Showing posts with label Kane. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kane. Show all posts

Monday, July 13, 2015

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 7/13/15



Welcome to this week's WWE Raw preview article brought to you by Condo On The Moon. Last week's Raw took placed in the loudest city in the WWE Universe, Chicago, and this week's Raw takes place from one of the quietest crowds in the WWE Universe in Atlanta, Georgia.We're six days away from the WWE Battleground PPV! The Beast Brock Lesnar will be on tonight's show. There's alot to get to and in the fifth point in this piece I will reveal my full match card for the Battleground show.

1.) Team Bella vs. Paige 



I'm starting off with the divas this week because if nobody is going to pay any attention to it? I will. I feel that Nikki Bella has had a stellar Diva's title reign which came at the wrong time. What I mean by that is that Nikki won the Divas Championship from AJ Lee at Survivor Series and has held onto the title to the point AJ left the company and that left a bitter taste in the WWE fans mouth. Next the back and forth character changes between Nikki and her sister Brie. What side of the fence are they on? Are they really inspiring young women with they do in the ring? Or is this a spin off from their presentation on Total Divas when Nikki and Brie change moods in every other episode. I think this feud with Paige is really working with the current storyline on Total Divas with The Bellas supposedly leaving the WWE and the younger Divas on the roster are trying to position themselves into their spots once they leave. We have Team Bella which now includes Alicia Fox. Paige is all on her own and she lost to Brie Bella last week on Raw. Tonight on Raw I think Paige will take on Alicia Fox or she'll take on both Alicia and Brie in a Handicap Match in order to get an opportunity at Nikki's Divas Championship at Battleground. I think tonight the Tough Enough judge and Total Diva's gorgeous challenger will one up Team Bella.

2.) Bray Wyatt vs. Roman Reigns


In this week's Michael Cole WWE.com interview ^^ he sat down with Roman Reigns and talked about the crazy year he's had in the WWE. Roman talked about he in a way conquers everything that comes his way and he talked about how he got to where he is today. In the mean time Cole was indirectly mentioning Bray Wyatt and what happen at Money in the Bank, but Reigns continue to ignore the subject. Cole finally brought up Wyatt and Reigns said that he's a weird cat and he honestly doesn't understand why Wyatt is attacking him and what does "Anyone but You" mean. Reigns continues to say that Wyatt is not in his head, but obviously that's not the case especially with the most recent matches Reigns has been having. I think this something out of the box and once again we got the I can't handle a long feud wrestling fan-base chiming already and saying "Oh I'm tired of this feud" and there's hasn't been one match yet. I think tonight Roman should come out and call out Bray Wyatt to the ring not the smoking backstage area call him out to the ring and they brawl tonight. If that doesn't happen I think we'll see Roman Reigns & Ryback vs. Big Show & Bray Wyatt.

3.) WWE United States Championship Title Scene



The feud with John Cena and Kevin Owens has been alot of fun for not only WWE programming, but also the WWE United States Championship. John Cena and Cesaro have engage in two fantastic bouts in the past two Raw's. I was there for last week's Cena/Cesaro main event match and that's one of the best Raw matches I've ever seen in person. Also after the show where Cena put over remember folks put over Cesaro in a very emotional and motivational speech. I don't know what's going to happen with Cesaro, but it would be cool to see him added to this US Championship Match at Battleground. I think tonight Kevin Owens will fight Cesaro. I think John Cena will have US Open Challenge and once again Owens will interrupt and then Cena will be on commentary during the Owens/Cesaro match. I think for tonight it's important for once again Cena getting the best of Owens sneak attacks or if like I mention earlier if Cesaro's added to this match he needs to lay out both Owens and Cena.

4.) The Beast Invades The Dirty South



The Beast comes to Atlanta for tonight's Raw. What final statement will the former WWE Champion make before Battleground? The match is already known, but you never know with the WWE they can have a Contract Signing in the final segment of the go-home show to add more steam to a big time match like this one. How will Triple H react to Lesnar causing chaos on last week's Raw? How will Rollins convince the WWE Universe that he can beat Brock Lesnar? I think tonight Seth Rollins will fight against Neville or we'll get a rematch between him and Ryback from last week's SmackDown which I thought it was good match. Would be upset if Rollins got the best of Lesnar tonight? Or you finish with Raw with Rollins taking a little tour in Suplex City? Lot's of questions, but I think they need to hit a home run with this feud tonight.

5.) WWE Battleground 2015 Official Match Card



1.) Battleground Kickoff Match
Neville vs. Rusev

2.) WWE Tag Team Championship Match
The Prime Time Players (c) vs. The New Day

3.) Triple Threat Match for the WWE Intercontinental Championship
Ryback (c) vs. The Miz vs. Big Show

4.) Dean Ambrose vs. Kane

5.) No DQ Match
Roman Reigns vs. Bray Wyatt

6.) WWE United States Championship Match
John Cena (c) vs. Kevin Owens

7.) WWE Divas Championship Match
Nikki Bella (c) vs. Paige

8.) Randy Orton vs. Sheamus

9.) WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match
Seth Rollins (c) vs. Brock Lesnar

Hope you guys enjoy this week's Raw preview and enjoy Raw and Battleground

Check out my radio show the Pro Wrestling Experience every Wednesday from 10am-1pm CT on ChicagoLand Sports Radio on TuneIn Radio

Follow me on Twitter @JoshLopezCSR

Monday, June 29, 2015

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 6/29/15



Welcome to this week's WWE Raw preview article brought to you by Condo On The Moon. This week's Raw takes place from the nation's capital, Washington, D.C.! We're just about three weeks away from the WWE Battleground PPV. Also we're 5 days away from the "Beast in the East" Special on the WWE Network from Tokyo, Japan. Last week on Raw we found out three new matches for the Battlgeround Special Event: Ryback vs. Big Show vs. The Miz for the IC Title, New Day vs. Prime Time Players for the Tag Team Championship and Kevin Owens vs. John Cena for the US Championship. 20 days away from this big event will any more matches will be announced in these in between Raw's? Let's take a look at the five things I expect to see on tonight's Monday Night Raw.

1.) The Family is back together



Last week on Raw we saw the Authority comeback together to lay out "The Beast" Brock Lesnar. Rollins went onto SmackDown to signify that he's what he says he is and he defeated Dean Ambrose. It was announced on Saturday that tonight's main event of Raw will be: Roman Reigns & Dean Ambrose vs. Kane & Seth Rollins. Here's a fun fact for you guys. Since Kane's join the Authority he's been in 48 main events of Raw's, SmackDown's and PPV's. Here's my thing I understand that you need Rollins to focus on someone while Brock will NOT be on tonight's edition of Raw, but why are you bringing back a main event of Raw that happen not only before Payback, but also the Elimination Chamber and Money in the Bank? Joey Mercury severed three broken ribs due to the hands of Brock Lesnar we wish him a speedy recovery. Tonight for Raw I'll like to have Rollins stop harping on the Authority side of this angle. It's time for Rollins to put his focus on Brock Lesnar. We got it the family is back together. Rollins you have three weeks to give the WWE Universe a reason to believe that YOU can BEAT Brock Lesnar!!!! Bring up what happen at the Royal Rumble where YOU broke Lesnar's RIBS, Bring up WrestleMania where you stole the title away from Lesnar. Bring up that your are the architect and you Lesnar is playing your game. I believe that Bray Wyatt will disctrat Roman Reigns or even lay him out before the match starts, so I feel that Dean Ambrose will be left for nothing and Rollins takes out Ambrose for good. There's nothing for Ambrose to do here. Lay him out and write him off television for a month. Will Paul Heyman be on the show tonigth? If so talk about a great start to Raw with a in-ring promo segment with Rollins and Heyman.

2.) IC Three Way for Battleground 



I want you guys to check out this interview ^^. On my radio show I close out every single show with the weekly WWE.com interviews that Michael Cole conduct with the bevy of WWE Superstars, Divas and Legends. Reason being the #LittleThings! Alot of wrestling fans talk about lack of effective character development and not paying attention the "IWC" (Which I'm not part of nor can I stand.) Ever since Triple H turn heel at SummerSlam 2013 I've aired every single Michael Cole interviews since because that's where you get the major character development. Please check out this Big Show because towards the end he explains WHY he's still in the company and in high places. I may be in a island, but I love this feud with Ryback and Big Show. It works perfectly for both guys. Ryback is looking to take Big Show's spot and Show is still trying to show that he still matters and has a purpose in the company. Tonight I think we see one or two things. 1.) Big Show takes on Ryback in a match and 2.) Mark Henry vs. Big Show. If Ryback doesn't fight Big Show tonight maybe he competes against a guy like Bad News Barrett. As far as The Miz is concern, I'm not sure he's down in Orlando, Florida helping out with the Tough Enough show, so I don't get his purpose in this match. I'm guessing they can air a pre-tape with The Miz that can air after a Ryback or Big Show match, but he need a solid reason as to why Miz is in this match. Besides that I'm looking forward to what they do with this program tonight.

3.) John Cena vs. Kevin Owens III 



The battle of foregin languages happen last week on Raw! We found out that John Cena will be defending the United States Championship at Battleground against NXT Champion Kevin Owens. I expect both guys to be on the show tonight. One of the mistakes I felt the WWE made with last week's Raw was that neither guy were in a match. I know you don't want to overdue, but at the same time these open challenges and just in general the John Cena or Kevin Owens singles matches have been one of the best parts of Monday Night Raw in the past three months. There's nothing wrong with having the back and forth promos, but you have a three hour shows. There's no reason why these guys can have at least a 10-15 minute TV Match. Tonight I think John Cena gets the best of Kevin Owens. I think we'll see a John Cena US Open Challenge with Cesaro. And for Owens I think we may see a rematch with him and Dolph Ziggler. It's important tonight if Cena's going to do the Mr. USA thing tonight he gets the best of Owens.

4.) The Beast in the East Special on the WWE Network Preview 


Here's the card we know about now when it comes to the upcoming WWE "Beast In The East" Special on the WWE Network on 4th of July.

-NXT Championship Match~ Kevin Owens (c) vs. Finn Balor

-Brock Lesnar vs. Kofi Kingston

-John Cena & Dolph Ziggler vs. King Barrett & Kane

-Chris Jericho vs. Neville

-WWE Divas Championship Match~ Nikki Bella (c) vs. Naomi vs. Paige

-Lucha Dragons vs. New Day

I'm interested in seeing if the WWE does any or zero promotion for this event on tonight's show and also who else will be on this show? I'm sure we'll some type of promotional video package, but it would be nice to see Kevin Owens or any talk about the Special this Saturday.

5.) The New Day 



That's it enjoy the comedic nature of this amazing trio.

I hope you enjoy tonight's Raw! Try to sit back and not be a Roger Ebert wannabe. Watch the show for what it is and then make your thoughts be apparent. We effective our "expertise" dictate our moods towards a show. I promise you if you sit back and not OVER THINK every single mi-nute points of the show you'll enjoy it.

Make sure to check me out on my radio show the Pro Wrestling Experience every Wednesday from 10am-1pm CT! I will be speaking to former TNA Wrestler Gunner.

Follow me on Twitter @JoshLopezCSR

Monday, June 8, 2015

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 6/8/15



Let the good times roll! That's right welcome to this week's Raw preview article where we take a look at the week of the WWE and the five things we can expect to see on the flagship Raw. This week's Raw emanates from the home of WrestleMania XXX New Orleans, Louisiana. The Smoothie King Center will be the home to the go-home show to this Sunday's WWE Money in the Bank PPV. In this piece I'll give you four things to expect on the show and then for the fifth point I'll give you guys my predictions for this Sunday's PPV! LET'S ROCK!!!!!!!

1.) The Future is the Present



Seth Rollins is in the cross roads of his WWE World Heavyweight Championship reign. Not only does he have numerous of superstars going after his throat, but not the champ says he doesn't need the Authority anymore. In this clip above you see a great segmenet between Rollins and Ambrose from SmackDown. Take a listen to this and both Ambrose and Rollins made tremendous points. The reason I added this clip to the piece is because Ambrose and Rollins should speak for themselves. Ambrose doesn't need Reigns and Rollins doesn't the Authority. Tonight on Raw I can expect to see Roman Reigns vs. Kane due to the actions from last week's SmackDown and Dean Ambrose will take on Sheamus. For Rollins expect a intervention if you will or some type of segment where the Authority pulls off a "Seth Rollins" appreciation night.

2.) Will the Prime Time Players cash in on those Million of Dollars?

Darren Young and Titus O'Neil have had an interesting journey in their 5-6 years with WWE. Both stars came from the FCW Developmental System and the first couple seasons of NXT. Both Darren and Titus have had their run as rivals and as a entertaining tag team starting in 2012. Prime Time Players have always been one of those tag teams where they stellar on the mic and everybody loves this team whether their faces or heels, but since the inception of this team PTP has never won a WWE Tag Team Championship. PTP defeated Lucha Dragons and The Ascension in a number one contender's match on SmackDown. PTP will take on The New Day at Money in the Bank for the WWF Tag Team Championship. I love this tag team. I also love The New Day, so whether PTP wins on Sunday or not, I just wish that this feud will continue and Darren and Titus will get their moment to shine at the end of the day.

3.) Change in the Divas Division? Bark and No Substance 


We've spent about seven months going on diabtribes and crying on social media about "Give Divas A Chance and NXT this and that", but here's a reality check for all of you guys. Doesn't matter who you bring up from NXT the matter of the fact is this. There's no substance in a division that's never been put in a higher degree. Even when you had the girls from the Ruthless Aggression Era having stellar matches and RARE main event match, but here's my thing. Was those divas doing the stuff the divas were doing in NXT? Sorry but to be honest here Trish and Lita are not the only great iconic women's wrestlers from that generation. It's a miscarage of justice to not mention the work of girls like Victoria, Molly Holly, Mickie James, Michelle McCool, Melina, Beth Phoenix, Eve Torres and Alicia Fox. Paige has seemed to take on the role that AJ protray before she retired and here's the thing. Paige says that she's tired of the Bella Twins and there's a time for a change. I can see Paige vs. Brie Bella for Raw tonight and at Money in the Bank Nikki Bella will defend the Divas Championship against Paige.

4.) Kevin Owens vs. John Cena II and Battle of Epic Promos III 


There's not much that needs to be said about this storyline it really speaks to itself. James and Walder talked about how much this Owens/Cena rivalry is really bringing the reality in the Reality Era. Kevin Owens had his first NXT Championship Open Challenge against Zack Ryder on SmackDown. We know that this feud has became personal between Cena and Owens and they'll be going to war at Money in the Bank. Will this match become a No DQ type of match or do we have the same type of match we saw at Elimination Chamber? For tonight I think we can see another NXT or US Open Challenge. Owens vs. Neville for the NXT Championship or John Cena vs. Luke Harper for the United States Championship. You'll know who will win this match by who's standing tall by the end of Raw tonight.

5.) Money in the Bank 2015 Predictions 

1.) WWE Intercontinental Championship Match
Ryback (c) beats Big Show

2.) WWE Tag Team Championship Match
Prime Time Players beats The New Day (c)

3.) WWE Divas Championship Match
Nikki Bella (c) beats Paige

4.) Kevin Owens beats John Cena

5.) WWE World Heavyweight Championship Contract Money in the Bank
Roman Reigns beats Kane, Sheamus, Neville, Kofi Kingston, Dolph Ziggler and Randy Orton

6.) WWE World Heavyweight Championship Ladder Match
Seth Rollins (c) beats Dean Ambrose


Hope you guys enjoy this week's Raw preview. I hope you guys enjoy Money in the Bank

You can follow me on Twitter @JoshLopezCSR

Please check out my radio show the "Pro Wrestling Experience" every Wednesday from 10am-1pm CT on "ChicagoLand Sports Radio" on TuneInRadio.

Monday, June 1, 2015

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 6/1/15



Hello ladies and gentlemen! Welcome to this week's Raw preview article. We're coming off the heels of a entertaining Elimination Chamber special on the WWE Network. I'll give you my thoughts on the Chamber show in a seperate section. This week's Raw comes from the home of the 2007 Royal Rumble and 2011 Vengeance: San Antonio, Texas. We begin the road to the annual Money in the Bank PPV, always fun entertaining times when it comes to Money in the Bank season. We got alot to cover on here, so here's the five things you can expect on the Chamber Fallout edition of WWE Monday Night Raw.

WWE Elimination Chamber Thoughts: 

I want to prefence my comments by first saying that the Corpus Chirsti crowd was absolutely terrible last night and when WWE are considering to add on specials for the Network they need to consider the places and venues you decide to bring these special events to. I enjoyed the Tag Team Chamber match and I thought it was a coming out party for The Ascension and PTP. New Day are great heels and they continue to outhink everybody and is their any business relationship between The New Day and The Authority. I thought the Divas Championship Match was solid, but once again a terrible crowd could give two fig newtons about that match. I thought they made the right decision to have Nikki Bella retain the Divas Championship. I loved the Kevin Owens and John Cena match! Couldn't be happier for Kevin and he got the spotlight he deserved and to say that WWE doesn't give guys from the indy's or ROH a chance is absolute blasphemy. I enjoyed the match between Neville/Bo Dallas even thought they had to follow that Owens/Cena match. I thought the IC Chamber Match was kind of disappointing, but the crowd didn't do them no favors. Would have liked that particular Chamber to have more meaningful spots instead going into sequences just to fill time. I'm happy that Ryback won the IC Championship. Despite common "reputation" that comes with "The Big Guy" I think Ryback is a very underrated performer. Finally the World Heavyweight Championship was what it was. I enjoyed the match don't get wrong it was awesome, but you needed to entice the viewers to get the Network for the month of June and this Reigns and Ambrose thing is too buddy buddy. I thought the Chamber wasn't a A+ show, but it was a good show and I enjoyed it despite another round of terrible commentary and a inept crowd.

2.) WWE Money in the Bank Ladder Match + Raw Matches 

Last night at the Elimination Chamber we found out the following particpants that will be in this year's Money in the Bank Ladder Match. We have Roman Reigns, Randy Orton, Sheamus, Dolph Ziggler, Neville and Kofi Kingston. If they were going to add more superstars to this match they would've done it tonight. For Raw tonight I think we'll see these three matches. Randy Orton vs. Neville, Dolph Ziggler vs Kofi Kingston and Roman Reigns vs. Sheamus.


3.) WWE World Title Picture



Last night at the Chamber, Ambrose defeated Rollins by DQ! Ambrose alongside Roman Reigns stole the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Don't be surprised to see not only Rollins, but the entire Authority to start off Raw and will address Roman Reigns and Dean Ambrose. I can see The Authority try to get Roman Reigns out of the Money in the Bank Ladder Match. Is the beef between Kane and Seth Rollins over with? Lot's of questions, but do you have another Dean Ambrose/Seth Rollins match just for another non-finish. The rivalry of non-finishes continues. For a curveball I think Reigns is turning tonight. You have Kane, Rollins and JJ vs. Dean Ambrose in a No DQ Match. Reigns will come out to help Ambrose and bamb spear Ambrose to close off Raw tonight.

4.) Kevin Owens vs. John Cena II 



We know that the rematch is set for the Money in the Bank PPV! Owens is up 1-0! For tonight and for the upcoming Raw's before MITB. I say let Owens go out there and run his mouth towards Cena. I say you can still do the US Open Challenge. I think John Cena will take on The Miz in the US Open Challenge tonight. You can still have Owens lay out Cena if you want, or to bring in doubt you can see Cena get the best of Owens in these brawls. I'm very interested in seeing what they do with this program and what will be John Cena's reaction to losing to Kevin Owens cleanly. Kevin Owens is best for business.

5.) Mid-Card Title Programs heading into Money in the Bank 



I think we'll see a fatal four way match for the WWE Tag Team Championship at Money in the Bank with: The New Day vs. Prime Time Players vs. Lucha Dragons vs. Tyson Kidd & Cesaro. I think we'll see Ryback vs. Bad News Barrett, we may see another triple threat match for the Divas Championship. Could we have a mid-card ladder match at Money in the Bank for a mid-card title? Interesting time to be a fan of the WWE!


I hope you guys enjoy this week's Raw preview. You can follow me on Twitter @JoshLopezCSR

Hope you guys enjoy Raw.

Monday, May 25, 2015

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 5/25/15



Happy Memorial Day! Just as you think things in wrestling are slowing down after WrestleMania, you couldn't be more wrong. We just had Payback and the NXT Takeover Special last week. This Sunday is the Elimination Chamber on the WWE Network and coming up soon we'll be the Money in the Bank PPV! Lot's and lot's to get to and in this piece. I'll give you my thoughts on the current storylines heading towards the Elimination Chamber PPV + My predictions for the event and the five things you can expect on the go-home show for the Chamber on tonight's WWE Monday Night Raw from Nassau Coliseum in Long Island, New York.

1.) The WWE Tag Team Chamber Match 

Last week on Raw we found out the following participants that will compete in the very first tag team elimination chamber match are: The New Day, The Ascension, The Lucha Dragons, Los Matadores, The Prime Time Players and Tyson Kidd & Cesaro. If you guys missed SmackDown this past Thursday? You missed a pretty sweet four corners tag team with Los Matadores, Lucha Dragons, The Ascension and Kidd & Cesaro. This match is so intruging since it's a first of it's kind and to think about 12 people in one chamber match. ALL HELL IS GOING TO BREAK LOOSE! I think for tonight we see probably a rematch from SmackDown or we'll see a massive 12 men tag team match with The Lucha Dragons tagging up with Kidd & Cesaro + Prime Time Players vs. The New Day, Los Matadores and The Ascension. You can even do a match between the Prime Time Players and The New Day. Many options, but very interested in seeing what they do for the build up for this tag team chamber match.

2.) Vacant IC Championship Chamber Match + WWE Divas Title Feud

As we move from one chamber match to another, we move to a division that's been in a state of flux in the past two months. With Daniel Bryan relinquishing the Intercontinental Championship. Who's going to be the guy to take Bryan's spot? We know that Dolph Ziggler, Rusev, Bad News Barrett, Ryback, Sheamus and R-Truth are in this Chamber Match. One of the major angles that came out of last week's Raw was the split between Rusev and Lana and this sudden pairing of Lana & Dolph Ziggler. Obviously it seemed like a lot of people didn't like this decision, but I can't judge a whole storyline off of one week of programming. For tonights Raw I think we see three matches. Ryback vs. Bad News Barrett, Sheamus vs. Dolph Ziggler and Rusev vs. R-Truth. Or you can do Rusev vs. Ziggler then you see a tag team match with Bad News Barrett & Sheamus vs. Ryback & R-Truth. Another cool thing that happen on Raw last week was the return of Paige. We found out that at the Elimination Chamber, Nikki Bella will be defending her WWE Divas Championship in a triple threat match with Naomi and Paige. Last week on SmackDown we saw a really good divas talking segment which I felt really helped out this feud.



3.) Owens vs. Cena I 

It's been one of the biggest WWE news stories of the week! Kevin Owens made his WWE Raw "Debut" last week and laid out United States Champion John Cena. We also found out that the NXT Champion will be taking on John Cena this Sunday at the Elimination Chamber. It's not known as of now if the US Title will be on the line, so many differents ways you can go with this match. As much as it cool to see Owens be part of this show on Sunday, I'll like to remind everybody that he's not going to be part of the main roster after this show. I think this is going to be a one off appearance. Also like to remind everybody to be careful what they wish for. Owens and Cena will be a awesome match, but here's the question? Do you really think that Owens is going to beat Cena? Is John Cena "burying" a talent if Owens loses this match? Tonight's Raw is in Long Island and maybe this won't happen, but I think it's a good idea. So the US Open Challenge has been on fire these past two months and with it being at Nassau Coliseum what a better way to keep the momentum going with Zack Ryder accepting John Cena's challenge and while Ryder is walking down the steps you have Owens come out and lay out Zack Ryder! If Owens wins at the Chamber Cena will get the best of him on Raw tonight.

4.) Dean Ambrose vs. Seth Rollins 

After threatening Seth Rollins last Monday on Raw and forcing The Authority to grant him a WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match against The Architect at WWE Elimination Chamber, Dean Ambrose succumbed to the numbers game as Kane, Rollins and J&J Security brutally attacked Ambrose. Putting an exclamation point on the carnage, Rollins hit Ambrose with Triple H’s signature Pedigree. Will this feud continue after the Chamber? That remains to be seen, but with what happen on Raw and then the continued issues Roman Reigns has with the Authority. I just wouldn't be surprised if we see that Shield triple threat match quicker then anybody expected it to be. I expect the deck to obviously be stacked against Dean Ambrose, but I think it's safe to say that Rollins will be walking out champion this Sunday. If Rollins gets the best out of Ambrose then there might be a chance, but I think this match was put on the Chamber Card to appease fans give them hope that Ambrose will be the WWE World Heavyweight Champion. 

5.) WWE Chamber 2015 Predictions 

- I see the New Day somehow retaining the Tag Team Titles over the Lucha Dragons, The Ascension, Matadores, PTP and Kidd/Cesaro 

- I see Sheamus winning the IC Chamber Match.

- I see Nikki somehow retain the Divas Championship 

- I see John Cena beating Kevin Owens 

- I see Rollins once again get the best of Dean Ambrose 


I hope you guys enjoy this week's Raw preview. Enjoy your Memorial Day. Enjoy Raw and the Chamber. 

You can follow me on Twitter @JoshLopezCSR 

Please check out my radio show the Pro Wrestling Experience every Wednesday from 10am-1pm CT on Chicagolandsportsradio.com 

Monday, May 18, 2015

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 5/18/15



Oh Yeah Brother! Welcome to this week's WWE Monday Night Raw Preview brought to you by Condo On The Moon my name is Joshua Lopez. Lot's and lot's to get to because we're just coming off the heels of the WWE Payback PPV, we got the NXT Takeover Special coming up this Wednesday and Elimination Chamber returns in 13 days. In this piece I'll give you my thoughts on the WWE Payback PPV from Baltimore. I'll also talk about who will be in the two Elimination Chambers Matches and where does John Cena and Seth Rollins go from here? Here's five things to expect on the WWE Payback Fallout edition of WWE Monday Night Raw.

1.) WWE Payback Fallout + Thoughts 

Well I enjoyed Payback last night. I thought overall the show surpass expectations and with the fact it only had a three week set up I thought the payoff for Payback was well done. Some rapid fire thoughts.

-I don't know why R-Truth/Stardust was added to the pre-show? What's next for Cody?

-I don't think The Meta Powers will last long.

-I loved the opener from Sheamus and Dolph Ziggler very physical opener these guys have amazing chemistry.

-Once again the tag team championship match delivered. I never get tire of seeing The New Day vs. Tyson Kidd & Cesaro. Very interested in seeing how they set up this tag team Elimination Chamber Match.

-I loved the slugfest between Bray Wyatt and Ryback. Way better match than I thought it was going to be. I like both guys and even though there wasn't any reasonable "storyline" behind this feud I enjoyed the match it had a nice old-school flare to it.

-Cena and Rusev capped off their feud in high fashion. Entertaining and physical I Quit Match.

-I thought the Divas Tag Team Match wasn't that bad it's just their positioning on the PPV is always after a match that the crowd absolutely loved and they were burnt out.

-Neville/Barrett was solid I wished it had more time, plus with the IC Chamber Match coming up soon I understood the countout finish and neither guy was negatively effected.

-I loved the main event! Glad we got Kane's decision out of the way. I thought Roman and Dean stood out the most in this match. Rollins is a tremendous heel. Randy Orton once again shining on a major stage, The Shield's semi tease reunion was nice and the crowd was hot for that. I didn't mind the finish cause Rollins is part of The Authority and even with the fact that he can't use the Curb Stomp that doesn't mean he can't use the Pedigree or a RKO or even a Chokeslam. Rollins was the right guy to win this match and it was one of the better Fatal Four Way that i've seen.


2.) Elimination Chamber Match for the Vacant Intercontinental Championship 

We're just about 13 days away from the Elimination Chamber PPV. We know that for the first time since 2012 we'll have two Elimination Chamber matches and one of them will be for the vacated Intercontinental Championship. I'm firguing for tonight there will be a series of Elimination Chamber Qualifying Matches. I can see Bad News Barrett, Sheamus, Neville, Dolph Ziggler, Ryback and Bray Wyatt added to this Chamber Match. Less is more, but at the same time I think it would be in the best interest for this Wyatt/Ryback feud to be put in place in that Chamber Match. If Ryback has broken ribs that's rather unfortunate. At the same time don't be surprise if guys like Stardust or R-Truth will be added to the Chamber Match. Both Stardust and Truth have experience in the Chamber Match.

3.) Elimination Chamber Match for the WWE Tag Team Championship

We found out last night the New Day will be defending their WWE Tag Team Championships inside the Elimination Chamber. I have absolutely no idea what will be set up for this particular Chamber and I LOVE IT! There's so many options here and that what's make this Chamber very very interesting. Obviously if we're going to do six teams I'll list i here. Kidd/Cesaro, The Prime Time Players, Lucha Dragons, Harper & Rowan and The Ascension. Either way this could be the best thing for the tag division not only are these teams are getting opportunity, but their are being showcased in one of the most popular matches in the WWE, so I'm very interested to see what they do tonight on Raw with the set up for this Chamber Match.

4.) What's next for John Cena? 

I really enjoyed the Rusev and John Cena feud and now that it's over; What's next for John Cena? We have 13 days before Elimination Chamber arrives. The John Cena US Open Challenge has been awesome. Here's a idea. I know that this will be out of left field, but it works since there's only two weeks to setup the PPV and I think it would be "best for business" to have a John Cena US Open Challenge at the Chamber. It brings anticipation for the PPV and the opens up the window for countless superstars or maybe even returning superstars to take on Cena at the Elimination Chamber. For tonight I think we'll see John Cena vs Luke Harper or Dolph Ziggler.

5.) What's next for Seth Rollins?

Another PPV and Seth Rollins is still your WWE World Heavyweight Champion! It was "reported" that Rollins will be defending his world championship at the Chamber, but it's not in the Chamber match. I would be shocked if were swerved and the championship is defended in the Chamber, but coming out of this Fatal Four Way match. Where does WWE go with this World Title Picture? I think it would be too soon to do the Shield triple threat match ESPECIALLY with a free month of the Network in May. That match should be not be FREE it has money written all over it. Orton tooked the pin last night, so I think he may be done in this world title picture for now. I'm going to give you guys three options for Seth Rollins at Elimination Chamber. Will Triple H talk about Rollins using the pedigree? For Raw tonight expect ALOT of gloating and trolling in this opening segment.

-Seth Rollins vs. Dean Ambrose

-Seth Rollins vs. Roman Reigns

-Seth Rollins vs. Kane

I hope you guys enjoyed this week's RAW preview article.

Raw is in Richmond, Virginia and it's a old-school NWA Territory, so don't be surprised if the crowd is flat tonight.

You can follow me on Twitter @JoshLopezCSR

Follow us on Twitter @CondoOnTheMoon and check out our most recent podcast.

Monday, May 4, 2015

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 5/4/15




Welcome to this week's Monday Night Raw preview brought to you by Condo On The Moon. We're on the fast road towards the third annual WWE Payback PPV which is taking place in Baltimore on May 17th. As things are getting crazy in the city of Baltimore the same can be said for the WWE right now. Last week found out two major main events for this year's Payback PPV. There's still issues withthin the Authority. Bray Wyatt finally revealed who he was speaking about. We have a new King of the Ring Winner. Let's take a look at the five things you can expect to see on tonight's WWE Monday Night Raw from Montreal, Canada.

1.) Kane & Seth Rollins Issues + Triple Threat Match at WWE Payback


Ever since WrestleMania has come to an end, Kane and Seth Rollins have been arguing on every single edition of Monday Night Raw. Kane and Rollins have interwine with each other to the point Kane played a pivotal part in Seth Rollins retaining the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at Extreme Rules. Check out the clip above this is a interview that Kane conducted with Michael Cole and he spoke candidly about Rollins. Last week on Raw we saw Kane & Rollins vs. Reigns & Orton and earlier on the show Kane revealed that the WWE Universe would have the opportunity to decide with match Rollins would have at WWE Payback. We found out that Rollins will be in a triple threat match with Roman Reigns and Randy Orton. Fun fact this will be the third straight year that Rollins, Orton and Reigns will be in the same match together at a WWE Payback PPV. Tonight on Raw I can possibly either Kane vs. Randy Orton and then Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins OR you can see Roman Reigns & Randy Orton vs. Kane, Rollins and JJ Security. I think it will be important to have either Rollins or Orton go off air on top looking strong.

2.) John Cena vs. Rusev "I Quit" Match 



In recent history John Cena has never loss a "I Quit" Match and obviously it's seems like Cena will beat Rusev and once again retain the US Championship at WWE Payback. Raw is in Montreal this week and I'm not saying it's official or anything, but it would be something that would really help this feud out. I say while Cena goes out and issues his open challenge you have Bret "The Hitman" Hart come out and talk to John about how Rusev is on a road rage and you need to be concern about him. Rusev comes he and Cena get into a brawl. Rusev lays out Bret Hart with the Accolade. Bret Hart and John Cena on screen have been close friends for years and what a better way to get HEAT on Rusev then layout the Canadian hero on Monday Night Raw.

3.) Bray Wyatt vs. Ryback + What's next for Dean Ambrose?

Usually when a new feud starts with stars from the main roster they usually have the "first" match on Raw, so that's why I feel we'll see Ryback vs. Bray Wyatt on Raw tonight. As much as I like the backstage promos from Wyatt it could be really hard to understand what he says. I rather see him cut a promo with Ryback in the ring and let us know why your going after Ryback. Is it because he bullied your brother? Is their a new family? Did Ryback do you wrong? Lots of questions, but that's what intrigues me about that feud you don't have the answer and we'll see if this is a one off at Payback or goes longer after that. What's next for Dean Ambrose were just about 7 weeks away from the Money in the Bank PPV and Ambrose is one of those guys who's looking to find his way back to the main event scene in the WWE. I see Ambrose continuing his feud with Harper and they'll have another hardcore match at Payback and Ambrose will move on forward to the next big thing.

4.) King Bad News Barrett 



Bad News Barrett became the first King of the Ring winner in 5 years. I'm very interested in seeing where this King gimmick goes with Bad News Barrett. It could be some epic heel stuff, but here's the question. What the hell is going on with Daniel Bryan? We got barely a update from Brie Bella on last week's Raw, but we don't even know what the injury is now. Barrett is entitled to a championship rematch with Daniel Bryan he didn't get the match at Extreme Rules. I can see Barrett declare that he wants his rematch at Payback and if he doesn't get it he'll be declared the new Intercontinental Champion. In the mean time I think there's still weight in having a solid mid-card feud with Neville. I can see on Raw tonight you have Dolph Ziggler & Neville vs. Sheamus & King Bad News Barrett.

5.) WWE Payback 2015 Match Card 

1.) Triple Threat Match for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship
Seth Rollins (c) vs. Roman Reigns vs. Randy Orton

2.) I Quit Match for the WWE United States Championship
John Cena (c) vs. Rusev w/Lana

3.) Vacant WWE Intercontinental Championship Match
King Bad News Barrett vs. Neville

4.) No Holds Barred Match
Sheamus vs. Dolph Ziggler

5.) WWE Tag Team Championship Match
The New Day (c) vs. Tyson Kidd & Cesaro

6.) Bray Wyatt vs. Ryback

7.) Tables or Stretcher Match
Dean Ambrose vs. Luke Harper

8.) WWE Divas Championship Match
Nikki Bella (c) vs. Naomi

9.) WWE Payback Kickoff Match #1 Contenders Match for the WWE Tag Team Championship
The Prime Time Players vs. Lucha Dragons.


I hope you guys enjoyed this week's Raw preview. I hope you enjoy Raw.

You can follow me on Twitter @JoshLopezCSR

Follow the site @CondoOnTheMoon

Check out my show the Pro Wrestling Experience every Wednesday from 10am-1pm CT!

prowrestlingexperience.weebly.com

Monday, April 27, 2015

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 4/27/15



Welcome to this week's WWE Monday Night Raw preview. For those who didn't know I go to attend the Extreme Rules PPV last night in Chicago. I had a great time and I will talk about the live event experience at the PPV. Most of our fans shouldn't be suprised that James hated the PPV if you listen to last week's podcast you already knew this was going to happen. I happen to enjoy the PPV and I'll explain why and I'll also talk about what we can expect to see at the WWE Payback PPV which is coming up pretty soon. Here's five things you can expect on the Extreme Rules Fallout edition of WWE Monday Night Raw.

1.) Extreme Rules Fallout + Review 

I've been to good to historic PPV's at the Allstate Arena and I have been to disappointing PPV's at that same building. I stood off social media yesterday, so I can enjoy the show as a fan. Never said I was a expert I'm just a fan. I saw alot of people say that the PPV felt like a Raw and it was a disappointing PPV. I watched the show back on the Network fully both the kickoff show and the PPV. Being there in person I had a blast it was one of the better PPV experiences I had at the Allstate Arena. Loved the Neville/Barrett Match, The Street Fight was fun it was everything I expected it to be with a added bonus of them actually driving out of the arena, I loved the Tag Team Championship Match was surprised they won the title, but they're doing really good stuff as heels, I thought the Ziggler/Sheamus match was solid wish it had more time, but I was surprised that Ziggler picked up the victory, but once again Sheamus wins as heel of the night. I thought the Russian Chain Match was kind of clunky and disappointing that was probably one of the things I didn't enjoy about the PPV. The Divas match was okay, but there's many question marks with this Divas Division and I don't know who to cheer and it's time to bring in new Divas. I was really happy for Roman Reigns, Everybody said oh this was the "Last Man Awake" Match, but Big Show and Roman Reigns had the best match of the show. The Chicago crowd never disappoints doesn't matter what's on the card it makes the show alot more enjoyable because Chicago is not a "SMART" town it's a city that enjoys wrestling and they want to be there to have a good time. The main event was good I wouldn't call it great, but it served it's purpose and Rollins retain and I think this will be the beginning of the end of The Authority. Overall I had a good time at the PPV and was it the best one I've went to no, but it was one of the better ones I've went to and I don't regret going. I would give this show a B+.


2.) John Cena vs Rusev IV  

We're three weeks away from the WWE Payback PPV from Baltimore, Maryland which is another old-school wrestling town which will help the WWE in this PPV. You have three weeks before that show and I don't think that there will be much change as far as major feuds heading this PPV. I think we'll see a fair amount of rematches from this PPV on that PPV. We found out last night that John Cena will be defending his United States Championship against Rusev at Payback in a I Quit Match. Only problem I have with this match is that the I Quit match should have been the stipulation for their Extreme Rules Match. There's only way to go with this feud for Rusev and Cena as we head towards the PPV and that's just have Rusev come out and beat the crap out of Cena on every single Raw befor e the PPV because right now it's seems really obvious that Cena will not say "I Quit". As far as tonight is concern, I think that John Cena will defend the United States Championship against maybe Harper, Sheamus, or maybe a surprise pick in Neville.

3.) The Authority Issues

I think as we are on the road to WrestleMania 32 we'll be seeing the demise of The Authority. Obviously the Authority storyline will be dominating these Raw's during the summer it what it is. There was controversary with the Seth Rollins and Randy Orton Cage Match. There will be more issues with Kane and Seth Rollins. Will this time for Payback Kane will be the special guest referee? Will Kane will be inserted in this title picture and it would be a three way for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship? Last night we found out that the King of the Ring tournament will be back and it's seem that we'll be having the first round tournament matches on Raw tonight. What will be coming out of this tournament? Will the winner get an opportunity to face the WWE World Champion at Money in the Bank or Battleground? Lot's of questions, but that's what makes tonight's Raw very interesting not only for the fallout of the PPV, but also what we can expect to see for the world title picture during the summer. Expect a lot of bickering and shoving and pushing to start off Raw tonight, just for warning you.


4.) Divas Title Picture and WWE Tag Team Division's Future

Want to make this point brief, but it's obvious that both of these divisions has it's issues and instead of constantly barbing on our problems on it. How about we find a solution? I may be the only person on this site that doesn't always harp on the negatives all the time. It's time for the WWE to bring up a couple divas from NXT. Nikki Bella has been doing a good job as Divas Champion and she's not getting the respect she deserves. There's way too many heels in this Divas Division and it's heel's we don't care about and that's the problem. There's no reason to have Paige shooting a movie while the Divas Division is in a state of flux with AJ's retirement. I think we'll get another rematch with Nikki and Naomi for Payback, but we need to find out on Raw tonight what roles are these ladies protraying. Tonight I think we see Brie Bella vs. Naomi. The tag team division is in a interesting place as well because we got new Tag Team Champions who've been doing a stellar job as heel's recently. The Prime Time Players, Kidd/Cesaro and Lucha Dragons have doing a stellar job as well. If there's guys on the roster who are lost in the shuffle and are wrestling on Superstars and Main Event each week find somebody on the roster that you have chemistry with and become a tag team. The more teams that are join together the better you get with fresh matches on Raw and SmackDown. I think you can get a couple of good months with this New Day and Kidd/Cesaro feud, but sooner or later there's going to be alot of tag team turmoil matches for the Tag Team Championship until one of these tag teams standout from the pack.


5.) Payback Mid-Card

Could this King of the Ring tournament be used for the Intercontinental Championship? I don't know what's up with Daniel Bryan. Bryan gets injured so much and it's really unfortunate, but what know for the second straight Payback PPV Bryan has to be stripped out of the title? If not I think we see Bryan vs. Barrett at Payback. I think it would be cool to see a number one contenders match for the IC Title with Neville, Ambrose and Harper. I think we'll see Sheamus and Ziggler and I don't have a problem with that. Also if Roman and Big Show have a rematch will be this the retirement match for Big Show? I don't know who Bray Wyatt is talking about. The rumors are is that Bray will be feuding with Ryback I'm down for that actually because I like both of those guys and with any Wyatt feud always brings a sense of good character developement for his opponents. The mid-card will be similar to Extreme Rules, but it should have some solid matches in between and that's all i'm asking for when it comes to these in between summer PPV's.


I hope you guys enjoy this week's Raw Preview.

You can follow me on Twitter @JoshLopezCSR

Enjoy Raw!

Monday, April 20, 2015

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night 4/20/15



Hello all! Welcome to this week's WWE Monday Night Raw Preview article brought to you by Condo On The Moon. We're 6 days away from the Extreme Rules PPV in Chicago, Illinois. Tonight is the go home show to the annual hardcore PPV and the WWE is back from a large European Tour. Raw emanates from Albany, New York which has been a major city for the WWE throughout it's history. I'll give you five things that you can look forward to seeing on the show tonight and also I give my thoughts on the current feuds heading towards Extreme Rules and I will propose my final card for the PPV and make my predictions. James & Walder got you covered for a full PPV preview this Friday and hope you guys enjoy the piece.

1.) Rollins vs. Orton + Big Show vs. Roman Reigns 

I decided to mix these two matches together just due to the fact they all intertwines with each other and each match has a Authority member represented in the bouts. We found out on Raw last week that Seth Rollins will defend his WWE World Heavyweight Championship against Randy Orton at Extreme Rules in a Steel Cage Match with a added bonus, the RKO finisher is BANED! I thought the WWE did a good job setting up these match for the PPV. Less is more you don't need a super complex drama storyline for this particular match it writes itself. On SmackDown we found out that Roman Reigns will take on The World's Largest Athlete Big Show in a Last Man Standing Match. I know that alot of people will give two fig newtons about the Big Show/Reigns. The stipulation makes sense to finally put this dreaded feud to an end. It's going to be interesting to see where all these four guys go after the PPV this Sunday. Last week Kane was extremely embarrassed by Seth Rollins and there seem's to be a rumbling that Kane will turn his back on The Authority. The Authority is back on Raw tonight and we'll see how Triple H handles the recent issues between Kane and Seth Rollins. Tonight in good ol The Authority fashion you'll see Randy Orton & Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins, Kane and Big Show.

2.) John Cena vs. Rusev in a Russian Chain Match 

The John Cena's United States Championship Open Challenge has been a delightful addition to the weekly WWE Monday Night Raw programming. I'm not a fan of the goody good shoes John Cena, I was a fan of the heel John Cena and I do have a tremendous amount of respect for him. Having John Cena as the United States Champion has made that particular championship the most relevant it's been since the WCW days. Last week on Raw we saw John Cena vs. Bad News Barrett in a really good back and forth physical match in London. We found out that John Cena will defend his title against the former champion Rusev at Extreme Rules in a Russian Chain Match. Usually chain matches it's your standard chain or bull rope match where you drag your opponent around four turn buckles to pick up victory. I think this is a interesting stipulation with of both these guys tremendous strength and I think this will be the most physical match of the show. Tonight for the open challenge I think we see John Cena vs. Luke Harper or Dolph Ziggler. Rusev got the advantage on John Cena last week. Whoever is standing tall on tonight's show will be the United States Champion at Extreme Rules.

3.) Triple H Announcement 



For the first time since WrestleMania 31, WWE COO Triple H makes his return to WWE Programming. If you're not in the know, Triple H is the executive vice president of talent relations for the WWE and is the man behind NXT and the founder of the WWE Performance Center. With the recent of announcement of the popular show "Tough Enough" The Game will make an announcement on the show. Now what will be in that announcement, an announcement on a date or the name of wrestlers that will be the coaches for the show or we'll find out who'll be the contestants for the show. It makes for an interesting segment, but where's the payoff for this segment especially when it's on the go-home show for Extreme Rules. I'm not sure if it's going to happen or not, but might as well go for it. I've been trying to find out who in the blue hell is Bray Wyatt talking about this time. It's a stretch, but I wouldn't be surprise if Bray Wyatt attacks Triple H in this segment.

4.) Extreme Rules Mid-Card Feuds + Raw Matches + Neville RANT 

Ok if you I offend in this portion of the article I apologize, but I'm an honest human being. No wrestling fan knows anything about "booking" hate to be that guy or whatever, but it's the truth. It's cool to guess what's going to happen on these shows, but I swear to god if I hear another person complaining about Neville's booking I'm going to lose my mind. Look I listen to the LAW this past weekend and I love their show, but was really irked by their evaluation on the recent trend of Neville on the main roster. Neville is fine, but as the months and years go by to think that any of these NXT Stars are going to be in the main roster main event storylines the moment they debut on the main roster it's unrealisitic. It's official we have the very first Kiss Me Arse Match, it's whatever I guess I mean I think the match with Sheamus and Ziggler will be very good, but the stipulation is head scratching to say the least. Tonight I think you see a change in a stipulation for that particular match. Paige is "OUT" going to film a movie with The Miz. Will Paige make it to Extreme Rules? I think tonight we see Naomi take Paige's spot and she takes on Brie Bella on Raw tonight. Tonight Miz and Mizdow will have their final bout for the right for the particular gimmick. I think for tonight we see Daniel Bryan & Dolph Ziggler vs. Bad News Barrett and Sheamus.

5.) Predictions

I won't be on the podcast this week, so I decided to make my predictions for the upcoming PPV this Sunday in my hometown for Chicago, Illinois.

1.) Steel Cage Match for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship *RKO Banned
Seth Rollins retains over Randy Orton due to help from Bray Wyatt

2.) Russian Chain Match for the WWE United States Championship
John Cena retains over Rusev

3.) Kiss Me Arse Match
Sheamus over Dolph Ziggler

4.) Tables Match
Dean Ambrose over Luke Harper

5.) Last Man Standing Match
Roman Reigns over Big Show

6.) WWE Divas Championship Match
Nikki Bella retains over Naomi

7.) WWE Intercontinental Championship Match
Daniel Bryan retains over Bad News Barrett

8.) WWE Tag Team Championship Match
Cesaro and Tyson Kidd over Lucha Dragons


I hope you enjoy Raw this week. I'll be at Extreme Rule this Sunday from the Allstate Arena. If your attending the show please come and say hello.

You can follow me on Twitter @JoshLopezCSR

Check out my radio show the PWE Show every Wednesday from 10am-1pm CT

Also I'll be on the "Brass Ring Club" at 5:30 pm ET on TheNBShow.com


Enjoy Raw and Enjoy Extreme Rules

#StudentOfTheGame

Monday, February 23, 2015

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 2/23/15



How's it going folks? Now it's officially WrestleMania season. Last night was the WWE Fast Lane PPV on the WWE Network. We saw the return of Randy Orton, Stardust shine, Tyson Kidd & Cesaro are the new WWE Tag Team Champions, Sting vs Triple H is official for WrestleMania, Bray Wyatt finally challenges The Undertaker, Rusev BEATS John Cena and Roman Reing defeated Daniel Bryan and now will take on Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Despite the terrible crowd in Memphis I thought that last night show was a really effective PPV and it served the purpose of it's title name. Tonight Monday Night Raw is in Nashville and we'll have the fallout from the FastLane PPV. Brock Lesnar is advertised for tonight's show. We also heard that tonight a tag team will be inducted in the WWE Hall of Fame. Will Undertaker respond to the Undertaker? Here's five things you can expect on tonight's WWE Monday Night WRAW!!!!!!!!

1.) Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns, Where does Daniel Bryan go next? 

It's official Brock Lesnar will defend the WWE World Heavyweight Championship against Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 31. I thought Reigns/Bryan had a really good match last night and unfortunately this main event will be underrated because of the fact that Roman Reigns is not Daniel Bryan. It's time to move on and the WWE will not change their mind and there will not be any triple threat matches at WrestleMania. I'm sorry Daniel Bryan fans, but they're not holding him back if they did he would have never been in the main event of last year WrestleMania and that was the Daniel Bryan sentimental WrestleMania moment. Tonight Brock Lesnar is on Raw and after Fast Lane was over Paul Heyman said on twitter that both he and the beast will address Reigns on Raw tonight. Heyman will sell this feud and the promo we'll he hear tonight will back up my claim. Here's the question. Do we see Reigns & Brock brawl or Will we see Brock & Roman just stare at each other? If Reigns does wrestle tonight I think we'll see him fight Luke Harper. As far as Daniel Bryan is concern I think we'll see Bryan come out and talk about what happen in the match and we'll find who's Bryan opponent for WrestleMania. Alot of people are calling for Sheamus at the same time a wild card could be Dolph Ziggler, but I'm very interested to see how the crowd reacts tonight towards both Bryan & Reigns, but I think they made the right decision with having Reigns win, but that's me. 

2.) The Viper is Back + Triple H/Sting 

Last night was a very interesting night for The Authority on all accounts. Rollins, Kane and Big Show defeated Ziggler, Ryback and Erick Rowan in a pretty solid six-man tag team match. Randy Orton finally made his return to the WWE last night and Seth Rollins ran for his life and that was awesome. The Orton/Rollins storyline plays for itself to be honest with you and that should be a bad ass match at WrestleMania. As far as tonight is concern we could have a rematch from last night or you can do Big Show vs Dolph Ziggler and then Erick Rowan & Ryback vs Kane & Rollins. Either way I think we see Randy Orton come out and go after Rollins again, but we're five weeks away we need to have Orton talk and make this match official. The Authority could start off the show with a in-ring promo and Triple H could address Randy Orton, but man Triple H got his own issues he has to worry with tonight. I thought the Sting/HHH face-to-face last night at WWE Fast Lane was perfect and very effective segment. We're five weeks away I would like to think that you see Sting on Raw tonight and during one of these Raws we need to hear Sting talk and not have Triple H put words in his mouth. Sting needs to get himself over with the WWE Universe and maybe 30 % of the audience remembers Sting through the WWE Network and saw Sting not talk for a whole year. No words were spoken and maybe that's just good poetic justice, but at the same time Sting is not like The Undertaker in the WWE he needs to talk at least once. You can have Sting cut creepy video package promo's that get into the head of Triple H if you don't want to have him at the Raw's before WrestleMania. The match is official for WrestleMania and we'll hear Triple H's thoughts on Raw tonight. 

3.) John Cena/Rusev 

I thought the match with John Cena & Rusev far exceeded the expectations I had for this match and really caught me off guard that Rusev actually won and made John Cena pass out. I told James during last week's podcast that I expected Rusev to kick Cena in the nuts and would put him out in the accolade just saying. Anyways I thought they made the right decision if there was one main thing I took away from this show last night it was seeing Rusev become a bigger star and legitimate threat. You have to give credit both of these guys even if your not a John Cena fan these two guys put on a really really good match for the United States Championship. Rusev used a traditional heel tactis to retain the title that always gets brownie points with me and now how will John Cena respond to submitting to Rusev? You will probably see John blame Lana for costing him the title and that same time I'm thinking this match at WrestleMania and John just says he doesn't want to fight for the US Championship he just wants to beat Rusev's streak and kick Rusev's ass. Cena hasn't been wrestling on Raw consistenly for months now and I don't understand that, but if he does fight tonight he will probably take on Luke Harper or Curtis Axel or just anybody to have release his "ruthless agression". The match was way better than I thought it was going to be and it raises my optimisim for their upcoming match at WrestleMania.

4.) Bray Wyatt/The Undertaker 

Let me say this that Bray Wyatt promo was absolutely awesome probably my second favorite part of the show last night. We talk about career defining promo's from the Austin's 3:16 to CM Punk's Pipe Bomb Promo, it may not be to that scale as far being a main eventer of a company, but I think we saw Bray Wyatt's career defining promo last night when he called out The Undertaker for WrestleMania 31. Do we see Wyatt & Undertaker go face-to-face? Tonight you may see The Undertaker make his return to WWE tonight in Nashville. I can't wait for the build for this match and does this match need a hardcore element? I'm guessing this is going to be a Casket Match at WrestleMania, so you'll probably see Wyatt in matches and at the same time he'll bring a casket to the ring. You can see Wyatt cut promo's from grave yards yes it has been done before, but at the same time Wyatt is the king of current WWE storytelling and he can cut some awesome ass promo's from a graveyard. I can't wait to see what happens on the show tonight. 

5.) WrestleMania Mid-Card 

Dean Ambrose cost himself the Intercontinental Championship last night, we'll see what happens with him tonight maybe he takes on The Miz or Mizdow. Congrats go out to Tyson Kidd & Cesaro for winning the WWE Tag Team Championships. Do you think we get a rematch tonight? Or save it for WrestleMania? For tonight we can see maybe Tyson Kidd & Cesaro vs The New Day, The Ascension can take on The Usos which may set up a big four way for the Tag Team Titles at WrestleMania. Nikki Bella retain the Diva's Championship last night by heel tactis, if AJ Lee's is going to be at WrestleMania she needs to be on the show tonight. Something needs to click for the Diva's division or we will just see another Total Divas battle royal for WrestleMania which is unfortunate. I thought the WWE did good business for with Goldust/Stardust feud really thought Stardust/Cody broke out last night and can't wait to see what happens with them tonight. The mid-card could be great for Mania and we'll see what happens. What's cool about this Mania opposed to year's past this WrestleMania is a showcase for the current crop of stars. 

WWE advertised on WWE.com that there will be new inductees for the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2015. There's rumors about The Bushwhackers and yet at the same time I'll throw this out there it could be either them, Demolition, The Dudley Boyz or Edge & Christian. Just a idea, but whoever gets the nod tonight we here at Condo On The Moon will like to congratulate this newest member in the 2015 WWE Hall of Fame. 

That's a wrap for this week's #RAW preview hope you guys enjoy it. You can follow me on Twitter @VoiceOfTruth94 and check my out show the Pro Wrestling Experience every Wednesdays from 10am-1pm CT on Chicagolandsportsradio.com. Love to hear from you guys. 

Enjoy RAW! 

Monday, February 2, 2015

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 2/2/15



Welcome to this week's Raw preview for Monday February 2nd, 2015 as the WWE is back to schedule and we're on the road to not only WrestleMania 31, but also WWE Fast Lane on Sunday February 22nd. The WWE sure had one of it's most hetic weeks as a company, but just like any obstacle that's put in front of them from the government, to the networks, to mother nature and fans, the WWE puts it's best foot forward as Raw tonight emanates from Denver, Colorado. If you're a first time reader of this Raw preview, what you'll see is a forecast as to what you'll probably see on this week's edition of Raw. This preview includes a take at current storylines, and what's the most realistic options for those particular storylines to progress in the positive direction. Take a look back at our previous Raw previews, and what you'll see here on Condo On The Moon is the home for the most accurate Raw previews that you can't find anywhere else. These previews don't represent the personal taste of I Joshua Lopez. My goal here is to not only showcase my expertise if you will on the WWE product, but also to show you why these storylines are happening and how we can turn negatives to positives. WWE had alot of controversy coming out of the Royal Rumble PPV, and how will WWE's flagship show respond to the offering from the Royal Rumble PPV? Well, here's five things to expect on tonight's Monday Night Raw.

1.) Triple H Announcement

Why not start off Raw with a bang right? If you missed the live SmackDown this past Thursday, WWE COO Triple H came out and said that he was going to make an announcement on Raw tonight regarding the controversy surrounding the Royal Rumble match and Triple H said that this announcement will shake the WWE Universe to it's very core. Now what can this announcement be? I mean to be honest with you despite the backlash one Roman Reigns has recieved in this past week in storyline sense, Reigns won the Rumble fair and square. There's alot of people that feel that Roman Reigns is not ready for the WrestleMania main event spotlight. Will Triple H announcement be that Roman Reigns will be stripped from winning the Royal Rumble due to the fact that The Rock came out and took out The Authority even though, Kane & Big Show were already eliminated? You need intrigued for the WWE Fast Lane PPV right since the WWE Network is for free in the month of February, so what a better way to have Roman Reigns put up his title match on the line against Daniel Bryan. There's many variables that can come out of this announcement and to me I still feel that Roman Reigns will be the main event of Mania. With that I think we'll something where Triple H will either strip Roman from the Rumble Match or forced him to put up the title match on the line to take on either Big Show in a Last Man Standing Match like previously advertised in Memphis, or we can see Roman Reigns vs. Daniel Bryan? I think it would be best to have this announcement start the show, I know people are not into the 20 minute promos, but this one will have meaning to it, so let's what happens and we'll go from there.

2.) Daniel Bryan YES! Movement Part 2 

The leader of the YES! Movement sure hasn't had the best start to 2015. Not only did he fail on his goal to come back from injury and win the Royal Rumble Match, but Bryan's favorite sport team the Seattle Seahawks just lost the SuperBowl to the New England Patriots who by the way are The Authority's favorite team, go figure. Last week on Raw with a sit-down interview with Renee Young, Bryan explains his displeausre with not winning the Royal Rumble Match. In that same interview he kinda takes a dig at Roman Reigns for the fact that Bryan didn't have the WWE feeding him his whole enitre life. Bryan finally I hope put a end to his feud with Kane this past Thursday on SmackDown in a very physical Casket Match. Daniel Bryan & Daniel Bryan fans are heading into this Road to WrestleMania with unrealistic expectations. While yea it would be nice to see Brock Lesnar vs Daniel Bryan, we had this storyline last year and Daniel Bryan is no longer the underdog character no matter what you think it's the truth. I understand that he didn't have the opportunity to have a long run as champion, but for the people that say that Daniel Bryan is treated like crap from the WWE is totally ridculous. Daniel Bryan in the 5 years he's been in the WWE has competed in either a title or main event level match at WrestleMania. I'm not sure yet what Bryan's doing at Mania, but as we're building towards this FastLane PPV. I say you have two realistic options here for Bryan. 1.) He can take on Roman Reigns for Reigns WrestleMania title shot. 2.) He can take on the man that eliminated him from the Royal Rumble Match Bray Wyatt. Now I'm not saying that a feud with Wyatt & Bryan needs to brew over to WrestleMania, but for a February PPV, I think Daniel Bryan vs. Bray Wyatt would be the best thing for both guys. As far as tonight is concern I think we'll probably see Daniel Bryan vs Bray Wyatt or Big Show.

3.) John Cena vs. Rusev 

One of the already announced matches for the WWE Fast Lane PPV is John Cena vs. Rusev. Is this match for the United States Championship? I think we're seeing this match a month early because of two reasons. 1.) Like I stated already you need to give the people a reason to care for this Fast Lane PPV especially with networking being free this month. 2.) I don't think we're seeing John Cena vs. Rusev at WrestleMania. Last week on SmackDown, John Cena & Rusev had a really good in-ring segment. I thought we saw character building from Rusev with the fact that he didn't have Lana cut the entire promo for him and secondly John Cena took this upcoming challenge seriously. Now that we're 3 weeks away from the PPV, i'm interested in seeing where do Cena & Rusev go from here, and what's there actually beef with each other. If its what Rusev said last week on SmackDown that John Cena is the past and that he needs to be CRUSHED! then okay I'm fine with that. I think tonight you'll probably see another in-ring promo with both John Cena & Rusev. I think it will also be good to see Rusev in the ring tonight. You'll probably see Rusev vs Dolph Ziggler tonight. As far as John Cena is concern I think that he takes on someone like Bad News Barrett or Luke Harper to make a statement to Rusev. Either way I'm intrguied by match quality with John Cena & Rusev, but what's their storyline and why should we care. I think we'll get a good jist of why these guys are feuding with each other and it's not a bad thing that these guys are fighting at Fast Lane.

4.) Bray Wyatt & The Mid Card 

The MVP of the Royal Rumble Match this year for me was Bray Wyatt. Make sure to check out Bray Wyatt's promo from SmackDown last week it was very creepy and maybe it's a subtle reminder as to who Wyatt may face at WrestleMania this year. Now that the mid-card is not strangled from the gimmick PPV, now we can see more title matches & mid-card feuds for this PPV. I think you can see The Usos vs. Tyson Kidd & Cesaro for the WWE Tag Team Championships I can buy into that match at Fast Lane. You'll probably see Cesaro vs. Jimmy Uso tonight on Raw. Where do Miz & Mizdow go now? There was tension rising between both Miz & Mizdow at the Royal Rumble. Is tonight the night we finally see the split between Miz & Mizdow. You'll probably see a The Miz & Mizdow vs. The New Day and that's where you'll see the split. We found out at SmackDown that Nikki Bella will be defending her WWE Divas Championship against the beautiful Paige at Fast Lane. You'll probably see Paige vs. Brie Bella tonight or Paige vs. Alicia Fox with The Bella Twins on Commentary. Who's the next challenger for Bad News Barrett's Intercontinental Championship? After seeing what happen at the Royal Rumble the most realisitic option for a challenge for BNB championship is Dean Ambrose. Now I don't see Ambrose winning the IC Championship from Bad News Barrett, but if you don't have anything for Ambrose at Fast Lane put him in a match with Barrett. Lot of options tonight for the mid-card heading towards Fast Lane & WrestleMania 31, I like that because it gives you a reason to tune into Raw, Main Event & SmackDown each week.

5.) The Future?

After watching one of the greatest triple threat matches of all-time at the Royal Rumble there's no doubt in my mind that Seth Rollins is without a shadow of doubt the future of the WWE. Seth Rollins is sure walking with a big chip on his shoulder these days even though he's The Authority chosen boy and that he still has the Money in the Bank breifcase. Last week on SmackDown, Seth Rollins was issuing out an open challenge and we saw Ryback, Dolph Ziggler & Erick Rowan going after Seth Rollins. You'll probably see Seth Rollins vs. Ryback. As far as Fast Lane is concern i'm not sure because it's been two months where I tried to come back with the perfect scenairo to have Randy Orton come back and seek his revenge on not only Seth Rollins, but also The Authority. So this is what I had in mind for both Orton & Rollins at Fast Lane. Rollins beats Ryback and The Authority tries to take out Ryback, and then Orton makes his return, and Rollins runs for his life. You'll probably see Randy Orton vs. Kane at Fast Lane and then you'll see Seth Rollins vs. Dolph Ziggler for Rollins Money in the Bank breifcase. I think that's the best options for both guys before they face at WrestleMania.

Before we head off I would like to remind everybody that Triple H will be on the LIVE Steve Austin Show Podcast on the WWE Network right after the show is over tonight. I've been waiting for this interview for months. I can't wait to see what Austin ask Triple H not expecting any particular questions, but it should be very interesting, and unlike the interview with Vince, I think we'll see Triple H expand on his thoughts on certain topics. That's a wrap for our Raw preview. I hope you enjoyed if you have any questions please comment below.

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Enjoy Raw Everybody!

Monday, January 26, 2015

Rocky Rumble Makes You Concerned For WWE's Future?


After the WWE Royal Rumble happened, I was struck with the line Richard Sherman said to Tom Brady “Are You Mad Bro,” ringing in my head. The answer was as obvious as the booking of the rumble itself. The show as a whole beyond the WWE Heavyweight Title match was some of the worst stuff I have seen on a Rumble ever. This was as "mail it in" as the WWE can get for one of its biggest events of the year.

The thing is if you consider yourself an informed fan nothing that happened should have been a surprise and part of the massive out pouring of anger was in a sense fans being mad at themselves for expecting something different. The plan for Roman Reigns to win this Rumble has been widely reported and speculated on since months after the last Wrestlemania. Why fans held out hope the WWE would run with Daniel Bryan again was at best wishful thinking. WWE never wanted to go with him last year so why would they do it this year. Daniel Bryan has been injured for the majority of the year and honestly can’t be considered being a top guy for practical reasons. He has comeback with little change to his style that concerns me for his long-term future as a human being forget if he ever gets another title match or Wrestlemaina Main event.

Roman Reigns was being cheered against the WWE’s pick to win last year in Dave Bautista. Now a year later has the WWE’s chosen one he is booed as loudly as Bautista was perhaps louder given it was in Philadelphia this year. Not even an appearance by The Rock could change this. Fans wanted no part of this, and they were not going to be tricked into being compliant to it with the use of the Rock.

Beyond Bryan’s early exit, many of the WWE’s fan favorites were unceremoniously thrown out of the rumble. The bigger thing that angers me is how the WWE can seriously consider closing a match of the Rumble’s importance with Kane and Big Show. These dinosaurs of the roster have no ones interest. If Kane and Big Show went on Raw tonight and said the retired the general consensus of wrestling fans would be it is about damn time. Both have far over stayed there welcome in the wrestling business. This does not make them unique in any way. Still the fact they are booked as top heels in this company suggests the real problems this company has in depending on its younger talent.

Show and Kane could take a cue from Road Dogg and Billy Gunn who show up often but know when to get in and get out and still have a positive response from the fans.

When you look at this logically, which sometimes in times like this is lacking on all sides this is a simple matter of the WWE failing to connect with the fan base. While in the 80’s it was easy to tell fans who they are suppose to like and they would in mass that no longer is the case in 2015. Fans have become to demanding and almost to the point of entitled and spoiled about it.

This speaks as well to the failure of the WWE Network, how fans have used that network as a means to end to express their displeasure. After the Royal Rumble, fans crashed the cancellation page for the WWE Network. The WWE has made many mistakes in the almost year the WWE Network has existed but perhaps the most massive mistake was recently making it easy to cancel the service on simply a whim. Imagine if cell phone providers took a similar approach. How often to people become unsatisfied with their service? This is why most cell companies lock their clients into a contract. It avoids having to deal with knee jerk reactions of people not being satisfied with service.

WWE has created a huge problem for the company and it will be very interesting to see how they handle things going forward. Last year they caved to the pressure fans put on them to alter their plans for Wrestlemania. I don’t foresee them doing this for a second year in a row. Evidence of that fact was The Rock’s involvement last night. It was a failed attempt to help get Roman Reigns over.

I need to make this clear Roman Reigns isn’t the problem here it is how he is being presented. Reigns may not be completely ready for this moment and he may still have a lot of growing to do. He has been handcuffed in his growth and development by some of the worst creative for a top WWE Star perhaps in years and that is the issue. He isn’t the problem it is the system and creative element of this company that has grown so out of touch with their core audience it is easily evident every single work in the WWE. Which if they were growing the audience outside of its core it wouldn’t be a problem. The fact is they are not building much beyond the core. Things like Total Divas are not translating to a new audience for WWE. It is just creating an audience for a different branch of the WWE that does not seem compelled to watch the core product. Evidence of that fact is Total Divas often runs in direct competition with WWE Special Events like last night’s Royal Rumble.

The core wrestling audience for WWE is shrinking and being driven to alternative programming like ROH and NJPW to get what they are looking for. While the new fans they are creating is not enough to offset this erosion of their core audience that grows smaller gradually over time.

WWE has grand plans of filling AT&T Stadium in Dallas for Wrestlemania 32 in about 14 months. How this Wrestlemania comes off may well determine the fate of if such grand dreams are possible to achieve. WWE has some serious issues without question.

The WWE has in a lot of ways painted themselves into a corner and perhaps have build the business to big to match the level of interest that is lacking from the peak of wrestling during the Monday Night Wars. Their choice to be more family friendly entertainment has not worked to the extent they have hoped. You can say whatever you want about John Cena and his appeal to children it pails in comparison to the appeal a Stone Cold Steve Austin had to a rebellious teenage and older fan base. Regardless of the letter grade, you present the WWE product in; they have to find a way to connect with what their audience in demanding.

The success of NXT is a good example of what fans truly crave right now. They want a product that is more traditionally wrestling based that has guys who can be entertaining but can do it first and foremost in the ring itself.

Vince McMahon may think he is producing sports entertainment but the Wrestling Fans still want wrestling. Ultimately, Vince’s age and lack of knowledge of this new more active and socially aware audience is likely his core of the WWE’s issues. I refuse to believe an entire creative team is this out of touch and stupid on mass. This comes down to one man trying to flex his muscles and still show he is ultimately the final decider. He has lost his Midas touch and everyone seems to know it other than him.

If you’re simply pissed off your guy Daniel Bryan didn’t win last night my advice is grow up. However if you see the larger picture and how disjointed and massively screwed up this company has become I share your concern.

It is rapidly becoming a case of does Wrestlemania and WWE survive to see Wrestlemania 40, 50 and beyond. Sounds crazy to suggest but this company is in some serious trouble if you understand all the impact of the changes they have made and how badly the Network is floundering. If the WWE can not be profitable, it can’t really sustain itself.  We are not close to that point right now but lacking a serious change in direction; we could be their sooner than people think.

It was not a good night for anyone that cares about the WWE product and its future.

For a preview of the Fall out of the Rumble on Raw from Hartford check out what Josh Lopez has to say with 5 things to expect from Raw. Booing will be likely one of them.