Month: April 2018

Late Once Again- NXT TakeOver: New Orleans & WrestleMania 34 Reviews

Posted on by nwadeblogs_

I finally got to sit down and watch both shows in their entirety. The perspective you get when you’re there is so different from watching it on the network, obviously, but there’s always the possibility that when you’re sitting there live, you won’t get the full picture. I wouldn’t have wanted to experience those shows any other way though….two (three really, because I went to RAW too) really really great nights of professional wrestling and I cannot thank WWE enough for giving me another weekend to remember forever.

NXT Takeover

Match #1: Dain vs Cole vs EC3 vs Ricochet vs Sullivan vs Dream

Welp, this was an absolute car wreck of a match and I loved every second of it. Everyone involved looked absolutely fantastic, especially Ricochet, who took more crap then anyone I’ve ever seen in a ladder match not named Dolph Ziggler, but I REALLY loved the Sullivan/Dain dynamic throughout the whole thing. They went back to face off against each other multiple times, AND tried to outdo each other with those ladder spots on the outside. Even Dream, who looked VERY nervous, showcased himself well, and even with his mishaps, was still over as hell. Cole winning was a safe choice, but with Aleister being the biggest babyface ever right now, a heel champion can’t be too bad.

Match #2: Bayzler vs Moon

I wrote in my predictions that I wanted the format of this match to be different from their last TakeOver encounter and that is EXACTLY what I got. Ember looked as if she had found a way to avoid Bayzler’s ground-based offense and really did well in focusing on Shayna’s arm this time around. Shayna jamming her arm back into its socket (allegedly) by ramming it into the post then proceeding to lock Ember in the submission almost out of thin air was spectacular stuff, and even though the “babyface fights hard but passes out” thing is overdone in NXT women’s matches, Shayna looked strong as hell coming out of that.

Not a fan of Ember moving directly to RAW from that, but clearly NXT is going to try and breed the next class of girls in as quickly as they can.

Match #3: Dunne and Strong vs Authors of Pain vs Cole and O’Reilly

I’m a really huge fan of everyone involved here and I love the style and pace that they always work. Cole was essentially a non-factor, taking a double Chokeslam through a table early on from AOP, but the rest of the match was unpredictable, hard-hitting and very smooth. Kyle O’Reilly has stamina for DAYS being able to hold his own in there alone for 95% of it, but I was surprised we didn’t see more of Pete Dunne, who also tends to work long, in there.

Ultimately, it took a few seconds for the live crowd to realize “Oh my god, Strong just turned heel”, but when they did, the place lit up. Strong has needed something to reinvigorate his character since his failed attempt in War Games, so this gives him new life. He looked so happy with the reaction he got, as he should be.

Match #4: Black vs Almas

I actually liked this match a lot more watching it back on the network then I did in person. Andrade does a lot of little things that you don’t see when you’re halfway across the arena, so it’s nice to be able to go back and watch it at your leisure.

Zelina Vega’s repeated attempts at helping Andrade score the win, and the desperation she showed when each attempt failed, was a small but beautiful way to show how much of a threat Aleister is. He doesn’t need much help these days as his in-ring work is clearly the best its been in his NXT tenure, but she does absolute wonders for him. I will say, one thing that did translate in an arena setting was the striking. Both guys make it look so effortless, both giving and receiving, and, though it was brutal, it was a joy to watch.

Vega ultimately being the reason why Andrade lost the title, now that I think about it, probably wasn’t a smart move if they were going to just keep them together, but the crowd popped so hard for it so I can’t complain about a moment like that.

Match #5: Gargano vs Ciampa

Ciampa walking out with no music and taking in all the heat in the world….absolutely brilliant.

I gotta say….it had been a long few days for me and the time 10 p.m rolled around that night I was pretty shot, but the near 40 minutes of this match gave me my second or third wind. I worship the Michaels/Jericho Unsanctioned match, but these two went out there and told a completely different story in a completely different manner. The two of them, at this moment in time, are so far apart on the spectrum of heat vs insurmountable love from the fans, but were both so ruthless and daring on that night. The powerbomb spot from the apron to the exposed floor is something I will never ever forget, nor will some of those shots from the crutch, which sounded like a whip off Ciampa’s body.

I was not a fan of the knee brace causing Ciampa to tap at the end….I personally did not think it looked that painful. Had Gargano repeatedly bashed Ciampa with it then forced him to tap to the Gargano escape, then I would have gotten behind it, but they still went with it and the crowd lost their minds so what do I know?

WrestleMania 34

Preshow 

Match #1: Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal

These matches are so hard to watch live cause there’s no commentary telling you who is in it, who got eliminated and so on and so forth. Only when the ring clears out a bit does it get easier.

Ziggler stood out among the pack, as he usually does, and even though it benefits absolutely no one, maybe one day he’ll win one of these things. Speaking of winners, no one asked for a Corbin/Kane face off. Like, nobody wanted that.

Having Matt Hardy in there in the end with Corbin and Rawley was a dead giveaway and it was at that moment that I knew Rusev would not be winning later on that night. Bray Wyatt coming in with the assist was a nice touch, and I’m currently loving the two of them teaming together, even if I always have preferred Bray as a heel.

Match #2: Alexander vs Ali

This was such a good match up until the finish. Like, how do you have Alexander get his foot on the rope to evade a pinfall after taking Ali’s insane reverse splash finish, but then not have Ali do the same after taking the Lumbar Check? Yes, it leaves no doubt that there’s a definitive winner but it just didn’t sit well with me.

Which is a shame because for the entire match the two of them just performed at the highest caliber and looked like they were doing it with ease. Both guys are so young and so hungry and so naturally gifted that it just makes sense for them to be in that spot on the biggest card of the year together.

Match #3: WM Women’s Battle Royal

Really happy that the NXT girls got to showcase themselves and stake their claim in that moment. They should be proud of themselves.

The match itself was nowhere near as good or unpredictable as their Rumble was….I mean, how could it be? Becky Lynch being dumped out kind of early and Sarah Logan lasting WAY too long put a bad taste in my mouth, as did the finish. Sasha and Bayley could have very easily have had a one-on-one match on the card (maybe it’s better they didn’t after watching that AWFUL match they had on RAW), so I thought, “Ok, maybe they’ll get 5-7 minutes in the match by themselves.” Instead, they build up all that steam just to have Bayley eliminate Sasha WAY too quickly, then lose to Naomi, who I did not consider once the whole match.

Why couldn’t someone like Ruby Riot have gotten the win? All three of the final girls in there have had Mania moments….both Naomi and Bayley had one just last year, so why can’t we elevate new talent?

 

Main Card

Match #1: Balor vs Rollins vs Miz

How fitting was it that the three workhorses of the company open the show together, setting the bar? I was hoping for a little more though, especially after how good the Finn/Seth match from RAW the week before was.

The finish seemed a bit off-kilter….visually it just didn’t look very pretty, both in person on TV. And Seth really didn’t need the win, so I was put off. Finn’s “all-inclusive” thing is a really nice touch, and he’s the only one of the three who hasn’t had a Mania moment yet so I would have really liked to have seen him with his hand raised.

Match #2: Charlotte vs Asuka

The placement of this match on the card was insulting before it even started, but even more so after seeing the finish.

The finish, like the last match, just felt off to me. I know Charlotte had been working on Asuka’s leg for some of the match, but she hit a Spear, took a really long time to do anything, tried to get her in the Figure-Eight while Asuka fought back, then just locked her in it with one arm and that was that. Very strange.

Other then that, these two delivered. I actually felt like performed more on a Mania level then any other pairing on the card, so props to them.

Match #3: Mahal vs Roode vs Rusev vs Orton

This was very middle-of-the-road. I KNEW that WWE would troll the fans and have Rusev eat the pin here and that’s exactly what happened. He looked great throughout though, really absorbing the energy the fans were giving him, unlike Roode, whose first Mania match was a forgettable one. What a shame. Hopefully RAW does much better by him.

And now Jeff Hardy is champion. Wrestling is weird sometimes.

Match #4: Rousey and Angle vs Triple H and Steph

Best match on the card, by far. I fully admit that I underestimated Ronda….I think we all did, but my god did she deliver. They all did.

Ronda played the role of the fearless newcomer who would do anything to prove herself, even squaring up against Triple H with no fear. Angle, who looked much better then he did at Survivor Series, was merely an accomplice, but still played an integral role. Triple H and Steph sold it all to PERFECTION, starting the match off as the reigning overlords, confident that this “outsider” wouldn’t be able to hang, then slowly but surely, fear and outright astonishment creeped in, knowing that they were not going to be able to put Ronda down easy.

Much of Ronda’s offense was MMA based, but as she continues to learn and grow, she’ll hopefully transition into a more wrestling-based style. Her submissions fit in perfectly, but I’d like to see her adapt just a little more. But I mean, hats off to her man. She killed it.

Match #5: Bludgeon Brothers vs Usos vs New Day

I was really bummed that the TLC stipulation didn’t come to fruition, and while both the Usos and New Day did look good, they were just completely overshadowed. This was a glorified Smackdown match that was put in the WORST spot after the clinic Rousey and Co. put on just minutes prior. I had no doubt the Bludgeon Brothers would get the win, but both Usos and New Day have worked too hard the last few years to be shafted like that.

Match #6: Undertaker vs Cena

The presentation of this was absolutely brilliant.

There was a small part of me, and I’m sure a lot of others as well, that genuinely thought it wasn’t going to happen after Cena’s bit with Elias. However, that made the feeling that rushed through my body….that adrenaline, that fire, so much more intense when that gong went off and Taker did his ominous walk down to the ring. It’s mesmerizing every time and I am so grateful to have seen it in person as much as I have.

He looked mobile, he looked agile….he looked great. Could he have kept at that pace for 10-12 minutes? I don’t think so, but it was just so great to see him moving like that again. Three minutes was exactly what we needed this time around if next year they’re going to go for a Career vs Career stip.

Thank you Taker. You made me feel alive.

Match #7: Bryan and Shane vs Owens and Zayn

It didn’t hit me until Bryan was out in the ring in his gear that he was actually wrestling again. What an incredible moment.

Owens and Zayn took him out on the outside early on, then honed in on Shane. Even though Bryan most likely won’t want to be “protected”, it was a smart move. The whole thing was just building up to when he would finally get back in the ring and take both of them out on his own, and when he did, the place came unglued. He looked to be in FANTASTIC shape and looked to be very comfortable in there, so here’s to many more years for him.

And now this whole thing meant nothing, because Owens and Zayn moved to RAW with no consequences. Again, wrestling is weird.

Match #8: Jax vs Bliss

This match really convinced me that while Nia has gotten better, as shown in her work with Asuka and in the buildup to this match, she has a lot more work to do. She looked impressive as she always does in some spots, but sluggish and sloppy in others. Alexa tried to work on a limb and chop Nia down, playing the role of the vicious heel, but then when she realized what she was up against, the fear that immediately crossed her face was nothing short of brilliant. I’m happy for Nia, I just hope she learns to adapt. And quickly.

Match #9: Nakamura vs Styles

This match felt like a big deal. From the overhype of the “dream match” scenario to literal rock star entrance for Shinsuke, it felt like something big was coming. Was it up to par with what they did in Japan a few years ago? No, but was it still a great match? Absolutely.

It had been reported that AJ was dealing with some injury in the weeks leading up to Mania, which scared me because Shinsuke’s style isn’t exactly subtle and could easily aggravate any injury or make it worse. I feel like because of that, there was a bit of trepidation from both guys, and also knowing that they couldn’t just blow it out of the water if they were going to have to stretch out this feud for a few more months.

I was a bit surprised that it ended after one Styles Clash, but the post match antics were fantastic and I loved how they presented it. Does having both Asuka and Shinsuke lose make the Rumble look pointless? I could care less about that, I just worry more about how it screams loud and clear that the New Japan stigma is still lurking for both of them.

Match #10: Strowman and Nicholas vs Cesaro and Sheamus

Alright….I know I’m the minority here but I HATED this. I couldn’t even focus on the match because I was so annoyed that they could have done something really monumental with this and all we got was a scared little kid that was good for meme culture for a few days.

They’re not even DOING anything with Strowman right now so they could have made a new monster tag-team and it would have been great for a few months. Hell, Rey Mysterio was apparently in talks to work Cena and that didn’t happen so what the hell was he doing?? Like, who was REALLY happy with this outcome?

Match #11: Lesnar vs Reigns

I’m not gonna say this match was atrocious, but it wasn’t anything special. I flew my ass from New York for this thing so if you think for one second that I was going to check out of it and start throwing a beach ball around, you’re crazy, but that doesn’t mean either of those guys earned the right to have been in the main event.

Brock totally kicked his ass again, which is fine, but SIX F5’s??? That was overkill. Not even blood could save this match, as all the fans saw was something we’ve seen Brock do already and once Reigns got up and started doing what he does like he’s not currently profusely bleeding from his head, it didn’t even matter. Brock winning was shocking….I mean, who REALLY thought he was sticking around? But still, a sour end to a decent show. Nakamura/Styles would have been a much better main event choice.

mania

Music Of 2018: Quarter 1- Top 12

Posted on by nwadeblogs_

 

It’s been a slow start to the year for music. I found myself listening to a lot of artists I had never heard of before, as big releases from major players have been few and far between. With the summer quickly approaching, I imagine the landscape of radio will soon shift as it always does around this time, but for now, I can appreciate all the new names and faces I’m seeing everywhere.

———————————————–

Honorable Mentions (in no particular order):

  • Say Something- Justin Timberlake and Chris Stapleton (yes, in my eyes, it’s AND, not “featuring”, because really….Chris isn’t even trying on this and still outshines Justin in every aspect)
  • Cold Feet- Above and Beyond ft. Justine Suissa
  • Heart To Break- Kim Petras

——————————————————————-

#12: Alone- Towkio

Towkio’s debut studio release “WWW.” is average….nowhere near the level of the most recent projects by good friends Chance The Rapper and Vic Mensa, but still has a few bright moments. “Morning View” with SZA, even with its rather abrupt ending, is a standout, and the final track, “Alone”, shows more personality in four minutes then was shown on the entire record.

The first two minutes; a warped, autotune-laden prayer-like bit that could have been an interlude in itself, leads into an extended verse in which his emotions are more palpable then anywhere else on the record. He talks about hard times, every cause and effect being connected by, seemingly, a higher power, and, my favorite part, talks about being in his element; “I’m in that Earth, Wind and Fire and I’m all in my element, chemical imbalance.”

#11: Make It Rain- Shoshana Bean

Shoshana Bean’s voice is undeniable. She took over as Elphaba in “Wicked” after Idina Menzel’s run in the show came to an end back in early 2005 and was an absolute sensation. She’s since continued as a recording and touring artist, and, like many of her voice type, tried her hand in the jazz world.

Typically, jazz records consist of covers of famous jazz standards, like with Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett’s “Cheek To Cheek” or Katharine McPhee’s most recent studio release, “I Fall In Love Too Easily”. Shoshana opted for a mix between covers of standards, and, most likely due to her time working with Postmodern Jukebox, jazz arrangements of pop songs. “Make It Rain” is originally a Foy Vance song made famous by Ed Sheeran back in 2014, but Shoshana took it to church. At a run time of just over eight minutes, she lilts her way through the first half only to absolutely powerhouse her way, with ease, by the way, if you check out her live version at the Theatre at Ace Hotel, through the second half. Her strong, vibrant belts and high, controlled falsetto are second to none, and it’s an absolute wonder to listen to.

#10. I Don’t Want U Back- BØRNS

I worked retail throughout the summer of 2016, and BØRNS’ hit “Electric Love” played over the speakers in the store about 3-4 times a day if I was there long enough. This track from his new record “Blue Madonna” is great because I can actually listen to it without hearing nails on a chalkboard 😀

So yeah, he named his album “Blue Madonna”, which I absolutely adore. He definitely embraces his feminine side more, through the overall package, on this go-around, but on songs like “I Don’t Want U Back”, he doesn’t let that define him and his modernized take on 80’s soft-rock music. Accompanied by gorgeous synth-tones and a buttery snap-along groove, his clear, soothing falsetto is ever so present. He sings of a lover whose obvious signs of infidelity he tried to ignore; “I should’ve known better when you’re coming to bed at four in the morning,”, but has now come to terms with it all; “It’s sad to say, I’m glad you left. I don’t want you back.”

#9. All The Stars- Kendrick Lamar and SZA

Ok, in the grand scheme of things, is this the best song in either of Kendrick or SZA’s catalog? Absolutely not. But is it still an absolute bop that landed two of the industry’s most striking and original artists on mainstream radio? Yes. Yes it is.

It feels like a bunch of people sat around in a board room and basically said, “Keep it PG please”. As the lead single from the “Black Panther” movie, of all things, these two could have gone in a completely different route but kept it as inoffensive as possible. I’d love to see what they had cooked up on the other end of the spectrum, but maybe we’ll still get to hear it one day.

Backed by a modern mix of 80’s synth-pop and traditional hip-hop stylings, Kendrick delivers a by-the-numbers performance that still encapsulates the heart and soul of T’Challa, while SZA absolutely soars. She delivers her first huge assist on a “pop” song with a simple yet enthralling hook; “This may be the night that my dreams might let me know, all the stars are closer.”, and a verse that may be a bit hard to understand diction wise, but, even though it’s the ‘live life while you can’ mantra, reeks of domineering swag (I can’t believe I just said that) after it’s unpacked; “I just cry for no reason, I just pray for no reason. I give thanks for the days, for the hours and another way, another life breathing.”

#8. Stop That Train- AWOLNATION

I think rock music benefits the most, out of any genre really, from a drastic shift in the overall direction of a song. It has and certainly does work in rap/hip-hop, but if you  want something that you can really sense coming….something that either hits you like a truck or sings you to sleep like a lullabye, rock is your go-to.

The final track off the alternative rock bands newest studio release, “Stop That Train” is broken down into three sections, clocking in at just over six minutes. I was lured into the track, just knowing that the first section, which grazes upon some heavy vocals and instrumentation but never overstays its welcome, and the second, almost a quieter, reverb-laden transition, would lead to something big. The third and final section is an absolute monstrous piece of the puzzle that magnifies the bands efforts tenfold. Earlier in the track, singer Aaron Bruno professes; “For you I’d jump in front of a train, I’d lay in front of a bus”, but now he has second thoughts about this love affair, wanting it to end as quickly as possible. “STOP THAT TRAIN”, he roars repeatedly as the band soars behind him in a perfect storm of euphoria and anguish.

#7. Turn It Down- Skooly

There’s nothing cooler then when behind the trap skittering and the flavor of the city from which the music is coming from (Atlanta, Miami, New York….you can tell), there’s melody and instrumentation, whether its processed or not, to create a groove. Separate that particular track from the hundreds of other rap songs that come out every day. Skooly, who is currently signed under 2 Chainz, reminds me so much of August Alsina on this track, switching between a smooth R&B melody and his standard rap flow as he describes a girl who might be a little much; “Girl you know you gotta turn it down, they gon here you outside.”, but is still the shit; “Helped me move a ton, she ain’t lifted weight once. Like damn man, this b*tch might be the one.”

The autotune isn’t always terribly audible, but the moments where it’s used to smoothly transition from the rap back to a vocal line are just perfect execution. However, he has a good voice regardless.

#6. Call Out My Name- The Weeknd

Selena Gomez has now inspired the passion projects of not one, but TWO of my favorite artists. Justin Bieber’s “Journals” record from 2013, and now, at least partially, The Weeknd’s “My Dear Melancholy”. Girl gets around.

This monster of a track from the aforementioned EP is a callback to the Abel Tesfaye of old as much as it is a continuation of his recent years of mainstream glory. He samples the Fifty Shades Of Grey theme “Earned It” that earned him an Oscar nomination, while delivering an intense, raw vocal and lyric that could have easily blended in with the cuts from any of his earlier records. Typically, he’ll allude to substance abuse as a way to numb the pain, but here, he takes a different turn one; that makes him seem more human that I ever thought he could be. “I almost cut a piece of myself for your life,” he cries out. “Guess I was just another pit stop til you made up your mind.”

The raucous, distorted production on this is just mind-bending. As is Abel’s vocal, which, when accompanied by a swirling, bluesy guitar about halfway through, grows to be almost excruciating to listen to, but his pain is too palpable to be ignored. The darkness is gripping.

#5. For Those Who Patiently Endure- Lauren Auder

The final track of the young UK singers “Who Carry’s You” EP. Running at exactly six minutes, this brooding, orchestral piece that serves as a tribute to those waiting to find their true lover, is a perfect representation of Auder as an artist. While he may mumble his way through, he has a distinct, deep tone….an all-knowing vibe to his voice and character that I instantly gravitated towards. The production, which glitters and shimmers and shifts, is reminiscent of a film score, taking you on a dramatic ride through different moments in space and time.

#4. Trouble- Moon Taxi

If you had asked me five months ago if I knew who Moon Taxi was, I would have had no idea. “Trouble” is a cut from the indie/alt-rock bands newest studio release, “Let The Record Play”.

Lead singer Trevor Turndrup has such a sweet, soothing quality to his voice that is only enhanced by some really picturesque lyrical imagery; “Spell out your name on the windowsill, at the break of dawn when the world is still. The sound of nothing around us.” He talks of driving through the night, “seven hours straight”, in fact. The instrumental that dominates the back half of the track could easily serve as the soundtrack for that ride, never rising too far above the level of comfortability.

#3. Motherlove- Bea Miller

Bea Miller has come a long way since her days on the US version of the X Factor. She was so young while she was on that show, but yet her emotional connectedness to the music she was singing was always apparent. She’s an artist, and she feels things like an artist does.

She can also, apparently, express things pretty well in her own music, and in detail. This explosive, gritty track her new record “Aurora” shows Bea telling this dude, who is clearly just in it for the hookup, that he’s “desperate and full of shit” and that she’d “rather lay in bed and motherlove myself”, or, you know, masturbate, then have her heart broken just so he can get a quick fix. I’m OBSESSED with the attitude, the amount of self worth she possesses and the “HEY HEY” production in the chorus. I mean, who doesn’t love a good shouted “HEY HEY” in a pop song if it works?

If you listen to the album in context, the next song is called “I Can’t Breathe”. From the pent up frustration on one track to the vulnerability on the next…..so so cool.

#2. Make Me Feel- Janelle Monae

5 years later and I STILL listen to Janelle’s “The Electric Lady” record at least once a month, in full. In between that and her upcoming record “Dirty Computer” she appeared in both “Hidden Figures” and “Moonlight”, the latter of which won Best Picture at The Oscars. Not bad right?

She returned to the music scene with “Make Me Feel”; an instant critical smash. The slow, groovy funk, the distorted vocals and, yes, the obvious similarities to Prince’s “Kiss” all make for a fantastic combination that is so welcomed in today’s realm. Part of what makes “Kiss” such a great song is that he stuck with his falsetto for the first 2/3 of it, slowly but surely drawing you in like only he could. Then, only in the last 30-40 seconds of the song does he really wail. Janelle follows the exact same formula here, expertly using additional vocal licks to not only show some range and sensuality at the climax, the height of the track, but also to fill the space in the music itself.

#1. Getting Over You- Lauv

Featured on Lauv’s “I met you when I was 18” playlist, the track was released separately on streaming services on Valentines Day. On the playlist, of which the song sequencing is thematic, it’s the final track….a somber end to his real-life NYC college romance in which he attempts to move on but knows he never truly will.

Dubbed as “Pop’s heartbreak king” by Rolling Stone, Lauv effectively mixes his signature synth-pop sound with an honest, by-the-numbers lyric for a 20-something year-old experiencing heartbreak to keep that title intact. The hazy, dream-like production goes quite well with how he seems to be feeling; “Drowning in my coffee to wash the alcohol, out of my bloodstream.” It’s like he doesn’t want to feel anything, so he finds other ways to pour himself out.

The chorus, almost a replica of Ellie Goulding’s “Army” in terms of cadence and lack of lyrical usage, is just a continuous stream of “Getting over you, getting over you.” Maybe if he says it enough times or has enough girls in his bed, he’ll begin to forget.

gettingoveryou

WWE Predictions: WrestleMania 34

Posted on by nwadeblogs_

WrestleMania 34 comes to you LIVEEEE tonight from the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana and I’m not freaking out about it on a TakeOver level, but I am still very excited about it. I will be in attendance at the Superdome for my 8th WrestleMania, so again, if you’re in New Orleans this weekend, hit me up on Twitter @njwade_

I think we’re all kind of floored at how this card turned out to be. Not that this has been a terrible year for WWE, but if you really think about it, Jinder Mahal was WWE Champion up until November, and now we’re getting Shinsuke Nakamura vs AJ Styles for the WWE Championship. That’s pretty dope. The rest of the card isn’t too shabby either.

Having Undertaker and Daniel Bryan both wrestling on the card in the same place that they had such monumental events in their career take place just four years ago seems very fitting. It’s amazing how life works out sometimes, isn’t it?

*Disclosure: this was written prior to the announcement of the pre-show matches

Preshow 

Match #1: Alexa Bliss vs Nia Jax- RAW Women’s Championship match

Damn, they really had to kill a lot of time to get to this one didn’t they? I recall Alexa vs Nia being teased months ago but the storyline was suddenly dropped, and Nia went back to being Alexa’s lackey with no explanation.

I don’t really understand what Nia did to get herself over as much as she has, nor do I remember when it really clicked, but at some point, the live crowd got totally behind her and that was that. Her acting has improved tremendously, as shown in this program, and her in-ring work, especially against Asuka, has been pretty great.

I think it’s finally time for the face to catch up with the sneaky, petty heel and get her shine. Nia as champion will be refreshing for the division, and it’ll be interesting to see who they pair her up with going forward. But yeah, I think this’ll be a cat-and-mouse game that the crowd will get really into so yeah, looking forward to it.

Winner: Nia Jax

Match #2: Cedric Alexander vs Mustafa Ali- Cruiserweight Championship match

Enzo had no place as a champion in WWE and I’m glad he’s gone. Sorry not sorry.

This match comes as the finals of 205 Live’s Cruiserweight Championship Tournament, started by Drake Maverick (that’s a horrible name) after the belt was vacated. Though I haven’t seen all of it, the matches leading up this have all been stellar so hats off to all of the boys who killed it.

Triple H took over creative control of the show either just before or just after the tournament started, and the results are astounding. These guys are wrestling, to an extent, like they’re on the indies, and it’s a beautiful thing.

As it is Triple H is running the show, I fully expect these two to put on a clinic, but with Cedric Alexander coming out on top. I think it’s a little too late for him as they really missed out on an opportunity to make him huge when the cruiserweight division started out on RAW, while he was still hot off that incredible match with Kota Ibushi in the CWC, but hopefully this change in creative will get him back there.

Winner: Cedric Alexander

Match #3: WrestleMania Women’s Battle Royal

Good on WWE for doing the right thing and changing the name of the match. I understand why they’d want to have a match celebrating Moolah’s career, which was unprecedented, after the strides the women’s division has made in the last year, but her personal history would have made it hard to swallow, clearly for a lot of people.

The Women’s Rumble was pretty great back in January, but it consisted of a lot of moments from the ladies of the past. Not sure how much or, if any, this match will have of that, but we know for sure that every single one of the female superstars can not only hang, but can perform at an extremely high level in a match of the sort. There are only a handful of names announced for the show right now, which makes it really hard to predict anything, but if Sasha Banks and Bayley don’t have a match announced, it’d be very nice to see them as the final two. With Sasha coming out on top, and turning full-fledged heel. PLEASE.

Winner: I guess Sasha Banks but we’ll see who’s in the damn thing

Main Card 

Match #1: Cesaro and Sheamus vs Braun Strowman and ……- RAW Tag-Team Championship match

Sheamus and Cesaro have been tag champions on and off for the better part of the last year. It’s been nice for Sheamus, whose nagging injuries are well documented. I still get very afraid for him sometimes, but he seems to be conscious of his limits. The two of them are great together.

Braun Strowman has had a hell of a year and I’m sure he’s not particularly pleased about being stuck in a storyline for a title he doesn’t need, but if his partner is someone like Samoa Joe, who seems to be all cleared, or maybe even Bobby Lashley, then maybe it’ll be a fun little thing to mess with for a few months. Either way, he’s PROBABLY winning. Because if WWE really goes through all this trouble then has The Bar win cheap, I’ll be pissed.

Winners: Braun Strowman and whoever

Match #2: Randy Orton vs Rusev vs Jinder Mahal vs Bobby Roode- United States Championship match

I don’t mind this as much as most people seem to. This is definitely not pre-show fodder, so get that thought out of your head.

It’s Bobby Roode’s first WrestleMania, so that’s very exciting. There’s Jinder and Rusev, who had very different kinds of success this year, but there’s no question that the roles should have been reversed. And then there’s Randy Orton, who I have always loved and still love now, despite his occasional lack of caring. He’s great in multi-man matches, I imagine Roode will fair better in this then in that trainwreck that was the Survivor Series match and Jinder can do some things too I guess.

Winner: Rusev (can you IMAGINE!?) ((but probably Jinder just because))

Match #3: Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal

Welp, because of the documentary on Andre that aired recently, this will probably be back on the main card. Not that WWE has gone out of its way to really create buzz for the match itself, but that should be fine if they take it seriously and let the work horses work. With that mega Rumble, or whatever they’re calling it, coming up soon, don’t expect them to give us too much.

Winner: ….

Match #4: Kurt Angle and Ronda Rousey vs Triple H and Stephanie McMahon

It should be The Rock, but we can’t have everything can we?

Alright so yeah, the seeds for this were planted at WrestleMania 31. Ronda came in earlier this year and first appeared at the Rumble, and after I got over the excitement of seeing her as a WWE signee, I was very confused as to why she was smiling and slapping hands and all of that stuff. If she can get the right training, Ronda Rousey is a PERFECT heel. Get her to learn how to talk, get her to learn how to sell and maybe hit a Samoan Drop correctly and you have a guaranteed draw. There are already rumors of Ronda vs Asuka headlining next years Mania right here in New York/Jersey (I like traveling so kiss my ass WWE), and I’m almost CERTAIN that that match alone will sell that building out.

Triple H and Angle getting in there again should be interesting. The match itself is really all about getting Ronda over, so I expect Angle to get the crap kicked out of him for a while only to hot tag Ronda in and finally get her hands on Stephanie. Stephanie isn’t too shabby in the ring either, so I’m curious to see how much she’ll do and how much of it, if any, Ronda will sell.

I’d love for Ronda to be in control of Stephanie in a submission only for Triple H to hit a Pedigree (a decent one this time) on Angle and get the win. I really don’t think Ronda needs to win dramatically to be over, so that could work.

Winners: Triple H and Stephanie McMahon

Match #5: Finn Balor vs Seth Rollins vs The Miz- Intercontinental Championship match

I’m seeing Finn Balor, my current favorite in WWE, wrestle for the first time. I’m already sobbing. Dude best be walking away with that belt.

These three had a fantastic #1 contenders match back in May that I completely forgot about until the lovely people of Twitter reminded me. It doesn’t even matter that it’s been done already, because you have Miz, who has enough chemistry to carry the whole program by himself, you have Finn and Seth, who tear it up every time they’re in there together, and against anyone really, and then the Miz again, because he can also tear it up.

Seth Rollins NEEDED to get out of his tag-team title hunt with Jason Jordan and no offense to Jordan, but he does not belong on this Mania card. This is an excellent spot for him to be on right now, and I honestly don’t think he needs that belt but it’s nice to see him doing something different. Miz could EASILY go after Roman in a few months, as a high-profile world title feud is VERY necessary and earned, so Finn winning makes the most sense to me. I’m biased, but it just does. Tear it down boys.

Winner: Finn Balor

Match #6: The Usos vs The Bludgeon Brothers vs The New Day- TLC match for the Smackdown Live Tag-Team Championships

As of this writing, the TLC stipulation hasn’t been announced yet, but if the main roster writers want to counteract the absolute gem that will be the North American Championship match from TakeOver, they need to do it. The Uso’s and New Day have absolutely earned their spot on the Mania card in such a high profile match after the wars they’ve had against each other and how they’ve led a pretty thin tag division for the last year, and the Bludgeon Brothers have done well so far in their new stint.

The Uso’s have always been shafted to the preshow, but there’s no way that happens this year. I think the Bludgeon Brothers should win….I mean, WWE would be dumb not to after that insane beatdown they had them do of both teams at Fastlane, but the Uso’s will be the standout of the match. They’re finally going to be on the main card, and they’re going to show everyone watching that they deserve to be there.

Winners: The Bludgeon Brothers

Match #7: Daniel Bryan and Shane McMahon vs Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens- If Owens and Zayn win, they are rehired to Smackdown Live

Well, this is exciting isn’t it?

The writing that led up to this was pretty abysmal, and I think that that needs to be stated outright. The Owens/Shane match happened in the early fall, we are just NOW getting the payoff. Owens and Zayn have had to go back and forth from vicious heels to groveling victims who want to keep their job over and over again, all while sort of feuding and sort of not AND wrestling in a major title feud. It’s been a MESS.

The big story here is that Daniel freakin Bryan has been cleared to wrestle again. I think we all knew this would be where we’d end up, but the thought of Bryan being involved in an in-ring role was very far out there. It’s going to be a very emotional thing for a lot of people to see him back in there, myself included.

However, the stipulation is that if Owens and Zayn win, they’re rehired. So unless they’re picked up on RAW in the draft right away, then I don’t see Bryan and Shane getting a win. A Daniel Bryan/Shinsuke Nakamura feud needs to start being built for next years Mania, so Shane will need to eat the pin. Bryan needs to look as over as possible though. It’s essential, but he shouldn’t have any problems. We’ll be eating out his hands.

Winners: Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn

Match #8: Brock Lesnar vs Roman Reigns- Universal Championship match

Like this is actually going to be anything but the main event. Maybe WWE will surprise us, but I’m not very optimistic.

Brock is leaving, Roman is going nowhere. WWE has done anything they can to try and get the fans to turn on Brock and cheer Roman, and I’m sure Brock has had no quarrels about it. He’s skipped out on TV appearances, had abysmally short matches at house shows in really huge wrestling markets….not good. But then he comes back on RAW and attacks Roman in handcuffs, so I don’t know what WWE was thinking with that. He’s back in the fans good graces.

The match at Mania 31 was pretty good, but not great. Roman was still a bit too green for me at the time, but he’s been excellent all year, so I’m looking forward to the rematch much more. I know Brock has only lost two singles matches since he broke the streak at Mania 30, but as Roman didn’t do much on RAW to shift the overall feel of the match WWE is going to expect us to have watched him get his ass beat for weeks on end only for him to win on Sunday and 100% believe that it’s legitimate. Maybe they’re just relying on telling a different story during the match itself, but I don’t know how you do that when Brock is always the aggressor. I can see what they’re going to want to do, but I just hope it plays out well.

But really, thank you Brock. It’s been a pleasure watching you be a monster the last few years.

Winner: Roman Reigns

Match #9: The Undertaker vs John Cena

I stood outside the Superdome with my dad at Mania 30 and talked to a couple from the UK about this match and how I wish they had done it that year. And now it’s happening in the same venue, just four years later, when both guys have seen better days. Weird.

They went about this the wrong way. Cena’s been coming out there talking about how he wants the match because he’s lost everything else, but there should be more layers to it. Cena should realize he’s at the end of his rope, and call out Taker just so they can have the dream match that never happened. As one final hurrah for them both. But nope. Cena’s promos have been VERY good, but I’m just not huge on how we’re getting there.

I was in Orlando for Taker’s “goodbye” last year and I felt very cathartic about it. That should have been it. Hopefully he’s ready to go, as we’ve heard rumors of him training as far back as Summerslam weekend when he was apparently in the ring before doors opened at the Barclay’s Center. It’s a marquee match at this point and I’m not expecting an in-ring gem, but I mean, it’s John Cena vs The Undertaker.

Winner: The Undertaker

Match #10: Charlotte Flair vs Asuka- Smackdown Women’s Championship match

ANDDDDD I’m fangirling. Absolutely fangirling.

If you had told me three years ago that Charlotte was the best female wrestler in the company and that she was about wrestle Asuka, I would have absolutely dreaded it. Charlotte has come a LONG way since her debut days and she should be proud of herself. She mad this match a dream match all on her own.

Asuka had a slow build to being a legitimate main roster star, but she’s there now. I’ve seen some have fears about these two possibly not gelling well in the ring but I don’t understand how that’s even possible. Asuka’s style is adaptable to anyone, and Charlotte has proven time and time again that she can work a match from under or over against anyone in the company. I’m not worried about this one at all. In fact, if it main events, then I’ll be damn proud to sit there and watch it live.

Winner: Asuka

Match #11: Shinsuke Nakamura vs AJ Styles- WWE Championship match

Fangirling again.

If you know NJPW, you know what these two did a few years ago and how incredible it was. Now, Shinsuke, as a main roster competitor, might be a little reserved, but the look in his damn eyes when it was just him and Roman left in the rumble told me that if he wants to turn it on, he can turn it ON. AJ too….he’s working through an injury right now, but if he’s gonna go out there and kill himself for one match, it’ll be this one. He’s led the charge as champion for the better part of the last year and a half, so if he needs to take some time off after this, then he has earned it. I think this match is too special for both of them for them to give us less then everything they have.

The build hasn’t been stellar….I’m not a fan of the constant “friendly” interaction bs they’ve been doing, and Shinsuke’s promos are ROUGH, but the tease attack last week on Smackdown really generated interest in it for me. I know they probably don’t want to harp on the history too much, but it’s THERE, and Shinsuke should be very confident about his chances. As he should be, because he’s probably winning.

Winner: Shinsuke Nakamura

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WWE Predictions: NXT TakeOver- New Orleans

Posted on by nwadeblogs_

NXT TakeOver: New Orleans takes place this Saturday night at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana and I am absolutely FREAKING OUT about it. Just like last year, I will be in attendance for NXT’s biggest show of the year and could not be more excited about it. A transitional year for NXT wounded up being its best yet, and this card proves it. Like……just LOOK AT IT!

If you’re in New Orleans for Mania week, hit me up on Twitter @njwade_

Main Card

Match #1: The Undisputed Era (Cole and O’Reilly) vs Authors Of Pain vs Roderick Strong and Pete Dunne- Triple Threat tag-team match for the NXT Tag-Team Championships

As of this writing, Dunne and Strong are set to face Authors Of Pain in the finals of the Dusty Rhodes Tag-Team Classic this coming week on NXT, with the winners receiving an opportunity at the NXT Tag-Team Championships. Clearly, Undisputed Era are going to interfere in the match, not wanting to face either team. Regal will come out, and we know the rest.

I was personally a huge fan of the Undisputed Era/AOP match from the last TakeOver, so the addition of Strong and Dunne, who are obviously both fantastic, creates a whole new dynamic, and one that keeps it fresh. Not to mention the actual wrestling part of it, which will be superb. I’d like to think AOP are finally set for a main roster debut after Mania so I can’t see them recapturing the titles, nor can I see Strong and Dunne lasting past this gig, so expect Undisputed Era to retain. They’re not going anywhere yet.

Winners: Undisputed Era

Match #2: Ember Moon vs Shayna Baszler- NXT Women’s Championship match

At TakeOver: Philadelphia, Shayna Baszler had the Women’s Championship won. She lost the match due to a rookie mistake on her part, but I do not think that will happen again this time around. Ember Moon has carried the title over the last few months with pride, but the division is a little too thin right now for a face champion. Should Baszler win, she’ll hopefully have some fresh competition waiting for her after her program with Ember is over. A few of the girls from the Mae Young Classic have been working here and there, but do not seem ready for primetime, and with Billie Kay and Peyton Royce seemingly headed up to the main roster, there’s not many options left right now.

I hope the match will be a little more technical this time around. I wouldn’t even mind if a No DQ stipulation was added, in favor of Ember needing the extra edge to outdo her much stronger and versatile opponent. It’ll be interesting to see how they script the match after how one-sided the last one was.

Winner: Shayna Baszler

Match #3: Andrade “Cien” Almas vs Aleister Black- NXT Championship match

It’s crazy to think that with as incredible of a year Andrade Almas has had, this is easily the least interesting match on the card. Black won his title opportunity by defeating Killian Dain in a #1 contenders match on NXT, and since, it’s been a by-the-numbers build to what will EASILY by a show-stealer (they’re all going to be show-stealers, so I’m not sure what the standard is for this particular show). Black defeated Almas at last years TakeOver: Orlando, but of course, that was before Almas’ main-event push began, so that has not been touched upon.

Black HAS suffered a defeat….at the hands of Johnny Gargano in a Fatal-Four-Way match a few months back. However, in one-on-one competition, his streak is still intact, and should stay that way. Almas is a FINE champion, but something about Aleister Black leading the brand just sounds really good to me.

Winner: Aleister Black

Match #4: Velveteen Dream vs Adam Cole vs Lars Sullivan vs EC3 vs Killian Dain vs Ricochet- Ladder match for the NXT North American Championship

Well, this is a development isn’t it.

This match will determine the inaugural North American champion, which is great and all, but let’s forget about that for a second. LOOK at those NAMES, and then think about all of them on LADDERS. I’m convulsing just thinking about it.

There hasn’t been a lot of build between the competitors in this one, mostly because EC3 and Ricochet weren’t even officially on NXT until just this past week, but that’s perfectly fine. NXT’s matches barely NEED any buildup to begin with as the quality of the match is always so stellar, so just expect these six to go out there and tear it up.

Winner: Ricochet

Match #5: Johnny Gargano vs Tommaso Ciampa- Unsanctioned match

Now…..I mean…..you talk about that last match having no build, and then you get to this. The best storyline in all of WWE right now, and one that has been building for well over half a year.

We all know the history of Gargano and Ciampa as DIY, and if you don’t, then where have you been? After failing to recapture the tag titles from AOP, Ciampa finally completed his long-awaited heel turn, viciously attacking Gargano. He’d have to leave soon after with an injury, but maybe it’s better that way.

Gargano got to then wrestle his best NXT matches against Andrade Almas for the NXT Championship, but failed every time to capture it. Ciampa returned to attack his former best friend after the absolute classic of a match Gargano and Almas had at the last TakeOver, but never stated his reasoning or intentions.

After losing his job after another loss to Almas, Gargano came back for Ciampa, and now the two of them are about to absolutely slaughter each other. Remember the last time we saw an Unsanctioned match in a WWE ring and how incredible that was? Now, double the stakes and double the drama. This is what we have in front of us right now. Go get your fame boys.

Winner: Tommaso Ciampa

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