tried to throw at him. I do wonder what the plan is for 10… He is being head-hunted by Jose the Assistant on behalf of the Lfi, yet when he gets a decent singles match Aew throw Orange Cassidy into the mix?! Then he goes and has squash matches like this. What is the plan? What It It?!
My Score: 1 out of 5 Match #2: Eddie Kingston and Ortiz def. Russ Myers...
- 10/26/2022
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
This week’s episode of Aew: Dynamite is first of two shows of Fyter Fest week two. This week Dynamite emanated from the Gas South Arena in Duluth, Georgia; with Tony Schiavone, Excalibur, and Taz on commentary yet again. Let’s get into the week two, night one, action!
Match #1: Brody King def. Darby Allin The following is courtesy of allelitewrestling.com:
Darby blasted Brody with a shotgun dropkick and then followed up with a tope suicida. Darby’s feet got hung up on the middle rope and Brody took advantage of this, grabbing Darby and hurling him into the steel ring barricade. Darby jumped on Brody’s back but Brody flung him off and followed up with two consecutive sentons onto Darby. Brody King chopped Darby’s chest. Darby jumped off the turnbuckles but Brody countered with another chop. Brody grabbed Darby by the belt and rag dolled him across the ring.
Match #1: Brody King def. Darby Allin The following is courtesy of allelitewrestling.com:
Darby blasted Brody with a shotgun dropkick and then followed up with a tope suicida. Darby’s feet got hung up on the middle rope and Brody took advantage of this, grabbing Darby and hurling him into the steel ring barricade. Darby jumped on Brody’s back but Brody flung him off and followed up with two consecutive sentons onto Darby. Brody King chopped Darby’s chest. Darby jumped off the turnbuckles but Brody countered with another chop. Brody grabbed Darby by the belt and rag dolled him across the ring.
- 7/22/2022
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
Another episode of Aew: Dark, which this week features fourteen, yes Fourteen(!), matches. Though this show has also gone back to the traditional format after last week’s tremendous show which showcased two matches filmed internationally… I fear no Dark may ever live up to last weeks… Especially not one crammed with 14 matches like the old pandemic days!
Match #1: Jora Johl def. Luke Sampson
My Thoughts: Poor Jora Johl, it really looked like he was being set up to be a big star, with a future turn against Matt Hardy probably propelling him up the Aew card. Then Jeff hardy joined Aew and the Hfo disbanded and Johl has been seemingly forgotten. Though he has out in some decent time on Aew’s YouTube shows, it feels like he’s fallen into the Factory/Dark Order trap – win against jobbers on YouTube, Be the jobber of Dynamite/Rampage!
My...
Match #1: Jora Johl def. Luke Sampson
My Thoughts: Poor Jora Johl, it really looked like he was being set up to be a big star, with a future turn against Matt Hardy probably propelling him up the Aew card. Then Jeff hardy joined Aew and the Hfo disbanded and Johl has been seemingly forgotten. Though he has out in some decent time on Aew’s YouTube shows, it feels like he’s fallen into the Factory/Dark Order trap – win against jobbers on YouTube, Be the jobber of Dynamite/Rampage!
My...
- 7/20/2022
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
It’s time for this week’s review of Aew: Dark, which emanates from Aew Universal and features a whopping 14 matches in just over an hour… So you know what that means. Squash-tastic action this week! We’ve got Taz and Excalibur on commentary so let’s get right to it.
Match #1: Jay Lethal def. Jd Drake
My Thoughts: This was a great opener with one of my personal faves Jd Drake holding his own against Jay Lethal. I know Drake isn’t going to win this but he gave one hell of a performance, making Lethal work for the win. One day Drake will get a solo win against one of Aew’s big-name stars.
My Score: 3 out of 5 Match #2: The Butcher & The Blade def. Carlie Bravo & Shawn Dean
My Thoughts: The Butcher follows up his fantastic singles match last week with a total squash match on poor Carlie Bravo & Shawn Dean.
Match #1: Jay Lethal def. Jd Drake
My Thoughts: This was a great opener with one of my personal faves Jd Drake holding his own against Jay Lethal. I know Drake isn’t going to win this but he gave one hell of a performance, making Lethal work for the win. One day Drake will get a solo win against one of Aew’s big-name stars.
My Score: 3 out of 5 Match #2: The Butcher & The Blade def. Carlie Bravo & Shawn Dean
My Thoughts: The Butcher follows up his fantastic singles match last week with a total squash match on poor Carlie Bravo & Shawn Dean.
- 3/23/2022
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
Welcome to this week’s All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite review, right here on Nerdly. I’m Nathan Favel, it’s Road Rager and we have jack-s–t. The guide says nothing is happening. What kind of a f–kin’ show has nothing on it?! This s–t ain’t Seinfeld mother-f–ker! [Brian Pillman] – It’s a Festivus for the rest of us! [Me] – Oh s–t. {Stone Cold Steve Austin] – Want some poopcorn asshole?! [Bp] – Mammy! [Me] – What the f–k?! [Mammy] – Wanna piece of pie? [Me] – What? [General Eesemo] – Pie! Do you eat it?! [Me] – Cherry? [Ge] – P–sy! [Me] – Okay. That’s enough. We’ve got some matches…hopefully. Please God let there be matches. Road Rager? Sounds like a 90 mile an hour boner that already blew half the wad at the truck stop. Okay. I’m ready to see what happens.
[Author’s Note: Darby Allin, who has been accused of rape and not found guilty or innocent in a court of law,...
[Author’s Note: Darby Allin, who has been accused of rape and not found guilty or innocent in a court of law,...
- 7/9/2021
- by Nathan Favel
- Nerdly
“Dark Side of the Ring” will debut Season 3 on Vice TV on May 6. In an interview with Variety, series narrator Chris Jericho says the show allows non-wrestling fans to learn to appreciate what wrestlers go through in their careers.
“I think one of the reasons why the show is very important and very relevant is because you’re learning and maybe getting a little more respect for these guys,” Jericho says. “We’re playing these characters, and not just doing it for three months making a movie. We’re doing it every single day of our lives. And in some ways that’s great and in other ways, it’s not so great.”
“Dark Side of the Ring” has been a breakout hit for Vice TV since it debuted in 2019, quickly becoming the highest-rated show in the network’s history. Season 3 is set to tackle topics such as the career of Brian Pillman,...
“I think one of the reasons why the show is very important and very relevant is because you’re learning and maybe getting a little more respect for these guys,” Jericho says. “We’re playing these characters, and not just doing it for three months making a movie. We’re doing it every single day of our lives. And in some ways that’s great and in other ways, it’s not so great.”
“Dark Side of the Ring” has been a breakout hit for Vice TV since it debuted in 2019, quickly becoming the highest-rated show in the network’s history. Season 3 is set to tackle topics such as the career of Brian Pillman,...
- 4/29/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Watch the trailer for season-premiere episode about Brian Pillman here
TheWrap is tagging itself in to debut the trailer for the two-hour “Dark Side of the Ring” Season 3 premiere episode, which centers on the life and death of Brian Pillman — but that’s not all. We can also exclusively reveal the people and storylines chronicled in the back half of the season, when the WWF Steroid Trials and The Plane Ride From Hell get the Vice TV treatment, among other pro-wrestling subjects.
But first up is Pillman, who clawed his way to infamy by playing an unpredictable and outrageous character dubbed “The Loose Cannon.” His unwavering commitment to a 24/7 performance put Pillman on a path to self-destruction that left his family in financial and emotional ruin.
Watch the trailer for Pillman’s episode via the video above.
The second half of the season, which kicks off in late summer, will also include the Steroid Trials,...
TheWrap is tagging itself in to debut the trailer for the two-hour “Dark Side of the Ring” Season 3 premiere episode, which centers on the life and death of Brian Pillman — but that’s not all. We can also exclusively reveal the people and storylines chronicled in the back half of the season, when the WWF Steroid Trials and The Plane Ride From Hell get the Vice TV treatment, among other pro-wrestling subjects.
But first up is Pillman, who clawed his way to infamy by playing an unpredictable and outrageous character dubbed “The Loose Cannon.” His unwavering commitment to a 24/7 performance put Pillman on a path to self-destruction that left his family in financial and emotional ruin.
Watch the trailer for Pillman’s episode via the video above.
The second half of the season, which kicks off in late summer, will also include the Steroid Trials,...
- 4/27/2021
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Vice TV has set the premiere dates for “Dark Side of the Ring” Season 3 and spinoff “Dark Side of Football.” Both also now have (violent) trailers.
Ok, so the sneak peek for “Football” is more of a teaser. While it may appear from the brief video that Joe Paterno and Penn State are being profiled, a spokesperson for Vice told TheWrap this first season will focus completely on professional football.
The third season of “Dark Side of the Ring” will debut on Thursday, May 6 at 9 p.m. Et/Pt.
In that trailer, Aew wrestler Jon Moxley (formerly Dean Ambrose in WWE) reminds viewers that professional wrestling is not always “a children’s TV show on Saturday morning” — it’s sometimes “a fight.”
Then actor David Arquette gets awfully bloodied, admitting, “I was in over my head.”
As for legendary wrestling manager Jim Cornette, he just wants to “do ‘The Happy...
Ok, so the sneak peek for “Football” is more of a teaser. While it may appear from the brief video that Joe Paterno and Penn State are being profiled, a spokesperson for Vice told TheWrap this first season will focus completely on professional football.
The third season of “Dark Side of the Ring” will debut on Thursday, May 6 at 9 p.m. Et/Pt.
In that trailer, Aew wrestler Jon Moxley (formerly Dean Ambrose in WWE) reminds viewers that professional wrestling is not always “a children’s TV show on Saturday morning” — it’s sometimes “a fight.”
Then actor David Arquette gets awfully bloodied, admitting, “I was in over my head.”
As for legendary wrestling manager Jim Cornette, he just wants to “do ‘The Happy...
- 4/8/2021
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Major League Wrestling have today announced Ach vs. Brian Pillman Jr. for this Wednesday February 10th on Mlw’s flagship weekly series, Mlw: Fusion, available on YouTube, Fubo Sports, Dazn, beIN Sports and the Roku Channel.
Ach is not in a good mood since Team Filthy (allegedly) attacked him just days before the biggest match of his life – most likely changing the outcome of the Fatu/Ach World Heavyweight Championship bout.Now, Ach looks to unleash his fury in the ring and make a statement as he eyes payback on Team Filthy for their disgraceful conduct. But is Ach 100%? The short answer: No. Ach’s ribs remain tender, following the attack by Team Filthy. Dr. Sweglar said it could take up to a half year for him to fully recover. Does this create an opportunity for Pillman? Will Ach bounce back after heartbreaking heavyweight title match?
Scheduled for Wednesday’s card: Title vs.
Ach is not in a good mood since Team Filthy (allegedly) attacked him just days before the biggest match of his life – most likely changing the outcome of the Fatu/Ach World Heavyweight Championship bout.Now, Ach looks to unleash his fury in the ring and make a statement as he eyes payback on Team Filthy for their disgraceful conduct. But is Ach 100%? The short answer: No. Ach’s ribs remain tender, following the attack by Team Filthy. Dr. Sweglar said it could take up to a half year for him to fully recover. Does this create an opportunity for Pillman? Will Ach bounce back after heartbreaking heavyweight title match?
Scheduled for Wednesday’s card: Title vs.
- 2/8/2021
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
When I think of guys in pro-wrestling who are unsung more than perhaps they should be, who have given countless memories over decades and who still manage to get in the ring and tell stories that will always be relevant and stirring, I think of Dustin Rhodes. When I began watching pro-wrestling in 1992, at just nine years old, I saw Dustin Rhodes working as “The Natural” in WCW. Since then he’s pretty much been a constant in the business, and one of those guys I always love to watch.
Dustin Patrick Runnels was born in Austin Texas in 1969, the son of the son of a plumber “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes. He had big shoes to fill the moment he decided to step foot into a wrestling ring in 1988 when he debuted for Championship Wrestling from Florida. Since then, Dustin has put together a legacy over 32 years as a professional wrestler,...
Dustin Patrick Runnels was born in Austin Texas in 1969, the son of the son of a plumber “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes. He had big shoes to fill the moment he decided to step foot into a wrestling ring in 1988 when he debuted for Championship Wrestling from Florida. Since then, Dustin has put together a legacy over 32 years as a professional wrestler,...
- 9/30/2020
- by Chris Cummings
- Nerdly
I grew up as a wrestling fan, having started watching at the sunrise of the 90s, in 1992, with the cartoon-era of WWF lighting up our screens with megastars like Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, Bret Hart and Roddy Piper. Even back then though, in the midst of the mid-card, I was intrigued by the high-flyer in the baggy blue Mc Hammer-style pants named Owen Hart. When you go and look back on early Owen Hart matches from the 80s and early 90s, you realise just how ahead of the time he was with his ring work. His high flying and acrobatic energy mixed with his nuanced technical ability made for an exciting and entertaining superstar who I was immediately a fan of. Sure, back in those days he wasn’t being given a real shot, working in nothing-matches with Skinner, but I, and many others, could see just how talented he was.
- 5/18/2020
- by Chris Cummings
- Nerdly
Welcome to this week’s review of Major League Wrestling: Fusion, right here on Nerdly. I’m Nathan Favel and this is CNN. Howdy Doody was a rolling stone and it always rocked me gently, rocked me so. My name is Edith Ann and that’s the truth. Lppllsxslxpslspsls! That’s the sound of a tongue being stuck out and making that spitting raspberry noise. Okay, we’ve got a special global version of Fusion to get to, so let’s jump right into a massive undertaking that concludes with a modern wrestling icon fighting Hammerstone in the biggest match of his career, so far.
Match #1: Jordan Oliver defeated Gringo Loco The following is courtesy of mlw.com:
Jordan Oliver has a score to settle with Gringo Loco as he seeks retribution for his Injustice buddy Myron Reed after Loco used some brass knucks on Myron’s midsection in...
Match #1: Jordan Oliver defeated Gringo Loco The following is courtesy of mlw.com:
Jordan Oliver has a score to settle with Gringo Loco as he seeks retribution for his Injustice buddy Myron Reed after Loco used some brass knucks on Myron’s midsection in...
- 9/9/2019
- by Nathan Favel
- Nerdly
Welcome to this week’s Major League Wrestling: Fusion review, right here on Nerdly. I’m Nathan Favel and we have more exciting matches this week, like Bret Hart versus Shawn Michaels and Lou Thesz versus Buddy Rogers an…those don’t seem right. Anyway, this will be a good show/Game Of Thrones pissed everybody off.
Match #1: Mance Warner & Sami Callihan defeated Hijo de La Park & Ricky Martinez The following is courtesy of mlw.com:
The war between Salina de la Renta & Promociones Dorado and Mance Warner & Sami Callihan is not over. Callihan and Warner won a battle in the ring on Fusion, then lost a battle backstage. Callihan was able to secure the pinfall in a hard-hitting, brutal matchup, when he nailed Martinez with a piledriver. But the four men battled into the backstage area. That’s where Salina and La Park were waiting. La Park joined...
Match #1: Mance Warner & Sami Callihan defeated Hijo de La Park & Ricky Martinez The following is courtesy of mlw.com:
The war between Salina de la Renta & Promociones Dorado and Mance Warner & Sami Callihan is not over. Callihan and Warner won a battle in the ring on Fusion, then lost a battle backstage. Callihan was able to secure the pinfall in a hard-hitting, brutal matchup, when he nailed Martinez with a piledriver. But the four men battled into the backstage area. That’s where Salina and La Park were waiting. La Park joined...
- 5/20/2019
- by Nathan Favel
- Nerdly
WWE’s stable of performers are on the road more than 200 nights a year, told when and where to perform, and sign exclusive contracts that bar them from appearing on any other wrestling company’s programming. In spite of all that, they aren’t granted full-time-employee status by Vince McMahon’s publicly traded company — rather, they’re independent contractors who must provide their own health insurance.
That — and the overall well-being of WWE wrestlers, a startling number of whom have died early — was the subject of a deep dive on last night’s episode of “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver.” Oliver pulled no punches during the 23-minute segment, beginning with this opening salvo: “While the character Vince [McMahon] is an asshole, it’s important to know that the real Vince is also an asshole,” he said, “and many fans legitimately hate him because, while the WWE has made him a billionaire,...
That — and the overall well-being of WWE wrestlers, a startling number of whom have died early — was the subject of a deep dive on last night’s episode of “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver.” Oliver pulled no punches during the 23-minute segment, beginning with this opening salvo: “While the character Vince [McMahon] is an asshole, it’s important to know that the real Vince is also an asshole,” he said, “and many fans legitimately hate him because, while the WWE has made him a billionaire,...
- 4/1/2019
- by Michael Nordine
- Indiewire
Welcome to this week’s Major League Wrestling review, right here on Nerdly. I’m Nathan Favel and we have a couple of big time luchadors fighting in the main event, so get your eatin’ britches pulled up and ready for a big ol’ ham dinner and some stuffing with a bit of sweet potato and the cranberry sauce with cheesecake for dessert… very nice.
Match #1: Teddy Hart (with Brian Pillman) defeated Jason Cade The following is courtesy of Mlw.com:
While the Hart Foundation is looking for a shot at the World Tag Team Championships, Teddy Hart has an impending match with one half of the champs, Pentagon Jr. next week in Miami. While Hart is focused on defeating Pentagon Jr. and keeping the pressure on the Lucha Bros. (Penta and brother Rey Fenix), he was faced with Jason Cade and his Bad Attitude this week on Mlw Fusion.
Match #1: Teddy Hart (with Brian Pillman) defeated Jason Cade The following is courtesy of Mlw.com:
While the Hart Foundation is looking for a shot at the World Tag Team Championships, Teddy Hart has an impending match with one half of the champs, Pentagon Jr. next week in Miami. While Hart is focused on defeating Pentagon Jr. and keeping the pressure on the Lucha Bros. (Penta and brother Rey Fenix), he was faced with Jason Cade and his Bad Attitude this week on Mlw Fusion.
- 12/11/2018
- by Nathan Favel
- Nerdly
Welcome to this week’s Nxt review, right here on Nerdly. I’m Nathan Favel and I still can’t figure out what Nxt stands for. Nana Xanatos Titillates. There, that’s Nxt. Nana Xanatos Titillates. Okay, let’s jump right into Nana Xanatos Titillates.
Match #1: Keith Lee def. Fidel Bravo The following is courtesy of WWE.com:
Keith Lee once again showcased his Limitless potential as he demolished Fidel Bravo with ease under the bright lights of the Staples Center. Despite Lee’s gigantic size advantage, Bravo brashly shoved him in the face to start the bout. Lee made him pay dearly, slugging him to the mat and chopping his chest in a burst heard throughout the arena. He cut down Bravo with a devastating cross body block before putting him out of his misery with the Supernova for the decisive win.
My Take: 2 out of 5 – This was...
Match #1: Keith Lee def. Fidel Bravo The following is courtesy of WWE.com:
Keith Lee once again showcased his Limitless potential as he demolished Fidel Bravo with ease under the bright lights of the Staples Center. Despite Lee’s gigantic size advantage, Bravo brashly shoved him in the face to start the bout. Lee made him pay dearly, slugging him to the mat and chopping his chest in a burst heard throughout the arena. He cut down Bravo with a devastating cross body block before putting him out of his misery with the Supernova for the decisive win.
My Take: 2 out of 5 – This was...
- 11/22/2018
- by Nathan Favel
- Nerdly
Former WWE wrestler Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart has died. He was 63.
“WWE is saddened to learn that Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart passed away,” the company wrote on its website. “WWE extends its condolences to Neidhart’s family, friends and fans.”
Neidhart’s daughter Natalya currently wrestles in the WWE.
Also Read: Nikolai Volkoff, WWE Hall of Famer, Dies at 70
Neidhart, a former NFL player with the Oakland Raiders and Dallas Cowboys, was the brother-in-law of Bret “Hit Man” Hart. Together, the two formed the legendary Hart Foundation tag team, winning two WWE World Tag Team Championships.
Hart paid tribute to Neidhart on his Instagram page on Monday, writing: “Stunned and saddened. I just don’t have the words right now.”
Stunned and saddened. I just don’t have the words right now.
A post shared by Bret (@brethitmanhart) on Aug 13, 2018 at 8:13am Pdt
Other WWE superstars, including Ric Flair and The Iron Sheik,...
“WWE is saddened to learn that Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart passed away,” the company wrote on its website. “WWE extends its condolences to Neidhart’s family, friends and fans.”
Neidhart’s daughter Natalya currently wrestles in the WWE.
Also Read: Nikolai Volkoff, WWE Hall of Famer, Dies at 70
Neidhart, a former NFL player with the Oakland Raiders and Dallas Cowboys, was the brother-in-law of Bret “Hit Man” Hart. Together, the two formed the legendary Hart Foundation tag team, winning two WWE World Tag Team Championships.
Hart paid tribute to Neidhart on his Instagram page on Monday, writing: “Stunned and saddened. I just don’t have the words right now.”
Stunned and saddened. I just don’t have the words right now.
A post shared by Bret (@brethitmanhart) on Aug 13, 2018 at 8:13am Pdt
Other WWE superstars, including Ric Flair and The Iron Sheik,...
- 8/13/2018
- by Tony Maglio and Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
1.This Saturday, Cm Punk makes his Ufc debut as he faces off against Mickey Gall at Ufc 203 on pay per view. While I honestly will be shocked if he makes it out of the first round, I applaud him for following his dreams and wish him the best on his Mma debut. Entering the sport of Mma at his age (and I hate saying that because I am older than him.) is a pretty difficult task, not even taking into account the various injuries he’s sustained over the years as a wrestler. Whether this is his only Mma match or if he’s able to make a go at it, he’s a living example of not caring about any obstacle that prevents you from achieving your dream.
2.Billy Corgan posted a video on the Smashing Pumpkins Facebook page discussing some of the recent activity at Tna. He confirmed...
2.Billy Corgan posted a video on the Smashing Pumpkins Facebook page discussing some of the recent activity at Tna. He confirmed...
- 9/9/2016
- by Tim Jousma
- LRMonline.com
WWE.com
History is written by the winners. We know this thanks to centuries of winners that have told us as such.
In professional wrestling, the winner was WWE. Whether or not they were your favorite company growing up – or if they are your favorite company now – of the many organizations over the years that have tried their hand at fame and fortune within the wrestling business, it is the McMahon family empire that outlasted them all and made it to the top. As such, you can expect that they will from time to time do a bit of history writing themselves.
Even still, WWE is often fairly heavy handed when applying the Wite-Out to the big book of wrestling history. While many of WWE’s historical changes are more changes of perspective than they are complete alterations, what’s particularly fascinating about them is that many make changes to...
History is written by the winners. We know this thanks to centuries of winners that have told us as such.
In professional wrestling, the winner was WWE. Whether or not they were your favorite company growing up – or if they are your favorite company now – of the many organizations over the years that have tried their hand at fame and fortune within the wrestling business, it is the McMahon family empire that outlasted them all and made it to the top. As such, you can expect that they will from time to time do a bit of history writing themselves.
Even still, WWE is often fairly heavy handed when applying the Wite-Out to the big book of wrestling history. While many of WWE’s historical changes are more changes of perspective than they are complete alterations, what’s particularly fascinating about them is that many make changes to...
- 3/31/2016
- by Matthew Byrd
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
1996 was an interesting and notable year for wrestling. It was the first full year of the Monday Night Wars, it witnessed the birth of Austin 3:16, Hulk Hogan turning heel, the formation of the nWo, the infamous Brian Pillman gun angle, the Curtain Call, the defection of top stars between WCW and the WWF, Vince McMahon offering guaranteed contracts to his roster for the first time, and monthly pay-per-view events from both of the big two.
So much happened in such a short space of time, but what was the real story behind some of those events? What are the misconceptions that are commonly parroted and what are the real facts? And what are those bits and pieces of information that have not been widely reported?
From grandstand matches that never happened, defections that didn’t pan out, significant changes to booking, and originally proposed gimmick ideas, we have it all covered.
1996 was an interesting and notable year for wrestling. It was the first full year of the Monday Night Wars, it witnessed the birth of Austin 3:16, Hulk Hogan turning heel, the formation of the nWo, the infamous Brian Pillman gun angle, the Curtain Call, the defection of top stars between WCW and the WWF, Vince McMahon offering guaranteed contracts to his roster for the first time, and monthly pay-per-view events from both of the big two.
So much happened in such a short space of time, but what was the real story behind some of those events? What are the misconceptions that are commonly parroted and what are the real facts? And what are those bits and pieces of information that have not been widely reported?
From grandstand matches that never happened, defections that didn’t pan out, significant changes to booking, and originally proposed gimmick ideas, we have it all covered.
- 2/21/2016
- by James Dixon
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
Professional football and wrestling have a long, intertwined history that goes back generations. In the early days of the National Football League, many players moonlighted as professional wrestlers during the off-season to supplement their salary. Others whose football careers wound down (or never really took off) found their way into the squared circle as a new vocation.
The landscape of modern wrestling is littered with wrestlers who tried their hand at professional football, such as Hacksaw Jim Duggan, Ron Simmons, Lex Luger, Brian Pillman, Goldberg, Ernie Ladd and many others. Even today, there are several WWE and Nxt stars who gave it a go on the gridiron before switching to wrestling: Mojo Rawley, Baron Corbin and even Roman Reigns.
But there is a very select group of men who have reached the pinnacle of both sports. Only a handful of athletes have played in the NFL’s Super Bowl and competed at WrestleMania.
Professional football and wrestling have a long, intertwined history that goes back generations. In the early days of the National Football League, many players moonlighted as professional wrestlers during the off-season to supplement their salary. Others whose football careers wound down (or never really took off) found their way into the squared circle as a new vocation.
The landscape of modern wrestling is littered with wrestlers who tried their hand at professional football, such as Hacksaw Jim Duggan, Ron Simmons, Lex Luger, Brian Pillman, Goldberg, Ernie Ladd and many others. Even today, there are several WWE and Nxt stars who gave it a go on the gridiron before switching to wrestling: Mojo Rawley, Baron Corbin and even Roman Reigns.
But there is a very select group of men who have reached the pinnacle of both sports. Only a handful of athletes have played in the NFL’s Super Bowl and competed at WrestleMania.
- 2/7/2016
- by Scott Carlson
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
Brittany Pillman, the daughter of the late Brian Pillman, has broken her near twenty-year silence and publicly spoken out about the ordeal of her father’s passing for the first time since his untimely death in 1997.
When Pillman died in his hotel room from a heart attack at the age of just 35, leaving a wife and five young children behind, the wrestling industry bandied together in a unified display of support for the grief-stricken Pillman family. The WWF continued to pay Melanie the downside guarantee in Brian’s contract three months after his death and later produced a tribute magazine on Pillman, from which all of the proceeds went to Melanie. A year later Melanie found herself struggling and about to lose her house, so Vince McMahon stepped in and wrote her a $10,000 cheque to help keep the family afloat.
Friends of Brian decided they wanted to do...
Brittany Pillman, the daughter of the late Brian Pillman, has broken her near twenty-year silence and publicly spoken out about the ordeal of her father’s passing for the first time since his untimely death in 1997.
When Pillman died in his hotel room from a heart attack at the age of just 35, leaving a wife and five young children behind, the wrestling industry bandied together in a unified display of support for the grief-stricken Pillman family. The WWF continued to pay Melanie the downside guarantee in Brian’s contract three months after his death and later produced a tribute magazine on Pillman, from which all of the proceeds went to Melanie. A year later Melanie found herself struggling and about to lose her house, so Vince McMahon stepped in and wrote her a $10,000 cheque to help keep the family afloat.
Friends of Brian decided they wanted to do...
- 1/23/2016
- by James Dixon
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
Another month, another defunct championship history to delve into.
The Cruiserweight Championship is arguably the most poorly-booked, unfairly neglected championship in WWE/WCW history, as it provided some of the best in-ring action and some of the main excitement on shows, yet was almost always presented as a sideshow and rarely, if ever, the main attraction.
The first champion was crowned when Brian Pillman defeated Ricky Morton in a tournament final in WCW in October 1991. 40 different competitors would hold the belt over a combined 79 reigns. Superstars as varied as Chris Jericho, Oklahoma, Dean Malenko, Alex Wright and Rey Mysterio would be champion, again showing the mishmash attitude towards its booking.
One important note is that this is the history of the Cruiserweight Championship, established in WCW and then taken over by WWE. As such, it is this lineage that is looked at here, not the WWF Light Heavyweight Title.
Another month, another defunct championship history to delve into.
The Cruiserweight Championship is arguably the most poorly-booked, unfairly neglected championship in WWE/WCW history, as it provided some of the best in-ring action and some of the main excitement on shows, yet was almost always presented as a sideshow and rarely, if ever, the main attraction.
The first champion was crowned when Brian Pillman defeated Ricky Morton in a tournament final in WCW in October 1991. 40 different competitors would hold the belt over a combined 79 reigns. Superstars as varied as Chris Jericho, Oklahoma, Dean Malenko, Alex Wright and Rey Mysterio would be champion, again showing the mishmash attitude towards its booking.
One important note is that this is the history of the Cruiserweight Championship, established in WCW and then taken over by WWE. As such, it is this lineage that is looked at here, not the WWF Light Heavyweight Title.
- 10/6/2015
- by John Bills
- Obsessed with Film
2K
The matches for WWE 2K16’s Showcase Mode are now confirmed. The list was published on the 2K forums, and it reveals that Stone Cold Steve Austin mode is going to be a comprehensive story of his entire career. The matches you’ll be playing are as follows-
vs. Pillman – Clash Of The Champions Xxv
vs. Steamboat – Bash At The Beach ’94
vs. Whipwreck – November To Remember ’95
vs. Vega – WrestleMania Xii or In Your House: Beware Of Dog
vs. Roberts – King Of The Ring ’96
vs. Hart – Survivor Series ’96 (Bret’s attire)
vs. Vader vs. Hart vs. Undertaker – In Your House: Final Four
vs. Hart – WrestleMania 13
vs. Rock – D-Generation X: In Your House
vs. Michaels – WrestleMania Xiv
vs. Undertaker – Rock Bottom ’98
vs. McMahon – St. Valentine’s Day Massacre ’99
vs. Rock – Backlash ’99
vs. Undertaker – Fully Loaded ’99
Royal Rumble 2001
vs. Triple H – No Way Out 2001
vs. Rock – WrestleMania 17
Some of those matches...
The matches for WWE 2K16’s Showcase Mode are now confirmed. The list was published on the 2K forums, and it reveals that Stone Cold Steve Austin mode is going to be a comprehensive story of his entire career. The matches you’ll be playing are as follows-
vs. Pillman – Clash Of The Champions Xxv
vs. Steamboat – Bash At The Beach ’94
vs. Whipwreck – November To Remember ’95
vs. Vega – WrestleMania Xii or In Your House: Beware Of Dog
vs. Roberts – King Of The Ring ’96
vs. Hart – Survivor Series ’96 (Bret’s attire)
vs. Vader vs. Hart vs. Undertaker – In Your House: Final Four
vs. Hart – WrestleMania 13
vs. Rock – D-Generation X: In Your House
vs. Michaels – WrestleMania Xiv
vs. Undertaker – Rock Bottom ’98
vs. McMahon – St. Valentine’s Day Massacre ’99
vs. Rock – Backlash ’99
vs. Undertaker – Fully Loaded ’99
Royal Rumble 2001
vs. Triple H – No Way Out 2001
vs. Rock – WrestleMania 17
Some of those matches...
- 9/29/2015
- by Grahame Herbert
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
The roster for WWE 2K16 is complete. Well, WWE and 2K have us all believe that it is at least.
While there have been a whole host of new surprises, there are still a few glaring absentees from the now seemingly complete roster that simply must be in the new game. We can’t be having another episode like last year when someone as prestigious as Paige was made part of the season pass at an additional cost.
Do these absentees mean that these weekly reveals aren’t over? Only time will tell. You can see the confirmed roster in full here.
Nevertheless, here are the newest names in full: Bray Wyatt, Mikey Whipwreck, The New Day (Kofi Kingston, Xavier Woods & Big E), Enzo Amore & Colin Cassady, Stunning Steve Austin, Superstar Steve Austin, Rusev, American Bad Ass Undertaker, Baron Corbin, Brian Pillman, Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, Konnor, Viktor,...
The roster for WWE 2K16 is complete. Well, WWE and 2K have us all believe that it is at least.
While there have been a whole host of new surprises, there are still a few glaring absentees from the now seemingly complete roster that simply must be in the new game. We can’t be having another episode like last year when someone as prestigious as Paige was made part of the season pass at an additional cost.
Do these absentees mean that these weekly reveals aren’t over? Only time will tell. You can see the confirmed roster in full here.
Nevertheless, here are the newest names in full: Bray Wyatt, Mikey Whipwreck, The New Day (Kofi Kingston, Xavier Woods & Big E), Enzo Amore & Colin Cassady, Stunning Steve Austin, Superstar Steve Austin, Rusev, American Bad Ass Undertaker, Baron Corbin, Brian Pillman, Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, Konnor, Viktor,...
- 9/15/2015
- by Ross Tweddell
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
The full content listing for the upcoming WWE DVD and Blu-ray set on the life and death of Owen Hart has been revealed, courtesy of the Wrestling DVD Network. The list includes all chapter titles for the documentary feature on disc one, as well as all extras, including the full list of matches selected for the package.
Bret Hart recently commented on the documentary portion of the set, sounding very pessimistic about the chances that the documentary will do a good job telling the full story of his brother’s life. Bret believes that WWE is having to walk on egg shells to cater to Owen’s widow, Martha, who is not supporting the DVD release.
Bret told the Fight Network:
“I’m looking forward to it but I’m not really optimistic that it’s going to be a great job. Martha handcuffed them so much. I...
The full content listing for the upcoming WWE DVD and Blu-ray set on the life and death of Owen Hart has been revealed, courtesy of the Wrestling DVD Network. The list includes all chapter titles for the documentary feature on disc one, as well as all extras, including the full list of matches selected for the package.
Bret Hart recently commented on the documentary portion of the set, sounding very pessimistic about the chances that the documentary will do a good job telling the full story of his brother’s life. Bret believes that WWE is having to walk on egg shells to cater to Owen’s widow, Martha, who is not supporting the DVD release.
Bret told the Fight Network:
“I’m looking forward to it but I’m not really optimistic that it’s going to be a great job. Martha handcuffed them so much. I...
- 9/14/2015
- by Ryan Droste
- Obsessed with Film
Ing, 2K
What has been billed as the final batch of Superstars for WWE 2K16 has been confirmed this afternoon.
Here are the names in full: Bray Wyatt, Mikey Whipwreck, The New Day (Kofi Kingston, Xavier Woods & Big E), Enzo Amore & Colin Cassady, Stunning Steve Austin, Superstar Steve Austin, Rusev, American Bad Ass Undertaker, Baron Corbin, Brian Pillman, Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, Konnor, Viktor, Mark Henry, Ministry Undertaker, Ricky Steamboat, Savio Vega, Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley, Sting ’99, Sting Blonde and finally the two Terminator renders.
The new names show how in-depth the Stone Cold mode will be. It looks like we’re going to be travelling right through his days as a Hollywood Blonde with Brian Pillman and that feud with Ricky Steamboat, stopping off for a cup of coffee in Ecw to feud with Mikey Whipwreck (and maybe Sandman?), and then going through his main run in WWE, including the 2001 Royal Rumble.
What has been billed as the final batch of Superstars for WWE 2K16 has been confirmed this afternoon.
Here are the names in full: Bray Wyatt, Mikey Whipwreck, The New Day (Kofi Kingston, Xavier Woods & Big E), Enzo Amore & Colin Cassady, Stunning Steve Austin, Superstar Steve Austin, Rusev, American Bad Ass Undertaker, Baron Corbin, Brian Pillman, Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, Konnor, Viktor, Mark Henry, Ministry Undertaker, Ricky Steamboat, Savio Vega, Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley, Sting ’99, Sting Blonde and finally the two Terminator renders.
The new names show how in-depth the Stone Cold mode will be. It looks like we’re going to be travelling right through his days as a Hollywood Blonde with Brian Pillman and that feud with Ricky Steamboat, stopping off for a cup of coffee in Ecw to feud with Mikey Whipwreck (and maybe Sandman?), and then going through his main run in WWE, including the 2001 Royal Rumble.
- 9/14/2015
- by Ross Tweddell
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
Bret Hart took part in a Periscope chat with Tsn’s Off The Record where he answered fan questions for 16 minutes. As always, he was very opinionated about a number of subjects, including his late brother Owen Hart being inducted into WWE’s Hall of Fame.
“I’m hoping next year at WrestleMania that he’ll be inducted and I’ll be really sorely disappointed if he’s not. It’s really overdue.”
He said he was looking forward to the Owen Hart DVD that will be released in December, but that it was too controlled and that WWE had to tip-toe around things so they didn’t offend Owen’s widow Martha Hart. Bret thinks that Martha has made an ass of herself and it has pissed him off because she has tried to erase his legacy.
He spoke about how people should remember Owen fondly, that...
Bret Hart took part in a Periscope chat with Tsn’s Off The Record where he answered fan questions for 16 minutes. As always, he was very opinionated about a number of subjects, including his late brother Owen Hart being inducted into WWE’s Hall of Fame.
“I’m hoping next year at WrestleMania that he’ll be inducted and I’ll be really sorely disappointed if he’s not. It’s really overdue.”
He said he was looking forward to the Owen Hart DVD that will be released in December, but that it was too controlled and that WWE had to tip-toe around things so they didn’t offend Owen’s widow Martha Hart. Bret thinks that Martha has made an ass of herself and it has pissed him off because she has tried to erase his legacy.
He spoke about how people should remember Owen fondly, that...
- 9/3/2015
- by John Canton
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
Japanese wrestling legend Jushin “Thunder” Liger is making his WWE debut this Saturday night at the Nxt Takeover Brooklyn event when he takes on rising star Tyler Breeze.
According to PWInsider, Liger is not scheduled to appear at Sunday’s WWE SummerSlam pay-per-view or on next Monday’s Raw, even though both of those events are also at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Those plans could change, of course.
His appearance in WWE has raised eyebrows in the wrestling industry because he’s a New Japan Pro Wrestling talent and they’ve had a deal with Ring of Honor for several years now. Apparently Liger can take his own bookings and this doesn’t mean that WWE has a deal with Njpw. He’s known WWE official William Regal for over 20 years and that’s really how the deal was done.
For WWE, booking Liger was a smart move...
Japanese wrestling legend Jushin “Thunder” Liger is making his WWE debut this Saturday night at the Nxt Takeover Brooklyn event when he takes on rising star Tyler Breeze.
According to PWInsider, Liger is not scheduled to appear at Sunday’s WWE SummerSlam pay-per-view or on next Monday’s Raw, even though both of those events are also at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Those plans could change, of course.
His appearance in WWE has raised eyebrows in the wrestling industry because he’s a New Japan Pro Wrestling talent and they’ve had a deal with Ring of Honor for several years now. Apparently Liger can take his own bookings and this doesn’t mean that WWE has a deal with Njpw. He’s known WWE official William Regal for over 20 years and that’s really how the deal was done.
For WWE, booking Liger was a smart move...
- 8/18/2015
- by John Canton
- Obsessed with Film
Word Championship Wrestling came into existence after Ted Turner purchased Jim Crockett Promotions’ Nwa-affiliated pro wrestling territory (which was airing on TBS) on October 11, 1988. In this being the case, coming up with a list of “greatest matches in WCW history starts with anything televised by the promotion from the October 15, 1988 airing of “World Championship Wrestling” on TBS to the final Monday Nitro on March 26, 2001. In that 12-year run, there were certainly more than 30 amazing matches in WCW. However, these are the best.
In encapsulating what the “best matches” were in WCW, it’s an intriguing mix of performers that both defined what the industry had been all about before (Ric Flair, Randy Savage, Hulk Hogan, Terry Funk, Ricky Steamboat, Sting, Rick Rude), redefined that established North American expectation (Steve Austin, Brian Pillman, Chris Benoit, Scott Hall, Kevin Nash, Goldberg) and also those who blew that expectation to the moon (Vader,...
In encapsulating what the “best matches” were in WCW, it’s an intriguing mix of performers that both defined what the industry had been all about before (Ric Flair, Randy Savage, Hulk Hogan, Terry Funk, Ricky Steamboat, Sting, Rick Rude), redefined that established North American expectation (Steve Austin, Brian Pillman, Chris Benoit, Scott Hall, Kevin Nash, Goldberg) and also those who blew that expectation to the moon (Vader,...
- 4/29/2015
- by Marcus K. Dowling
- Obsessed with Film
WWE
It is hard to say when the WWF Attitude Era started. According to WWE, it began sometime between June 1996 (when Brian Pillman pulled a gun on Steve Austin) and March 1998 (when Austin became WWF Champion).
The Attitude Era saw the WWF move away from a family-friendly product towards a more adult-oriented one. With that came new extremes of sex, violence and sophomoric comedy as WWF tried to corner the 18-25 male demographic. They succeeded and the WWF experience a pronounced boom period and incredible success.
Some viewers were turned off by the change in direction and the WWF incurred the wrath of moralist groups like the Parents Television Council which said that it’s programming was unethical and dangerous for children to watch. Sponsorships were lost and lawsuits filed but, for the most part, Vince and company laughed all the way to the bank.
As the WWF moved in...
It is hard to say when the WWF Attitude Era started. According to WWE, it began sometime between June 1996 (when Brian Pillman pulled a gun on Steve Austin) and March 1998 (when Austin became WWF Champion).
The Attitude Era saw the WWF move away from a family-friendly product towards a more adult-oriented one. With that came new extremes of sex, violence and sophomoric comedy as WWF tried to corner the 18-25 male demographic. They succeeded and the WWF experience a pronounced boom period and incredible success.
Some viewers were turned off by the change in direction and the WWF incurred the wrath of moralist groups like the Parents Television Council which said that it’s programming was unethical and dangerous for children to watch. Sponsorships were lost and lawsuits filed but, for the most part, Vince and company laughed all the way to the bank.
As the WWF moved in...
- 11/17/2014
- by Lewis Howse
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
If World Wrestling Entertainment had a “must see” feud among their bubbling to the surface crew of younger grapplers, there may be no more important matchup than that featuring Dean Ambrose and Bray Wyatt. Yes, it’s an awkward pairing. However, that’s almost by intention. Wyatt is the calculating and reserved maniac, while Ambrose portrays the certifiable lunatic willing to incite profound emotion on any level at the drop of a hat. If using historical corollaries, it would be akin to the strange consideration of “Rogue Horseman” Brian Pillman feuding with The Undertaker circa the same era. Though absolutely nobody (outside of passionate die-hards) could’ve contemplated the potential for interaction between these two unique, yet dissimilar icons, upon deeper contemplation it sounds exciting for sure.
Wyatt’s perverse morality versus Ambrose’s complete lack of respect for a moralistic imperative. Two gifted in-ring brawlers with unique...
If World Wrestling Entertainment had a “must see” feud among their bubbling to the surface crew of younger grapplers, there may be no more important matchup than that featuring Dean Ambrose and Bray Wyatt. Yes, it’s an awkward pairing. However, that’s almost by intention. Wyatt is the calculating and reserved maniac, while Ambrose portrays the certifiable lunatic willing to incite profound emotion on any level at the drop of a hat. If using historical corollaries, it would be akin to the strange consideration of “Rogue Horseman” Brian Pillman feuding with The Undertaker circa the same era. Though absolutely nobody (outside of passionate die-hards) could’ve contemplated the potential for interaction between these two unique, yet dissimilar icons, upon deeper contemplation it sounds exciting for sure.
Wyatt’s perverse morality versus Ambrose’s complete lack of respect for a moralistic imperative. Two gifted in-ring brawlers with unique...
- 10/29/2014
- by Marcus K. Dowling
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
Avid viewers of the WWE Network will notice that the company has recently added the entire first year of World Championship Wrestling’s Monday Nitro program to the vault. It was a move many fans of old school professional wrestling have been waiting for and one that further exposes them to the rich history of the business. From the very first match in the show’s six-year history, pitting Jushin “Thunder” Liger against “Flyin'” Brian Pillman, all the way to the debut of the New World Order and their early dominance over WCW and the disappearance of Sting, fans can relive the greatest challenge to WWE’s dominance over the sports-entertainment landscape.
While WWE was attempting to go to war with a roster full of young, underdeveloped talents and some ridiculous gimmicks while WCW pulled out big guns such as Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, Ric Flair and Sting...
Avid viewers of the WWE Network will notice that the company has recently added the entire first year of World Championship Wrestling’s Monday Nitro program to the vault. It was a move many fans of old school professional wrestling have been waiting for and one that further exposes them to the rich history of the business. From the very first match in the show’s six-year history, pitting Jushin “Thunder” Liger against “Flyin'” Brian Pillman, all the way to the debut of the New World Order and their early dominance over WCW and the disappearance of Sting, fans can relive the greatest challenge to WWE’s dominance over the sports-entertainment landscape.
While WWE was attempting to go to war with a roster full of young, underdeveloped talents and some ridiculous gimmicks while WCW pulled out big guns such as Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, Ric Flair and Sting...
- 9/25/2014
- by Erik Beaston
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
For a number of reasons, with the most prominent being chronic pain and all of the bad parts of celebrity life, a lot of pro wrestlers have developed substance abuse problems. Painkillers, muscle relaxers, Ghb, tranquilizers, ecstasy, and more have all been trendy in the wrestling world at different points, and all with tragic consequences.
Going back at least to Brian Pillman’s death, WWE has been very pro-active about sending wrestlers to rehab. Get caught falling asleep/passing out when you shouldn’t be, and WWE will try to get you help. Show up habitually late…same thing. They pay attention to the warning signs and act accordingly. Wrestlers are less protective of their friends being “found out” than they used to be, too, because in the end, they need help.
Many wrestlers credit the company with saving their lives. A few years ago, WWE took the...
For a number of reasons, with the most prominent being chronic pain and all of the bad parts of celebrity life, a lot of pro wrestlers have developed substance abuse problems. Painkillers, muscle relaxers, Ghb, tranquilizers, ecstasy, and more have all been trendy in the wrestling world at different points, and all with tragic consequences.
Going back at least to Brian Pillman’s death, WWE has been very pro-active about sending wrestlers to rehab. Get caught falling asleep/passing out when you shouldn’t be, and WWE will try to get you help. Show up habitually late…same thing. They pay attention to the warning signs and act accordingly. Wrestlers are less protective of their friends being “found out” than they used to be, too, because in the end, they need help.
Many wrestlers credit the company with saving their lives. A few years ago, WWE took the...
- 8/8/2014
- by David Bixenspan
- Obsessed with Film
The WWE main roster is always changing, some wrestlers leave for whatever reason happens to cause their departure, some wrestlers move up the card because management wants to give them a push and some wrestlers move downwards, or stay still, sometimes merely because the creative team has a lack of ideas for their television character.
The last twelve months have been memorable and a lot has happened to the main WWE roster since June of 2013. So, let’s take a look at the main superstars who are on the main stage of WWE, rate them, and look at how their future in WWE looks at this moment.
The grading system is as follows:
A+ – Is/Should be one of the main faces of WWE. A true star.
A – Should be/Is in the main event scene and has the talent to stay there.
B – Should be being pushed as a future top contender.
The last twelve months have been memorable and a lot has happened to the main WWE roster since June of 2013. So, let’s take a look at the main superstars who are on the main stage of WWE, rate them, and look at how their future in WWE looks at this moment.
The grading system is as follows:
A+ – Is/Should be one of the main faces of WWE. A true star.
A – Should be/Is in the main event scene and has the talent to stay there.
B – Should be being pushed as a future top contender.
- 6/30/2014
- by Chris Cummings
- Nerdly
WWE.com
It’s well proven that the WWE didn’t ever really care for the limits of common decency, or blurring the lines between the moral and the deranged and debauched – up until the 2007 death of Chris Benoit, the Grim Reaper was a big part of some key storylines, including the notorious Katie Vick incident that included simulated necrophilia (revealed of course to be the love of a man and a mannequin). So it’s not at all surprising that some of the gimmicks and storylines that have shaped wrestling history would have undoubtedly lead to genuine police intervention if they weren’t kayfabe.
Stars like Brian Pillman pulled guns on each other, pushed each other off bridges and generally flaunted every fire safety regulation every drawn up in public arenas in the name of entertaining fans and putting up big house and PPV numbers, and the line that...
It’s well proven that the WWE didn’t ever really care for the limits of common decency, or blurring the lines between the moral and the deranged and debauched – up until the 2007 death of Chris Benoit, the Grim Reaper was a big part of some key storylines, including the notorious Katie Vick incident that included simulated necrophilia (revealed of course to be the love of a man and a mannequin). So it’s not at all surprising that some of the gimmicks and storylines that have shaped wrestling history would have undoubtedly lead to genuine police intervention if they weren’t kayfabe.
Stars like Brian Pillman pulled guns on each other, pushed each other off bridges and generally flaunted every fire safety regulation every drawn up in public arenas in the name of entertaining fans and putting up big house and PPV numbers, and the line that...
- 6/18/2014
- by Simon Gallagher
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
On September 4, 1995, World Championship Wrestling produced the first episode of Monday Nitro live from the Mall of America in Minnesota. With a card featuring Brian Pillman vs. Jushin “Thunder” Liger, Sting vs. Ric Flair and WCW Champion Hulk Hogan vs. Big Bubba Rogers, the show forever changed professional wrestling. It featured matches involving marquee names and relegated enhancement matches, once a staple of televised wrestling, to the company’s syndicated shows. More importantly, it forced Vince McMahon’s then-World Wrestling Federation to adapt or perish.
For months, the WWF and WCW would trade ratings victories. That all changed on May 27, 1996 when Scott Hall made a surprise appearance on Nitro. He indicated that there was an invasion underway and that the war with the company was looming. The debut of Kevin Nash and the shocking heel turn by Hulk Hogan ignited the Monday Night Wars between Raw and Nitro.
On September 4, 1995, World Championship Wrestling produced the first episode of Monday Nitro live from the Mall of America in Minnesota. With a card featuring Brian Pillman vs. Jushin “Thunder” Liger, Sting vs. Ric Flair and WCW Champion Hulk Hogan vs. Big Bubba Rogers, the show forever changed professional wrestling. It featured matches involving marquee names and relegated enhancement matches, once a staple of televised wrestling, to the company’s syndicated shows. More importantly, it forced Vince McMahon’s then-World Wrestling Federation to adapt or perish.
For months, the WWF and WCW would trade ratings victories. That all changed on May 27, 1996 when Scott Hall made a surprise appearance on Nitro. He indicated that there was an invasion underway and that the war with the company was looming. The debut of Kevin Nash and the shocking heel turn by Hulk Hogan ignited the Monday Night Wars between Raw and Nitro.
- 6/11/2014
- by Erik Beaston
- Obsessed with Film
Since WWE purchased WCW and the vast video library that came along with it, there have been numerous releases devoted to WCW related content, from the Goldberg set, to the Best of Nitro stuff, down to the Nwo release, but this is the first time WWE has taken a look at the best matches from the rich history of WCW’s Pay-Per-View’s. So here it is, volume one in the greatest matches from the PPV years of WCW.
WCW had some great PPV shows over the years of their existence. From Starrcade to Halloween Havoc, Superbrawl to Uncensored, Road Wild to Sin. Okay, ignore Sin, pretend I didn’t say that.
Here, in this 3 DVD/2 Bd set, you get over 20 matches ranging from 1987 until 2001 and the quality is, for the most-part, very high. From true wrestling greats, such as Ric Flair, Dusty Rhodes, Sting, Vader, Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage,...
WCW had some great PPV shows over the years of their existence. From Starrcade to Halloween Havoc, Superbrawl to Uncensored, Road Wild to Sin. Okay, ignore Sin, pretend I didn’t say that.
Here, in this 3 DVD/2 Bd set, you get over 20 matches ranging from 1987 until 2001 and the quality is, for the most-part, very high. From true wrestling greats, such as Ric Flair, Dusty Rhodes, Sting, Vader, Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage,...
- 4/30/2014
- by Chris Cummings
- Nerdly
WWE.com
Promos in wrestling have the opportunity to get talent over and create moments that will be remembered forever. They have the ability to ignite a character and sent them into the stratosphere. A good promo can make a star while a bad one can end any chance they ever had at achieving legitimate main event success.
There are those promos, however, that incite controversy and turn the wrestling industry on its ear. They are promos that immediately change the game or, at the very least, elicit a buzz about the business that was not there prior. They are game changers and are historical by nature.
Some of the greatest Superstars to ever compete in WWE achieved the levels of success that they did because of their ability to connect with an audience, to convey their emotions and to leave an indelible mark on the fans, on management and...
Promos in wrestling have the opportunity to get talent over and create moments that will be remembered forever. They have the ability to ignite a character and sent them into the stratosphere. A good promo can make a star while a bad one can end any chance they ever had at achieving legitimate main event success.
There are those promos, however, that incite controversy and turn the wrestling industry on its ear. They are promos that immediately change the game or, at the very least, elicit a buzz about the business that was not there prior. They are game changers and are historical by nature.
Some of the greatest Superstars to ever compete in WWE achieved the levels of success that they did because of their ability to connect with an audience, to convey their emotions and to leave an indelible mark on the fans, on management and...
- 4/19/2014
- by Erik Beaston
- Obsessed with Film
WWE.com
Wrestling fans love to complain; in our own socially maladjusted way, we’re often a lot like fans of actual sports, in our own, socially maladjusted way. Many are armchair grapplers with a million things to say about the product,but only the internet to listen, where online forums, social network feeds, and blog posts abound with homespun wisdom on everything from which Diva we wish we could approach publicly to whether or not the Oklahoma character was just misunderstood. It’s a kind of social schizophrenia: we have an audience, even if it is only ourselves.
We’re kind of like our angry grandfathers in a way, except our telescreens yell back at us.
Among the most popular topics is whether or not a given wrestler deserves a spot. Over the years, the industry has seen plenty of stars accused of not paying their dues, not only by so-called “smart” marks,...
Wrestling fans love to complain; in our own socially maladjusted way, we’re often a lot like fans of actual sports, in our own, socially maladjusted way. Many are armchair grapplers with a million things to say about the product,but only the internet to listen, where online forums, social network feeds, and blog posts abound with homespun wisdom on everything from which Diva we wish we could approach publicly to whether or not the Oklahoma character was just misunderstood. It’s a kind of social schizophrenia: we have an audience, even if it is only ourselves.
We’re kind of like our angry grandfathers in a way, except our telescreens yell back at us.
Among the most popular topics is whether or not a given wrestler deserves a spot. Over the years, the industry has seen plenty of stars accused of not paying their dues, not only by so-called “smart” marks,...
- 3/31/2014
- by Forrest Gabitsch
- Obsessed with Film
After about a month of taking in what the WWE Network has to offer I thought we could take a look at some of the things that are worth your time on there, and even just to pick up on DVD. Every PPV event from WWE(F), WCW and Ecw is included on the on-demand section of the network, which means there is hundreds of shows and thousands of hours worth of wrestling to dig through, so I wanted to whittle it down to ten shows that I feel are worth watching, and the reasons will be highlighted too.
Let’s begin with an obvious one shall we?
WWE: WrestleMania 1
Held in Madison Square Garden in New York City, the very first WWF pay-per-view ever presented and a show that lit the fuse on the rocket that became sports entertainment and the concept of pay-per-view. The show isn’t...
Let’s begin with an obvious one shall we?
WWE: WrestleMania 1
Held in Madison Square Garden in New York City, the very first WWF pay-per-view ever presented and a show that lit the fuse on the rocket that became sports entertainment and the concept of pay-per-view. The show isn’t...
- 3/24/2014
- by Chris Cummings
- Nerdly
WWE.com
The dropkick. A move that went from being a rare maneuver that was the surest sign you were watching one of those new fangled “high flyers” everybody was talking about, to a common move everybody learned day one in wrestling school, and finally to a move that has joined the bodyslam and the belly-to-belly suplex as a symbol of a simpler time. A time where you popped for the Ddt, had more than one wrestling promotion you could watch on TV, and everybody could probably find jobs.
While we might live in a modern world of economic ruin and wrestling monopolies where people sit on their hands until somebody starts throwing double stomps or phoenix splashes, it is never too late to take a second out of your day and give some quiet reflection to the people in this artform that are incredibly good at jumping vertically in...
The dropkick. A move that went from being a rare maneuver that was the surest sign you were watching one of those new fangled “high flyers” everybody was talking about, to a common move everybody learned day one in wrestling school, and finally to a move that has joined the bodyslam and the belly-to-belly suplex as a symbol of a simpler time. A time where you popped for the Ddt, had more than one wrestling promotion you could watch on TV, and everybody could probably find jobs.
While we might live in a modern world of economic ruin and wrestling monopolies where people sit on their hands until somebody starts throwing double stomps or phoenix splashes, it is never too late to take a second out of your day and give some quiet reflection to the people in this artform that are incredibly good at jumping vertically in...
- 3/6/2014
- by Gavin Bard
- Obsessed with Film
Welcome to our weekly in-depth review of WWE Raw.
Raw is live from Toronto, Canada tonight and we start off the show with Toronto’s own, and WWE Hall of Famer, Edge. Edge gets a loud response from his hometown crowd and looking at his energy as he makes his way to the ring, he looks to have missed this wrestling gig. Edge says he was asked to come to Raw by Triple H because it would be “good for business” for Edge and Randy Orton to have a reunion, as they were former tag team partners. Edge says that talking to Randy Orton “is like watching paint dry”. The fans love Edge and his sarcasm and humorous remarks. Edge says he’s not interested in talking to Randy Orton, but has another guest in mind, and introduces Daniel Bryan, who gets a huge pop from the Canadian crowd.
They...
Raw is live from Toronto, Canada tonight and we start off the show with Toronto’s own, and WWE Hall of Famer, Edge. Edge gets a loud response from his hometown crowd and looking at his energy as he makes his way to the ring, he looks to have missed this wrestling gig. Edge says he was asked to come to Raw by Triple H because it would be “good for business” for Edge and Randy Orton to have a reunion, as they were former tag team partners. Edge says that talking to Randy Orton “is like watching paint dry”. The fans love Edge and his sarcasm and humorous remarks. Edge says he’s not interested in talking to Randy Orton, but has another guest in mind, and introduces Daniel Bryan, who gets a huge pop from the Canadian crowd.
They...
- 9/10/2013
- by Chris Cummings
- Nerdly
Every wrestler in the world thinks they’re ‘The Guy” but there’s only so many spots at the top. Most of the guys on this list are not only underrated and under appreciated but they are/were under utilized as well. All of these guys held a title at one time or another but did they ever hold The title? No. Not one man on this list ever became the WWE or WCW World Heavyweight Champion and that’s a damn shame.
All of the wrestlers on this list display one or more of the main characteristics that make up an elite superstar. Whether it be power, charisma, ring presence or just being a great worker, all of these guys had/have it and then some. Limiting this list to just 10 was an impossible feat but these are the guys I feel deserve it the most.
Without further ado,...
All of the wrestlers on this list display one or more of the main characteristics that make up an elite superstar. Whether it be power, charisma, ring presence or just being a great worker, all of these guys had/have it and then some. Limiting this list to just 10 was an impossible feat but these are the guys I feel deserve it the most.
Without further ado,...
- 8/22/2013
- by David Noriega
- Obsessed with Film
Since their debut in November 2012, The Shield has definitely changed the landscape of the WWE. Rollins, Reigns and Ambrose have brought justice to the developmental system by making first impressions all the more important. However, in recent weeks, it seemed the three have taken a backseat to other storylines and showed vulnerability piling up losses. This week justice looks to be a priority again on this week’s Main Event and Nxt.
Let’s start with the first of two appearances on this weeks edition of The Main Event. The show begins with a six man tag rematch from last week’s Monday Night Raw as the Usos and Mark Henry battle The Shield. Really solid opening contest with good back and forth between the two trios. The babyfaces start off really hot dominating until the first commercial break and then it switches as the Hounds of Justice take control.
Let’s start with the first of two appearances on this weeks edition of The Main Event. The show begins with a six man tag rematch from last week’s Monday Night Raw as the Usos and Mark Henry battle The Shield. Really solid opening contest with good back and forth between the two trios. The babyfaces start off really hot dominating until the first commercial break and then it switches as the Hounds of Justice take control.
- 8/8/2013
- by Paul Jordan
- Obsessed with Film
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