WWE Backlash 2004 Review

Welcome and hello to another hard-hitting edition of Seanomaniac Wrestling Reviews, the only wrestling review series on the internet that bullies Bradshaw behind the scenes. It is WWE’s Backlash 2004, Backlash is a pay per view after Wrestlemania that typically delivers, the product is hot and fresh in the sense that Wrestlemania is barely a month old. We are in Canada, we are in Benoit’s hometown. The main event is a rematch from Wrestlemania, we also have the culmination of the Foley vs Orton feud, a lot of rematches from Wrestlemania. This should be a good show but will it live up to the prior Backlash pay per views? Let’s find out!

Opening Promo

It begins again, Benoit, Triple H and Shawn Michaels all talk about Wrestlemnaia and about how Backlash is a fresh start for each individual, it is good stuff and sets the tone for the night.

Shelton Benjamin vs Ric Flair

Benjamin was drafted to Raw and had beaten Triple H two weeks in a row, Flair looks for revenge. Benjamin and Flair start off testing one another, Flair struts and Benjamin slaps Flair. Benjamin shows off his incredible athleticism before Flair shoulder blocks Benjamin. Benjamin takes control with a dropkick and a back drop on the floor, Flair lures in Benjamin in the ring with an eye poke and a chop. Flair climbs to the top rope, Benjamin yanks down Flair. Clotheslines by Benjamin, Benjamin misses a dropkick as Flair holds onto the ropes. Benjamin counters the Figure four for a small package, two for Benjamin. Ten punches in the corner by Benjamin, Flair goes to the leg as Benjamin argues with the referee.

Flair stomps the leg multiple times, Figure Four by Flair. Benjamin screams in pain, Benjamin reverses the hold but Flair uses the ropes to correct his position. Chop by Flair for two, Flair grabs a chair from ringside. Referee takes away with the chair, slugfest between Benjamin and Flair. Enzuigiri by Benjamin, Dragon Whip by Benjamin. Rights and lefts by Benjamin, Flair flip to the floor. Benjamin suplexes Flair into the ring, Flair begs for mercy. Huge chop by Flair, Flair is on the top rope. Flair has brass knuckles, Benjamin Stinger Splashes Flair and the knuckles fly to the floor, Benjamin scores with a diving clothesline for the win.

A lot of fun in this match, the crowd is hot and different as we are in Canada. Flair was loved by the fans, they popped for the eye rakes and the antics. Benjamin showed a lot of fire too to stand toe to toe with Flair in a crowd that was cheering for The Nature Boy. While I may be unhappy about The World’s Greatest Tag Team splitting up, Benjamin has something special about him and I look forward to covering Benjamin’s rise as a superstar on Raw. Good way to kick off the show, no mistakes and all around fun.

Winner: Shelton Benjamin over Ric Flair via Flying Clothesline!

Randy Orton Promo

The Legend Killer proclaims that Mick Foley will be put out of his misery tonight, Todd Grisham asks if Orton is afraid of facing Cactus Jack, Orton says he has no fear going into the match.

The Coach vs Tajiri

Lock-up and armdrag by Coach? Coach is wrestling Tajiri? Tajiri kicks Coach in the leg hard, Coach powders to the floor. Tajiri kicks the ringpost as Coach dodges, Coach works the leg of Tajiri. Coach stomps Tajiri and talks trash, Tajiri kicks Coach in the face to escape a leg lock. Coach goes back to the leg, Coach climbs to the top rope, Tajiri kicks the ropes ad Coach is stuck upside down. Dropkick to the back of the head, Coach reaches the ropes. Handspring elbow by Tajiri, huge kick and Buzzsaw Rush by Tajiri. Coach blocks the monkey flip and almost steals the pin with feet on the ropes, Tajiri kicks out at two.

Tajiri applies The Tarantula, Coach has fantastic facials. Out of nowhere, Garrison Cade punches Tajiri in the face and The Coach rolls-up Tajiri for the win. This was trash, went far too long and was not funny enough to survive on that alone. DUD.

Winner: The Coach over Tajiri via Roll-Up!

Chris Jericho vs Christian & Trish Stratus (Handicap Match)

Trish Stratus would swerve the fans and Chris Jericho at Wrestlemania by siding with Christian. Christian had defeated Jericho and stolen his girlfriend, things were personal for Y2J. Watching this back, Trish was so much better as a heel, she was the perfect bitch. Christian and Jericho talk trash, Jericho decks Christian before chasing Trish, back elbow to Christian and a back body drop. Right hands by Jericho, slut chants to Trish. Suplex by Jericho, cocky pin for two. Jericho is distracted by Trish, Christian clubs Jericho. Christian tumbles to the floor, Trish looks on concerned. Springboard dropkick by Jericho, Trish stalks Jericho which distracts Jericho. Christian is caught red-handed by Jericho, huge right hand by Jericho.

Diving reverse elbow by Jericho for two, chops by Jericho. Trish clubs Jericho off an Irish whip, Christian suplexes Jericho onto the apron and clotheslines Jericho into the barricade. Christian chokes Jericho, tag to Trish. Trish slaps Jericho over and over, Trish measures for a Chick Kick. Its scores and Trish shuffles like Jericho, tag to Christian. Christian slaps Y2J, snapmare into a reverse chinlock. Jericho fires up for a Walls of Jericho attempt, Christian kicks off Jericho but Jericho bounces off the turnbuckle and Jericho’s head smacks off Christian’s nether regions. Trish wants the tag, Jericho rolls-up Christian for two. Clothesline by Jericho, shoulder block and a flashback neckbreaker for two.

 Jericho blocks the falling reverse DDT for a northern lights suplex, two for Jericho. Trish slaps Jericho from the apron when Jericho ends up in her corner, slingshot falling reverse DDT for two. Jericho is slapped by Christian but Christian runs into a Walls attempt, Trish saves Christian. Jericho spanks Trish, Christian nails The Unprettier. Tag to Trish, Trish covers and Jericho kicks out at two. Tag to Christian, Trish is clotheslined by Jericho and we have a double knockdown by Jericho and Christian. Slugfest, Christian wins the battle but Jericho nails a flying forearm.

 Drop toehold by Jericho, knee across the back. Modified bulldog, Christian blocks The Lionsault with his knees. Christian applies a Texas Cloverleaf, Jericho turns the hold into a Walls of Jericho, Trish runs into harm’s way and gets locked in The Walls of Jericho. Christian rolls-up Jericho for two, Jericho sets up Christian for the walls but changes it to a catapult. Christian runs into Trish and Jericho nails an enzuigiri for the win.

Another fun match, Christian and Trish were annoying heels, Trish took her time, taking cheap shots at Jericho but ended up getting what she deserves in the end. The clothesline was crazy though, I forgot how the women could be bumped around by the men. Anyways, a lot of fun with the crowd entertained throughout the match, Christian was such a prick, so good as his job while I love heel Trish, just so much more natural.

Winner: Chris Jericho over Christian and Trish Stratus via Enzuigiri!

Eugene stumbles into The Women’s Locker Room

Eugene stumbles in on Gail Kim in her underwear and a wigless Molly Holly, Regal saves his buddy Eugene while enjoying the view himself.

(WWE Women’s Championship Match) Victoria © vs Lita

Two fan favourites going at it in this match, Lita won a battle royal to earn this opportunity. Lita was injured while Victoria had her initial heel run on Raw so it is nice to see these two finally lock horns. They are both babyfaces and while Victoria is popular, this might be a mistake putting her in there with Lita. Anyways, the match begins with armdrags and firemen’s carries by both women, they have a stalemate and another lock-up, hard Irish whip by Victoria and a backslide for two. Cradle by Lita for two, sunset flip by Lita for two. Victoria reverses and we have a series of pins, scoop slam by Victoria. Booty shake moonsault by Victoria for two.

Reverse chinlock by Victoria, snap suplex for two. Romero special from Victoria, headscissors and monkey flip by Lita. Scoop slam and elbow by Lita for two, snap suplex with a kip-up by Lita. Headscissors by Lita, sleeper by Lita. Victoria edges her way towards the ropes, Victoria drop toeholds Lita into the ropes. Tilt-a-whirl sideslam by Victoria for two, Victoria climbs for a moonsault. Lita dodges the moonsault, jacknife cover by Lita for two. Reverse Twist of Fate by Lita for two, Victoria blocks a DDT. Small package by Victoria and the champion retains her title. After the match, Gail Kim and Molly Holly jump the babyfaces.

This was a good match for the women’s division. What I have found is a lot of what is considered the golden era is not living up to the billing that WWE gives it (No surprise there though, they are prone to exaggerating their own history) Anyways, this was a good match with Victoria being established as the top babyface by beating Lita and Trish being a heel. I look forward to more from Victoria, come on WWE do not let me down.

Winner: Victoria over Lita via Small Package!

(WWE Intercontinental Championship Match) Randy Orton © vs Cactus Jack (No Holds Barred Match)

Foley had tricked Orton into a hardcore style match with Evolution banned from ringside. Orton had teased, mocked and threatened Foley for months, Foley snapped and attacked at Royal Rumble. Orton walked away the winner at Wrestlemania but Orton might be trapped this time. There is no help, there is one mad man standing in the ring across from him, a man that is willing to do everything and anything to walk away the champion and the victor in this match. Orton walks to the ring with a trash can full of weapons, confident or at least he seems it on the outside.

Both men have barbed wire weapons, Orton’s barbed wire falls apart, Orton hides behind a trash can. Cactus Jack chases Orton as Orton runs around frantically, Orton drop toeholds Cactus Jack into the steel steps. They fight for the barbed wire, Cactus Jack pops Orton in the mouth. Orton smacks Cactus with the trash can four times, Cactus boots the can into Orton’s face. Cactus stomps Orton in the ring, choking the life out of the champion. Knee lift by Cactus, leg drop for a two count. Foot choke by Cactus, baseball slide by Cactus sends Orton to the floor. Neckbreaker on the floor by Cactus, Cactus climbs to the middle rope. Orton sees the elbow coming and scurries away to the top of the ramp.

Orton back drops Cactus on the ramp, two for Orton. Backslide by Orton for two, Cactus’ head smacks off the ramp for two. Uppercut by Orton, Orton has the barbed wire. Cactus saves his face from the barbed wire by low blowing Orton, clothesline by Cactus. Cactus has Socko, Cactus looks at the barbed wire. Cactus chooses the barbed wire, Orton is walloped in the face. Orton is bleeding, elbow drop with the barbed wire. Right hands by Cactus, knee to the face of Orton. Cactus has the barbed wire again, Cactus rakes it off the face of Orton, Orton screams out in pain, some great visuals here from the cameras. Cactus places the barbed wire on Orton’s private area and leg drops the barbed wire onto Orton’s crotch.

Cactus pulls out a gasoline can, Cactus plans on lighting the barbed wire. Bischoff comes out and says no fire, Cactus relents but Orton is not safe. Cooking tray to the head, Cactus pulls out a barbed wire board. Cactus is punching Orton before Orton pulls powder out of nowhere, wham into the face of Cactus. Orton slams Cactus onto the barbed wire board, two count for Orton. Orton puts the boots to Cactus, Orton places the board in the corner. Cactus is whipped into the board and dropkicked back into it for good measure. Orton pulls a bag of thumbtacks out, the crowd erupts in a “Aww” chants. Orton measures Cactus for an RKO on the tacks, it goes wrong as Cactus shoves Orton into the tacks.

Another great visual, roll-up for two. Orton begins walking to the back to escape, Cactus gives chase. Orton is hurled off the stage through some cables and wooden boxes, Orton is tended to by some trainers. Cactus dives off the stage with a huge elbow drop. Cover by Cactus and Orton kicks out at two! Stomps by Cactus, Double Arm DDT by Cactus and Orton kicks out again! Orton rolls to the floor and grabs the barbed wire bat, Cactus is hit in the face and the ribs. Across the back for good measure, Cactus goes for Socko. Mandible Claw, Orton uppercuts Cactus and nails a low blow. Orton lands an RKO, cover and Cactus kicks out. RKO on the barbed wire bat and Orton defeats Cactus Jack.

Tremendous match, one of the best of Randy Orton’s career. Foley came in and it was time for Orton to pay for all his sins. Orton took everything from Foley, barbed wire, stage bumps and thumbtacks. The fans ate up every spot, the blood, the weapon shots and the violence. Foley is one of the best ever talents for making others, Foley solidified Triple H, Foley got The Rock ready for Stone Cold Steve Austin and Foley made Orton on this night. This match put Orton on the map, in the fans eyes, Orton was a tough guy now and that was just incredible I could not say enough great things about this match.

Winner: Randy Orton over Cactus Jack via RKO!

La Resistance vs The Hurricane & Rosey

Lock-up, Conway and Hurricane begin. Top wristlock by Hurricane, side headlock by Hurricane, hiptoss by Conway. Another side headlock by   Hurricane, headscissors takedown by Hurricane. Rosey clotheslines Grenier, tag team manoeuvre by Hurricane and Rosey. Hurricane climbs the top rope, Grenier distracts Hurricane, Conway nails a swinging neckbreaker. Tag to Grenier, backbreaker for two. Hard Irish whip and bearhug by Grenier, Eugene is here at ringside. Rosey gets the tag, sideslam on Conway. Sidewalk slam on Grenier, Samoan drop on Conway. Grenier makes the save, double clothesline by Rosey.

Rosey misses a splash in the corner, Hurricane clotheslines Grenier to the floor. Hurricane dives onto La Resistance, Eugene begins climbing into the ring. Eugen runs the ropes over and over, Hurricane and Conway battle. William Regal gets away Eugene, Hurricane pins Conway with The Eye of The Hurricane. Well, it was very short and the fans cared more about Eugene than anyone else in the match. So, yeah… sucks to be those four men in the ring. DUD.

Winners: Hurricane & Rosey over La Resistance via The Eye of The Hurricane!

Edge vs Kane

Edge had broken his hand and is wearing a huge cast despite just returning to the ring. Edge cannot use the cast in this match, best part of this a promo package showing Jonny Nitro. Anyways, Edge was a fast rising star on Smackdown before his legitimate injury, how will Edge fair on the Raw brand? You screwed Bret chants for Earl Hebnar, made me laugh.

Edge punches Kane with his other hand, Kane corners Edge. Right hands by Edge, Kane throat tosses Edge. Kane works over the arm of Edge, elbows by Edge. Diving clothesline by Edge, Edge measures for a Spear. Kane catches Edge on the floor, Edge’s hand is slammed into the ringpost. Edge screams out in pain, Kane stomps on the hand. Kane stomps and slams the hand, knees to the hand. Top wristlock by Kane, Edge rakes the eyes to escape but Kane nails a sidewalk slam. Edge avoids an elbow, flying forearm by Edge.

Spinning heel kick by Edge, big boot by Kane. Kane shoves Edge off the top rope, Kane misses a clothesline from the top and Edge drills The Big Red Machine with an Edegcution. Kane sits up, Edge hits the referee by accident. Low blow, cast shot to the head and a Spear for the win.

That was rather dull too, it seems like the last two matches were there just to hold you over for the main event. Not much of a return for Edge and Kane’s monster push seems to have disappeared. Not exactly disappointing as it was so short, passable but barely.

Winner: Edge over Kane via Spear!

(WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match) Chris Benoit © vs Shawn Michaels vs Triple H

Fantastic promo, the imagery, the wrestlers talking about one another. Benoit captured the championship at Wrestlemania in a beautiful moment as Benoit’s dream was realized. A favourite of the fans, Benoit had done what seemed impossible at the start of the year. Now, we have a rematch between the three. In Benoit’s hometown, Chris’ kid and wife Nancy at ringside (God rest their souls). Benoit walks up to Triple H and Shawn Michaels parading his belt.

Benoit and Michaels double team Triple H, double back body drop to The Game. Michaels clotheslines Triple H to the floor, Michaels and Benoit chop one another in the corner. Neckbreaker by Michaels on Benoit, Michaels attacks the incoming Triple H, right hands by Michaels. High knee by Triple H, Triple H tosses Benoit to the floor. Michaels lands an inverted atomic drop on Triple H, right hands decks The Game. Triple H tries for a Pedigree, Michaels escapes and both Michaels & Triple H knock Benoit to the floor. Benoit recovers for German suplexes on Michaels and Triple H. Benoit chops both, back body drop on Triple H.

Michaels chops Benoit in the corner, Benoit throws Michaels to the floor. Triple H attempts a double axe handle, Benoit catches Triple H for The Crossface. Michaels interrupts so Benoit takes out Michaels on the floor, Triple H stops Benoit who is on the top rope. Triple H had Benoit for a superplex before Michaels smacks The Game in the back, Benoit crashes to the floor. Electric chair drop by Michaels on Triple H for two, Michaels chops Triple H. Triple H turns the tide with a facebuster, Benoit delivers a Diving Headbutt to Michaels but Triple H makes the save. Michaels forearms Benoit, Michaels hits the referee with a flying forearm by mistake.

Michaels is knocked to the outside, Benoit blocks a Pedigree attempt for an attempted Sharpshooter. Benoit applies the hold, Michaels tries to break it up but Benoit has The Crippler Crossface. Michaels applies the sharpshooter to Benoit in Canada, huge boos and out comes Earl Hebnar (Brilliant spot). Michaels turns his attention to Triple H, Triple H is floored with a right hand. Michaels chops Benoit, scoop slam is countered by Benoit for a Crossface. Michaels is going to tap but Triple H saves the match. Benoit eats a DDT from Triple H, two for The Game. Triple H stomps Benoit viciously in the corner, Benoit fires up with chops and right hands. Triple H tumbles to the floor, Michaels blocks a German suplex from Benoit, clothesline by Michaels for two.

Michaels tosses Benoit to the floor, Benoit and Triple H stand dazed on the floor, Michaels attempts a dive from the top rope. Benoit & Triple H dodge which leaves Michaels to crash through the announce table. Triple H rams Benoit into the ringpost and the steel steps, Triple H mounts Benoit and pummels the champion. Benoit is thrown shoulder first into the ringpost, Triple H does it again as Benoit holds his shoulder on the floor. Camel clutch by Triple H, right hands by Triple H in the corner. Ten punches by The Cerebral Assassin, Benoit counters as Triple H tastes the top turnbuckle from a flapjack by the champion. Facebuster off an Irish whip by Triple H, Triple H misses a clothesline and the German suplexes begin.

Benoit misses The Diving Headbutt, Pedigree by The Game. Triple H cannot capitalize immediately, Triple H slowly drapes an arm and Michaels makes the save. Triple H knocks down Michaels over and over but The Heartbreak Kid will not stay down. Flying forearm by Michaels, kip-up from Michaels. Scoop slam and huge elbow drop, Michaels measures for Sweet Chin Music. Benoit is on the apron, Michaels takes Benoit’s head off. Low blow by Triple H, all three men are down with Triple H crawling for the cover, Michaels kicks out at two. Pedigree is countered as Triple H is elevated over the top rope and down to the floor.

Triple H has his sledgehammer, huge shot to the spine of Michaels. Triple H waits for the killer blow, Benoit pulls Triple H to the floor. Triple H bounces Benoit’s head off the steel steps, Triple H looks for a Pedigree on the steel steps. Benoit counters for a catapult into the ringpost, Triple H spills out into the crowd. Benoit rolls into the ring, Michaels looks for Sweet Chin Music. Benoit trips Michaels for The Sharpshooter, Michaels is inches away from the ropes but Benoit drags back Michaels. Triple H crawls towards Michaels but there is nothing he can do, Benoit makes Michaels tap out in the middle of the ring.

Not on the same level as Wrestlemania but damn, that was a great match. An absolute war, the crowd was hot throughout the match. Amazing what can happen with a fresh face added to the mix on Raw, for so long I would dread the Raw pay per views with Triple H dominating and having mostly boring matches with over-booked nonsense everywhere. However, the quality has improved greatly since Royal Rumble, looking forward to more. And the sharpshooter spots were beyond perfect, the first with Michaels playing up The You Screwed Bret stuff and Earl Hebnar being the referee. And Michaels tapping out in Canada was such an awesome moment.

Winner: Chris Benoit over Shawn Michaels & Triple H via Sharpshooter!

That was WWE’s Backlash of 2004, a top tier B level pay per view in my eyes. This show was a breeze to go through with a lot of enjoyable matches. The handicap match, the opening match, the solid Women’s Championship match, Randy Orton being legitimized in the eyes of the fans, a hometown win for Benoit, cementing him as the top star of the brand and not a fluke or a one-hit wonder, it had a lot of good stuff on this show. There were slow moments, Coach vs Tajiri fell flat for me as the comedy was not very good and the two matches before the main event were so short and clearly filler but this show had so much good stuff, that it is hard to say I did not enjoy the whole thing. Thanks for eading and remember: There’s always another night!

WCW Spring Stampede 1999 Review

Hello and welcome to another hard-hitting edition of Seanomaniac Wrestling Reviews, the only wrestling review series on the internet that is losing money faster than WhatCulture Pro Wrestling! WCW and 1999 were going together like shit on a sandwich. Basically, it was horrible, tough to swallow and not very satisfying. Glimmers of hope here and there but a mind-boggling heel turn for Ric Flair, David Flair in The NWO and Goldberg being nowhere near the centrepiece left most fans angered, confused and wanting change. The powers that be had no intention of changing and things were going to get even more confusing as we cover WCW’s Spring Stampede 1999, let’s rock!

Opening Promo

Four Corners Match for the championship, Sting is back, DDP is in the main event, Ric Flair and Hogan battle it out again. Goldberg vs Nash, Goldberg’s revenge for the bullshit of Starrcade. I actually liked this promo which is more than I can say for many of the packages that were put together by this company.

Blitzkreig vs Juventud Guerrera

Babyface Juventud is back after months of inactivity on pay per view. Lock-up, hammerlock by Blitzkreig, Juventud reverses the hold. Drop toehold by Juventud, roll-up for two. Blitzkreig grabs the leg, Juventud counters for a roll-up. Two count, side headlock by Blitzkreig. Nice theatrics until Blitzkreig mauls Juventud with a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker, two for Blitzkreig. Chops by Juventud, headscissors takedown. Handspring elbow in the corner by Blitzkreig, stomps by Blitzkreig. Ten punches by Blitzkreig, Juventud is elevated to the apron.

Juventud rams Blitzkreig’s head into the turnbuckle, springboard dropkick by Juvi. Bliztkreig eats a tope suicida from Juvi, brainbuster from Juvi. Two for Juvi, Romero special from Juventud. Blitzkreig escapes out of a suplex, kick to the head. Dropkick by Blitzkreig, Juvi spills to the floor. Bliztkreig eats a dropkick as Juvi blocks the crossbody, both men lay down on the floor. Chop by Juvi, arm drag by Blitzkreig. Springboard moonsault by Blitzkreig, Juvi blocks a powerbomb, Blitzkreig escapes The Juvi Driver. Juvi wriggles free from a reverse suplex for a final cut, two for Juvi. Bad botch in the corner, a reverse suplex goes to hell, Blitzkreig misses a Phoenix Splash. Juvi’s Driver is reversed into a small package for two.

Reverse sunset flip powerbomb move from the top rope by Blitzkreig for two. Juvi is placed on the top rope, Top Rope Juvi Driver, Blitzkreig has been spiked on his head and Juventud Guerrera walks away with the win in this match.

A good opening match, both men tried hard. Little selling but a lot of high-impact moves that draw oohs and awws from those in attendance. Blitzkreig had a lot of nice manoeuvres in his arsenal, Juvi looks to have regained some steam. That finisher was so dangerous though, Juventud is not considered the safest worker in the business, think of what he done to Jerry Lynn in TNA. So, for Blitzkreig to trust him for a Juvi Driver off the top rope, just wow. Great finish to an entertaining contest, we are off to a good start.

Winner: Juventud Guerrera over Blitzkreig via Super Juvi Driver!

Hak W/ Chastity vs Bam Bam Bigelow

Who is Mr. Hardcore? Hak and Bigelow are going to duke it out in you weapon match for this evening. Hopefully, it tops the piss poor match we had featuring these two and Raven at the last pay per view. The match starts at the ramp, Hak beats down Bigelow and swantons through a table onto Bigelow. Bigelow is up first (Of course), Bigelow rams Hak into the cart full of weapons. Crutch across the back by Bigelow, Hak sets up a table between the guard rail and the ring apron after a DDT on Bigelow. Hak re-enters the ring and Bigelow waffles Hak with cooking trays. Broom to the ribs by Bigelow, Hak blocks a suplex but botches his suplex. Hak clutches his knee before pulling out a ladder.

Bigelow stomps Hak, Hak dropkicks the ladder onto Bigelow. Bigelow is under the ladder, swanton onto Bigelow and the ladder. Bulldog on the ladder, another table and a guard rail from under the ring. Trash can to the head by Hak, Chastity has the table set up on the guard rail. Hak climbs the ladder and Bigelow tips Hak through the table (It looked so horribly planned and fake). Hak is Irish whipped into the ladder, Hak drills Bigelow with the crutch. Bigelow is placed on the safety rail, Hak looks for a leg drop.

Bigelow dodges and Hak crotches himself, Bigelow has the guard rail. Chastity has the fire extinguisher, Bigelow sprays the bejesus out of Chastity. Hak wallops Bigelow with the kendo stick twice, Russian legsweep with the cane. Hak has Bigelow on the top rope, Bigelow counters for a Greetings From Asbury Park from the top rope through the table and the win.

So, these two went from ECW to WCW to do the same kind of match? Well, at least they were making decent money in WCW. To be fair, it was entertaining at parts, a lot of it was weapon shot after weapon shot while moving to the next spot. The finish was another scary bump from the top rope, I hope it is not the theme for the night. Anyways, this was entertaining for what it was.

Winner: Bam Bam Bigelow over Hak via Greetings From Asbury Park!

Mikey Whipwreck vs Scotty Riggs

Well, I guess every WCW pay per view from now on is going to feature a lower card wrestler on them. We have had Jerry Flynn, Mike Enos and now Scotty Riggs is here. Riggs is a cocky stripper so an updated version of his American Males character. Whipwreck is in from ECW, Riggs plays cocky before Whipwreck starts clotheslining and kicking Riggs. Dropkick by Whipwreck, Riggs tumbles to the floor. Whipwreck leg drops Riggs on the apron, Riggs is all over the place. Baseball slide by Whipwreck, slingshot hurricanrana by Whipwreck. Whipwreck gets caught as Riggs bumps Whipwreck off the ring apron and to the floor.

Double axe handle by Riggs, more gyrating by sexy man Riggs. One finger pin for two, dropkick by Riggs. Reverse chinlock by Riggs, high knee in the corner by Riggs. Boot by Whipwreck, missile dropkick by Whipwreck for two. Russian legsweep for two, both men duck clotheslines. Flying forerarm by Riggs and the match is over.

What was that finish? A flying forearm? Out of nothing? Get out of here with that poorly established crap. DUD

Winner: Scotty Riggs over Mikey Whipwreck via Flying Forearm!

Konnan vs Disco Inferno

Konnan continues to feud with NWO Wolfpac members, Disco is next on Konnan’s list due to Disco mocking Konnan’s music success. Disco jumps and stomps Konnan, rolling clothesline by Disco. Disco climbs to the top, Konnan tells Disco to suck it. Bulldog by Konnan, ten punches by Konnan. Elbow by Disco, Disco clubs Konnan. Konnan nails an armdrag on Disco but Disco takes control with an elbow. Snapmare and reverse chinlock by Disco, swinging neckbreaker by Disco. Another chinlock by Disco, clothesline to cut off Konnan’s comeback.

Middle rope elbow for two, another chinlock by Disco. Armdrag by Konnan, Disco sends Konnan to the floor. Snapmare and fist drop for two, another CHINLOCK by Disco. Scoop slam by Disco, Konnan dodges the elbow drop. Rolling clothesline by Konnan, cradle DDT by Konnan. Disco kicks out, Konnan delivers an SOS but Disco kicks out again. Neckbreaker by Disco for two, Disco blocks The K-Factor. Konnan puts down Disco with The Last Dance.

Konnan is a bad version of Road Dogg. While Road Dogg could pop the crowd, he could also sell a beating and had Billy Gunn at his side to get the fans into the match. Konnan pops the crowd and that’s about it. There is no attempt at selling, there is no energy or passion. Konnan looks like a man who is collecting his money, phoning in regardless of who shares the ring with him. This leads to a very boring match with endless chinlocks and Disco doing his all to make the match watchable. I could not wait for this to end, I need to go back and watch Konnan in Mexico to see what the hype was all about because I do not see a big star in WCW.

Winner: Konnan over Disco Inferno via Last Dance!

(WCW Cruiserweight Championship Match) Rey Mysterio © vs Kidman

They took the titles off Benoit and Malenko already???? Are you joking me??? Fuck this company, these two are tag team champions who are battling for the cruiserweight championship. Some nice theatrics before both men begin slapping one another, lots of flip and headscissors by Mysterio. Kidman is elevated to the apron, slingshot hurricanrana by Kidman. Stomps by Kidman, Mysterio is elevated to the floor. Plancha by Kidman, Mysterio whips Kidman into the guard rail but Kidman wheelbarrows Mysterio into the guard rail. Slingshot leg drop by Kidman, reverse chinlock by Kidman.

Headscissors by Mysterio, Kidman is on the floor. Moonsault off the apron, Kidman catches Mysterio but Mysterio sends Kidman into the guard rail. Springboard senton by Mysterio, springboard moonsault for two. Kidman counters a hurricanrana for a powerbomb, two for Kidman. Backbreaker into a slam by Kidman for two, Mysterio ends up on the floor. Shooting Star Press from the apron by Kidman, forearm shots by Kidman. Slam and Kidman begins climbing, Mysterio blocks Kidman’s crossbody with a dropkick. Two for Mysterio, top rope bulldog by Mysterio for two. Spinning heel kick by Mysterio. Kidman back drops his way out of a powerbomb.

Powerslam by Kidman for two, reverse chinlock by Kidman. Mysterio fires up and clotheslines Kidman to the floor. Springboard senton by Mysterio, Mysterio tries a splash but Kidman counters with a clothesline for two. Reverse chinlock by Kidman, Mysterio escapes for a headscissors takedown. Reverse chinlock by Mysterio, Mysterio misses a corner spear. Kidman misses a clothesline but nails a sit-out facebuster. Mysterio plays possum to meet Kidman on the top rope, sunset flip powerbomb by Kidman for two. Kidman misses a clothesline, top rope bulldog by Mysterio and Kidman kicks out at two. Springboard bulldog by Kidman for two,

Mysterio lowbridges Kidman, Kidman pulls himself up but walks into a leg drop by Mysterio. Mysterio rolls over Kidman for a standing moonsault, two for Mysterio. Mysterio looks for a powerbomb, facebuster by Kidman. Kidman looks for The Shooting Star Press, Mysterio plays possum and crotches Kidman. Top rope hurricanrana by Mysterio and Mysterio retains his championship.

Have to admit, I was not a big fan of this match. It just did not click with me for whatever reason, I thought there was a lot of things that did not come together. First, you have the crowd, the crowd seem to have given up on this pay per view, there were quiet for Konnan vs Disco and they were almost silent for this match, two babyfaces going at it is usually a bad idea too. Neither man was really known for playing a heel or taking control of matches so you have a few dull moments sprinkled throughout. The other thing that bothered me was the no-selling of the big moves of the match, Kidman and Mysterio were popping up and “playing possum” after top rope bulldogs and powerbombs. I mean how can I invest in the match when Mysterio takes the equivalent of The Pearl Harbor Bombing only to stand on his feet with no damage mere seconds later?

Winner: Rey Mysterio over Kidman via Top Rope Hurricanrana!

Raven & Saturn vs Dean Malenko & Chris Benoit

Saturn came to Raven’s aid when Malenko & Benoit were beating on Raven. Raven and Saturn would cost Benoit and Malenko the tag team championships, it looks like all The Horseman are heels? I am lost to be honest, Saturn was a babyface in his feud with Jericho, Raven turned babyface after his sister Chastity turned on the former leader of The Flock. Benoit and Malenko were babyfaces battling it out with Barry Windham & Curt Hennig but it looks like Benoit and Malenko are now heels or walking a fine line as tweeners.

Benoit and Saturn begin, standing switches and Saturn is sidestepped to the floor. Malenko tries attacking Saturn but Saturn blocks with a Manhattan drop, Benoit is shoved into Malenko and Saturn tags Raven. Clothesline by Raven for two, tag to Saturn. Saturn splashes Benoit for two, tag to Raven with an elbow to the back of Benoit. Malenko distracts Raven, Benoit dropkicks Raven. Malenko puts the boots to Raven on the floor, tag to Malenko. Double spinebuster and wishbone split, suplex for two by Malenko. Leaping calf kick by Malenko, small package by Raven as Benoit tags into the match. Benoit back suplexes Raven for two, short-arm clothesline by Benoit for two.

Benoit and Malenko double team Raven, referee Charles Robinson pushes back Saturn, playing up the whole Lil Naitch thing. Raven boots and clotheslines Malenko, Saturn decks everyone. Exploder suplex for Malenko, ten punches for Benoit. Malenko decks Saturn with a right, Malenko props Saturn on the top rope. Raven saves Saturn, variation of the doomsday device. Benoit saves Malenko from The Death Valley Driver. Raven and Benoit spill to the floor, Tigerbomb by Malenko into The Texas Cloverleaf. Saturn reaches the ropes, Saturn nails a Death Valley Driver on Malenko. Benoit scores with a Diving Headbutt on Saturn for a close two, Malenko could not secure the win.

Malenko tags Benoit, backbreaker by Benoit. Benoit goes to the leg of Saturn, tag to Malenko. Drop toehold/dropkick combination by Malenko & Benoit for two, sleeper by Malenko. Raven saves Saturn, Benoit knocks Raven to the floor. Northern lights suplex by Benoit for two, Benoit stomps Saturn to the floor. Malenko boots Saturn, tag to Malenko. Saturn sunset flips Benoit but Malenko makes the save, reverse chinlock by Malenko. Back suplex by Saturn, Raven gets the hot-tag. Right hands to Benoit & Malenko, clothesline to Malenko. There is a chair in the ring, Raven drop toeholds Benoit into the chair. Malenko is on a table by ringside, Saturn misses a splash through the table as Anderson pulls Malenko off the table.

Malenko pushes the chair into Raven’s face, Even Flow DDT by Raven. Raven covers Malenko but Anderson is in the ring with a chair. Anderson places the chair on Raven’s head, Benoit climbs to the top rope and delivers a Diving Headbutt to Raven. Malenko manages to cover Raven with one arm and Raven cannot kick out, The Horseman win.

Now, that was a match. Excellent tag team wrestling from all involved, Raven and Saturn showed all the potential that they had, they deserved big things in 1998 and this match shows just how good they are while Benoit and Malenko put on a clinic as the heels, dominating and controlling the match. No surprise this match was good and the finish was great stuff. Anderson discreetly placing the chair on Raven’s head and Benoit landing The Diving Headbutt, it was excellent and refreshing, I hope there is more between these two teams.

Winners: Chris Benoit & Dean Malenko over Saturn & Raven via Diving Headbutt!

(WCW United States Championship Match) Scott Steiner vs Booker T

Both these men had been feuding over the WCW television championship, Scott Hall had been missing on Nitro so Ric Flair declared the championship vacant and a tournament was held with these two becoming the finalists. The match begins with Steiner talking trash with fans, this is possibly the best part of the night. Lock-up, Booker takes down Steiner. Clubbing blows by Steiner, dropkick by Booker and an armdrag. They lock-up, Steiner cheap shots Booker over and over, Booker fires back with thrust kicks. Steiner is thrown to the floor, apron axe handle by Booker. Booker hits the guard rail hard, Steiner begs for mercy. Booker boots Steiner in the face, mounted punches by Booker.

Corner clothesline by Booker, make it two. Ten punches by Booker, Steiner crotches Booker on the top rope. A forearm shot leaves Booker on the floor, Booker hits the guard rail hard. Chair to the back by Steiner, clothesline and elbow drop by Steiner. Push ups by Steiner, more huge right and a foot choke by Steiner. Backbreaker by Steiner for two, belly to belly suplex by Steiner for two. Low blow by Steiner (No DQ?), Steiner poses on the corner. Bearhug by Steiner, Booker fires up but Steiner belly to belly suplexes Booker. Booker slides out of a suplex for a DDT.

Steiner rakes the eyes but eats a spinning heel kick, clotheslines by Booker. Steiner pulls the referee in the way and gets clobbered, Scissors Kick by Booker. Flapjack by Booker, spinaroonie and Harlem Sidekick. The referee is knocked down again as Booker tries lifting him up. Spinebuster by Booker, Booker climbs to the top but Steiner nails The Frankensteiner. 1…2….. Booker kicks out! Steiner pulls out something, Booker tries for a suplex but Steiner decks Booker with the object. Steiner becomes the United States Champion.

That was decent, Steiner spent half the match on the floor talking shit with fans but in the ring, it was fine. The Big Poppa Pump character was a great gimmick for Steiner and the gimmick was starting to really pay off for Steiner, Booker was a good babyface and his comebacks were enjoyed by the fans. I would have enjoyed less stalling but the match we got might have been the best match possible due to Steiner’s injuries and condition.

Winner: Scott Steiner over Booker T via Shenanigans!

Kevin Nash W/ Lex Luger & Miss Elizabeth vs Goldberg

Goldberg’s chance at revenge for Starrcade, Goldberg has been out of the title picture for god knows what reason because I cannot find it. Goldberg is the most over man in the company, it is not Hogan or Nash and it is not Flair. The man the people want is Goldberg and it looks like after the Bigelow feud, Goldberg is nearing the championship once more.

Match begins with knees by Nash, foot choke by Nash. Right hands and elbows by Nash, Elizabeth distracts the referee while Nash low blows Goldberg. Clothesline by Nash for two, hard Irish whips and a sidewalk slam. Two for Nash, leg across the back by Nash. Nash misses a big boot, shoulder block by Goldberg. Double underhook slam by Goldberg, right hands and a superkick by Goldberg. Goldberg Spears the referee as Nash leapfrogs The Spear, Luger wallops Goldberg with a chair to the back of the neck. Nash calls for The Jacknife, low blow by Goldberg. Luger is slammed, Spear to Nash. Jackhammer to Nash and it is all over.

It was short and sweet, the right man went over and Goldberg continues to build momentum on his quest for the championship. I cannot say a bad thing about a match that succeeded in every possible way, it was not bad. The fans were into it and Goldberg looks like a monster putting down everyone in his path.

Winner: Goldberg over Kevin Nash via Jackhammer!

(WCW World Heavyweight Championship Match) DDP vs Sting vs Hulk Hogan vs Ric Flair © (Four Corner’s Match/Savage is Referee)

The hype package is garbage, they hardly had a segment together on the show. We have three returns though, Savage is back after his knee injury, last time I saw him on these reviews was against Bret Hart and Roddy Piper in the early days of The Wolfpac. DDP is back after Scott Steiner laid him out at Superbrawl and we have Sting who went on hiatus after Halloween Havoc. We also have the double turn of Flair and Hogan from last month to deal with, such garbage that I still can’t believe it happened.

All four men brawl, switching partner’s every couple of seconds. Hogan and Flair are on the floor, Sting has DDP in The Scorpion Deathlock but DDP reaches the ropes. Side headlock by DDP, neckbreaker for two. Sting clotheslines DDP, diving clothesline by Sting. Stinger Splash, Flair saves DDP. Sting yanks Flair off the top rope, Hogan clotheslines DDP. DDP and Sting are on the floor, Hogan stomps Flair. Eye poke by Flair, chops by Flair. Back body drop by Hogan, clothesline to Flair. Hogan no-sells the chop, Scorpion Deathlock by Sting. Hogan Leg Drop on Flair, Sting has to break his hold. Flair chop blocks Hogan’s leg, Figure Four by Flair. Hogan reverses the hold on Flair, DDP breaks up the hold.

DDP clotheslines Flair to the floor, DDP locks Hogan in a ringpost figure four. Sting saves Hogan, a trainer runs down for Hogan. Hogan seems to have something wrong with his leg, we are down to three. Sting tosses Flair and dropkicks the champion. Clothesline by Sting, chop by Flair. Flair flip and a clothesline by Sting, DDP clothesline Sting for two. Scoop slam and elbow by DDP, DDP clotheslines Flair for two. DDP elbows Sting in the corner, Stinger Splash by Sting. Sting bulldogs DDP after a Diamond Cutter is blocked, Flair is thrown to the floor by DDP. DDP reverses a tombstone on Sting, Flair saves his championship. Flair throws DDP to the floor, Sting lifts Flair to the top rope, superplex by Sting.

Flair kicks out at two, Flair back suplexes Sting. Sleeper by Flair, DDP applies a sleeper to Flair. Sting jawbreakers both men, Flair and DDP beat up Sting. Sting no-sells it all, double clothesline by Sting. Right hands to Flair & DDP, bulldog to DDP. Stinger Splash to Flair, Scorpion Death Lock on Flair. DDP breaks the hold, DDP looks for a suplex but Sting slides out for a Scorpion Death Drop. Flair breaks the pin and low blows Sting, Figure Four by Flair on Sting. Sting reaches the ropes, Flair does not break so Savage Elbow Drops Flair. DDP stomps Flair’s injured leg, Diamond Cutter by DDP on Flair and DDP is your new champion.

That was fun, quite organized for a match featuring four people. You had everyone have moments in the ring when they would do their singles match stuff, no big teases like Sting vs Hogan or Hogan vs DDP, that could have added a bit of interest to the match. Very weird to see Hogan sell an injury and not come back to hog all the glory, I was fully expecting Hogan to remerge to capture the championship. Also, putting the championship on DDP? I would not say that DDP did not deserve it but there is a skill to striking when the iron is hot and the iron was lukewarm at best during this point. Halloween Havoc could have been DDP’s moment but by this point, I do not know how far DDP can go with the championship.

Winner: DDP over Everyone Else via Diamond Cutter!

That was WCW’s Spring Stampede of 1999, WCW’s best show of the year in many ways. Well, so far it is the best pay per view of the year I have reviewed. Sting, Savage and DDP were welcome returns to pay per view, fresh feuds like Raven and Saturn vs The Horseman and Steiner vs Booker T were welcome additions while a meaningful feud for Goldberg was great, there is no reason for your top star to be fighting Bigelow when the company has no plans for Bigelow. The hardcore match and opener were fun, the only lowpoints were the cruiserweight championship match and the lower card wrestlers (i.e. Riggs) having pay per view matches. You have a main event with Hulk Hogan that did not have all the spotlight on Hulk Hogan, this pay per view did so much right and that’s why I believe it to be the one of the only watchable pay per views from 1999.

WWE Wrestlemania XX Review

Hello and welcome to another edition of Seanomaniac Wrestling Reviews, the only internet wrestling review series with lower viewership than 205 Live. Wrestlemania XX, where it all begins again. On this night, we will see what could be the crowning achievement in Chris Benoit’s career as he challenges Triple H and Shawn Michaels for The World Heavyweight Championship. Kurt Angle had turned heel and is gunning for The WWE Championship held by Latino Heat Eddie Guerrero. We also have a stacked car featuring Chris Jericho vs Christian, Rock “N” Sock Connection vs Evolution and the first Wrestlemania appearance of one John Cena. It’s WWE’s biggest show of the year, it gets no better than this, it’s Wrestlemania and let’s do this!

Opening Promo

Twenty years of history are shown while every wrestler on the roster speaks about Wrestlemania. It is fantastic in its simplicity, just epic stuff. The narrator fills us in on this spectacular event, highlights of all the big matches. We also have Vince holding one of his grandchildren, I assume it is Shane’s child. Nice moment, we are in Madison Square Garden, the spiritual home of The WWE.

(WWE United States Championship Match) John Cena vs The Big Show ©

That poor championship had not been defended on pay per view since No Mercy, Show had been a thorn in Cena’s side since Smackdown’s new rising star had turned face. Cena had beaten Show in the Survivor Series match while Show had thrown Cena out of The Royal Rumble. In many ways, this was the rubber match and a stepping stone for Cena, Cena needs a home-run.

Face-off, lock-up with Show shoving back Cena. Show corners Cena, Cena dodges a right hand and pummels Show before Show knees Cena and tosses Cena to the floor. Knee to the head by Show, Cena climbs to the apron and hotshots Show. Cena tries a crossbody, Show catches Cena and plants the challenger for two. Club across the back by Show, Show chokes Cena using the ropes. Chest slap by Show, Cena fires up before Show clotheslines The Doctor of Thuganomics. Cena is on the defensive, Show looks down at this prey. Scoop slam by Show, foot choke by Show. Headbutt by Show, more chest slaps by Show.

Show steps on Cena’s back, Cena fires up but Show cuts off the challenger with a boot. Leg drop across the chest by Show for two, Show tries a slam but Cena counters for a sleeper. Show shakes off Cena, short-arm clothesline by Show. Cobra clutch by Show, Cena wriggles free to be slammed to the canvas. Cobra clutch is applied again, Cena breaks free to throw bombs at Show. Show misses a corner splash, FU by Cena and Show kicks out! Cena picks up his chain, the referee is distracted by Cena throwing the chain away, Cena picks up the brass knuckles and clock Show before nailing Show with The FU for the win.

What an odd match, it was like an extended squash for Show up until the last few moments. The crowd was big into Cena but not the match, Show’s heat segment was more than plodding and dull while Cena was not as well rounded as he would be today which is understandable, Cena had not been in the company for even three years yet. Show kicking out of The FU was strange too, thought it was unnecessary in the grand scheme of things, save it for a big match or angle, you could have done the finish without having Show kick out of The FU.

Winner: John Cena over The Big Show via FU!

Eric Bischoff/Evolution Promo

Bischoff wants The Coach to find Undertaker, no idea why as Undertaker is on Smackdown but we get a cameo from Jonny Nitro. Orton cuts a promo, talking about Mick Foley and that Foley has not got the guts to face Orton. Flair and Batista look dapper in their suits.

(WWE World Tag Team Championship Match) Booker T & Rob Van Dam © vs La Resistance vs The Dudley Boyz vs Mark Jindrak & Garrison Cade

The champions do not have to be pinned, it is sudden death as the first pin-fall or submission ends the match. The match reeks of let’s get everyone on the card, no idea why RVD and Booker T are a team, both men deserved more but booking had slowed them tremendously. They also have their themes mixed together, it sucks so much. No reaction for Cade and Jindrak, that is a bummer.

RVD starts with Dupree, knees by Dupree. Shoulder thrusts by RVD, monkey flip by RVD. Tag to Booker, catapult into a superkick and a two for Booker, Dupree fires back before eating a forearm. Hiptoss to Grenier, Dupree tags Bubba. Lock-up, knee by Bubba. Bubba pummels Booker, neckbreaker for two. Bubba jabs Booker but Booker counters for a Harlem Sidekick, Cade distracts the referee and in comes D-Von with Saving Grace on Booker. RVD takes out D-Von with a diving thrust kick, Jindrak tags in off Bubba. Jindrak stomps Booker, shots to the back by Jindrak. Cade tags in, Booker fires up but Cade boots Booker in the face.

Dupree blind tags into the match, right hands by Dupree. Tag to Conway, snapmare and reverse chinlock by Conway. Back elbow by Conway for two, another resthold from Conway. Booker knees Conway, spinebuster by Booker. RVD is legal, kicks to everyone in sight. Step-through spinning heel kick to Dupree and Cade, shots to Bubba. Conway is floored, setting up a Five Star Frog Splash. D-Von pushes RVD to the floor, Booker and D-Von clear out the heels. The Dudleys measure Booker for a 3D, Cade knocks down Bubba. Conway has Booker, Scissors Kick by Booker and RVD lands The Five Star Frog Splash on Conway for the win.

Crowd seemed dead for this match and I cannot blame them. A lot of teams and they are all trying to get their stuff into the match and it does not work, nobody gets over, nobody looks good and I feel like I wasted my time watching this match.

Winners: RVD & Booker T over Everyone Else via Five Star Frog Splash!

Coach searches for Undertaker

Coach hears noises and finds Bobby Heenan and Mean Gene Okerlund covered in kisses and their clothes all messy, Coach wants to find out and Coach finds Mae Young and Fabulous Moolah. Quite a funny gag, Coach sells this brilliantly.

Christian vs Chris Jericho

This feud began over a bet for one Canadian Dollar. Jericho wanted Trish, Christian wanted Lita. However, Jericho developed feelings for Trish which led to jealousy and tension from Christian, Christian and Jericho were friends, the best of friends and tag team partners but Christian had enough. Christian would deck Trish in an intergender match, injuring the poor woman. Chris Jericho is out for revenge at Wrestlemania, this was quite a good storyline in terms of a romantic angle done WWE Style (There is something far worse around the corner involving Kane and Lita).

Stare-down, Jericho and Christian lock-up with Christian backing Jericho into the corner. Huge right from Jericho, knees to the ribs and a back elbow. Back suplex and stomps by Y2J, clothesline by Jericho. Christian sidesteps Jericho but Jericho lands on the apron, Jericho elevates Christian to the floor. Springboard plancha by Jericho, Christian is hurled into the barricade. Sunset flip by Christian is countered, Jericho rolls through for his submission hold. Christian reaches the ropes and thumbs Jericho in the eye, back suplex to the floor by Christian. Christian stomps all over Jericho, Christian chokes Jericho.

Jericho fires back with chops but Christian reverses with a knee to the ribs. Two for Christian, Christian rips at the face of Jericho. Jericho mounts a comeback before Christian pulls down Jericho by the hair. Christian jokes Jericho with his legs, snapmare into a reverse chinlock. Jericho tries for The Walls, Christian rakes the eyes and nails a spinning heel kick for two. Christian whips Jericho into the corner and the two bang heads, slugfest between the two. Forearm by Y2J, drop toehold by Jericho. Leg across the back and a huge enzuigiri for two, Christian is reeling. Rolling prawn hold by Jericho, Christian rolls through and grabs the ropes for a close two count.

Reverse DDT is countered by Jericho for a northern lights suplex, two for Jericho. Modified bulldog by Jericho, Lionsault is blocked by Christian’s knees. Jericho blocks The Unprettier, Jericho runs into a tornado reverse DDT out of the corner by Christian for two. Christian walks into the flashback neckbreaker by Jericho, backbreaker by Christian cuts off Jericho. Christian is on the top rope, Jericho crotches Christian. Top rope Superplex by Jericho is blocked, crossbody by Christian but Jericho rolls through for two. Right hands by Jericho in the corner, Christian goes to the leg of Jericho, Texas Cloverleaf by Christian, applying the pressure to the tweaked knee of Y2J.

Jericho wriggles free to apply The Walls of Jericho to Christian, Christian escapes by grabbing the ropes but Jericho does not break the hold. Christian lays on the outside, Jericho brings Christian to the top rope. Double underhook suplex by Jericho, two count for Jericho. Trish comes running to the ring, Trish cheers on Jericho. Slugfest, Christian drops Jericho with The Edgecution, two count for Christian. Christian has a confrontation with Trish, Trish is shoved to the floor. Jericho checks on Trish, Trish elbows Jericho and Christian rolls-up Jericho due to Trish’s interference. Trish slaps Jericho after the match and Christian drops Jericho with The Unprettier.

What a lovely match this turned out to be, there was a lot of little things I liked about this match. Jericho being a babyface for the first time since 2001, I always loved babyface Jericho, Christian’s antics like running away to begin the match and using Edge’s finishing move. And that swerve at the end, just pure gold. Nobody saw it coming, another layer to the story, a fresh heel in Trish and Christian picks up more momentum while we have more of a reason to cheer Jericho on in his pursuit of taking down Christian. It truly is an underrated gem, good wrestling, good psychology and a finish that leaves me wanting more.

Winner: Christian over Chris Jericho via Handful of Tights!

The Rock/Mick Foley Promo

The Rock cuts a promo like only he can, Rock pumps up the crowd and his partner Mick Foley for the match with Evolution. In typical Rock fashion, Rock kills it and shows that everyone is miles behind the man in terms of promo skills.

Evolution vs The Rock “N” Sock Connection

This feud goes back to September of 2003, Randy Orton proclaimed himself The Legend Killer and began taking out WWE legends. Legends like Jake Roberts, Fabulous Moolah and Shawn Michaels fell prey to Orton, Foley had been on the end of a beating from Orton. Orton berated, bullied and assaulted Foley but Foley would not retort, Orton pushed Foley too far one night and Foley came back with a vengeance and his friend The Rock. Now, Foley looks to punish Orton with the help of The People’s Champion.

 Rock and Foley sprint to the ring, Rock wallops Orton and Batista. Flair is knocked down by Foley, Batista is pin-balled by Foley & Rock. Flair vs Rock to begin the match, side headlock and shoulder block by Rock who struts like The Nature Boy. Lock-up, chops by Flair. Right hands by Rock, back body drop. Flair powders, eye poke by Flair. Rock backdrops Flair on the floor, Cactus Jack elbow from the apron by Foley. Flair begs for mercy, tag to Orton. Orton is legal, tag to Foley. Orton powders, Foley pummels Orton on the floor. Elbow by Foley for two, Orton is placed in the tree of woe. Running elbow drop by Foley, tag to The Rock.

 Clothesline by Rock, Irish whip by Orton and Flair cheap shots Rock before Batista lowbridges Rock. Batista drops Rock across the barricade, tag to Batista. Batista knees Rock in the corner, right hands by The Rock but Batista elbows Rock. Tag to Flair, chops by The Nature Boy, followed by a strut. Rock beheads Flair with a clothesline, Flair is yanked off the top rope. Tag to Batista, clubbing blows by Batista, shoulder thrusts from The Animal. Irish whip by Batista, Rock clotheslines out of the corner, tag to Foley. High knee to Batista, Batista counters the double arm DDT. Right hands by Foley, Batista clobbers Foley with a clothesline.

Foley is thrown to the floor, Flair chops Foley while Orton stomps The Hardcore Legend. Foley is whipped knees first into the steel steps, Orton stomps Foley in the corner. Uppercut by Orton, tag to Flair. A chop decks Foley, more strutting from Flair. Foley waffles Flair but holds onto Foley’s leg, preventing the tag. Orton is the legal man, reverse chinlock by Orton. Foley elbows Orton but Orton drags Foley to the mat. Tag to Batista, short-arm clotheslines by Batista for two. Batista clubs Foley on the ground, Foley applies The Mandible Claw.

Orton illegally enters booting Foley, Flair is legal. Eye poke by Flair, tag to Batista. Batista Irish whips Foley, Foley counters with a neckbreaker. Double clothesline before a tag to Flair, Foley back elbows Flair. Tag to Rock, flying forearm to Flair, DDT to Orton. Batista is dragged into the ring, Orton is knocked to the floor. Batista spinebusters Rock, Flair calls for The People’s Elbow on Rock. Rock kips-up and pummels Flair. DDT to Batista, spinebuster to Flair.

People’s Elbow to Flair, Rock goes to cover and Flair kicks out! Eye poke by Flair, tag to Orton. Rock blocks The RKO, Rock Bottom to Orton but Flair drags out Rock. Rock clotheslines Flair, Flair grabs a chair. Batista clotheslines Rock and delivers The Batista Bomb. Orton crawls for the cover 1…2. Rock kick out of The Batista Bomb. Tag to Foley, right hands to Evolution. Double Arm DDT to Orton, Mr. Socko is out but Orton counters The Mandible Claw for The RKO.

Another good match, Flair and Rock were on fire in terms of entertainment. Batista showed a bit of nerves with a few sloppy moments here and there but to see The Rock again in the ring, mixing it up with Evolution was great. I was happy to see that, I thought the crowd was a little quiet for the match, the wrestlers in the ring deserved more as they all did their best to make this match as entertaining as possible. Rock’s last match until Survivor Series 2011, a good way to go out putting over young talent like Batista and Randy Orton. The finish was great too, putting over The RKO with the tagline out of nowhere, good stuff all around from WWE.

Winners: Evolution over The Rock N Sock Connection via RKO!

Torrie Wilson & Sable vis Miss Jackie & Stacy Keibler (Playboy Lingerie Match)

Torrie Wilson & Sable were featured on the cover of Playboy, the other two girls were not featured on Playboy and were not happy about this so we have this match. Originally, everyone is in evening gowns but Sable prefers everyone in their underwear so every man in the audience is happy about this change to the match.

They take more time stripping before the match that the actual match. Miss Jackie is a spoiled sport and does not strip, the crowd boos Jackie for being sensible. Sable drags in Jackie and Jackie is stripped, Sable and Jackie begin the “match”. Sable throws Jackie across the ring, crossbody by Torrie for two. Jackie tags Stacy, cue the cartwheel spot. Stacy chokes Torrie with her long legs, sunset flip sexual spot. Spinning heel kick by Stacy for two, tag to Jackie. Spear by Torrie, roll over the referee spot. Slap by Jackie, Torrie rolls through for the win and spanks Jackie. Yeah mindless T&A, DUD.

Winners: Torrie Wilson and Sable over Stacy Keblier & Miss Jackie via Roll-Up!

Eddie Guerrero/Chris Benoit Promo

Eddie says he will be proud of Benoit either way, win or lose. Benoit is not happy, Benoit says shut your mouth Eddie and tells Eddie that Benoit will walk out with the championship.

(WWE Cruiserweight Championship Match) Chavo Guerrero © vs Rey Mysterio vs Shannon Moore vs Ultimo Dragon vs Funaki vs Jamie Noble vs Nunzio vs Tajiri vs Akio vs Billy Kidman

Another match where we are trying to fit everyone on the card, Ultimo Dragon and Shannon Moore begin the match. Hammerlock and side headlock by Shannon Moore, shoulder block for two. Dragon backslides Moore for two, back suplex by Moore for two. Dragon slides out of a back suplex, Moore misses a corkscrew splash and Dragon eliminates Moore with an Asai DDT.

Shannon Moore has been eliminated!

Noble is in, Noble jumps Dragon but Dragon kicks the crap out of Noble. Noble manages to counter a moonsault for a neckbreaker. Guillotine choke by Noble and Dragon taps out, Funaki enters the ring and tries a crossbody. Noble eliminates Funaki after reversing the crossbody.

Ultimo Dragon/Funaki have been eliminated!

Nunzio is in, missile dropkick by Nunzio for two. Noble hurls Nunzio to the floor, somersault senton by Noble to the floor. Noble and Nunzio fight on the outside and Nunzio is eliminated by count-out. Lame elimination right there.

Nunzio has been eliminated!

Springboard shooting star press by Kidman on Noble and Nunzio, Noble counters a powerbomb for a guillotine choke, Kidman counters with an enzuigiri. Kidman climbs to the top rope, Noble crotches Kidman. They fight atop the turnbuckle, tope rope Sky High by Kidman and Noble is gone.

Jamie Noble has been eliminated!

Seated senton by Mysterio, Kidman powders. Akio interferes, spinebuster by Kidman. Kidman places Mysterio on the top rope, Mysterio blocks the gutwrench for a sunset flip powerbomb and the elimination.

Billy Kidman has been eliminated!

Tajiri is in, Tarantual by Tajiri. Mysterio blocks the handspring elbow with a dropkick. 619 by Mysterio, Tajiri dodges The West Coast Pop. Akio grabs Mysterio, Tajiri mists Akio by mistake. Roll-up by Mysterio and Tajiri has been eliminated.

Tajiri has been eliminated!

Akio cannot compete, Tajiri kicks Mysterio before leving. Chavo tries stealing the pin, two for Chavo. Mysterio springboard hurricanranas Chavo, tope con hilo to Chavo Sr. Mysterio springboards sunset flips Chavo but Chavo Sr. holds onto his son’s hand and with the extra leverage, Chavo escapes with his championship.

That was so rushed, hardly anything had a chance to stick with me. There was some nice spots here and there but you can hardly tell any decent story with such a short amount of time. Did WWE ever capitalize on having Ultimo Dragon? Seems like such a joke in the grand scheme of things, a waste of a run. I think things could have been much better with Mysterio vs Chavo.

Winner: Chavo Guerrero over Rey Mysterio via Shenaigans!

Brock Lesnar vs Goldberg (Stone Cold Steve Austin is The Special Guest Referee)

Brock Lesnar and Goldberg had crossed paths at Survivor Series, Lesnar would cost Goldberg a chance at headlining at Wrestlemania when The Next Big Thing would F-5 Goldberg and distract Goldberg, allowing Kurt Angle to eliminate him. Goldberg gained revenge at No Way Out when Goldberg cost Lesnar his WWE Championship. The stage was set for these two titans, these two badasses to clash at the biggest stage of them all. However, this was not the epic you would expect, why? Well, both men were leaving at Wrestlemania, Goldberg’s one year contract was up while Lesnar had decided he wanted a career in Football.

You sold out chants fill the arena, we are getting a lot of awkward staring from the two behemoths. Goodbye chants from the crowd, Austin looks amused by all the chants. More staring and awkwardness, Austin chants with raises a smile from The Rattlesnake. Lock-up that goes on and on and on and on, break. Another lock-up, another break. Side headlock by Lesnar, shoulder block does not faze Goldberg. Goldberg’s shoulder block does not faze Lesnar, more trash-talking. Both collide after shoulder blocks, Lesnar stomps Goldberg. Hard Irish whip by Goldberg, military press slam by Goldberg. Spear is side-stepped by Lesnar, Goldberg crashes into the ringpost.

 Lesnar suplexes Goldberg for two, another suplex by Lesnar. Standing crossface by Lesnar, Goldberg wriggles free but Lesnar shoulder blocks Goldberg and re-applies the standing crossface. Goldberg escapes but Lesnar nails a clothesline for two. Goldberg nails a series of clotheslines, spinning neckbreaker by Goldberg. Spear by Goldberg for two, Goldberg is in Austin’s face. F-5 by Lesnar, two for Lesnar. Lesnar misses a Spear, Spear by Goldberg and a Jackhammer for the win. After the match, Austin Stunners both men.

Destined to fail, both men were leaving the company and they decided to do the bare minimum in this match. Half of it was staring and lock-ups that went on forever. Goldberg misses a Spear and sells his arm like always, Lesnar applies a crossface for another five minutes and then hits his finish. The crowd crapped on the match, the wrestlers involved did nothing to help change their minds. A sad end to both men WWE’s careers but they would be back and thirteen years later, they would appear at Wrestlemania being cheered by those in attendance.

Winner: Goldberg over Brock Lesnar via Jackhammer!

(WWE Tag Team Championship Match) Rikishi & Scotty Too Hotty © vs The APA vs The World’s Greatest Tag Team vs The Basham Brothers

Same as the Raw match with everyone on the card for the sake of being nice and giving them a good pay day. Sudden death rules so first pin-fall or submission ends the match. Benjamin jumps Bradshaw, big boot and clubbing blows by Bradshaw. Shoulder block by Bradshaw, elbow for two. Doug blind tags in off Bradshaw, inverted atomic drop by Doug. Tag to Danny, back suplex for two. Haas cheap shots Danny, tag to Haas.

Jawbreaker by Danny, Scotty blind tags into the match. Side headlock by Scotty, shoulder block by Scotty. Back suplex by Scotty, kip-up and moonwalk by Scotty. Haas throws Scotty to the apron, Scotty tries skinning the cat but Benjamin comes in for a slingshot on Scotty. Bearhug by Haas, blind tag by Doug. Doug boots Scotty for two, double suplex by The Basham Brothers. Scotty enzuigiris Doug but Danny tags in, scoop slam by Danny is blocked and Scotty tags in Rikishi. Right hands and DDTs all around, Rikishi bumps off Benjamin. Stinkface to Haas, Doug and Bradsahw brawl. Bradshaw Last Calls Doug onto everyone on the floor, Clothesline From Hell on Danny. Rikishi Samoan drops Bradshaw and Rikishi drops his big ass on Danny to retain the championships.

On par with The Raw match, little substance to the match as everyone had little time to make an impact. Faarooq barely featured too which was a little odd I thought but yes, it was ok. Nothing memorable, nothing that I am going to remember five minutes from now. Just a match on this card which is way too long, you could have axed a lot of these matches.

Winners: Rikishi & Scotty Too Hotty over Everyone Else via Hip Drop!

(WWE Women’s Championship Match) Victoria © vs Molly Holly

Before the match, we have Jesse Ventura interview Donald Trump. This is relevant now so I shall cover it because I can. There is also an Edge promo, Edge has been out of action since No Way Out 2003, it will be nice to see Edge back in action. Anyways, Molly fought tooth and nail to just have a women’s championship match on this card. Molly was prepared to lose her hair to get a spot on the card, the respect I have for this woman is unmeasurable. A saint in a business full of backstabbers and politicians. So, if Molly loses, she loses her hair.

Lock-up, knee by Molly. Knee in the corner by Molly, illegal choke by Molly. Arm-wringer, Victoria kips-up for a roll-up. Two for Victoria, Molly powders. Victoria misses a baseball slide, hard clothesline by Molly. Two for Molly, snap suplex for two. Molly keeps Victoria down with elbows, low dropkick by Molly for two. Reverse chinlock by Molly, Victoria breaks free only for Molly to drag her down to the mat. Jacknife cover by Victoria for two, right hands by Victoria. Powerslam for Victoria for two, Molly hurls Victoria into the bottom rope.

Victoria meets Molly on the top rope, sunset flip powerbomb by Molly for two. Molly looks for The Widow’s Peak and Victoria counters her own move. Victoria retains her championship, Molly looks on in shock and tries to escape. They tease that Victoria might lose her hair but Molly ends up getting what she deserves, the stipulation is fulfilled.

It was ok, they weren’t giving a lot of time as was the tradition with the divas at this point. What I will say is fair play to Molly for agreeing to lose her hair just to appear at Wrestlemania. I also believe that Victoria could have been a great counter to the new bitchy and heel Trish Stratus but they never went all the way with Victoria, preferring to go with Lita vs Trish.

Winner: Victoria over Molly Holly via Backslide!

(WWE Championship Match) Eddie Guerrero © vs Kurt Angle

The irony of Kurt Angle calling Eddie a drug addict, this feud began over morals. Angle was not happy with Eddie being champion, Eddie was a disgrace so Angle took exception to Latino Heat and Angle wished to defeat Eddie to restore honour and glory to the WWE Championship and Smackdown Brand. That’s a very juicy storyline and I am hooked even before I think about that this is a match between two of the very best wrestlers in the company at the time, this could steal the show.

Lock-up, clean break from Angle. Hammerlock and front chancery from Angle, Eddie takes down Angle. Angle grabs a headlock on the ground, stand-off from the two as Eddie breaks free. Angle takes the back, standing switch from Eddie. Headlock from Angle, side headlock from Eddie. Shoulder block by Angle, another lock-up. Eddie takes down Angle, side headlock from Eddie. Shoulder blocks from Eddie, Angle powders to the floor. Firemen’s carry from Eddie, front chancery from Angle. Eddie counters with a back body drop, series of armdrags before slapping on an armbar.

Top wristlock from Eddie, Angle escapes and knees Eddie in the ribs. Abodinal stretch by Angle, Eddie wriggles free for The Three Amigos. Angle blocks for German suplexes, Angle and Eddie are on the apron. Angle tries a German suplex from the apron, Eddie shakes off Angle. Baseball slide by Eddie, Eddie misses a crossbody from the top. Eddie lands on the barricade, two for Angle in the ring. Backbreaker by Angle for two, shoulder thrusts in the corner by The Olympic Hero. Snapmare into the bodyscissors, Angle is working the ribs of the champion. Eddie breaks free to eat a stungun from Angle, two for the challenger.

Belly to belly suplex by Angle, make it two. Eddie kicks out but the pain is etched on his face. Bodyscissors by Angle, Eddie is thrown across the ring again as Angle is getting frustrated. Eddie is placed on the top rope, Eddie shoves off Angle but Eddie eats canvas as Angle dodges The Frog Splash. Right hands by Angle, stomps by the challenger. Angle looks down at Eddie, right hands deck Latino Heat. Eddie shows fighting spirit, taking Angle’s punches and asking for more. Right hands by Eddie, Angle misses a corner splash. Back suplex by Eddie for two, Angle blocks a suplex for more German suplexes.

 Eddie counters for a roll through, two for Eddie. Eddie counters an Angle Slam for an armdrag, headscissors takedown by Eddie. Three Amigos by Eddie, Angle sweeps Eddie’s leg for an Ankle Lock. Eddie kicks off Angle, dropkick by Eddie. Eddie climbs to the top rope, Angle runs up for a belly to belly suplex, two for Angle. The straps are down, Angle applies The Ankle Lock. Eddie rolls through for two, German suplex by Angle. Angle Slam is countered for a beautiful DDT, Frog Splash by Eddie for two and a half. Eddie picks up Angle, Angle was playing possum for an Ankle Lock. Eddie kicks off Angle to the floor, Eddie unties his boot, leaving it very loose. Angle sees Eddie holding his ankle, Ankle Lock but Eddie’s foot comes off and Eddie rolls-up Angle.

A great match from Eddie and Angle, I thought the story going into the match was quite dramatic and gripping, Angle thought he was morally in the right while Eddie was everything wrong with being a champion. Angle and Eddie start out mat wrestling with some fun stuff, Angle is frustrated by Eddie holding his own which leads to Angle taking shortcuts and busting Eddie’s ribs. Eddie gets sympathy as the beating continues until Latino Heat turns the tide, Angle shoots for The Ankle and just when you think Angle has Eddie’s number, Eddie outsmarts Angle, cheating in the process and defeating Angle, it was a fun match, the finish was clever for Eddie’s character and the story as Angle had complained Eddie was a cheater and Eddie cheated to win.

Winner: Eddie Guerrero over Kurt Angle via Roll-up!

Undertaker W/ Paul Bearer vs Kane

Kane had buried Undertaker alive at Survivor Series, Undertaker had haunted Kane ever since with mind games. With the gong and the effects, the fans were happy to see the return of a more sinister Deadman character as opposed to American Badass Undertaker. Paul Bearer is back with druids carrying torches, you knew something different was in the air and this was a big return for Undertaker. Paul Bearer raises the urn to the sky and the gong sounds off, the crowd explodes in anticipation. A modern take on the original character, The Deadman himself appears like Clint Eastwood in a spaghetti western film, hat and trench-coat on with a look on his face that would kill a weaker man.

Kane looks at his big brother in shock, you cannot be real mutters The Big Red Machine. Kane touches Taker, Taker annihilates Kane with rights and lefts, Kane powders to the floor. Kane catches Taker with a right hand on the floor, Taker Irish whips Kane into the ring apron. Apron leg drop by Taker, hard Irish whip by The Deadman. Corner clotheslines by Taker, Last Ride attempt by Taker is blocked by Kane. Big boot by Kane, Kane chokes and hammers Taker. Sidewalk slam by Kane, Kane climbs to the top rope. Diving clothesline by Kane, two for The Big Red Machine.

Taker fires back at Kane, huge right hands. Hard Irish whip by Kane, big boot by Taker and a nice leg drop. Kane counters Old School for a Chokeslam, Taker says no and both men choke one another. Taker eats elbows, Chokeslam by Kane. Kane laughs, Taker sits up to the shock of Kane. Right hands by Taker, leaping clothesline. Chokeslam by Taker, Taker calls for the end and Taker lays out his baby brother with a Tombstone Piledriver. Revenge has been served.

Not crazy about this match, it was rather slow and boring. However, the entrance, the appearance of Paul Bearer and a return to The Deadman persona for The Undertaker earn this match a huge thumbs up for me. Taker would maintain this gimmick until his retirement, great to see the fans happy to see The Undertaker and a pay-off to the angle.

Winner: The Undertaker over Kane via Tombstone Piledriver!

(WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match) Triple H © vs Shawn Michaels vs Chris Benoit

With Triple H and Shawn Michaels battling it out to a draw at Royal Rumble, Chris Benoit won The Royal Rumble and changed his allegiance to the Raw brand. Benoit challenged Triple H, this did not set well with HBK. Michaels wanted to be in the match as Triple H did not beat Michaels, Michaels believed he deserved that rematch. So, the triple threat match was made, Benoit worked his whole life for this moment, will the fairytale come true?

Benoit and Michaels want to murder Triple H, they fight for the right to beat up Triple H. Benoit and Michaels chop one another hard, Triple H is bumped to the floor. Michaels takes down Benoit, Benoit bridges out of a jacknife pin for a backslide, Michaels avoids The Crossface with a cradle, two for Michaels. Northern lights suplex by Benoit for two, Triple H clotheslines Michaels. Benoit chops Triple H, Michaels sidesteps Benoit as The Crippler falls to the floor. Back body drop by Michaels on Triple H, chops in the corner. Triple H explodes out of the corner with a clothesline, Triple H turns his attention to Benoit on the floor. Benoit is rammed into the ring apron, Michaels baseball slides both Triple H & Benoit. Michaels moonsaults onto Triple H & Benoit.

In the ring, Triple H facebusters Michaels. Benoit saves Michaels from a Pedigree, Benoit hurls Michaels into the ringpost. Snap suplex by Benoit on The Game, Triple H whips Benoit into the turnbuckle. Triple H props Benoit on the top rope before placing The Rabid Wolverine in the tree of woe. Triple H whips Michaels into Benoit for a two count.  Michaels reverses an Irish whip and sends Triple H into Benoit, roll-up by Michaels for two. Flying forearm by Michaels, kip-up but Benoit clotheslines Michaels to the floor. German suplex by Benoit, Triple H tries blocking the suplex but it does not work, tenacious is Benoit. Three German suplexes, Benoit gets crotched on the top rope.

Triple H dodges Sweet Chin Music and scores with a DDT, Triple H and Benoit battle on the top rope. Superplex by Triple H for two, Benoit counters The Pedigree for The Crossface, Triple H is caught but Michaels saves Triple H. Michaels gets too cute trying to German suplex Benoit, Benoit teaches Michaels how to German suplex. Diving Headbutt by Benoit, Michaels kicks out. Flying forearm by Michaels, Benoit falls to the floor. Kip-up inverted atomic drop on Triple H. Scoop slam and Michaels climbs high for The Elbow Drop, Michaels connects to the black heart of The Game. Sweet Chin Music by Michaels, Benoit drags out Triple H to save the match.

Chops by Michaels, Benoit reverses Michaels for a Michaels flip out of the corner. Catapult by Benoit into the ringpost, Michaels is a bloody mess. Benoit brings down Michaels, looking for the Crossface. Benoit slaps it on, Triple H holds onto Michaels’ hand and prevents the tap. Triple H Irish whips Benoit into the steel steps, Triple H clears away the announce table. Benoit has Triple H on the table, Benoit looks for a German suplex. Benoit and Triple H brawl until Michaels is on the table too. Michaels and Triple H combine to double suplex Benoit through the table. Michaels wants Triple H in the ring now that Benoit is out of the equation.

Triple H batters Michaels in the corner, Michaels turns the tide with chops of his own. Triple H tumbles to the floor, Michaels sends Triple H into the ringpost. Pedigree by Triple H, both men are down. Triple H crawls and drapes an arm over before Benoit makes the save. Chops by Benoit, Triple H attempts The Pedigree. Benoit counters for a Sharpshooter, Triple H struggles towards the ropes. Benoit drags back The Game, Sweet Chin Music by Michaels on Benoit. Michaels covers Benoit, Benoit kicks out at two. Michaels calls for another Sweet Chin Music, Benoit elevates Michaels to the floor. Triple H calls for The Pedigree, Benoit counters for The Crippler Crossface. Triple H cannot reach the ropes, Triple H is inches away but the champion fades. Triple H tries one more roll but Benoit does not let go, Triple H taps and Benoit is your new champion. Benoit celebrates with Eddie Guerrero, his best friend in one of the most emotional moments in wrestling history.

An excellent match, quite possibly the best triple threat match I have ever seen. So much drama, so much excitement, great wrestling all around. You have Benoit and Michaels wanting to destroy Triple H, they come to blows, Triple H is the opportunist sneaking in to try and retain his championship. Some fantastic spots with the sharpshooter, the double suplex through the announce table and The Crossface with Benoit at the end of the match. It was perfect, the crowd were all in on Benoit, the match was designed to have you all in on Benoit, I loved Michaels playing babyface but walking the line with stealing the German suplexes and superkicking the crowd’s favourite. A fitting end to Wrestlemania and two best friends celebrating in the ring, crying tears of joy as they were both on top of the wrestling world. Benoit may have blackened his name and tarnished his legacy but on this night, there was not one fan in that audience who was not chanting his name.

Winner: Chris Benoit over Triple H & Shawn Michaels via Crippler Crossface!

That was Wrestlemania XX, a good Wrestlemania by my standards. There were dull moments, I thought Cena vs Show could have been handled better and there was what felt like nothing matches in the middle of the card. The tag team title matches were nothing much, just a way of getting everyone on the card while the first women’s match was a joke while the second may have received less time overall I am not sure. And you cannot forget the awkward encounter of Lesnar vs Goldberg, the less said about that, the better.

A lot of good though, Evolution vs Foley & Rock was a lot of fun even I think the crowd was quiet for parts of the match. Christian vs Jericho was heated with a clever twist at the end that would provide more for everyone involved, Guerrero vs Angle was great from a wrestling point of view with a finish that played perfectly into the narrative being portrayed on television while the main event was all around dram and excitement, edge of your seat stuff as the crowd willed on Benoit to his championship win. I would rank this on par with Wrestlemania XIX, both had their ups and downs but there were a lot of memorable moments on this card that sadly, is not mention often due to the circumstances around Benoit’s death.