Miami marks the first Strikeforce show since Scott Smith pulled yet another come-from-behind victory out of his ass against Cung Le last month at Evolution. The main event should make for a solid card so let’s get down to the nitty gritty:

Bobby Lashley vs. TBA
This bout makes total sense for Lashley. TBA has absolutely no ground game, no stand up, and absolutely no cardio. In all seriousness, after Yohan Banks was denied a license by the FSAC and Jimmy Ambriz was not approved by Showtime, the latest flavor of the minute is Wes Sims, who, if we’re going with the “Strikeforce is trying to protect a rising asset in Lashley” argument, at least has some sort of record and can be sold to the common fan by tying him into his stint on The Ultimate Fighter along with a large number of fights. Regardless, I really would be shocked, based on the current list of potential opponents they’ve proposed and the short turnaround to train, if Lashley loses against whomever they put in front of him.

(Update as of Wednesday, January 27, 2010)
Now that Lashley-Sims is confirmed? I still go with my original assessment. For a guy with his experience, he got quickly subbed in R1 of his first fight on TUF by Justin Wren. Lashley is too big and strong.

Jay’s Pick: Lashley via TKO, R1

Herschel Walker vs. Greg Nagy
Greg Nagy, at a record of 1-1 through two fights with Rage In the Cage, has twice as many fights as the 47 year-old Walker, who’s been training at AKA with the likes of Mike Swick and Cain Velasquez, holds a sixth-degree black belt in tae kwon do, and plans on giving away his winnings to charity. I completely agree with Mike Chiapetta over at MMA Fanhouse, who says it is a lose-lose situation for Nagy: he wins? He beat an old man with no MMA credentials. He loses? He lost to an old man with no MMA credentials. Despite his lack of experience, I give this to Herschel Walker.

Jay’s Pick: Walker via ?, Round ? (Sorry, I have no idea what to expect here)

Melvin Manhoef vs. Robbie Lawler

Manhoef has never seen a third round in his MMA career. He’s either knocked someone out or been submitted with a 24-6 record. Lawler, sporting a record of 18-5, has more or less had the same path as Manhoef (TKO/KO someone or got subbed). Both love to slug it out and will make for an exciting fight. Coming off the loss to submission loss to current middleweight champ Jake Shields last year might make you think Lawler is looking for a big KO win to get back in the saddle. I’d advise against it with Manhoef. He’s got a shot at pulling off a sub given Manhoef’s weak ground game and he is absolutely no slouch on his feet, but frankly, I think he’ll be seeing stars.

Jay’s Pick: Manhoef by TKO, R1

Cristiane “Cyborg” Santos vs. Marloes Coenen (Women’s LW Championship)
I will not editorialize on the looks of both fighters. Coenen is a credible opponent to the dominant Santos, who wrecked Gina Carano last year to win the promotion’s first women’s belt. She hits hard and has won almost all fights by TKO, but supports that with a purple belt in jiu-jitsu. Coenen, on the other hand, holds a 17-3 record, with 12 wins coming by submission. She’s made claims as of late that her stand up has improved and she is not afraid to bang, but I think Cyborg is too strong and possesses a good enough ground game that she won’t give Coenen anything to work with.

Jay’s Pick: Santos by TKO, R1

Nick Diaz vs. Marius Zaromskis (Welterweight Title)
In case you do not know who Marius Zaromskis is, the Genghis Con Blog video is the go-to brush up on his past year of destruction in Japan, where he became the Dream 2009 WW Grand Prix Champ and their inaugural Dream WW champ. The Lithuanian sensations’ standup is phenomenal, with 12 out of 13 wins having come by TKO/KO (only 2 of those made it to the 3rd round).

Then there’s, of course, Nick Diaz, who should have already fought for this title last year against Jay Hieron8 if it weren’t for those damned drug tests costing him a license. Despite his love of the greenery, Diaz has won five in a row with his last loss coming from K.J. Noons in November 2007. He’s got great boxing9, but his “x factor” will be his Cesar Gracie-trained jiu jitsu. Normally, Diaz’s Southpaw-style boxing keeps his opponents off guard, but I think Zaromskis (a Southpaw as well) has the edge in the striking department. Diaz will have to pick at Zaromskis with his boxing, try not eat a lot of shots, and get it to the ground fast. Betting odds are floating around -200 to -150 for Diaz, some have it even. It’s a tough call, but I’ll give it to Diaz’s ground game to decide it.

Jay’s Pick: Diaz by submission, R2

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One thing I love about being American is the fact that, in our Bill of Rights, the very first item listed is the affordment for all Americans to be able to think and speak freely. The “First Amendment” is something that gets thrown around by everyone, from politicians to street urchins, in order to validate whatever message they have to get across.

I consider myself a moderate on most subjects, including politics and philosophy. As such, I believe that anyone, no matter how insane or wrong, is entitled to speak on a subject. It was appalling to me that in 2004, both the libertarian and green party Presidential candidates were denied entry to a debate featuring both George W. Bush and John Kerry, when both Michael Badnarik and David Cobb had as much right to speak as the two other candidates did. They were even arrested for ‘disturbing the peace’. One would think that with the office of President, leadership of the free world, at stake, that all potential candidates would have their voices heard, right?

It was no less sage a wrestling legend than Terry Funk who once said in part that you should listen to everyone’s ideas, since you never know where a good one will come from.

But where do you draw the line?

I suppose you could draw it at speech that is intentionally designed to disenfranchise people on grounds of prejudice. For example, what incentive do I have to attend a Ku Klux Klan rally? I’m not racist. I’m for racial equality. The speech is nothing but hateful garbage to me. There may be white supremacists who agree with the rhetoric. Good for them. If anything, the rally can be a good thing. I’d like to be given a list of attendees so that I know who I’m better off not speaking to.

For Dixie Carter and Total Non-Stop Action Wrestling, free speech has certainly been a blessing and a curse for them. It’s a blessing in that, in this modern age, feedback can reach them quicker so that they can find ways to tweak their product and put forth one that will draw money and make everyone rich. On the other hand, it seems that there’s a bevy of negative things to say about TNA Wrestling’s product, and it’s seeming to be a common sentiment in regards to the number two promotion.

It’s true. For every instance in which TNA has been able to swipe up a major talent such as Kurt Angle, Bobby Lashley, or Mick Foley, they’ve produced some shoddy programming with rushed storylines (many of which border on incoherent), nonsensical swerves, and horrid characters (I’ll just say ODB and leave it at that). While many fans remain cheerful and optimistic that TNA can push Vince McMahon’s buttons and give WWE a reason to put together a more fun product on their side of the fence, others remain permanently skeptical.

I say “permanently” in just that sense. Permanently.

It holds true for a lot of wrestling fans, this idea that nothing can ever please them. It just seems that many of these too-cool-for-the-room fans have no interest in anything except tearing down some aspect of the industry.

To paint them all with the same brush would be extremely unfair, since they could be grouped differently. So today, I’m going to focus on one group in particular who have come under scrutiny in recent days.

That group? The 900 fans at the Impact Zone.

Now, I’m aware that it’s not the same 900 folks who show up every time that TNA puts on a pay per view or taping, but there are, in fact, many “regulars”. These regulars are the ones that I wish to address.

Recently, TNA director Steve Small gave the fans a good talking to in regards to the demeanor he expects from them. Already, after this one sentence, no good can come from this. To tell people how to act in a free society is risking a serious backlash, especially when TNA needs all of the support that it can get. Given the aforementioned skepticism that many have for TNA, even when it’s unfounded, TNA really cannot afford to look like a rigid country club at this point. Small looked rather uncomfortable in his speech, trying to buddy up to the fans and no come off as a corporate slug. To his credit, it probably wasn’t his idea to speak to the fans, and most of his dialogue was likely from a memo that was edited and reworded a few times during the day. The fans seemed to have a good laugh at his pleas to not be overly condescending to the product being presented, and to help convince the fans at home that they’re watching a good show.

Now, after hearing this, I would side with the fans. But, you see, there’s just a tiny snag here.

The fans at the Impact Zone do not purchase tickets.

They get in for free, essentially as a live studio audience for a TV taping.

Now this is already common knowledge among wrestling fans, but it makes the situation a bit more comical when you realize that what these fans basically portray is a freeloading heckler who’s messing with a television production. Like it or not, there’s a little difference here between this and an actual sporting event.

If I were running a taping of Two and a Half Men on CBS, and I were filming it in front of a live studio audience, what would I do if six men in the crowd began to chant “YOU GOT BUSTED!” at Charlie Sheen? The audience, who would have likely gotten in for free, is there to laugh at the quips and provide basically the rhythm to the show’s lead guitar. I would have those men ejected from the tapings, for certain.

“But Justin, the fans cheer and boo naturally! You can’t disrupt their organic feelings! It’s a wrestling show afterall!”

While I agree that organic crowd participation makes a wrestling show better, there was an incident from the January 17 Genesis pay per view that seems to be a partial catalyst for TNA’s pleas for decorum.

Long time TNA star and fan favorite, even as a heel, Christopher Daniels was working the second match of the night against former WWE midcarder Val Venis, now known by his real name, Sean Morley. In Morley’s words, he had barely any sleep due to a long flight, and the match was well below the standards of both men. What appalled the fans is that Daniels, who ranges somewhere between “Jesus” and “Mecha Jesus” in the hearts of TNA followers, took the clean pinfall to Morley, who nearly botched his top rope finisher, the Money Shot. Many in the Impact Zone responded by turning their backs to the ring in protest, showing that they refused to endorse the events that had just occured.

Now, to be fair, the fans really shouldn’t have to cheer Morley, even if he’s playing the good guy. It comes down to organics, really. If they don’t feel the need to cheer him, then they shouldn’t cheer him. Simple as that. But to make such a show of your displeasure by turning their backs to the ring as if they were ritualistically slaughtering a calf is just ridiculous.

If Morley is right, then there’s a chance that he can make up for his bad performance. So why not give him the benefit of a do-over? Maybe he’ll get Daniels again down the line and they’ll have a good match like Desmond Wolfe had with D’Angelo Dinero, or even a great one like Kurt Angle and AJ Styles had?

But no. The TNA faithful that didn’t buy tickets to attend the event made their decision on Morley’s fate. You know, given that the company brought in cult favorite Brian Kendrick for the X Division, larger scale cult favorite Ken Anderson to bring cred to the promotion, let AJ Styles and Kurt Angle tear the house down again, didn’t put aging slugs like Kevin Nash and Syxx over Beer Money, and did their best to provide a fresh product that they honestly thought would make the fans happy, doesn’t that make the hissy fit seem just a little more moronic in hindsight?

I mean, maybe I could understand the brattiness if these fans had dropped a couple hundred bucks for front row seats and the Morley/Daniels match was the main event, but really? There were still six matches remaining, two of which were tremendous and a couple that were solid fare. Personally, I felt it was a good show, and even Morley vs. Daniels wasn’t THAT bad. If you me a chance to rattle off 200 pay per view matches in history that I think were worse, the hard part wouldn’t be finding 200, but narrowing it down to 200.

TNA is not perfect. A combination of growing pains, shoddy production, Russorific writing, Jeff Jarrett’s nepotistic desires, and attempts to imitate WWE have kept TNA in a distant second to the McMahon empire. There’s still plenty of time to make up ground, so long as wrestling fans remain tired of the complacent and cutesy state that WWE keeps themselves in. But they’re going to do everything they can to claw their way onto WWE’s level, and we as fans owe it to ourselves to root for TNA to do just that, so that both companies will pull out all the stops and make themselves more exciting as a result.

So in that sense, I can actually understand Steve Small’s little lecture, as meek and contrived as it came off. Of course, it would help if TNA would actually LEAVE the studios and venture into actual arenas. I know I’m not the only person who gets horrible flashbacks to WCW Worldwide when he watches Impact. But the point is that the fans at the Zone are being treated, whether it’s a three hour pay per view or a three or four hour television taping. They are free to leave at any time if their interest wanes. It’s the same as they are free to lose their minds over AJ Styles and Kurt Angle raising the bar for their peers.

Here’s a helpful hint to fans who may be attending upcoming events at the studios: you can actually control pushes with your noises. If a babyface you like is involved, cheer him like crazy. If a heel that you like is involved, boo him like crazy. Booing the heel keeps him from being domesticated with a face turn (see Randy Orton, 2004), and it puts him in position to demonstrate his heelish ways with more prominent television time. Don’t cheer heels. As Bradley Cooper would say in The Hangover, “it’s gay”.

As for the performers that you have no interest in seeing? Be silent. Don’t make a sound. There is no louder noise in this world than eerie calm. If you don’t want to see The Outsiders stumbling around for $300,000 a year, then just be quiet. Turning your backs on them makes them seem edgy, because you’re providing a reaction to their presence. Don’t react. Just sit there like a mannequin (which is the French word for “McCool”). Trust me, it’ll work. If TNA turns Sean Morley heel and gives him a gimmick where he’s so offensive to people that he makes them turn away, don’t say that I didn’t warn you.

Freedom of speech is one thing, but it’s even better when it can be used to make a positive change. Keep cheering AJ. Keep cheering Angle. Ignore the old sloths that are a threat to make the programming dull and lame. Don’t be cute about it. Use your entrance into the shows, whether paying or comped by the studio, to help change the course of how the show is structured. But hey, if you’re getting in for free and you’re asked to be courteous to the production of the show, be courteous. Just be sure to let your organic reactions be heard, and be silent when you’re underwhelmed. They’ll see the difference.

Let’s make good use of our first amendment rights. Otherwise, TNA may make use of their second amendment rights.

No sense in fans getting shot just because they don’t like Sean Morley, after all.

When he isn’t watching WWE, TNA, or his beloved Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies, Justin Henry can be found writing. It is his passion as well as his goal in life to become a well-regarded (as well as well-paid) columnist or author. Subscribe to The Cynical Examination, his wrestling blog, at http://www.facebook.com.

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This past Thursday night, another addition of TNA IMPACT aired, just days after the big “WWE vs. TNA Monday Night War” announcement. What went down? Let’s begin, and we’ll soon find out!

IMPACT began with an in ring promo from Kevin Nash, who announced that he would be in charge for the evening. In a promo previous to this, Mick Foley left the IMAPCT Zone to meet Hulk Hogan at the “airport”. This left Nash running things for the evening. Nash announced the “biased” card for the evening, and that was that.

British Invasion vs. Chris Sabin in a Handicap Match

This unfair match, was made because of Nash’s affiliation with the World Elite. This match was short and to the point, seeing Sabin single handily take out the British Invasion, eventually picking up the victory with a tornado DDT into a small package to Rob Terry. WOW! Chris Sabin cleanly beats all three members of the British Invasion? If the Brits weren’t completely meaningless before, the certainly are now. I guarantee you, the Guns will win the titles at Final Resolution, and if they don’t, make another check mark in the book of TNA’s ignorant booking strategies!

Scott Steiner and Awesome Kong vs. Bobby and Crystal Lashley

After the typical “big man brawling”, we saw from Bobby and Scott, Bobby was knocked to the outside. Crystal was then caught in the grasp of Kong, who gave her a body slam, and then ascended to the top turnbuckle (If Kong had actually splashed Crystal, I swear she would have killed her!). Before Kong could leave her feet, Steiner pinned Crystal, doing push ups (with sexual intent) over her fallen body. Steiner and Kong were victorious. This did a really good job, of heating up the Steiner/Lashley feud, and I can’t wait for the psychological battle of attrition, we’re going to see at Final Resolution!

Eric Young vs. Hamada for the TNA Global Championship

I thought the Global Championship was never to be defended on US soil? Nash made this exception, so whatever. Before I discuss this match up, let me talk a bit about the Global title. In my opinion, this could be a great opportunity for TNA to bring in international talent, and represent themselves internationally, to give TNA more culture and exposure. Anyway, even though this was a very brief match, Hamada showed that she’s got what it takes to go with guys! After missing a top rope moonsault, Young retained the title with assistance from the ropes.

ODB vs. Tara in a Trailor Park Throwdown

I don’t personally understand why these two had a match on IMPACT, when they’re obviously going to have a title match at Final Resolution. However, this was a very entertaining hardcore match, that you’ll never, and I mean never, see from the WWE Divas( Keep in mind, that both women had to consume a 6 pack before the match began!). After the usage of cookie sheets, trashcans, Tiki Torches (yes, I said Tiki Torches), ladders, and chairs. At one point in the match, Tara even hit a standing moonsault, with a trashcan over the head of ODB! ODB got the win, after executing a face buster onto Tara, onto a chair. Good match. At Final Resolution, we should get another solid showing from the TNA Knockouts!

Team 3D, Jesse Neal, and Rhino vs. Hernandez, Matt Morgan, and Suicide

As announced from the mouth of Kevin Nash, whoever got pinned here, would have to wrestle alone, at Final Resolution, for 5 minutes. Again, whatever. Before the match began, Team 3D commented on how “The Pope” D’Angelo Dinero wouldn’t be making it for the match tonight. Jesse Neal wore “Popes” Jacket as a trophy. This was a very good booking move, furthering the story line between these two teams. After some pretty decent action from all men involved in this contest, Hernandez hit the Border Toss, but was then speared/gored by Rhino the second…I mean, Jesse Neal. Hernandez will now have to start alone for 5 minutes, at Final Resolution. Obviously a good choice here, for Hernandez is notorious for fighting off multiple combatants all at once. After the match, the heels continue their beat down, until “Pope” comes limping out, chasing them away single handily. Really? 1 injured guy chases off 4 healthy guys? Very realistic!

Velvet Sky vs. Lacey Von Erich in a Mud Wrestling Match

Although I think this kind of stuff should be reserved for “Divas”, my lord, everyone watching IMPACT were winners here! All we saw in this match, was Sky and Von Erich rolling around in the mud, wearing skimpy outfits. Hey, what more could you ask for! Thank you for making this match, Mr. Nash!

Throughout the entire evening, we were shown video clips of Mick Foley visiting Jeff Jarrett. From his own home, to the local diner in Henderson-ville Tennessee, Foley looked high and low for Jarrett. Finally, Foley finally found Jarrett, and they agree to “deal with Dixie”. Does this mean Jarrett is going to return to TNA? I’m slightly interested to see how this ends up.

AJ Styles (C) vs. Desmond Wolfe for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship

Earlier in the night, Nash promised to give a title shot, to whomever the highest bidder was! Damn Nash is GREEDY! After a pretty good match between these two, which could have been great if given more time, AJ got the win, after Daniels came out and intentionally distracted Wolfe, allowing AJ to get the roll up. Daniels told Wolfe, that AJ’s title was his, and the two begin to brawl. They are eventually separated by security. Why are these two starting to feud, when Wolfe has a big match with Angle at Final Resolution, and Daniels has one with AJ? Makes no sense!

Overall, this was another so-so addition of IMPACT, which seemed very unfocused and unrealistic at times. I’d give this weeks show a letter grade of a B-.

*Be sure to check out my very new pro wrestling news site, at www.elitewrestlingnews.blogspot.com! Also, I’m looking for writers!

Todd Frizzell is from Columbus Ohio, and has been a huge professional wrestling fanatic for the last ten years. Todd is very interested in all aspects of pro wrestling, including what goes on when the cameras aren’t rolling. Todd is very excited to write about his passion, and will try his best to entertain and provoke the wrestling fans.

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Last night, TNA IMPACT presented their annual TNA Turkey Bowl, where a tournament took place, with the winner receiving a title shot for their respective division. I love one night tournaments, and I was very excited for this event!

Bobby Lashley vs. Abyss in a 1st round matchup

This was a standard, formula match, lasting only about 5 minutes. Although I’m not a huge Lashley fan, damn that man can jump! Lashley got the win with a spear, after Abyss was distracted by Crystal, who was inadvertently elbowed by him. Overall, an alright way to start off the night.

Desmond Wolfe vs. Suicide in another 1st round matchup

This match was defiantly an oddly paired match, yet intriguing at the same time. These two put on a pretty good little match, which featured an interesting clash of styles, with Suicide bringing the ariel offense, and Wolfe grounding him with his British/Puro expertise. After about 5 minutes, Desmond Wolfe got the win with a Tower Of London, which was botched a bit by Suicide, but was executed fair enough.

“The Pope” D’Angelo Dinero vs. Kurt Angle in another 1st round matchup

Of all the unique matches booked for this show, this match was defiantly the one I was looking forward to the most. The two put on a really good match, going about 7 minutes. Even thought Angle picked up the win with an Angle Slam, this match really put “The Pope” at another level, in TNA’s roster status. I could defiantly see “The Pope” as a main event guy in the near future, and I think he’d make a great TNA World Heavyweight Champion some day.

Homicide vs. Robert Rude in another 1st round matchup

I am really glad that TNA decided to put Robert Rude in this tournament. If he had ended up winning the whole thing, he wouldn’t get a world title shot, but a tag title shot with fellow Beer Money Incorporated teammate James Storm. Rude us a TNA original, and a very promising individual in my eyes. As much as I love the team of Beer Money, I think the time has come for TNA to split Rude and Storm up, and push them as major singles stars. I could see both men, especially Robert Rude, as future TNA World Heavyweight Champions. Speaking of Rude, ever since the first day I laid eyes on this man, I knew that he’d be the future of TNA. He’s got the look, the ability, and charisma, and all the other tools it takes for a major professional wrestling star. This man is the future of this business, mark my words! As far as this match went, it was a solid 5 minutes of faced paced wrestling, with Rude getting the win, with a high angle spine buster.

Traci Brooks vs. Hamada vs. Alissa Flash vs. Velvet Sky vs. Lacey Von Erich vs. Madison Rayne vs. Sarita vs. Taylor Wilde vs. Tara vs. Daffney in a Knockouts Battle Royal with ODB as the special ref, where the winner receives a Knockout title shot at Final Resolution

This match went about 7 minutes, and was far more entertaining than the WWE Divas Mayflower Melee match on RAW this past week! When Traci Brooks and Alissa Flash were eliminated, they battled it out on the floor, eventually having to be separated. Why are these two feuding? It seems pointless. I’m a big fan of Flash, and would love to see her as the TNA knockouts Champion, but let’s be honest, Brooks has got to go! Anyway, Tara got the predictable win after eliminating Velvet Sky, who looked pretty bad in this one. No, I’m not talking about her appearance, I’m talking about her wrestling ability. Appearance wise, she looked great! Boy, I love her entrance. It’s got to be the highest rated segment of the show! LOL! After the match, tension slowly began to build between Tara and ODB, who should have a pretty good match for the title, at Final Resolution.

Desmond Wolfe vs. Bobby Lashley in a Semi-Final matchup

This was a decent match, with some very good submission wrestling put on display. Lashley’s MMA background really came in handy here. After about 5 minutes or so, Wolfe got himself disqualified, when he didn’t break the 5 count, as he had an arm bar on Lashley in the ropes. Despite what anyone says, this was a fine enough way to end this match. It gave Lashley the win, without hurting Wolfe’s status. After the match, Wolfe said that he’s see Angle at Final Resolution. I’m glad these two are having another match on Pay Per View, and It should be another classic.

Kurt Angle vs. Robert Rude in a Semi-Final matchup

Wow, what a match! These two put on a great 10 minute match, really putting Rude over as a big time player. At the conclusion of the match, Desmond Wolfe came out, causing Angle to charge and attack him. The ref reached the 10 count, and Angle lost the match via count out. This was a perfect way for Rude to advance, and a perfect way to further the feud between Wolfe and Angle.

Next, the TNA World Heavyweight Champion, AJ Styles, cam to the ring and cut a promo. He initially asked Sting to return his phone calls, but was immediately interrupted by Daniels, who will face AJ for the TNA title at Final Resolution. Daniels cut his typical heel promo he’s been doing as of late, and blamed AJ for his lack of success in TNA. The promo ended with AJ telling Daniels that he will find out what he’s all about, come Final Resolution! I’m really looking forward to this match at the Pay Per View, and I’m really glad to see TNA, putting these young guys out there in the main event. Keep it up TNA!

Throughout the entire evening, Mick Foley was shown backstage, frantically trying to figure out if Hulk Hogan is going to replace him, and who Hogan is going to bring with him. Over the past several weeks, Kevin Nash has hinted, that Hogan is not coming alone. I’m going to go out on a limb, and say he’s bringing Ric Flair with him. Lately, rumors have been circulating the net, that Flair is on his way to TNA, and that he desperately need the money. I think the mystery man, Hogan’s bringing in, is very realistically going to be Flair. Bringing in two 60 year olds is really going to assist with the new direction TNA is going in? Get real TNA!

Robert Rude vs. Bobby Lashley in the Finals

Although this wasn’t very long, it was a pretty decent match, with plenty of false finishes. Lashley ended up getting the win with a spear. Personally, I was really hoping Rude would go over here. Although I wouldn’t have had Lashley win here, he has been looking much better lately, and could possibly have some good matches with AJ or Daniels, whomever wins the title at Final Resolution. Personaly, I still would have put over a younger guy. I don’t particularly look forward to seeing Lashley in the main event scene, but I guess it’s better than someone like Kevin Nash or Hulk Hogan in the main event!

Overall, this was a great addition of TNA IMPACt, with tons of great wrestling action, and story line advancement. If TNA keeps this up, they are definanlty moving in the right direction. Next week, it is announced that there will be an interview with TNA President Dixie Carter, on Hogan’s involvement in TNA. Should be interesting. Also, don’t forget to follow Dixie on Twitter! Wait, I thought she said that she wanted to stay off of television/ out of the limelight? Guess not! Overall, I would give this great addition of IMPACT an A-.

Don’t forget to check me out on blogtalkradio.com, for my daily wrestling news podcast! It’s called Elite All Pro Wrestling Radio, and I’m the host, Todd Frizzell. Check it out!

Todd Frizzell is from Columbus Ohio, and has been a huge professional wrestling fanatic for the last ten years. Todd is very interested in all aspects of pro wrestling, including what goes on when the cameras aren’t rolling. Todd is very excited to write about his passion, and will try his best to entertain and provoke the wrestling fans.

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After a phenomenal Pay Per View event last Sunday night, Turning Point, it is time for my IMPACT review. TNA just put on a great show at Turning Point, and now it is time to find out if the greatness will continue or not. With Hulk Hogan coming in soon, there’s also a lot of controversy on how he will make an impact on TNA. Also, this addition of IMPACT promised to have an exclusive interview with Sting, on his thoughts on Hogan’s partnership with TNA. By the way, why does everyone in TNA keep saying Hulk Hogan’s “Partnership” with TNA. Is he in the damn company or isn’t he?

The opening segment of the show, featured Mick Foley and Abyss in the ring, where Foley went on to call out Raven and Dr. Stevie, after they assaulted him 2 weeks ago. Raven, Dr. Stevie, and Daffney all came out, and cut a promo cutting down Foley and Abyss. Out of rage, Foley announced that it would be himself and Abyss, taking them (Dr. Stevie and Raven) on later that night. Abyss looked worried, for Mick Foley was in no condition to compete, after Raven threw a fireball in his face a few weeks back. I had no major problems with this segment, aside from the fact that Abyss is still acting like he’s an 8 year old little boy, and I think these two teams are capable of having some great hardcore matches in the future.

Amazing Red vs. Scott Steiner

Who in the blue hell put this match together!?!? Amazing Red puts on a top notch performance defeating Homicide at Turning Point, and now he’s booked in a match with Scott Steiner? That makes no sense to me whatsoever! Scott Steiner basically toyed around with Red, and then hit a Steiner Screwdriver, which is always pretty cool to see. I wish he would use this move more often. He’s only used it twice in his TNA career, once here, and once against Petey Williams, last February at Against All Odds. I guess it’s just to dangerous. Anyway, there was no reason for Red to be put in this match. Is Steiner in the X Division now? I don’t think so! Eventually, instead of getting the pin, Steiner grabbed a lead pipe, and began beating Red with it, until Bobby Lashley ran out, and made the save. Although most of this segment was worthless, Bobby Lashley chasing Steiner off, implies that their feud will continue, and I look forward to seeing more of their psychological story line evolve.

The Motor City Machine Guns and Beer Money vs. The British Invasion, Kiyoshi, and Sheik Abdul Bashir (World Elite)

Apparently, Kevin Nash is apart of the World Elite now. I didn’t realize Detroit was no longer apart of the United States. Also, Nash and Eric Young teased that they would be starting a tag team together. Eric Young and Kevin Nash as a tag team? Again, this makes absolutely no sense to me, nor does it intrigue me. As far as this match went, it was a decent enough contest, although I would have liked to have seen it go a bit longer, showcasing the young talent in TNA. After about 5 minutes, The MCMG got the pin for their team, with a neck breaker/ frog splash combo. I’m glad to see the MCMG get the pin, however, I don’t see how this could be a push for them, seeing as though their feud with The British Invasion is never really going to work, at least until Beer Money is out of the equation. My prediction, is that there will be an upcoming MCMG/British Invasion feud, which I have no major problems with, and a Beer Money/Eric Young and Kevin Nash feud, which I have no interest in whatsoever. Why is Kevin Nash still being given TV/Pay Per View time to wrestle? The guy can barley leave his feet,and if he does, it takes him a month of Sundays to get back up!

Hamada vs. Taylor Wilde

This was a decent 3 minute match, a hell of a lot better than the WWE Divas, but again, it could have benefited from a bit more time. I really like Hamada. She has a lot of talent, and I’d love to see her and ODB feud over the Knockout title in the near future. Hamada got the pin with a Hamada Driver. Hopefully,this is a start in her push for Knockout gold.

Dr. Stevie and Raven vs. Mick Foley and Abyss

Earlier in the evening, Abyss barricaded Foley in his office, so he wouldn’t risk getting re-injured in the match. Now,this was basically a handicap match. The 3 men brawled in and out of the ring for a few minutes, until the referee gave Abyss the win, as a result of a disqualification, when Raven attempted to throw a fireball into the face of Abyss. After the match, Dr. Stevie and Raven continued the beat down, and ended up strangling Abyss with some sort of electrical cord or cable. This was a fair enough segment, heating up the Abyss and Floey vs. Raven and Dr. Stevie feud. Later in the night, Mick Foley was attacked by Stevie and Raven. Again, pretty solid stuff.

Backstage, Lauren interviewed the returning Tomko, who cut a promo on how excited he is to be back in TNA. Tomko returns, and they reveal it in a backstage segment? I understand that Tomko was never a huge star in TNA, but hell, at least have him make a surprise return in a match or something. I wonder if Tomko will end up being the mystery man who has been attacking AJ Styles? I think an AJ/Tomko feud for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship, would be pretty interesting. I could see TNA doing that some time down the line, assuming that Hogan doesn’t book himself in the main event first!

Alissa Flash vs. Sarita

The match only went for about 3 or 4 minutes, but it was pretty good while it lasted. This was defiantly not as good as these two’s first match though. Sarita ended up getting the pin with a back heel kick. After the match, Traci Brooks attacked Flash, and the two had to be separated by security. Are we really getting a Traci/Flash feud? What sense does this make? Oh, and it Traci a face now, all of a sudden? TNA has some major explaining to do for this one, but I’d personally rather see then drop the whole idea.

Team 3D and Rhino vs. “The Pope” D’Angelo Dinero, Hernandez, and Matt Morgan in a Street Fight/Rematch from Turning Point

Not only was this a pretty good match, but it was a great way for TNA to capitalize on WWE going PG, with this hardcore type of match, featuring garbage cans, steel chairs, kendo sticks, and tables. After about 7 minutes of pretty entertaining stuff, Jesse Neil made his return, but surprisingly, hit Matt Morgan with the chair, allowing 3D and Rhino to get the win. I’ll have to admit, this really surprised me, and I glad TNA is trying to find a place for this kid. I just hope his wrestling ability has improved. As far as the older guys getting the win, I have no problem with that now, but TNA needs to put over the younger talent, by the time this feud is over with.

Next, the announcers commented that they would not have the Sting interview shown tonight. Apparently he didn’t show up. Maybe he’s disgusted that Hogan is in TNA, and doesn’t want to see TNA fail miserably like WCW did! LOL!

Kurt Angle and AJ Styles vs. Desmond Wolfe and Daniels

This match started with under 10 minutes left in the show. I really wish TNA would start giving their IMPACT main events more time. As far as this match up went, it was filled with some good action, and overall was a good match, but again, I would have loved to have seen it go a bit longer. The match also featured a continuation of elevated tension between Angle/Wolfe and Styles/Daniels. Right now, it looks like Final Resolution will feature a main event, between Daniels and AJ Styles, for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship. I am really looking forward to that match, and am glad TNA had paired these two together again, to put on another great wrestling match! Also, Angle and Wolfe will most likely have another match at Final Resolution as well. Should be another good Pay Per View! At least the main events will be good.

Overall, this was a good addition of IMPACT. I wasn’t overly impressed, but I still see some improvements, as far as matches go, and pushing the younger guys. If TNA keeps taking these steps and improvements, they should have a great product someday. I just wish they would take bigger steps! But I keeps reminding myself, that in order to succeed, you must be patient. Overall, a good addition of IMPACT, and I’d give it a B+. I better appreciate what I’m seeing now, cause who the hell knows what’s going to happen when Hogan comes in!

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Todd Frizzell is from Columbus Ohio, and has been a huge professional wrestling fanatic for the last ten years. Todd is very interested in all aspects of pro wrestling, including what goes on when the cameras aren’t rolling. Todd is very excited to write about his passion, and will try his best to entertain and provoke the wrestling fans.

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This Sunday night, November 15, 2009, TNA presents their second to last Pay Per View event of the year, off the heals of the big Hulk Hogan announcement. Turning Point looks to be a very solid card, and I can only hope that TNA actually delivers this time, contrary to what has transpires with TNA Pay Per Views in the past.

ODB(c), Taylor Wilde, and Sarita vs. The Beautiful People in a 6 Knockout Tag Match for both the Knockout world and tag titles

This match should be fairly decent, showcasing some of the best Knockouts in TNA. One problem that I have with this match, is that TNA really overdoes matches, with multiple titles on the line. I personally believe that these types of match are often very confusing, and unnecessary. Putting that aside, the action in this one should be decent. By the way, hopefully the exciting teamwork of Taylor Wilde and Sarita, will compensate for the repulsive wrestling ability of one, Lacey Von Erich! She is pretty damn hot though!

The Amazing Red vs. Homicide for the X Division Championship

The X Division title match, is a match that has the potential to be a great match up, if given the proper amount of time. These two individuals, in Homicide and Amazing Red, have had very fast and furious, entertaining matches with one another in the past, and this one should be no exception, hopefully running longer than their past matches on IMPACT. Overall, this should be pretty good stuff.

Tara vs. Awesome Kong in the 6 Sides Of Steel Cage

Kong vs. Tara, is a match that I’ve been looking forward to, ever since Tara debuted in TNA. The tremendous battles of the past, between Kong and Gail Kim, where groundbreaking, and this match up, at Turning Point, is going to be the closest thing to that. This is going to be a momentous contest, between the monstrous Kong, and her adversary, a woman who doesn’t know the word quit, Tara. Although this should be a great match, I don’t quite understand why TNA is over booking the steel cage gimmick here. A steel cage match should only be booked on occasion, in order to conserve its uniqueness. A steel cage match, should only be booked to keep out outside interference, and this doesn’t apply to the Kong/Tara feud. TNA has been talking about how the 6 Sides of Steel is the only way to contain the two, so I guess it makes a little bit of sense. All in all, it doesn’t make much sense, but it should be a great, great match, nevertheless!

The Motor City Machine Guns vs. The British Invasion vs. Beer Money for the TNA tag titles

I’m looking forward to this one, for TNA has done a great job in building their tag team division as of late. I’m also glad that Beer Money was added to this match, for their hasn’t been much of a rivalry going on between the MCMG and the Brits as of late. Although I think it would make to most sense to have a blow out match between Beer Money and the Brits alone, this match should be very fast paced, and entertaining.

Bobby Lashley vs. Scott Steiner

What do you get when put two 275 plus pound guys in the ring together? You get a slow paced, dull match, with little actual wrestling involved. Although this is not going to be a great wrestling match, I’ve got to admit that I have enjoyed the story line going on between Lashley and Steiner, especially last week, when the two brawled in Lashley’s hotel room. Adding Lashely’s wife, Crystal to the equation, only fuels both men’s fire, and this match should tell a fairly interesting story, if nothing else.

Kurt Angle vs. Desmond Wolfe

Desmond Wolfe, besides his ridiculous new name, made the decision to come to TNA, rather than accept a contract with the WWE. In my opinion, he made the right decision, for he has received an immediate push here in TNA. The first night he debuted, he plunged into a major feud, with one of TNA’s top stars, in Kurt Angle. This is a new, intriguing feud, that is a breath of fresh air in TNA. This Sunday, their match up with one another should be one for the ages, between two of the best technical wrestlers in the entire United States.

Team 3D and Rhino vs. Matt Morgan, Hernandez, and “The Pope” D’Angelo Dinero in a 6 man tag team Street Fight

This match up can be summed up as TNA’s origonals vs. the veterans of pro wrestling, which is a lot like the old feud, between the Main Event Mafia, and the Originals. Hopefully, TNA doesn’t drop the ball, like they did with the MEM/Frontline fued, and put over the younger guys, as the future of professional wrestling. This match looks very interesting, and with the Street Fight stipulation added, this should be a very fun match.

AJ Styles (C) vs. Daniels vs. Samoa Joe for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship

Finally, TNA gives us a main event worthy of our hard spend time and money, as three of TNA’s most talented, young stars go at it in the 6 sided ring. These three had, arguably, the greatest match in the history of TNA, at Unbreakable 2005. This is the very first rematch since that historic night, and I can’t wait to be mesmerized by these three incredible athletes. I also really like the way TNA has put a suspenseful, adequate storyline into this match. The tension between AJ and Daniels, and Joe as well, could be cut with a knife, and I can hardly wait for these three to be let loose at Turning Point!

Overall, the card for Turning Point, looks great, and hopefully TNA will deliver this time. Nearly every match on the card interests me, and I can’t wait until Sunday!

Order TNA: Kurt Angle: Champion on DVD by clicking here.

Check out TNA Wrestling: Sting – Return of an Icon on DVD by clicking here.