Wrestling is an intense and physically demanding sport that puts tremendous strain on a wrestler’s body. From grueling training sessions to rigorous competitions, wrestlers often face various injuries and chronic pain. In recent years, medical cannabis has emerged as a potential natural remedy for wrestlers seeking pain relief and enhanced recovery. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of medical cannabis for wrestlers, focusing on its potential to alleviate pain, aid in recovery, and improve overall well-being.
Wrestlers frequently experience injuries such as sprains, strains, and muscle soreness due to the nature of their sport. Medical cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, known to regulate pain perception. When consumed, these cannabinoids can help alleviate pain and inflammation, providing wrestlers with a natural alternative to traditional pain medications. Explore a variety of Bubblers for immediate pain relief. Bubblers, like other inhaling methods, provide immediate pain relief and they are a healthier choice than smoking. By using medical cannabis responsibly and under proper guidance, wrestlers may find relief from chronic pain, enabling them to continue training and competing at their best.
Reduced Inflammation
Inflammation is a common side effect of intense physical activity and can hinder a wrestler’s recovery process. Medical cannabis has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, particularly through CBD, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. By mitigating inflammation, wrestlers may experience faster recovery times after training sessions and competitions. This allows them to get back on the mat with less downtime, enhancing their overall performance and longevity in the sport.
Enhanced Sleep Quality
Restful sleep is vital for wrestlers as it promotes muscle recovery and overall well-being. However, the physical and mental demands of wrestling can lead to sleep disturbances and insomnia. Medical cannabis, particularly strains high in CBD, has been reported to improve sleep quality and reduce sleep disturbances. By getting better sleep, wrestlers can promote their body’s healing processes and feel more refreshed and focused during training and competitions.
Stress and Anxiety Reduction
The pressure of competition and the rigorous training regimen can lead to stress and anxiety among wrestlers. Chronic stress can negatively impact performance and hinder recovery. Medical cannabis with higher CBD content has been known to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation without the psychoactive effects associated with THC. This can help wrestlers manage stress levels, improve mental clarity, and maintain a positive mindset, all of which are crucial for success in the sport.
Muscle Spasm Relief
Muscle spasms are not uncommon in wrestling, especially during intense training sessions or when recovering from injuries. Medical cannabis, particularly strains containing THC, may help reduce muscle spasms and cramps. THC has muscle relaxant properties, potentially providing relief and improving flexibility for wrestlers during recovery periods.
Opioid Alternative
In traditional pain management, wrestlers may be prescribed opioid medications for severe pain. However, opioids carry the risk of dependence, addiction, and adverse side effects. Medical cannabis offers a non-addictive and potentially safer alternative to opioids for pain relief. By using medical cannabis responsibly and under medical supervision, wrestlers can manage their pain effectively without the risk of opioid-related complications.
For wrestlers seeking natural pain relief, improved recovery, and overall well-being, medical cannabis holds significant potential. Its ability to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, enhance sleep quality, and manage stress and anxiety can greatly benefit wrestlers in their demanding sport. However, it’s essential for wrestlers to consult with medical professionals or specialists knowledgeable about medical cannabis to develop personalized treatment plans and ensure responsible usage. By incorporating medical cannabis into their recovery and pain management strategies, wrestlers can focus on their performance and pursue their passion for wrestling with greater comfort and confidence. As the research on medical cannabis continues to evolve, more athletes, including wrestlers, may find this natural remedy to be a valuable addition to their wellness and recovery routine.
“Exotic” Adrian Street, the famous Welsh star who was subject of a WWE Network documentary in 2019, passed away at age 82. The news was reported by BBC News.
Street passed away earlier today at Cwmbran’s Grange University Hospital where he recently underwent brain surgery.
His wife – and manager – Linda told BBC, “He’d had a heart problem a while ago which was resolved. But then he had a stroke earlier this month which resulted in a bleed on the brain. He was recovering from that at home when he developed colitis – a chronic inflammatory bowel disease – which later turned into sepsis. That’s what killed him.”
WWE paid tribute to Street and his wife in 2019 when they premiered a documentary titled Exotic: The Story of Adrian Street and Miss Linda before NXT UK TakeOver: Cardiff. Both were invited to the WWE UK Performance Center, a visit which was captured for the documentary as well.
Gable Steveson found out the hard way that even though you’re an Olympic gold medalist and represented your country, it doesn’t automatically make you a fan favorite.
The 23-year-old received many audible boos during his short match against Baron Corbin as well as chants of “You’re not Angle,” referring to another Olympic gold medalist, Kurt Angle. To make matters worse, his opponent received the “Let’s go Corbin” chants and the commentary team eventually acknowledged how the fans voiced their opinion.
The double countout finish didn’t help to silence the boos either with fans chanting “bullshit” after the referee asked to ring the bell following a 10-count, an ending which certainly didn’t help Steveson’s debut.
Steveson’s WWE career has not really taken off yet despite being under contract for several years. WWE has pushed him at the big events but so far it has been a rocky road for the collegiate wrestling champion.
If you’re interested in learning more about a relatively new product on the cannabis market, Delta-8 is an interesting and promising area to explore. Derived from hemp plants with a lower THC concentration than marijuana, Delta-8 provides users with a unique and stimulating experience that comes without all of the intense mental effects associated with its cousin THC. With both recreational and medical applications, many are now discovering the potentially beneficial effects of using this compound as an alternative option for everything from stress relief to aid in conditions like anxiety or chronic pain. This comprehensive guide will go over everything you need to know about Delta-8, including how it works, potential uses, different forms available for consumption, important information regarding legalities & side effects, recommended dosing guidelines involved when using this cannabinoid along with various other topics related to its use so that you can make an informed decision moving forward.
What is Delta-8 and how does it differ from Delta-9 THC
Delta-8 (Δ8) is a lesser-known version of delta-9 THC (Δ9), the psychoactive compound in marijuana. While they have similar molecular structures, Delta-8 has a unique chemical bond that sets it apart. Unlike Delta-9, which is abundant in most cannabis strains, Delta-8 is present in only trace amounts. What’s fascinating is that Delta-8 offers some of the same effects as Delta-9 but with less intense psychoactive properties. Many people who use Delta-8 report feeling more relaxed and clear-headed, without the anxiety or paranoia that sometimes accompanies Delta-9. You can click here for more useful information about this. It’s no surprise that Delta-8 is rapidly gaining popularity as an alternative for those who want the therapeutic benefits of THC without getting as high.
Potential benefits of using Delta-8 products
Delta-8 is a new player in the cannabinoid game, and its potential benefits are being recognized by many in the industry. Unlike its more well-known cousin, delta-9 THC, delta-8 offers many of the same benefits without the psychoactive effects. This means you can potentially experience the benefits of relaxation, pain relief, and improved mood without feeling high or anxious. Additionally, delta-8 may offer some unique benefits of its own, such as reduced nausea and increased appetite stimulation. With the growing interest in natural remedies for various ailments, delta-8 products are increasingly gaining attention as a safe and natural alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals. If you’re curious about the potential benefits of delta-8, it may be worth exploring its various forms, including edibles, tinctures, and vape cartridges.
Is Delta-8 legal and safe to use?
Delta-8 has recently gained attention as a potential alternative to traditional THC products. However, as a relatively new product, many people are questioning its legal status and safety. Interestingly, while Delta-8 is not explicitly banned under federal law, its legal status is still somewhat ambiguous. As for safety, there is still much research needed to be done on the potential long-term effects of Delta-8. Some people have reported experiencing similar effects to THC, but with less intense psychoactive properties. Overall, it is important to be cautious when using any new substance, as more research is needed before definitive safety claims can be made.
Finding quality Delta-8 products
In the rapidly growing world of Delta-8 products, it can sometimes be challenging to find quality goods. As a consumer looking for the best products, it’s essential to read up on brands, look for lab reports and certifications, and check reviews from other users. Quality Delta-8 products should be safe, effective, and consistent in their effects. With so many options available on the market, it’s important to take the time to research and compare different brands to make an informed decision on which ones to try. Finding quality Delta-8 products might take a bit of effort, but the end result is well worth it for an enjoyable and satisfying experience.
Delta-8 THC is becoming increasingly popular and continues to gain momentum in 2023. It offers users the milder effects of Delta-9 THC without the intense psychoactive experience associated with its cousin. While there is still much to learn about this new cannabinoid, studies indicate that there are several potential benefits it could offer. With stringent guidelines around quality, safety, and legality, it’s important to take some time to research potential suppliers and products before making a purchase. As attitudes toward marijuana and cannabis use continue to shift, we expect to see more companies emerging with high-quality and potent Delta-8 products in the coming years. From edibles to vape cartridges, there is no doubt that Delta-8 will be an increasingly sought-after product for medical and recreational cannabis users alike.
Here are the results from last night’s NXT The Great American Bash 2023 which took place live from the H-E-B Center at Cedar Park in Cedar Park, Texas.
Dragon Lee, Nathan Frazer, Yulisa León, and Valentina Feroz defeated Noam Dar, Oro Mensah, Jakara Jackson, and Lash Legend in an eight-person mixed tag team match in the Kickoff show; Tony D’Angelo and Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo defeated Mark Coffey and Wolfgang to become the new NXT Tag Team champions; Roxanne Perez defeated Blair Davenport in a weapons wild match; Gable Steveson vs Baron Corbin ended in a double countout; Dominik Mysterio defeated Wes Lee and Mustafa Ali in a triple threat match to retain the NXT North American title; Tiffany Stratton defeated Thea Hail to retain the NXT Women’s title; Carmelo Hayes defeated Ilja Dragunov to retain the NXT title.
WWE Intercontinental champion Gunther is now in third place on the longest Intercontinental champion of all time list after he surpassed Macho Man Randy Savage’s reign of 413 days.
Now at 414 days, Gunther’s next target is Pedro Morales who is at 424 days but to reach that, the Austrian Superstar needs to overcome Drew McIntyre next Saturday at SummerSlam.
If Gunther successfully beats the Scotsman, he then has Honky Tonk Man’s record of 453 days next, a record that has been standing since 1988. September 7 is the day that Gunther has to look forward to to reach Honky Tonk Man.
Gunther won the Intercontinental title from Ricochet on June 10, 2022 during an episode of Smackdown from Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
AEW World champion MJF told FTR after Collision went off the air that the champs are the best tag team in the world.
In the post-show shenanigans after the cameras stopped rolling, MJF, Cole, and FTR stood across each other in the ring with MJF praising the champions.
“At the time I was too arrogant to realize just how great FTR is,” MJF said. “If there’s one thing I can say we have in common is that we love professional wrestling. And tonight whether it means anything to you or not, the AEW World champ wanted to say to you, and to you, now more than ever, it is apparent you two are the best tag team in the world.”
MJF said he doesn’t want to hear about Collision versus Dynamite or “Kaboomers versus Colliders” because at the end of the day, this sport needed an alternative and that’s why AEW was created.
“The way I see it we are all on team AEW,” MJF continued, before joking that it’s true at least till 2024 but they’ll talk about that later.
MJF then brought out Connecticut pizza and FTR brought out tequila and all four toasted each other to send the fans home happy.
There’s a school of thought that advertising > surprises. But it’s equally possible surprises, used correctly and sparingly could mean extra viewers tuning in more frequently.
Anyway, doing away with all the numbers, this was great fun. A wild fight swinging back-and-forth until Allin just about escaped doom to snatch victory. Making both guys look strong in the process – a clash of equals which one just about shaded.
I’m going to hammer the booking of the opener later. But this segment was everything AEW should be doing. A title contender got a strong win over a credible opponent before the champion goaded him with their clash still a month away. Proper build!
Squashes are nice and all but…
Samoa Joe vs Gravity
Should be kept to one per-show. Max. And done exactly like this. A convincing, impactful win by a guy with a violent move-set. Though it would be nice for Joe to be involved in a program that isn’t him closing-in on Jay Lethal’s ROH TV title record.
FTR vs Better than You Bay Bay
At the outset, the challengers promised three things: To ‘bash Harwood’s nuts in’, hit the Double Clothesline and win the titles. So they spent the whole match building to spots where MJF did indeed try to blast Dax’s babymakers or hit the Clothesline.
It’s a little sillier than FTR would probably prefer but even they’d have to admit the clean psychology. Which they interspersed expertly with classic tag wrestling.
Yes, attempting to bash someone’s nuts in is a little out there. But it was very entertaining.
And the way things ended was excellent. The champs got a clean win over strong contenders, pinning the world champion no less. While Max saving Cole from doom added a layer to their relationship. It’s the first time he’s ever sacrificed for someone else and it cost him. Will this further convince him relationships aren’t worth it? Or will Cole’s acceptance of him despite losing do the opposite?
Still not ruling out Cole and Strong actually being the heels here. And still have reservations they can get Cole out of this cleanly but the ride’s enjoyable.
Toni Storm
There’s not much to add that wasn’t said in the review but it’s worth taking time to acknowledge Storm hitting her stride in AEW. She wrestles well, she talks well and she looks good. The kind of performer a division can be built around. It’s just a shame the company haven’t noticed.
Austin Gunn
I‘m still laughing at the memory of him pratfalling out of the ring over-celebrating. Heels are not supposed to be cool.
MIDDLE
CM Punk/Ricky Starks
‘World’s Champion’ is annoying. It just sounds wrong. Obviously Punk’s aping Ric Flair but if he did that all day he’d spend half his time arrested for indecent exposure.
More seriously, he and MJF going belt vs belt isn’t a bad idea. If it’s done well and built properly. Not crazy about Punk actually defending that title but as has been pointed out, they’re competing with Summerslam next weekend.
It’s also possible that plans have changed due to the popularity of Max & Cole so they’re pivoting a little earlier. Punk strongly hinted that what was in the bag and the aftermath would play a role in what he was doing at All In. Though it remains more likely this was always the plan for All Out.
And him adding the ‘X’ is a nice way to easily differentiate his title.
The man himself played both the I do everything for the fans babyface and told us ‘I’m better than you’. Clearly a means to take a shot at Max but muddying already dirty waters.
Shown when Ricky received none but adulation in Albany. Though his getting mic time and matches against the show’s top star has to be seen as solely positive. And he had some good lines after a slightly shaky start.
Being granted a title shot was also totally believable after getting under Punk’s skin and defeating him twice.
DOWN
Andrade/HOB booking
Is someone leaving the company? Because they went from trying – poorly – to establish the importance of Andrade’s mask to him winning it back on one week’s notice. Presumably this means the newly re-signed Rush is coming to Collision (it’s been rumored Punk’s a fan) for some sort of tag/trios.
But that’s not where the problems ended. Handcuffing not one but two people to a ringpost only for them to immediately escape, simply to create a false finish, is very more is more. Very TNA in fact.
And reduces the impact of such things when they’re actually needed. For instance, on big shows to provide an ‘out’ in a match between top stars. Since Buddy’s the only House of Black member they’ll actually let him beat, Andrade should’ve won cleanly.
Oh and then they raced away from El Idolo recovering his precious property to…
Miro/QTV booking
Aaron Solo. Attacking Miro.
WWE used to take a lot of flack for booking like this: Miro’s the most popular babyface on the show, but management don’t seem to like him so they won’t push him. While most fans detest QTV, yet management are behind them so the gang will get tv time.
Booking of the Women
Noticing a pattern in the Down section?
Mercedes Martinez and Kiera Hogan did well considering the time given. The wrestling was not the problem.
Part of the promotion for Dynamite 200 was Hikaru Shida vs Toni Storm. Neither have been seen for weeks. Both would have benefitted from a televised win, particularly Shida, to at least try to justify their clash.
While AEW’s other female champion Kris Statlander was made to look really dumb. If bookers can’t think of a better way to start a conflict than a babyface champion being totally naïve, they need to find people who can.
Live tonight from the H-E-B Center at Cedar Park in Cedar Park, Texas, WWE presents NXT: The Great American Bash on Peacock and WWE Network. The full card is as follows:
Carmelo Hayes vs Ilja Dragunov for the NXT title; Tiffany Stratton vs Thea Hail for the NXT Women’s title; Mark Coffey and Wolfgang vs Tony D’Angelo and Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo for the NXT Tag Team titles; Dominik Mysterio vs Wes Lee vs Mustafa Ali in a triple threat match for the NXT North American title; Gable Steveson vs Baron Corbin; Roxanne Perez vs Blair Davenport in a weapons wild match; and Dragon Lee, Nathan Frazer, Yulisa León, and Valentina Feroz vs Noam Dar, Oro Mensah, Jakara Jackson, and Lash Legend in an eight-person mixed tag team match in the Kickoff match.
The Kickoff show will air on Peacock, WWE Network, and all of WWE’s social media networks starting at 7:30PM ET while the premium live event will start at 8PM ET.
AEW is taking a page out of Ric Flair and his real world championship angle from 1991 as CM Punk proclaimed himself the real world champion last night on Collision, showing the title he won at All Out last year.
Punk’s promo was interrupted by Ricky Starks, who wanted a shot at the title since he’s beaten Punk already. Punk accepted and asked for a special guest referee for the match which was set up for next week’s Collision.
The announcement of a guest referee didn’t have to wait long either as Tony Schiavone then let everyone know that it will be Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat who will referee the match.
AEW Collision tonight comes to us from the XL Center in Hartford, Ct. After last week drawing 618,000 & 0.18 in the 18-49 demo.
*****
Darby Allin talked about things not going well lately so he’s looking for a fight tonight. MJF & Cole said there are three parts to tonight’s story: bash Harwood’s nuts in (Max), double clothesline (both), then become the new champs. FTR that they’re the best tag team in the world: ‘get ready for a fight’.
Riccaboni filling in for Kevin Kelly again due to the G1.
Andrade El Idolo vs Buddy Matthews (Ladder Match for Andrade’s mask)
Backstory: The HOB stole Andrade’s mask which AEW decided a few weeks back is special to him
The real backstory is there’s only one HOB member they’re prepared to let Andrade beat and they’ve already done an ordinary singles match.
At least to start, it’s just Julia joining Buddy. Andrade had new gear, a long coat r/t his suit-thing. And a singlet rather than pants.
Ladders all around as Julia hit the apron before the match even started, Andrade not distracted, avoiding a running knee then firing chops before a fight broke out. Chop battle in the corner, big boot from Buddy until being clotheslined outside. Andrade in pursuit.
Up a ladder, beautiful moonsault onto Buddy, dangerously close to smashing his legs on another ladder though. Matthews down, El Idolo throwing ladders into the ring, too many in fact, allowing Matthews to cut him off with kicks. Until being quickly snatched for Three Amigos, El Idolo swivelling his hips just the way Charlotte likes. To chants of ‘Eddie’. Turning to boos as Buddy blocked the last but charged in to be flung into a propped ladder in the corner.
Matthews down in said corner, the beating continuing as El Idolo placed a ladder in front, preparing to crush him but having the ladder thrown at him as Matthews recovered. Then setup a ladder mid-ring, Andrade down, we had another one of Collision’s strange snafus where they don’t quite time the break right.
Buddy went to the doc to get his shoulder popped back into place right as the ads arrived. No idea if that’s legit but presumably it is since he thought they’d gone to break.
Back to the pair scrapping round ringside, Andrade flung into ladders then the announce desk. The crowd booed as Buddy got another ladder since they wanted tables. Wedging it between the apron and the announce desk, Buddy dropped Andrade face-first across it.
They keep showing Julia so presumably she’s involved in the finish.
Matthews looked for a powerbomb on the apron, big chop from Andrade, bicycle knee strike from Buddy in response. A back elbow from Andrade sent Matthews inside the ropes, the two fighting across them, Andrade on the apron hovering dangerously over the ladder bridge, looking for a spear through the ropes, the two switching places, big chop from Andrade before sending Buddy to the buckle then spearing him off the apron onto the ladder bridge, though Matthews countered into a ddt. Nice sequence.
Then grabbed a table to a weird mixture of cheers and boos. Not a great crowd, they basically wait for big spots to make any noise. Buddy propped a table in the corner, flung Andrade’s head into it then finally one of them tried to grab the mask.
Andrade absolutely obliterated Buddy with a running elbow strike, leaving Matthews out across another ladder bridge. As Riccaboni talked about how heated this feud was – so Andrade’s going to try and hurt Buddy rather than grab his mask.
He climbed another ladder, the two scrapped at the top, a ladder bridge below, Andrade hit a sunset bomb from the top to the bridge. Cannot believe they did that during an opening match on a random Saturday. Crazy.
The match was briefly ‘awesome’ now that they’ve broken their backs. The crowd quickly quiet again though. As Andrade went after his mask, Matthews crawling in after him, hauling him off the ladder into a rising knee strike. And yep, Julia has handcuffs.
They made that too obvious by keep showing her.
They cuffed El Idolo to a ringpost, Julia mocking him but he booted Buddy to steal the key and immediately free himself. Trash booking. Andrade managed to cuff Buddy then climb the ladder as Julia just happened to have bolt cutters in case this very thing happened. How convenient.
She climbed on Andrade’s back, he continued climbing, Matthews got free, the two fought again on the ladder until Matthews spilled off, crashing into the ropes. Julia slapped Andrade a couple times, he pushed her off into Buddy who crashed through the table as Andrade got his mask back. Her bump was very safe thankfully.
AEW have booked a lot of crap lately, this was near the top. Nothing against the guys, the action itself was good between breaks and they took some wild bumps. But this felt like Sonjay and friends had slipped into Collision’s booking meeting.
So momentous was Andrade recovering his precious mask that we rushed to a Miro promo within seconds.
Winner: Andrade El Idolo
Tony Schiavone was immediately interrupted interviewing Miro as Aaron Solo attacked with a chair. Miro quickly got the better of him then yelled for Schiavone. This show’s the stuff of nightmares so far. Poor Miro. Seems QT’s snuck into Collision’s booking room too.
Darby Allin vs Minoru Suzuki
Backstory: Allin demanded a fight at the show’s start
Darby made his entrance before a break.
Okay, things are picking up! Kaze ni nare brought us back. Huge ‘ooooh!’ from the crowd. Love a surprise.
Allin shook his head. As they showed the two squaring off at Forbidden Door and Royal Rampage. Before the music ended, Darby knocked the vet off the apron then almost killed himself with his bullet tope. Though immediately popped back up. Dude’s made of rubber.
Aggressive, he fired knees to the gut before sitting Suzuki on a chair and coming off the apron via dropkick. Crowd chanting for Allin as he attempted an early pin, Suzuki angrily kicking out, glaring at the youngster, ignoring his offense, to his feet as the de jour middle-of-the-ring fistfight ensued.
Allin knocked to the mat with a big right, spilling to the apron, Suzuki after him, triangle choke in the ropes. Then a running punt from the apron with Allin at ringside. Back to the ring, running boot in the corner, snapmare, boot to the chest, two.
Break time.
Running knee to the head with Allin hanging off the apron, kitchen sink, Allin slipping behind another into a cradle, before making a big mistake – chopping Suzuki’s chest, Murder Grandpa begging him to bring it, absorbing a couple then dropping Darby with a single chop.
Back to his feet, he tried again, same result. Suzuki baited him, arms behind the back, Allin hit his flurry: shots to the chest, backwards roll, sunset flip r/t code red bagging two. Charging shoulder in the corner, Suzuki to the opposite buckle, Allin tried again, snatched into the sleeper, Gotch-style on the way, Darby reversing out, Suzuki dropstep, countered, springboard Coffin Splash, to the top for the proper thing.
Suzuki popped up slightly to snatch him into the sleeper, Allin managing to flip his feet over into a bridge, pinning Suzuki’s shoulders while still in the sleeper. This. Was. Brilliant.
Post-match, Allin stayed down, Suzuki complaining at ringside about the result.
As Christian & Luchasaurus appeared on the screen. Cage said ‘on the surface’ it seemed Allin was ready but he has some drama with Swerve & AR Fox going on. He’s distracted, ‘and you can’t be distracted when you’re vying for my… our TNT title’.
Cage said the title has never meant more, Darby’s no longer qualified to hold it. Must’ve given Jungle Boy some tips before his promo Wednesday. Though Cage’s was a lot better. Nice segment.
Winner: Darby Allin
Video package for Shida vs Toni Storm. Storm called Shida a ‘dumb stupid cow’. Who doesn’t deserve a title shot: she was the pandemic champion, ‘and just like the pandemic, we’re all glad that it’s over’. Superb line.
She’s the best, they’re going to ‘beat the absolute piss out of each other’ Wednesday. And if Shida thinks about bringing the kendo stick anywhere near Toni, Shida’ll need it afterward to ‘help yourself get around’.
This was great. Storm proving you don’t have to say ‘bitch’ and ‘s***’ to get your point across. If only they’d actually built the match properly instead of disappearing both ladies for weeks.
Samoa Joe vs Gravity
Backstory: None
The first of two late additions to the card, both of which drew a groan. And Joe usually makes me groan in a good way 😉.
Big cheer and chants of ‘Joe’ as he walked the ramp. Gravity was already in the ring. Erm, Joe’s going to kill you. Gravity ducked a swing then began his astronaut walking. Hopefully Joe tears his damn head off. What a goof.
Ducking another shot, he did the walk again and got massive boos. He hit a hurracanrana then an armdrag from the top but took a shot to the grill, another in the corner, another, before Gravity was introduced to gravity as Joe walked away from a top rope cross body.
Then mocked the astronaut walk to big cheers. J’adore.
Back from a break, Tony Schiavone called out the ‘Best in the World’ to the usual mixed reaction. He had a new shirt with ‘I’m a Collision Guy’ on the back. And brought the bag with him.
Schiavone asked about it and Ricky Starks. Punk played to the crowd, saying that despite hectic travel he ‘make(s) my towns and always show up in the building’ for the fans. Then moved onto All In – by the end of the night we might know if he’ll be there but that has a lot to do with what’s in the bag. As does Ricky Starks.
He said Ricky had beaten him twice and he’s more disappointed than angry. Asking again can Starks handle winning the way he has? He called himself the ‘adult in the room’ and adults sometimes have to do things they don’t want to, which sounds an awful lot like a shot at the Elite. Will likely be taken that way anyway. The fans booed again, some chanted ‘What’s in the bag?’ and he did the Hogan ear-cup.
He said the truth doesn’t care if you’re right or wrong, ‘but I’m right and I’m the real world’s champion’, he earned it and no-one’s pinned or submitted him for his title. It has his name and his blood on it from when he beat Mox. He sprayed an ‘X’ across it to add his symbol.
‘This X means I’m straight edge and straight edge means I’m better than you’. (A little confused now, this is right back to his heel roots.) His supporters loved that he said this.
He said the title belongs on Collision and ‘isn’t stolen, unlike my catchphrase’, a clear shot at MJF. ‘I am the real world’s champion’. Ricky Starks interrupted, though told the crowd to pretend they hadn’t seen him so he could go backstage and get his full entrance.
‘It’s Ricky Starks, you’ve gotta be kiddin me!’ yelled Nigel when he came back out to his music. And cheers from the crowd. He told Punk he bit Punk before Punk bit him (in terms of how he beat him) then said he’s owed a shot at that title since he’s beaten him twice.
Also calling himself the face of Collision. Punk asked if Ricky beat him twice or did the referees do it? A pertinent question for any AEW babyface.
Starks said a win is a win and the belt should belong to him. Punk said it sounds like he wants a shot. A ‘Ricky’s title’ chant started, duelling with a ‘CM Punk’ one. Punk said he wants extra refs if he’s facing Starks again. Ricky said he was fine with that since Punk doesn’t have any friends anyway.
Telling him he can bring anyone from his past, ‘Dave Prazak… if you gotta go up to Stamford and get somebody’. Big ‘oooh’ from the crowd. He doesn’t care who it is, he’s already beaten Punk and he’ll do it again.
Punk told him he had his match then had Schiavone reveal that the ref will be Ricky Steamboat.
This was a bit like the Cole and MJF stuff. If you can ignore that the face/heel situation’s a mess and that AEW already has too many titles, it was effective in building next week’s match.
Starks did well here after a couple early hiccups, not coming off as beneath Punk.
Vikingo, Action Andretti & Darius Martin vs GunnJuice
Backstory: Action & Darius lost to Juice & Jay White last week, they look for revenge over Bullet Club Gold
The announcers talked about Vikingo beating Kenny Omega at TripleMania. Then why the hell is he in a mid-card six-man?
Martin and Colten starting here to chants of ‘Ass Boys’. Grapple to the corner, Martin ducking a clothesline, cross body, Andretti in to take out Austin, break.
Vikingo struggling, looking for the tag, about to get it when Andretti was hauled off the apron. Full nelson slam from Colten for two. Vikingo hit a stomp, Matrix-ing under an Austin lariat then springing off his back to bag the tag: Andretti running wild, shots and leg lariats, double handspring elbow to both Gunns, avoiding Colten who crushed Austin in the corner instead.
From the apron, Action looked for a split leg, Colten moved, Andretti rolled through to hit an enziguri (I think – the cameras couldn’t keep up with him). Impressive move capping a really nice hot tag, Spanish Fly to Austin, pin broken by Juice.
Who was immediately chucked back outside, all three faces atop the buckle as they made a base for Vikingo, flinging him down onto the heels. Back inside, Action hit a dropkick into a Darius German on Austin, thrust kick to Colten, who gouged Andretti’s eyes, leaping forearm to the back of his head, Martin left alone against the Gunns, 3:10 to Yuma, 1, 2, 3.
Another nice match – if short – which allowed the babyfaces to shine before losing. Darius and Andretti are a good team with some nice combo moves.
BCG, complete with a cardboard cut-out of Jay White which’d appeared during the break, celebrated. Before Austin tried to celebrate too hard and tipped himself over the ropes. That’s some mighty fine heel work. Laughed out loud at that.
Winner: GunnJuice
Kiera Hogan vs Mercedes Martinez
Backstory: None
What in the hell are they doing here? Maybe put the AEW champs on tv before you worry about ROH. This is absolutely baffling.
Running boot from Martinez, open-hands, Hogan got a boot up in the corner, shotgun dropkick from the top but caught into a wheelbarrow slam. Spinning suplex buying two for Martinez. Kiera came back with kicks but was caught atop the buckle, big rights from Mercedes, draping neckbreaker off the top.
Another two. Break.
Hogan hit a thrust kick, Mercedes came back via Saito suplex, sliding lariat to the back of the head, Brass City Sleeper for the win.
Decent match while it lasted, hard hitting. Certainly better than Wednesday.
Statlander came for Martinez but had a really bad case of Dumb Babyface Syndrome and turned her back despite Mercedes still being in her line of sight. She took a belt shot until Willow Nightingale ran her off.
I’ve enjoyed most of the show after a bad start but man, matches aside, AEW just do not know how to make people look good at the moment. I’ve got no sympathy for Statlander who’s been off tv for weeks too.
Winner: Mercedes Martinez
FTR vs MJF & Adam Cole (Tag Titles)
Backstory: The challengers won the oh-so-prestigious Blind Eliminator tournament
FTR out to boos. Duelling ‘Double Clothesline/FTR’ chants, Dax and Cole to set it off. Lockup, headlock, headscissors, back to their feet. Back to duelling chants as they circled. Stiff headlock, to the corner, break, Cole cheap shot, Dax ducking, big chop, another nearly knocking Cole over the top, blind tag, Cash slingshotting in to lariat Cole and bag one.
Headlock, Cole trying to work his way out, trapped for a while until freeing himself but being run over by Cash, but catching Wheeler via enziguri and calling for the Double Clothesline. Dax grabbed his partner to prevent it. Though the crowd hadn’t bought they were getting it this early anyway.
They chanted for the champ and he hit the ring, easily the biggest babyface in the match. He headed to ringside to strut. Dax in, Max vowed to ‘bash his nuts in’ as he’d promised at the top of the show, cue a ‘bash his nuts’ chant. He tried a legsweep and elbow to the groin. Ridiculous but funny nonetheless.
Harwood avoided it, quickly on top: lockup, headlock, shoulder block, baseball slide and a slam, Max responding with one of his own.
After a leapfrog, Max feigned an ankle injury, the crowd quieting, he popped up, threatening to bash the nuts but taking too long, Dax to his feet, big slap fight starting, all four in, break.
This is not FTR vs BCG. More a battle of sports entertainment vs wrestling. Entertaining nonetheless.
MJF in trouble, Dax working the back, they showed Max continuing to try to attack Dax’s nuts during the break by posting him. Camel clutch, Dax tried to bring his weight down across MJF’s back, Max avoided it and nearly got the nuts but Dax stopped short.
Cash in, Max stuck with both of FTR between he and Cole, desperately seeking the tag he threw himself, was caught but hit a double ddt, Cole starting the crowd in a clap as Max made the crawl but was dragged back.
He avoided a double clothesline from FTR, tag to Cole, lariats, elbows and pump kicks, Cash onto the shoulders, Last Shot, two only. Back-cracker to Cash, Harwood in, whip reversed, cross body from the middle for two, O’Connor roll for the same result.
Until going for the cross body again and being hit with a superkick for two. The challengers called for the Double Clothesline, Dax ducked, roll up for two, Cash back in, swept into a Max tombstone, the two countering in and out until Cole hit Cash via superkick, MJF rolling through into a pin for two.
Cole superkick into a Max tombstone, kickout at 2.9. To heavy boos.
Cash struggling, Max to his feet, they called for the Clothesline again, Dax swept Max outside, Cash rolling up Cole for two then blasting him via lariat, Oklahoma Stampede to the corner, double superplex being readied, Cole fighting free, Panama Sunrise blocked as Dax shoved his partner into Cole, Powerplex on the way, Cole just kicking out.
TiA chant from the crowd as Dax allowed the tag, wanting MJF. Slugging away in the middle, huge chops from Dax, Max poking the eye but eating a big right, he stacked Harwood for two, backslide blocked, Dax slingshot powerbomb for another very close call. Superbly slick sequence a lot of which happened too quickly to describe.
Max down, Cole the same at ringside, Dax climbing the buckle, Panama Sunrise coming, Cole cut him off and took out Cash via clothesline off the apron. Distracting the ref, allowing MJF to hit Shattered Dreams with the ref distracted, Harwood kicking out at two.
Cole in to superkick Cash, Boom blocked via uppercut, Big Rig coming, Max sacrificed himself for Cole but managed to land on his feet, looked for the Heatseeker and was rolled up as FTR retained.
This was very good after the break, blending good tag wrestling with the silliness of Max looking for the nut shot, which was a lot of fun. Story getting interesting now: MJF finally sacrificed for his friend and it cost him. Still have reservations but it’s fun out of context.
FTR gave handshakes to Cole, Max slumped in the corner, annoyed at himself. Yelling ‘I blew it!’ as Cole told him they both blew it. He gave Max his world title and Cole told him it was okay and he loved him anyway.
Then turned his back, Max readying a belt shot, Cole deliberately exposing his back, bracing himself – ‘Do what you gotta do’. Instead, they hugged to a big cheer. Cole held Max’s arm up.
Chris Jericho & Konosuke Takeshita vs Sammy Guevara & Daniel Garcia
Jack Perry ‘face-to-face’ with Jerry Lynn
Jon Moxley vs Penta vs Trent Beretta (Anything Goes)
Toni Storm vs Hikaru Shida (Women’s Title)
Aussie Open vs Vikingo & Komander (ROH Tag Titles since it’s ROH’s 200th show)
Next Collision:
CM Punk vs Ricky Starks (Real World Title, Ricky Steamboat special ref)
FTR vs Big Bill & Brian Cage (AEW Tag Titles) (I’m sure they advertised this, they dropped matches in at various times in the show but I’m sure I saw this)
Thumbs Up/Down
Darby Allin vs Minoru Suzuki
Samoa Joe in a perfect squash
Toni Storm’s promo – creative and original
FTR vs Cole & MJF
Stars actually beat other stars
*****
Booking of the opener
Miro stuck with QTV
Booking of Statlander
Where’s Will Hobbs?
ROH stuff is starting to creep back in
Appreciate you reading. Enjoy the last day of Caesar month.
The AEW Blind Tag Team Eliminator tournament comes to a full close tonight as the winners – AEW World champion MJF and Adam Cole – get their shot at the AEW World Tag Team titles against FTR in the main event of Collision.
Taking place from WWE’s backyard in Hartford, Connecticut, tonight’s broadcast will also see Buddy Matthews vs Andrade el Idolo in a ladder match for Andrade’s mask, Samoa Joe vs Gravity, Juice Robinson and The Gunns vs El Hilo Del Vikingo, Action Andretti, and Darius Martin in a trios match, and Kiera Hogan battles Mercedes Martinez.
Plus, the one and only CM Punk will be in the house for an in-ring promo.
Tickets for Dynamite: Grand Slam at the Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York were off to a very slow start.
AEW moved just over 3,000 tickets during the pre-sale and an additional 1,500 when the general on-sale started on Friday. Fans online slammed the high ticket prices as a reason why they did not bother to purchase a ticket.
Just to give a comparison, last year’s gate surpassed $1 million with 13,800 fans in attendance while the year before came close to $1 million with over 20,000 fans in attendance.
This year’s tickets include ringside seats going for over $600 each while the 100 level risers are over $100. The cheapest tickets are in the 300 level going for $30.95 each.
Sections 309 to 324 remain closed off while everything behind the stage is completely closed too, a big difference from previous years where the whole stadium was open.
Dynamite: Grand Slam takes place on September 20, so there’s still a lot of time to move thousands of more tickets.
Are you new to online betting and looking for a market to bet on? Well, many gambling platforms have several types of sports betting options to choose from including football, hockey, tennis, horse races, volleyball, baseball, and netball among others.
So, this makes it challenging for anyone who doesn’t have a specific market in mind to go for. This article takes you through the best ways to choose one.
Check the Odds
Online betting sites usually have different odds for the various markets supported on the platform. Your task is to choose a betting market with favorable odds that boost your winning chances. To succeed at this, you need to take enough time to examine the odds of each sports betting market on the Official UFA Site, and identify one with better offers.
Betting sites publish the odds of each market in a special section where gamblers can easily find them. They are also updated regularly with the latest offers on each new event in every sport.
Consider the Events
Other important things are the events to bet on. You need to choose a betting market with a wide variety of events to bet on throughout the year. Think about it; if you choose a market with a few events, you may have shortage periods where there’s nothing to bet on which limits your betting adventures.
However, if you go for markets like football, you will have a large number of events to bet on. This is because it has many tournaments in different countries that are active throughout the year, and you can never run out of options.
Choose Your Favorite Sport
Before anything else, it would be better to go for your favorite sport. Wondering why? This is because you understand everything about it and can make informed bets after examining things like:
Identifying stronger teams to give wins.
Knowing past performances of various teams.
Identifying weaker teams, plus those with injured players, which will affect their performance.
On the other hand, if you know nothing about a particular sport, then you will face a big challenge in betting on it. You may even have to first take time, and learn more about it before you start placing your bets on the sport.
Popularity of the Sport
The popularity of the market or sport is also important because unpopular ones are always difficult to find on various platforms. Online betting sites always consider more popular sports and cover most of their events because they attract many gamblers. But unpopular ones are rare to find as they always have a few events.
So, consider popular sports that you can easily find at various platforms when you want to place your bets.
Choose the Best Betting Markets
Choose the best market for your online betting adventures at the Official UFA Site to get the most out of the activity. The above tips will guide you throughout the process.
Rey Mysterio suffered a legit injury on Smackdown last night which cut his match against Santos Escobar short.
The two were in the final of the United States Championship Invitational when during the commercial break, Escobar hit a suicide dive on Mysterio. Unfortunately for Rey, his head bounced on the floor and medics immediately came over to check on the Hall of Famer.
When the show came back from the break, the ringside physician was still there talking to Rey and then took the decision to stop the match as he was unable to continue.
Mysterio then got on his knees and hugged his fellow LWO member as Escobar showed his respect.
Escobar now faces Austin Theory for the United States title.
Smackdown opens with Jey Uso in the ring and announced as Main Event Jey Uso. He is quickly interrupted by Roman Reigns. Roman tells Jey when the Tribal Chief is on the show, he opens the show. Jey tells Roman he broke the family, and he broke Jimmy, and it is his fault. Roman then blamed Jey for everything for being selfish. Roman then tells Jey he can’t beat him, and he doesn’t know why he thinks he can. Jey says because I already did, and at SummerSlam I am going to beat you again.
Final match for the United States Championship Invitational
Rey Mysterio VS. Santos Escobar
As we come back from break, Rey is lying on the ring apron after a suicide dive from Escobar and was not able to continue and Escobar immediately runs over and hugs Rey.
Winner: Santos Escobar
Austin Theory, who was in the crowd watching the match stands up and holds up the title as Santos stands on the corner ropes and they have a stare down.
Kayla Braxton interviews Bianca Belair who says she is ready for anything, and she is interrupted by Sonya Deville and Chelsea Green. Green and Deville start talking about Charlotte Flair and disrespecting her, and Charlotte comes in and says she doesn’t like them talking behind her back and since Belair already challenged them, she thinks it should be a tag match and she is going to go talk to Adam Pearce right now. Belair says, “me tag with you uh uh”.
L.A. Knight VS. Ashante “Thee” Adonis
Even after Top Dolla’s interference, Knight hit Adonis with the Blunt Force Trauma and gets the win.
Winner: L.A. Knight
In the back Jey Uso is seen sitting and Adam Pearce walks up to him and says Grayson Waller has been beating down his door for a match with him tonight and Jey agrees.
Charlotte Flair & Bianca Belair VS. Chelsea Green & Sonya Deville
Belair picks Green up for the KOD, but Flair tags herself in and gives Green a kick and Flair and Belair argue but Flair pinned Green, and the argument continued between Flair and Belair.
Winners: Charlotte Flair & Bianca Belair
Bayley is in the back laughing and said embarrassing and Iyo Sky comes in and starts questioning her about last week. Asuka then comes in and says she is going to beat Flair and Belair at SummerSlam. Iyo says she respects her, and it doesn’t matter who wins because she will be waiting.
Adam Pearce is on the phone and L.A. Knight comes in and says it’s a big mistake not having him in the United States Championship match and wants in the SummerSlam battle royal and The Brawling Brutes come in and they start to argue, and Pearce puts both Sheamus and Knight in the battle royal but next week it will be Knight VS. Sheamus
Grayson Waller talks to Jey Uso and tells him he is probably going to lose but he can come on his talk show after.
Karrion Kross VS. Karl Anderson
Quick match with Kross hitting his new finisher the Final Prayer on Anderson to pick up the victory.
Winner: Karrion Kross
After the match Kross locks Anderson in the Kross Jacket and screamed at A.J. Styles until Styles comes out and Kross bails out of the ring.
Jey Uso VS. Grayson Waller
As Jey has things going his way, The Tribal Chief comes out and takes Jey’s attention off the match and Waller knocks Jey down. Jey comes back and hits a spear on Waller then splashes Waller off the top rope.
Winner: Jey Uso
After the match Solo Sikoa attacks Jey who battles back and Roman comes in and Jey spears Roman. Jey then went to the top rope to splash Roman but Solo knocked him off the ropes. Roman and Solo then take over and deliver a spear/spike to Jey at the same time. After yelling at Jey for a few minutes they hit the spear/spike again.
Impact Wrestling on AXS TV last week drew 111,000 viewers, up 19,000 viewers from the prior week. It did a 0.03 rating in the 18-49 demo, up 0.01 from the last show and the highest since June 1. (Ratings credit: Wrestlenomics)
WWE Executive Chairman Vince McMahon underwent major spinal surgery last week. The news was broken by TMZ.
TMZ adds that McMahon was under the knife for over four hours and while the surgery was a success, McMahon is still recovering from the surgery.
McMahon was last seen at the Smackdown live television show from Madison Square Garden earlier this month and while he still barks orders remotely by forcing script changes, he hasn’t been present for live TV or premium live events.
It’s unclear how long the 77-year-old McMahon is out of commission for.
Duffy, Georgia, is gearing up to welcome back the characters of Heels for a second season, a season which arrives a bit later than usual following the end of the first season in 2021.
Starring Stephen Amell as Jack Spade and Alexander Ludwig as Ace Space in the leading roles, Heels is a story about a small, independent wrestling federation called the DWL run by two brothers and sometimes rivals.
Season one ended with a big plot twist. Both Spades wanted the title but in a swerve, it was Crystal Tyler, played by the excellent Kelli Berglund, who climbed the ladder to retrieve the championship.
The second season resumes right after the end of season one, while episode two pretty much kicks off the second season storyline.
One thing you will notice in season two is the effort to make women’s wrestling as important as the men’s. Season one lacked that effort, with only Crystal on the roster, but the second season adds a fan favorite – AJ “Lee” Mendez – who joins the cast as Elle Dorado.
Apart from Amell, Luwdwig, and Berglund, season two also stars Alison Luff (New Amsterdam) as Staci Spade, Mary McCormack (Deep Impact, The L Word) as Willie Day, Allen Maldonado (House Party, The Wonder Years, The Last O.G.) as Rooster Robbins, Chris Bauer (Gaslit, Survivor’s Remorse, and True Blood) as Wild Bill Hancock, Trey Tucker (The Outpost) as Bobby Pin, Robby Ramos (Chicago P.D.) as Diego Cottonmouth, Alice Barrett Mitchell (The Thing About Pam, Billions) as Carol Spade, and Roxton Garcia (Reminensce) as Thomas Spade, David James Elliot (Trumbo, JAG) as Tom Spade, and Joel Murray (Mad Men, Shameless) as Eddie Earl. CM Punk (Mayans, AEW) as Ricky Rabies, AJ Mendez (Women of Wrestling, WWE) as Elle Dorado, Josh Segarra (Scream VI, Arrow, The Other Two) as Brooks Rizzo, and Emmy Raver-Lampman as Jen Lussier.
Heels showrunner and executive producer Mike O’Malley (Survivor’s Remorse, Shameless) also portrays Charlie Gully on the series. Michael Waldron (executive producer of “Loki,” Dr. Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, and producer for “Rick and Morty”) is the series creator. Christopher Donnelly (By Sidney Lumet), Pete Segal (Get Smart, 50 First Dates, Tommy Boy, Shameless), Patrick Walmsley (JT LeRoy), and Julie Yorn (Hell or High Water, White Boy Rick) also serve as executive producers on the series. “Heels” is produced through O’Malley Ink and LBI Entertainment in association with Lionsgate Television for STARZ.
The second season will feature eight, one-hour episodes and will run through September 15, 2023.
