Orton plays head games with Mr. McMahon on Raw
The final segment on Raw last night seemed as if it might never end. The show didn’t go off the air until 18 minutes past the hour, but as far as I’m concerned, it was time well spent. The compelling last scene effectively built anticipation for what figured to be a big payoff, and it didn’t disappoint.
I’m sure we all had preconceived notions about what would happen when Mr. McMahon returned to TV, but I never expected him to get kicked in the head by Randy Orton and carted off on a stretcher. I had bought into the idea that he was coming in to usurp his daughter’s authority. That would have been too obvious, though, and WWE has been doing a good job recently of being unpredictable without sacrificing logic.
It seemed as if the climax of the segment would be the confrontation between Chris Jericho and Stephanie McMahon. But then Orton’s music hit, and when you hear that, something interesting usually follows. Orton and Stephanie played off each other very well (here and earlier in the show), which should come as no surprise. Orton is at the top of his game, and Stephanie is a talented performer in her own right.
When Orton stared down Mr. McMahon after the WWE chairman threatened to fire him unless he apologized for insulting Stephanie, I figured Orton was going to hit an RKO on McMahon. In fact, the crowd was chanting for it. But Orton slapping McMahon, kicking him in the face and then delivering his deadly punt to the head had much more impact, no pun intended. The angle came across even better when replays showed that Orton’s blows were pretty stiff, especially the punt.
Stephanie hysterically running back into the ring to check on her father while Orton lurked in the background with a look on his face that said, “Uh-oh, I’m in big trouble,” added to the drama.
Where this story line is headed is anybody’s guess, but it wouldn’t totally surprise me if it is revealed down the line that Stephanie and Orton were actually working together to get her father out of the picture so that she could retain control of Raw. That would probably mean that Stephanie also was behind the “accident” that McMahon was involved in last June.
Other thoughts on last night’s show:
If somebody would have told me a few months ago that John Cena would be defending the world heavyweight title against JBL on pay-per-view, I probably would have groaned. They have already faced each other a bunch of times, and JBL has suffered too many high-profile losses to warrant another title shot. But after the great segment with Cena, JBL and Shawn Michaels last night, I can’t wait to see what will happen in the Cena-JBL match at the Royal Rumble Sunday.
It’s interesting how this story line is making it hard for fans to be against Cena. They like Michaels, so they want him to do the right thing; and they hate JBL, so they don’t want him to get the title. That means they have to root for Cena to win. …
This is what I wrote last week after the second consecutive lame finish to a CM Punk-William Regal match: “One of these weeks we’re going to see a real match between CM Punk and William Regal, and I bet it will be worth the wait.” It was. After a lengthy buildup that began with a tournament to determine the No. 1 contender for Regal’s Intercontinental title, Punk winning the belt was a satisfying payoff. He and Regal have good chemistry in the ring and they like to work stiff with each other. I’m amazed that Punk didn’t break his neck on that suplex. …
Punk has now won the world heavyweight, ECW, Intercontinental and tag team titles. Perhaps the IC title will mean more now that someone of Punk’s caliber has it. …
The way the six-man battle royal ended, I’m wondering if Kane is supposed to be a babyface again. This guy turns so much that I’m beginning to think he likes change more than Barack Obama. And I still have idea where the Kane/Orton/Kelly Kelly angle is going, or if it is going at all. …
How about this for a shocker: Santino Marella was the first one eliminated in the battle royal. …
I like the idea of Dustin Rhodes confronting his half-brother Cody Rhodes about following Orton, but it was pretty funny to see Dustin in his Goldust getup speaking in a normal voice and trying to be serious. At least he didn’t have the wig on. …
I wish the creative team would find something better for Mickie James to do than just talk to Cody Rhodes backstage. …
Cryme Tyme beat John Morrison and The Miz way too easily. I don’t think it even went two minutes. Actually, most of the matches were short, yet the show still ran about 10 minutes longer than usual. …
I see WWE presented George Bush with a championship belt. What’s next, inducting Mike Adamle into the WWE Hall of Fame?
Comments
kevin, i swear i see your new posts (for raw the past few weeks at least) come up at 5am eastern time. are you really writing these blogs that late/early?
as far as the show goes, i have to admit that most things with JBL make me groan..but leave it to HBK to make something great.
i really like cm punk and i hope this IC title run goes somewhere. he deserved better than what they gave him with the world title.
RESPONSE FROM KEVIN ECK: Yes, I am really up that late/
Posted by: Jeff Q | January 20, 2009 5:23 AM
wwe is back to it's best at the moment, hope batista doesn't come back to mess it all up
Posted by: Anonymous | January 20, 2009 7:54 AM
I think Orton is going to face Shane-O Mac at Wrestlemania. They had a segment a few months ago that I think foreshadowed that bout and it's not a stretch to think that Shane would defend his family's honor (even though they've turned on each other a billion times).
Posted by: Swami Sez | January 20, 2009 8:38 AM
Great ending segment, very well done! That was one stiff kick Vince took! I thought it was a nice touch having Johnny Ace come out and lecture Orton afterwards as he's rarely seen on screen.
I thought the same thing about Steph & Orton being in cohoots, will be interesting to see how this pans out!
Posted by: Gary | January 20, 2009 9:20 AM
The Randy / Vince segment of the show last night on RAW was GREAT stuff. Vince is back.
WOOOOOO
Posted by: Ric in Baltimore | January 20, 2009 9:27 AM
Hey Eck, I was watching RAW last night as well and have to say that the Cena-Michaels-JBL storyline has finally captivated my attention. I had no idea as to where this angle was headed but I do have to agree with you, HBK can sell the hell out of any angle and he's doing just that in this case.
Also, having CM Punk win the IC title last night against Regal was a good call considering that the WWE was in Punk's hometown of Chi-Town. This was a great match and you hit the nail right on the head when you said that these two work stiff. When Punk had Regal up on his shoulders before he hit the GTS, Regal was literally elbowing Punk in the side of the head with all his might and it was hurting me. I also thought that Regal broke Punk's neck with his version of a belly to back suplex but then again, I can recall when Taz(z) used to do the same exact thing when he ECW was at it's peak. Great match!
One more thing, Randy Orton has slowly built himself up as one of the greatest heels that I've seen in a long time. I always said that Triple H was the best heel ever, in my opinion, but it's apparent that RKO learned alot from The Game. It's great to see RKO being elevated to this magnitude considering he has all the tangibles that it takes in order to be even mentioned in the same breath as some of the all time greats but he's showing the he has what it takes to do just that. As long as he stays healthy, I can see RKO being one, if not, the best in the business for years to come.
Looks like the 'Age of Orton' and his Legacy is starting to unfold.
Posted by: David | January 20, 2009 9:48 AM
Hey Kevin...two things that I hopefully can get your opinion on...1. I was thinking, and hoping too, that maybe they were getting ready to open the Stephanie McMahon "Kiss My Ass Club" last night, but to no avail. She just looks amazing now!...2. How do you think it would have gone over if they had turned the JBL/Michaels angle to mimick the DiBiase/Andre angle where Andre beat Hogan and handed the belt to DiBiase. I think that could've set up a nice Wrestlemania 25 with a tournament, ala Wrestlemania 4. It's been about 10years or more since we last saw a World Title tournament, and over 20years since that angle was run....Thanks for all of the hard work!
RESPONSE FROM KEVIN ECK: Sign me up for that club.
Posted by: Glassman | January 20, 2009 10:08 AM
I like the fact that it's a heel going up against McMahon for a change of pace. Although the Austin angle was good at first, we've seen way too many, "I'm an angry face and I'm going to beat the hell out of my boss to get to the title because nobody's going to stop me," angles. I think Vince can add a lot to the angles he's in and changing up the angle really freshens things up.
Posted by: Mr. E. | January 20, 2009 10:15 AM
Ah yes, the obligatory parting shot at President Bush. You are entitled to your opinion of course. However, I think at this time four years from now the policies of President Bush are going to look very good. If President Obama is wise he will listen to his Generals and not tinker with things in Iraq and Afghanistan. If not we might be in for a rude awakening. I'm just saying.
Posted by: Aaron Goldstein | January 20, 2009 10:34 AM
Wow another sucky Raw and Kevin as usual loved it. Could you be a bigger WWE shill? I had to laugh that you liked Smackdown and the cartoonish Jeff Hardy storyline. Christian(if he is the attacker) looks like the real life Elmer Fudd or Wile E coyote. Is he gonna bring dynamite to the Royal Rumble on Sunday? I laughed when you said you liked how MVP finally won. You mean how he looked like a chump when HHH(Who has buried the Smackdown roster much like he buried the Raw roster from 02-04) I think the Brooklyn Brawler got more cred by beating The Rock by countout thanks to DX back in 2000 than Mvp got on Friday night with his win. If TNA put on a show full of one minute matches(including that farce of a battle royal) you would be killing them. As far as what happens with Kane? Really who cares there might not be a more stale wrestler in wrestling. When was the last time he had a good match? When was the last time he was the least bit interesting? He is undoubtable the worst big man this side of The Great Khali. Raw's last good show was the Trish returning show. I found it funny that you made mention that you see Ted Dibiase Jr. as a future champ and how impressed you were with him on another blog entry. All I gotta say is what? The guy is so bland in every possible way and boring. He nor Cody Rhodes couldn't get hear if they were on fire. They remind me alot of Greg Gagne and David Sammartino. As far as Raw outside of the Regal Punk match and Orton punting Mcmahon this show was rancidly bad.
Posted by: graves9 | January 20, 2009 11:18 AM
I too enjoyed the Randy Orton segment on the show. I am expecting at some point to see Shane McMahon connected to this at some point. Who better be connected to the Legacy Group than the 3rd Generation McMahon himself. He has motive with Stephanie taking over Raw from him. She continues to mention when bad ideas belonged to him on Raw. Anyway, just a thought. I really enjoy your blog. Thanks.
Posted by: Nate Craver | January 20, 2009 11:26 AM
You didn't have much to say about Chris Jericho and Stephanie McMahon. I don't understand that angle, and I hope it wasn't just to build up Stephanie. If that's all it was, then it definitely wasn't worth the damage done to Jericho's (excellent) character.
I agree with everything you said about CM Punk's win, except this: He blew the ending by not selling. Regal hit him with...what, two dozen elbows? in the head!...and a moment later, Punk is on his feet and grinning. He should have been stumbling around the ring, barely on his feet, rejoicing yet in obvious pain. Punk blew the sell.
Posted by: Stephen | January 20, 2009 11:45 AM
Orton's punt was better than Steelers Punter's 18 yard divot digger!
I loved Raw last night Kev and sorry yes, anytime the Ravens lose it makes me smile and enjoy Monday night even more. But being a Ravens fan makes you no less a columnist just because you support pure evil!
Spot on with the Randy Orton and Steph down the road angle, if they somehow work HHH in there it could be longterm payoff for Summerslam or WM XXVI.
Posted by: Teal Wilder | January 20, 2009 11:52 AM
Another good episode of Raw with some really compelling story lines (Orton/McMahons, Cena/HBK/JBL, and what I percieved as a tease of a rift in Glamarella).
But the biggest story to come out of Raw was how smokin' hot Stephanie McMahon looks right now. You could really tell in the close-ups on her during her interaction with Jericho in the final segment. And those leather pants...very nice!
Posted by: Zane | January 20, 2009 11:52 AM
the last segmant was great, im so glad randy orton came out, it didnt seem right to me Jericho (a top heel) aplogizing to the boss and the fans, i was dreading he would join the club, not a very heelish move Jericho apologising, especialy compared to randy orton. Wow was not expecting that, im glad that happened and vince sold perfectly, was great, Yet Im not sure if randy orton should have looked concerned after, it would have been better if he had walked of proud in my opinion.
Apart from the final segmant alot of Raw was a let down. Melina does one move and beats Jilian?
John Morisson and Miz vs Cryme Tyme doesnt even have a tag? John Morrisson was beaten way too easily.
A DQ in Rey Mysterio vs Mike Knox match, havent seen a DQ in ages on raw........ cough. And did you see Mike Knox bieng interviewed before? I thought Brock Lesnar and Bobby Lashley had girly voices but Mike Knox sounded like a drag queen! lol, and he doesnt know why hes attacking Rey?
The begining as well, 6 of the biggest stars should of had a much better match, Santino was great in the match (when is he ever not entertaining though?) kane turning again? He turns more than a revolving door, and maybe the match should of had significance on Royal rumble entery numbers.
The CM Punk vs William regal match was great I thought, honestly I blindly expected more in a no DQ match in the way of weapons, but still great wrestling match. Im so sold with William Regal bieng a great heel (not just because Im from England) I think he has beter heel heat than JBL to be honest, lets hope creative still have Regal in there plans....could help out Stephanie?
Im not a blind cena hater, but definatly not his bigest fan. I respect him and his determnation, but his promos seem to me really cringing, he is no Rock and needs to find a different route. JBL is working this storyline really well I think, and HBK deserves an oscar for his recent performances.
I been thinkng recently (shock lol) about how Cena is the face of WWE yet many fans dont like him, and Im thinking surly if Vince wants a family friendly show a rapper isnt a good model? I think CM Punk should be the new face of WWE. He has great matches, can cut great promos and is such a role model, I see alot of potenitial in him, I wish he could start a program with Jericho, that would be great! CM Punk in my eyes has the potential to be bigger than Bret Hart
Posted by: stan | January 20, 2009 1:09 PM
Due to the Ravens loss to the Steelers, I have decided to do a heel turn and refer to myself as Sean the Cynic.
Behold my disposition of astute observation, combined with the ability to scoff at the lamentable, all the while sardonically praising that which deserves disparagement!!! Mmbwahahaha!!!!
Now that we’ve established that, moving on to Raw. After Randy Orton’s introduction to start the show, I felt pretty certain that Orton is the top guy in the company. He has that indescribable “it” factor that so many wish to achieve. Now if only they could get him some better ring music, I wouldn’t change the channel as he moseys down to the ring looking all crazy-like.
As far as the Cena-JBL-Michaels bit is concerned, I can’t stand it anymore. Cena has only been back a few months and I’m already sick of him (again). Not necessarily because of a lack of effort on Cena’s part, but his character is so stale it’s ridiculous. And JBL doesn’t deserve to be in the main event anymore, in any capacity. I’m going to be ordering the Rumble, but only for the Rumble match and nothing else. I’m more excited about the Phoenix - Melina match than JBL - Cena. It should be the other way around.
Santino and Beth continue to be one of the highlights of Raw for me. I like this Rosa Mendez angle they’ve got going, and it has potential to be interesting down the road. One thing that kind of gets overlooked is how well Beth Phoenix speaks. She has a natural ability to subtly convey her message without sounding fake or forced. She is very deserving of the Women’s Title. Santino is almost the polar opposite of her, where his over the top and forced deliveries are so bad that it’s good. He’s really developed his character into something special.
Even with Stephanie’s overacting, I felt the final segment was pulled off quite well. It elevated Randy Orton, while making it clear that Stephanie is in charge on Raw. I’m not sure if WWE was able to fully connect the segment with the Royal Rumble, but it did effectively serve as a catalyst for furthering Randy Orton as the top star in WWE. Not a bad start for The Road to Wrestlemania.
Posted by: Sean the Cynic | January 20, 2009 2:12 PM
I wasn't happy with the treatment of Morrison last night. Squashed by Cryme Tyme? Please. He better have a good showing on ECW tonight and/or at the Rumble.
I'm real intrigued by the rumble this year. Both Championship matches have good stories going in while ECW is putting over an up and comer in Jack Swagger. As for the Rumble itself, I'm still not sure who is going to come out on top. I don't want to see HHH or Taker getting the win, but I'm starting to think that is the way WWE is going to go. Nobody on RAW jumps out at me after last nights shenanigans with Vince/Steph and Jericho/Orton. I wouldn't mind seeing Punk or another young star (Benjamin or Morrison) getting a push ala The Rock in the '98 Rumble when he came in 4th and was the last man thrown out.
Sorry about the Ravens. I'm an Eagles fan, so we both had a pretty rough weekend. Hopefully the Rumble will help us forget about the football season.
Posted by: Mark K | January 20, 2009 2:17 PM
It figures. I always set Raw to run 15 minutes over and it cut off this time before any sign of Orton.
Posted by: James | January 20, 2009 2:22 PM
Hey Kev. after last night what do you think JBL chances are now
do you think that he will defeat Cena????
Posted by: TJ | January 20, 2009 2:40 PM
I think they're having these Mickie/Cody segments as a way to set up her role in the Legacy/Cryme Tyme Cena feud leading up to Mania. Remember, she's doing stuff for Cryme Tyme on WWE.com.
Posted by: Martin | January 20, 2009 2:54 PM
I been thinkng recently (shock lol) about how Cena is the face of WWE yet many fans dont like him, and Im thinking surly if Vince wants a family friendly show a rapper isnt a good model? I think CM Punk should be the new face of WWE. He has great matches, can cut great promos and is such a role model, I see alot of potenitial in him, I wish he could start a program with Jericho, that would be great! CM Punk in my eyes has the potential to be bigger than Bret Hart
Listen, not a knock to you since everyone is entitled to their own opinion but CM Punk doesn't come close to being a bigger star than John Cena is at this point in their respective careers. You say that a 'rapper' isn't such a good role model but yet you turn around and say that a guy like Punk, who is covered in tattoos and piercings is a better role model? Dude, it's pretty much the same difference, people will look at these two with a look like, "This guy is a role model?"
Cena has showned time after time that he is a role model and while Punk may be a role model in his own right, he's not nearly as close to being on the same level as Cena. People may boo Cena and they have every right to do so but Cena is a proven main eventer while Punk is still a notch below...but not too far. Although Punk is far more technically sound than Cena is.
Posted by: David | January 20, 2009 3:00 PM
Funny how I am a Legacy fan but not a big Orton...never was
Saw the CM Punk build up to Chicago coming a mile away. Glad he won. I have never purchased an wrestlers' t-shirt but after 41 years Punk will be my first! Go Punk. Punk gives me hope that after a losing streak MVP will rise to greatness.
I'm starting to become a part of the "Regal Haters Club". That working stiff crap is not impressive to me...why put another persons life on the line just to be seen as a tough guy!
The JBL storyline is to buy us time until Mania. Great job by Creative in keeping us busy until them.
Posted by: Rob the Barber | January 20, 2009 3:24 PM
James—I'm with you on the DVR issue. Networks inflate their ad rates by bragging about their "live-plus" numbers (DVR viewers), but then they screw us over by dickering with early starts and runovers. It's annoying.
Posted by: Stephen | January 20, 2009 4:08 PM
Maybe just maybe..Shane and/or Steph are the next Legacy members...just a thought.
Posted by: Rob the Barber | January 20, 2009 4:26 PM
Couple of thoughts:
1. Does C.M Punk owe Regal money?Wow that match was stiff.
2.I thought the same thing last night about a Steph "Kiss My Ass Club" but the purpouse is to embarrass the wrestler not reward him.
3.The whole Orton kicking Vince thing kind of overshadowed how good Jericho was, the guy can tell a story with just his eyes,I have to wonder what they have planned for him for WM.He's been so good all year I hope he get's a high profile match and is'nt regulated to MITB.
4.Finally...I can't believe no one even touched on what could be the most intruging story line of the night.What kind of special assignment was "Hacksaw"Jim Duggan out on that he couldn't be at RAW?Remember he hasn't been seen since Cryme Tyme took him away a few weeks ago after Jericho hurt his little feelings.I think a new and improved Thug'd out "Hacksaw"or should I say "Hackshizzile", will make his return at the Rumble and the very first winner of the Rumble will be this years winner!! Hip Hop Hooray!! HOOOOOO!!!! Hey!! HOOOOOO!!!!
Posted by: Andre the Midget | January 20, 2009 5:14 PM
I hate that Orton showed remorse. That completely ruins his character. Orton is supposed to be cold and have no feelings, he knows he's the best thing in WWE so he can kick Mr. McMahon in the head and not have to worry about it. Now he's weak and looks just like everyone else in WWE.
Posted by: x | January 20, 2009 5:29 PM
That was an excellent finish - after Y2J abandoned his principles to grovel for his place, RKO really showed the difference between the two characters.
Both say they are the best thing on Raw, but Jericho is plagued by doubt and feels he has to 'weasel' on occasions, hence the apologising. At first I was disappointed that he would say sorry to fans, but it does fit his character to back down when faced with the ultimatum.
Orton, however (whilst not above the odd shortcut), truly believes he is the best - which is why he could stare VInce down. He really thinks the company can't afford to lose him. I'm not sure if the shock he showed after the kick was more "What have I done?" or, "He really thinks he can afford to fire me...".
If the latter, it may lead to a less cocky Randy Orton in the future, I'm not sure if that would be as fun to watch, but considering the fan reactions he's been getting lately, would make a face turn more concrete.
It would be interesting to see how he can avoid a firing from Stephanie next week, maybe a Rumble win and the Wrestlemania contract would protect him?
Posted by: Ben | January 20, 2009 5:47 PM
can anybody tell me if randy orton is getting fired or something
Posted by: jake | January 20, 2009 6:03 PM
Do you think theres a chance Batista may pull a Cena and have a surprise Rumble return setting up Cena/Batista for Mania?
RESPONSE FROM KEVIN ECK: I don't think so.
Posted by: Elevation | January 20, 2009 9:17 PM
Let's get the brain working people, Cryme Tyme was put over Miz/Morrison because of MLK/Obama .
Posted by: Luke | January 20, 2009 9:18 PM
There is a report that Randy Orton had a small altercation with a fan at a house show in Wisconsin. Perhaps punting Vince is a way to write him off TV while he serves a suspension.
And Nate, Shane McMahon is 4th generation not 3rd. His great grandfather was also a promoter.
RESPONSE FROM KEVIN ECK: From what I read, the altercation wasn't anything that would warrant a suspension.
Posted by: Bob Buscaglia | January 20, 2009 10:31 PM
Your idea of Stephanie behind the scheme of Orton taking out Vince sounds intriguing but I also like the idea of Shane ordering Orton to take out Vince and then coming back to RAW to support The Legacy much like Vince sided with DX. The storyline could simply be written that he knew Vince would side with Steph and ordered the hit. Then they'd make Steph lose a bit of control on RAW and the WWE Board decides to make Shane Co-GM later on.
Posted by: Mike | January 21, 2009 1:28 AM
I need a memo when Raw will run 18 minutes over. I always err on the side of caution with my DVR and set it for 15 minutes extra when I have to work late. I think it says a lot about the show, or Kev's writing, that a day later there's a ton of comments already.
Some people touched on it, but I thought Shane-O right away when Vince and Steph hugged and then again when Orton came out. I'd say it's too early for dissention, but Manu/Snuka weren't even on camera and Rhodes set up that confrontation at the end. That whole angle is wide open.
Worried about Jericho though. He's the odd man out unless someone new is coming in....
Posted by: James C | January 21, 2009 2:15 AM
I'm glad McMahon is back.I hope Orton and Stephanie get what's coming their way. Ihope Hardy gets better
Posted by: mzie | January 21, 2009 2:53 AM
Here's what I want to see...
Jericho wins the rumble by eliminating Orton (maybe to get in good with Stephanie). This also sets the ball rolling towards an eventual face-turn for Orton (which I hope is where they're headed...)
JBL wins the world title.
Jericho is poised to face JBL at WM and rubs it in HBK's face that he, not Michaels, will be headlining - that HE is, in fact, "Mr. Wrestlemania".
That could be the impetus for Michaels to finally put is foot down (or, rather up at the chin) with JBL at some point before (or during) WM.
If, however, Cena retains the title and Orton wins the rumble for a Cena/Orton WM match - I will only enjoy that if they build up to a double-turn with the two of them. I've been wanting to see Cena turn heel for awhile - and I was really hopeful when he went bonkers on Jericho a few weeks back. And Orton I think would make a very interesting face - not that he could ever be "likeable" but he could make for an interesting sort of conflicted face.
Posted by: Jeremy Hale | January 21, 2009 4:09 AM
Hi, this is my first comment here, I'm French son excuse my English :-)
Great blog Kevin, I just started being interested in wrestling after a 15 year pause, and I read all your articles from the start, now I feel like a veteran fan!
I'd like to answer to "x" who says that the fact that "Orton showed remorse ruins his character". Actually, I don't think he showed any remorse: he did not try to help Vince, neither did he try to apologize to Stephanie. He just had this "oh crap, what have I done" look of a guy who is concerned about his carrier, and fears he will be fired just a few days before the Rumble — and, in my opinion, that fits well with his cold-hearted character. He's lost it for a second, he let the beast get out and kick Vince's brains out, but when he cools off he understands that he put all his carrier in jeopardy.
Something else I was amazed about is the fact, to get some good reaction from the crowd, Cryme Tyme used the Obama-card, prompting the heel Miz to say "I'm a Republican" to get some heat. I understand it's Chicago, MLK day and the day before the inauguration and all, but still I had an image of wrestling fans being mostly conservative republican rednecks, so I didn't think you would see faces get over by praising a Democrat (but I guess they wouldn't have done that if the show was somewhere in the Bible Belt). I was still disappointed to see Morrison be squashed by these two goofies, I just hope he gets his revenge soon at the Title match (and then moves on to a singles superstar carrier).
Actually, Kevin, it would be great if you could, when you have the time, write an article about wrestling and politics, how they used to be connected and used in both ways... I can tell you that here in France, where of course everybody was really interested in the Americain presidential campaign, we were all astonished to see Obama, Clinton and McCain appear on the WWE titantron with their wrestling catchphrases!
Thanks again for your blog (even if nothing could make me start watching American Football :-))
Posted by: Axl | January 21, 2009 5:15 AM
Why do they keep messing with the 'Priceless' entrance music? I thought Ted's original slow country version was great, the second more upbeat country version (once he was alligned with Cody) dissapointed me at first but eventually grew on me...and now this week they've changed it again into a more 'rock' version which doesn't seem to suit them at all. More than anything, it just seems a little unneccessary. In saying that though, i hated Orton's new music the first time i heard it, now i tend to find myself singing it in the shower most mornings.
I think 'Legacy' is shaping up nicely though. Manu and Snuka never looked right in the team, Cody and Ted look the part and are so far playing it beautifully. I hope WWE don't rush the angle and let it grow steadily. Next member should be DH smith...when he finally gets called back up. Anybody know how Harry is doing these days? I think there should be a spot for Natalya as well.
On a totally seperate note...did anybody notice that The Undertaker's taped promo on Smackdown last week was heavily ripped off from Vade Hansen's (i think that was his name), the very guy that was going to go into a program with Taker before WWE released him.
RESPONSE FROM KEVIN ECK: The Wrestling Observer said that Smith will be joining Legacy in the near future.
Posted by: Big Dave | January 21, 2009 5:26 AM
I didnt read the rest of the comments. So sorry if im doubling up. But many of the ones i read seem to think that Stephanie is in cahoots with Randy.
To me, i think the more predictable angle would be for Shane to show up to pardon Orton for his sins. And the son try to take over Raw. He is a 3rd Generation person after all. Im calling it. Shane to join the LEGACY.
Title picture still murky. I still think Batista surprises everyone at the Rumble and wins. Setting up Batista vs. Cena at 'Mania for the Title.
Maybe HBK costs JBL the match, setting up an all Texas-showdown at Houston in April.
I stopped reading spoilers about half a year ago since the websites seem to always install viruses on my computer. If what i said echoes any spoiler that is already out there... sorry. But these are really just my predictions.
Posted by: The Natural | January 21, 2009 5:58 AM
"Wow another sucky Raw and Kevin as usual loved it. Could you be a bigger WWE shill? ... As far as Raw outside of the Regal Punk match and Orton punting Mcmahon this show was rancidly bad."
I've got to ask, what show were you watching? If you think the Jeff Hardy storyline is silly, then it must be knee-slapping hilarious that you believe Christian is the culprit behind all of this stuff. I hope Matt Hardy ends up being the culprit, and I highly doubt he'll bring dynamite to the Royal Rumble...he's more of an ACME catapult and boulder person.
The show was excellent, and no matter which company a person "shills" for, the bottom line is TNA couldn't write angles this good if they had big pencils and protractors. If you think I'm wrong, look back at the beginning of the MEM angle - the fans were cheering for the bad guys, and fans haven't done that since Scott Hall was the IC Champ.
Posted by: Ashley | January 21, 2009 9:54 AM
how about vince punishing stef by putting her in a non-title match with beth at wrestlemania. and, oh, let's make it a bra and panties match.
Posted by: Magnificent Mark | January 21, 2009 3:26 PM
I really enjoyed Raw this week, and like many others, think the Rumble should be great.
Interesting story, Kevin:
I was getting really frustrated with WWE creative this year, b/ I was reading rajah.com insider spoilers, etc. and being greatly disapointed. Then I vowed to stop reading anything online about WWE and just enjoy it...needless to say, it has been loads more fun over the last 6 months, and I have found most of the storylines to be very engaging.
That being said, I discovered your blog while reading for my daily Orioles news, and really enjoy it, because it seems like you are just having fun watching, not trying to act like you know everything thats gonna happen, nor do you leak fun surprise info.
My only complaint, like another poster, was in the apparant remorse shown by Randy...it reminded me of last Friday, Edge looking concerned for Hardy...these guys need to keep their "edge" (no pun intended) to be the kind of heels appreciated by college students such as myself, and older viewers who love to see the bad guys be really repulsive
Posted by: John From Rochester NY | January 21, 2009 4:19 PM
One of the cool parts of Raw for me was the interaction with Cody Rhodes and Goldust. I'd always been wondering how they were going to do their inevitable "first meeting" - would it be Cody bumping into him & being freaked out or would they play up their family history?
WWE decided to play up their family history, sort of in a work-shoot scenario and I liked it.
Dustin had the Goldust makeup on, but was speaking as himself. It helped play into Cody talking about how he had wasted all of his talent and was now a joke.
I'd like to see a short feud between the two. Does Dustin still "have it," or is Cody right? I'd like to find out.
Posted by: Chris Slater | January 21, 2009 5:11 PM
Raw was great, Really looking forward to the rumble which Randy is going to win, setting him and Cena up to headline Wrestlemania.
Posted by: Seamus | January 21, 2009 7:23 PM
"I always set Raw to run 15 minutes over and it cut off this time before any sign of Orton"
I was afraid that the same thing was going to happen with my recording, but fortunately, I got all of it.
When I first read what had happened, I thought, "so what? Mr. McMahon has been beaten up a million times by Stone Cold, The Rock, and HHH." However, I then watched it, and it actually seemed quite intense. It was nearly as intense as when Stone Cold gave McMahon the Stunner all those years ago, back when it was tough to imagine someone assaulting the chairman.
Everyone involved deserves credit.
Posted by: Christopher | January 21, 2009 7:25 PM
The fans might have been chanting for an RKO but given that we've seen McMahon put through countless stunners, chokeslams, rock bottoms, pedigrees and other "typical" wrestling finishers, it was a great call on the part of the WWE to use the punt instead of an RKO. The punt is a simple move but therein lies its appeal: we might not be able to relate to an experience of receiving a stunner but we can all easily imagine how a kick to the head would feel like.
p/s: Axl, I think your image of (American) wrestling fans as being mostly conservative republican rednecks is very off. The WWE, in particular, has always been based in the North-East region, stretching from Maine to Washington and covering New York, Philadelphia, Connecticut and even the Canandian city of Toronto, etc. This blog that you are reading is part of the Baltimore Sun, a newspaper for the city of Baltimore, also part of this North-East region that is home to the WWE. I believe this North-East region still remains their strongest market in the North American continent. Fans there tend to be more vocal and passionate than in other places, which is why we often see unpredictable reactions in this region where the audience would cheer the heel and boo the face. It's a very liberal crowd so despite the popularity of Stone Cold Steve Austin, I would never describe fans of the WWE as mostly conservative rednecks.
Posted by: Din | January 22, 2009 4:18 AM
Hey Kevin,
I didn't see any mention of it in your recap, but what did you think about Sting being featured in the Goldust/Cody conversation? He was mentioned both verbally by Goldust and is front and center on the cover of the Starrcade DVD. Even though you could argue Sting was the face of WCW, we all know how Vince never recognizes wrestlers in other promotions, well unless he's burying them. Is it possible something is in the works to bring him to the WWE, or is it just a coincidence I'm reading too much into?
RESPONSE FROM KEVIN ECK: For whatever reason, WWE has never buried Sting or acted as if he didn't exist. My guess is that it's because Vince McMahon and Sting have had talks in the past about Sting coming in, and even though they did not reach an agreement, the talks were amicable.
Posted by: Joe Barber | January 22, 2009 12:45 PM
That's a good point about Sting.How does he get "face time" on RAW and Jim Corrnett and Paul E. can't even get a vote for all time best manager on wwe.com.
Posted by: Andre the Midget | January 22, 2009 4:45 PM
good randy
now he is not be able to say
U R Fire
God Bless all the Best randy orton
Posted by: shahid | January 23, 2009 12:34 AM
Since everyone else seems to hate Cryme Tyme, I may have been the only one to notice this, but here goes:
What was up with the "Paul E" written on Shad's wrist/forearm tape? Shout-out to Heyman or someone else?
Posted by: Snyder | January 23, 2009 10:45 PM
If I was Stephanie, I'd take a page out of Vickie Guerrero's book and put Orton in a Triple Jeopardy match:
Match 1) Against The Great Khali in a steel cage match.
Match 2) Against Umaga in a First Blood match.
Match 3) Against the Undertaker in a Buried Alive
match.
I bet even Vince would grin like a Cheshire Cat if Steph pulled this off to get revenge on Orton for punting her father in the head.
Posted by: Bill Ostrander, Jr. | January 24, 2009 5:18 PM
I noticed the Paul E on Shad's tape too, Snyder. You, like me, naturally think of Heyman. There is no mention of Paul on Gaspar's wikipedia page though.
Posted by: Bob Buscaglia | January 24, 2009 6:19 PM