SPOTLIGHTED PODCAST ALERT (YOUR ARTICLE BEGINS A FEW INCHES DOWN)...
HITS
Opening Segment: The show got off to a good start with Shane McMahon opening the show. I appreciated the fact that the WWE did not drag out the General Manager issue, and selected a new GM immediately after WrestleMania. While I didn’t expect Paige, I am definitely intrigued, and hope that she will do well with the role.
Shinsuke Nakamura: After turning heel at WrestleMania, I was curious to see how the WWE would adapt Shinsuke’s character, and I was not disappointed. From the disingenuous apology to his inability to understand English, Nakamura came across as fresh, engaging, and more motivated. His attack on Daniel Bryan and A.J. Styles during the main event further added to his new attitude, and I can’t wait to see more.
The Iconics Debut: Peyton Royce and Billie Kay made an impressive debut on Tuesday by interrupting Charlotte Flair. Their promo was strong, and the attack that followed was brutal enough to take out the champion. With another multi-member group in the Riott Squad still on the show, it’ll be interesting to see what happens post-shake up.
Carmella Cashes In: After the Iconics attack on Charlotte, it led to Carmella successfully cashing in her Money in the Bank Contract. This was positive for a few reasons. Firstly, it put over Peyton Royce and Billie Kay by legitimizing the severity of their attack. Secondly, it fit Carmella’s character and was right in line with her teased cash-ins. Finally, it was done in front of the right crowd who were excited to see the cash-in. Not sure if this will only be a short-term reign or not, but it’s something different for the time being.
A.J. Styles vs. Daniel Bryan: I was initially surprised when this match was announced for the main event; however, both competitors put forth a great effort. I liked the back and forth, and the intensity displayed throughout the match. Due to the correct decision to have Nakamura interfere, there was no winner, which will make the eventual return match something to still look forward to.
MISSES
Usos vs. New Day: While this wasn’t a bad match at all, this gets a miss because of the fact that these two teams have competed against each other multiple times, and in all honesty, there was no reason for it to be booked. Yes, it was a number one contender’s match, but with The Usos winning, I do not understand why they couldn’t just invoke their rematch clause, since they were the champions. Speaking of…..
Orton vs. Roode vs. Rusev: Just like the Usos, the previous champion won the number one contendership match. Technically, he should have been owed a rematch as well, so I don’t really agree with him having to compete again. In addition, I wasn’t the biggest fan of the Orton/Mahal feud over the WWE Championship last year, so I do not have high expectations going into this.
Jeff Indelicato has been a fan of professional wrestling since he was knee high to a grasshopper (little kid) after coming across the Wrestling Challenge episode after WrestleMania 7. He has not looked back. His passion has led him to winning wrestling trivia contests in his city, and even won him his Senior Talent Show by dancing to Shawn Michaels’ theme song. When not annoying others with wrestling talk, he loves spending time with his family and friends, and focuses on his other passion: movies. Follow him on Twitter @the_Indel or send him an email at indelpw@gmail.com.
NOW CHECK OUT LAST WEEK’S COLUMN: WWE SMACKDOWN HITS & MISSES 4/3: Daniel Bryan and Shane McMahon reunite, Owens & Sami show up, Styles-Nakamura interaction, Charlotte-Natalya
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