WWE Monday Night Raw Review 19.1.2026.

Intro.

I have to say it. I love these WWE European, and UK Tours, not just from from an in ring perspective. I love the feeling of sitting on my couch at a normal time with my dinner, and being able to watch these shows. Tonight is a case and point of this fact, because I had home made burger and chips whilst I watched Monday Night Raw, and this made me feel very American. I was eating my favourite food, whilst watching one of my favourite tv shows at a normal time. The Fed and my tea at the same time, now I don't know about you guys but I call that getting well Fed.

Superstars Showing Up Work.

Cm Punk. Finn Balor. Maxxine Dupri. Los Americanos. Rey Mysterio. Dragon Lee, and Penta, were all seen showing up to the arena.

Gunther Segment.

This was simply sensational. Gunther came out to a chorus of boos, and it was glorious. I have said this before, and I will say it again. Gunther was my favourite thing in WWE last year, and that's going to continue into this year. The way that Gunther started was at his best last night, from bringing retiring John Cena, and then declaring himself for this years Royal Rumble. This was when AJ Styles came out, and this segment got amplified. He and Gunther had a great promo dual that was based around respect, and AJ wanting a rematch, and just like that this became his downfall. AJ wanted to face Gunther at the Royal Rumble, but Gunther said that he had declared himself for the Rumble. Gunther went to walk away, but then he dropped a bombshell, he will face AJ, on one condition, if he puts his career on the line. Later on in the broadcast, this was made official after AJ spoke to Adam Pearce. This booking is a throwback to how He Who Shall Not Be Named Booked HHH back in the late 1990's and early 2000's. Case and point. HHH vs Cactus Jack. I've been a massive fan of AJ's for well over twenty years, so if The Royal Rumble is his last swansong, then It's going to be an emotional one. AJ is one part of one of the greatest Matches that I have ever seen in person, when he defended his then TNA World Heavyweight Championship, at Wembley Arena back in 2010, when he faced Kurt Angle at a house show.

Becky Lynch vs Maxxine Dupri WWE Intercontinental Championship.

I didn't like this. The in ring work felt forced, and unnatural, and as the Match went on it just got worse. The result was never in doubt, and if you're going to have this type of 50/50 booking on TV, then it needs to feel important, and this felt like one of the unimportant things that i'm going to watch all week. And Natalyas heel turn was pathetic. Becky retained, and if i'm being honest I just want this feud to end. It's sad to think that Becky insulting my Irish breathryn that were in attendence was the best part of all of this.

Adam Pearce vs Paul Heyman.

Am I the only person who's finding these Paul Heyman and Adam Pearce moments really tedious?

Ad Moments.

These moments during the ad breaks that we get over here in the UK Broadcast were weird. Rey Mysterio, and his mates Penta and Dragon came across with passion, whilst The New Day and Grayson Waller, and Los Americanos came across dodgy, and annoying.

Jey Uso Is In The Royal Rumble.

As you guys know. I attended Friday Night Smackdown this past Friday at Wembley Arena, and the main discussion was superstars that annoy most fans, and Jey Uso came out on top. My take is this. I like Jey Uso, and I think that the way WWE Booked him last year was pathetic. Jey has become the Pro Wrestling equivalent to Marmite, and I'm falling on the side that likes him, because to me his energy is infectious, and sometimes when I watch Monday Night Raw at 7am in the morning on a Tuesday, it's easy to say that he's needed. Jey yeeted his way through the fans, and declared himself for the Royal Rumble. This is just my opinion.

Rey Mysterio Panta And Dragon Lee vs Austin Theory Logan Paul And Bronson Reed.

I didn't like this. I understand that some people online liked this, but this wasn't for me. The Matches within the Match failed to get to the next level, and this hampered the physicality. The near falls were just like this Match. Predictable, and the crossover of the brass Knucks was eye rolling. Rey and his friends got the win, by using said brass knucks. Do better WWE.

Iyo Sky And Rhea Ripley Segment.

I like these two as a tag team. Rhea and Iyo have such great chemistry, and it beams off their faces everytime their on screen. Both ladies said they've declared themselves for this years Royal Rumble, but they've got to get through defending their Tag Team Championship belts at Saturday Nights Main Event. This was when Liv Morgan, and Roxanne Perez came out, and guess what they declared themselves for the Royal Rumble. The Promo dual that then played out was decent, but it wasn't a blow away masterpiece, it dealt with the theme of mindgames, and this is something that we don't normally get in WWE's womens division, and that's refreshing, but overall this segment didn't get to the point quick enough for me. Raquel Rodriguez battered Rhea Ripley to end this segment, and caused a bit of carnage.

Elgrande Americano vs Jevon Edwards.

Ok i wasn't sure how to approach so i'm just going do the best I can. The Match was thrown out after Jevon got injured. I went back and looked at this after it happened, and from what I saw it looked he has banged up his shoulder. Here's hoping that he has a speedy recovery. It's such a shame, because he was only called up to the main roster last month. I hope he has better luck in the future, because he deserves it.

I love Heel Asuka.

Asuka's heel Character is one of my favourite things in WWE at the moment, because she's taken to it so easily. however there's a downside. Real people are going through forms of bullying as they watch this, so here's hoping that this storyline can speak to anyone who's going through a bad time.

Cm Punk vs Finn Balor WWE Heavyweight Championship.

As this Match started off, both men were a study in contrast, and it was a pleasure to see. The Irish fans in Belfast tonight sounded great all throughout the evening, but they were most vocal here. Finn was given back his old demon/ prince theme, and this made perfect sense. I heard some people say on X that Finn should've got the win, and all I have to say about that is this. In Keyfade there isn't much that WWE can do creatively with Finn as champion, so it made sense for the outcome to be what it was, however this didn't change the fact that this was an excellent main event that got the fans out of their seats. The near falls added drama to Match at times when it needed it, and the physicality was timed to perfection. Both men kicked out of GTS's, and coup de grace's, but this became too much for Finn, as punk retained with another GTS to retain his belt.

Overview Of Monday Night Raw.

I know that i'm going to annoy my Irish breathryn, but this was a bang average edition of weekly TV. The Irish fans in Belfast sounded great, but that doesn't mean that they should be fed slop, when they want Sirloin Steak. Yes, this weeks Monday Night Raw did have some good moments. Beckys Promo was to the point. Iyo, and Rhea, had a decent segment with Liv Morgan, and. Roxanne Perez, and Gunther and AJ Styles segment was news worthy, but the rest of the show just felt average, and this was a real shame.

This weeks Monday Night Raw is a mid 6/10.

 5 Things I picked Up From Attending WWE Friday Night Smackdown ( And More ).

Ticket Prices Are An Industry Wide Problem.

Over the past five years, a lot has been said about Ticketmaster, and their pricing system in the way of dynamic pricing. Lets just put it this way. I get that big acts have ever increasing road crews, which means that prices have to get bigger. Case and point. In July i'm seeing both Luke Combs, and. My Chemical Romance at Wembley Stadium, and combined both tickets I've paid came to nearly £3.00 euros. Why am I using music as an example? well that's real simple. WWE are no differant. I spoke to fans in the que waiting to enter Wembley Arena last night, and the concensus was the same felt all around. The Prices have gone away from the fans, and families. I understand that TKO want to make a profit, but it shouldn't come at the hand that feeds them.

Fans Are Fed Up With Cody Cena.

The divide that fans are seeing when it comes to Cody Rhodes is a real thing. I usually ignore a lot of what gets said on twitter when it comes to Cody, but after hearing the boos first hand last night. I don't think it can't be ignored anymore. If you're going to turn Cody heel, then now is the perfect time to do it. It's very telling when you witness this in person. I'm a unapolagetic fan of Cody, and even i'm saying that his time as a babyface is nearing it's end. WWE need to take note of this. This is just the same way to describe what happened to John Cena back in 2008, when fans started to tire of his babyface act. Moments like this should be studied, as the consumer is who feeds WWE's main family base needs to feel like they're being listened to.

The Thing To Do If You Want To Get Instant Heat.

As the show went on, the in place ad breaks for the USA Network delay feed became more and more evident. I don't have an issue with ads personally, but when there used for sport washing purposes, then that's when I've got to draw the line. The response from when the visit Saudi Arabia ad aired was at one point deafening in the arena, with chants of. You sold out.

Ilja And Sami. You Always Save The Best For Last.

I haven't watched the show back yet on Netflix, but what I can say is this. I loved Sami  Zayn vs Ilja Dragonov. The Match had a sense of excitement that I felt radiate throughout my body. I bought every near fall, and every submission attempt. I loved this Match. Sami gave a speech to the fans after he took his place in the Fatal Four Way Match for the no1 contenders at Saturdays Main Event, for Drew Mcintyre's WWE Undisputed World Championship. It's amazing to think that Sami has such a rich history with this City, and it's fans, so hearing him say that he wants London to host Wrestlemania is quite heartwarming, even though I don't think this will ever happen, due to the fact London Mayor Sadiq Khan has said in the past that he's focusing more on bringing in the NFL Superbowl.

A Blinding Night For The UK Scene.

I've said this before, and I will say it again. Drew Mcintyre has been one of my favourite things in WWE for over the past few years, so seeing him bring home the Gold was an emotional moment that fans in attendence lapped up, ( Me included ) as the chants had started from before the broadcast had even gone live. His promo led to a dual with Randy Orton, that had me out of my seat. Over the past few years I think it's remarkable how HHH has breathed life into his career. Both men went through their history together, and that's when you enter stage left Mr Jacob Fatu. For taking out The Miz. In the Main Event Match taping before the show went live. Southamptons Nathan Fraser worked a banger against Rey Fenix. Leon Slater had an awesome showing against Carmelo Hayes in the United States Open Challenge, and did I hear a mention of WCPW from Cody Rhodes.

Overall View From Last Night.

This was a great show, and a good choice for my first ever WWE TV Live Broadcast, and I would definately go to another one, but their was one big gaping problem. Staffing issues at Wembley Arena. I think that they were under staffed, and when you ad that in with the fact that I think some members of staff were told the wrong things. For example the merch que only had two people working the main area in the foyer, when there was a very large que. This was unacceptable. Im not sure whether this was poor management, or bad organisation from WWE, but either way this needs to be looked at in the future. I must reiterate this isn't the fault of the main collegues. It's up to the arena to have a back up plan. This looked bad from the point of the people who were standing around me. Do Better WWE, and. Wembley Arena.

 My Top 5 UFC Fights That Are Life Affirming.

Intro.

The term life affirming means differant things to all people. To me it's a testement to what people have gone through in life, so these fights aren't just ones that are close to my heart, they mean loads to the fighters. Some have come through drug addiction, whilst others have gone through family issues, so this is a look at those fights that came at the right time, and the right place for many fans on a global level. so lets get stuck in and check out my top 5 list.

5. UFC 132 Urijah Faber vs Dominic Cruz.

Adversity comes in many shades and forms, this one comes off the back of a heated rivalry, that at this point had lasted for nearly half a decade. Dominic had to overcome the fact that he had already lost to Faber back in 2007 when both fighters were part of the WEC. This fight was an electric barn burner that lasted 5 rounds. I have lost count the amount of times that I have watched this fight, and everytime I see it. I end up discovering something new about myself. This affirmed the point that in life we all have things to overcome. It's how you do it that matters.

4. Jon Jones vs Quinton Rampage Jackson UFC 135.

This fight is essential when you look at what happened before both men entered the cage. Jon stopped a lady from getting mugged in a local park. Jon would go on to beat Rampage on this night. Later down the line Jon's career would take a few controversial turns surrounding failed drug tests, and a hit and run, that injured a pregnant lady. Jon has now since retired from MMA as a whole, even though fans still linger for him to return. Why is this life affirming is the main question? when someone has done terrible things? Well it comes down to the young age demo that watch the sport with there parents. you can't have someone on your roster who does bad things, without the younger members of the audience learning that his behaviour isn't the way to lead your life.

3. Chuck Liddell vs Wanderlai Silva UFC 79.

I was struggling to think why this Match means so much to me. And I came back to one thing. Both men gave everything. This is one of the best fights that has the most rewatch value in my opinion. Chuck was coming off the back of two disapointing fights one losing his Light Heavyweight Championship to Quinton Rampage Jackson at UFC 71, and the second a dream fight against Keith Jardine at UFC 76. This meant that Chucks back was against the wall. Wanderlai on the otherside had come over from Pride, and was etching to prove himself. This was life affirming for both men. Life is a funny thing, that at times prove that you can come back from anything, and if you've got something to prove, then it's up to you to do it.

2. Tito Ortiz vs Ryan Baber UFC 132.

Tito Ortiz at one point was seen as a bit of a laughing stock in the year of 2011. He had been on a 5 year losing streak at this point. So this is why I love watching this fight. The fighting spirit of an MMA Warrior is something that never dies. Tito in the years of him losing just felt very sad, Because look at what had become of this one time Middleweight, and Light Heavyweight Champion. But on this night back in 2011 something sparked into life when he submitted Ryan Baber. This is a fight that teaches you the lesson, of if you've still got it, then don't ever tarnish it or lose it, because there could be a chance that you won't be able to get it back.

1. Anderson Silva vs Chris Weidman UFC 160.

This fight is sad look at what is to come. On this night in 2013. Chris Weidman beat Anderson Silva to become the new UFC Middleweight Champion. On one hand Chris getting the belt was the combination of a lifelong dream coming to fruition, whilst on the other hand. A career was entering its twilight years under a sad note. Both men would then take different paths. Anderson would injure his leg in their rematch just six months later, and be on the sidelines for over a year, whilst Chris would go on to defend his belt against Vitor Belfort on two occasions.

Overview On This Piece And Advice.

I've been in some dark places in my life, and i've not always been helped when it comes to facing up to issues that i've had to overcome, in the ways that I should've been, and if you're facing the same problems just know that you can come through anything, because like Jellyroll once said It's Not Okay, But You're Going To Be Alright. This was my inspiration for writing this piece.

AEW Dynamite Maximum Carnage Review. 15.1.2026.

Samoa Joe Segment.

AEW kicked off the show with Samoa Joe stating that he's not done with Hangman Adam Page, and he's hired a bounty hunter to take him out, enter stage left Bryan Keith. I'm done with this Samoa Joe, and Hangman Adam Page storyline. It's needs to be brought to an end, because this started off last September, and were now in mid January. I mean seriously.

Pac vs Darby Allin.

I loved this. From the start both of these two thought in the fans, before the Match had even got underway. Pac used the ring steps with the essence of ultra violence, and Darby got thrown around like a wet hoodie with ease by Pac. The man from Newcastle Upon Tyne owned Darby throughout most of the Match as his dominance sold the story. Darby was allowed to come into his own towards the end of the Match. The interference spots that came Wheeler Yuta allowed for Darby to get the win, after he had some ankle fun with Pac, making him submit. This was a class opening affair, that I enjoyed very much.

Bryan Keith vs Hangman Adam Page.

This Match followed the template of how I thought this would play out. It was predictable, rushed, and if i'm honest flat. Hangman got the win, and hello Swerve Strickland. but it was came next that stole the early part of the show. Hangman took to the mic and said that he's going to take everything away from Samoa Joe. I'm not interested. Swerve Strickland then called out MJF, and said that he wants his gold back. This brought out Kenny Omega. I loved all of this. This looks like clear direction for when AEW goes to Australia next month with the winner facing MJF at Revolution. All three men showed each other respect, and then then the ring cleared, giving Kenny time to talk to the fans, but TDCWO had other ideas. I liked the dynamics here. Kenny tried to stand his ground, but this was done at the behest of Don Callis after Kenny issued to face anyone from his crew, but Don turned this down and said that he decides when this will happen, so Next week Kenny Omega will face Josh Alexander, and I can't wait to see it unfold.

Brody King Commits Murder On Live TV.

Here lys John Crews, he came, he saw, he got killed by Brody King. He will be missed as MJF's talking lackey.

Mark Davis And Jake Doyle vs Jetspeed vs GOA vs The Young Bucks Tornado Tag Team Match.

With the winners going on to face FTR at a later Aussie date when you think about it, this Match did what it said on the tin. It was a party good time Match, and that's what I got from this. The flow was solid, and the Matches within the Match gave way for the story to be told. The near falls came in thick and fast as the finish was just around the corner. Davis and Boyle got the win, and then had a face with FTR. This is going to be a stomper when it goes down in Australia.

Cosmic Babes Of Wrath vs Triangle Of Madness.

As much as I like the talent involved in this Match, overall this wasn't for me. The in ring work went from good to phoned in, and by the fact that Statlander who's the AEW Womens champion took the pin, said everything that I needed to know, this was a Match that needed more time, but my question is this. Would more time have helped this Match? I'm undecided.

MJF vs Bandido AEW World Championship.

I loved this. When you isolate this Match, and take a deep dive after watching this from the start. This was a perfect TV Match. It was easily Matched in the levels that both men used to perform there offence. This was Mexican style meeting together with pure bred Americana, and it was glorious. The pace of the Match came in stages. the first slow and methodic. The second high pace, and the third, which gave way for the final sequences to play out, was rapid speed. Max paid shade to Bryan Danielson by finishing Bandido with the labelle lock. Max later praised Bandido stating that he's going to be a World Champion in AEW one day, he laughed at first, then admitted that those who told him this, were right. This meant that he has to show his real hand, so he did. Dynamite Maximum Carnage came to an end with Max decking Bandido, pulling back the curtain on his devil persona. Because in reality Satan wears two faces. And his name is Maxwell. Brody King vs MJF in Australia. Yes please.

Overview of AEW Dynamite Maximum Carnage.

This was a solid outing for AEW, and the definition of day and night from last weeks show. The in ring work felt a bit more crisp, and storylines developed a bit more with creative ease.

AEW Dynamite Maximum Carnage is an decent 8/10.

 My Top 5 Moments From WWE Monday Night Raw.

Intro.

I'm late to the party when it has come to releasing content today, this is due to the fact that I caught up with an old friend, who's not been having a great time of late. So i'm sorry for my lateness. But things like that should come before any content, because friends are more important. In truth these are the people that will bring you up, when you need a big lift, when things don't go you're way. This is my stance on life as a hole.

Hounary Mentions.

Music Was An Underlining Factor.

Midway through the broadcast WWE played an advert for this years Royal Rumble, when they confirmed that the official song for the PLE is Heavy Is The Crown by one of my favourite bands ever Linkin Park. I've been a fan of this band since I was fourteen years old, so hearing there music advertising a show like this is pretty cool, considering the fact that back in 2003 they were never featured on WWE TV, even though they were one of the biggest bands in the world. Later on in the show Travis Barker would show up after HHH put out the message for celebs to get involved in this years WrestleMania. I'm a massive Blink 182 fan, and his side project band The Transplants have made some of the most important Punk albums of the past twenty years. Travis Barker vs Lars Ulrich is a Match that I would love to see. Book it HHH you know it makes sense.

5. Fans In Dusseldorf.

This was a bit jaring when looking back, because this wasn't the standard affair. The fans throughout this show were quiet, and wrestlers like Cm Punk, and. Bayley had to work to get them back on side. I'm going to Friday Night Smackdown this week at Londons OVO Arena Wembley, and I can't wait to see how the UK fans act. Bring on Friday.

4. I'm Liking Jevon Edwards.

This boy is boooouuuuncy. I'm not the biggest fan of NXT these days, but I do like some of the talent that has come from the Orlando base of late, With Sol Ruca. Tony D'Angelo, and. Oba Femi being standouts, and then there's Jevon Edwards. This guy has an incredible future in front of him, and adding him to the Raw brand is a clever move, because when you take a look at this man, and compare him to the Monday Night Raw roster, then his moveset will be well looked after and catered for. His win last night against Tyler Bate, i'm sorry I mean Bravo Americano was a clear look at were WWE need to with him in a booking sense. Because Jevon can benefit from this immensely.

3. Cm Punk Segment.

It's no secret that i'm an unapoligetic fan of Cm Punk. He's got this ability to be able to connect with fans on a special level that not many can do. The rd to WrestleMania is a long and winding one, and as the weeks roll on I think i'm going to even more convinced that Gunther will be his opponent at the show of shows, and with him facing Finn Balor next week in Belfast just confirms my point. Their Promo dual last night was decent.

2. I love Heel Becky Lynch.

As time has gone on i've become more and more convinced that Becky Lynch is a heel that you can laugh. Like a less edgy female version of MJF in AEW. Becky has been a highlight for me on Monday Nights, and her promos never fail to raise a smile in the O'malley household. She will face Maxxine Dupri next week in Belfast, and I sense that she will retain her Intercontinental Championship.

1. AJ Styles vs Gunther.

I liked this. This was a real interesting Match to see unfold. These two men are an interesting study in contrast, due to the fact that before they came to WWE, they were standouts in other areas of the world. AJ became the face of NJPW, whilst taking dates for ROH, and UK indy promotions after leaving TNA in late 2013, whilst Gunther, who was working under his Walter name at the time was known to become a force working a european style, amongst several top tier Indy promotions, on this continent, and this bled through when these two met in the ring last night. WWE don't normally like to leverage two much into there Wrestlers past, when you take a look at how this Match played out. It felt to me like I was watching a low down Indy main event in all the best ways. Gunther got the win to send the German fans home happy.

Last Thoughts On The Show.

These were just my highlights from what was a fairly standard edition of weekly TV. I get why this wasn't for everyone, but in my opinion Pro Wrestling is something that needs to held in the eye of the beholder. Like what you like, and don't criticize others for thinking any differant.

This weeks Monday Night Raw Is a decent 7/10.

5 WWE New Generation Talents Were Are They Now.

Warning.

This article contains references to child sex offences, that some readers might find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised.

5. The Goon.

Agh yes 1996 was a dark period for the WWF, the echoes of the 1980's were still being felt, from the characteristics, all the way through to how dated the commentary sounded. The Goon real name Barney William was the wrestler who portrayed this character. He retired from the industry in 2014, and since then has worked in the mortgages, and construction industries. He now resides in Duluth Minnesota. I remember watching him back in the day, and even as an 8 year old I hated this.

4. Taka Michinoku.

The way that Japanese Pro Wrestling was perceived back in 1996, was like digging to the bottom of a cereal box to get the toy, and realising that it was a joke. I'm not joking. This would get worse over time, and the treatment that Japanese would be treated like, felt like an offensive slap in the face. Taka was treated like this when he debuted on Monday Night Raw in early 1996. He was the first winner of the now debunked Light Heavyweight Championship. Taka now works as a trainer in Japan, were he he's works for NJPW.

3. The Pug.

Even though Alex pourteau was never a full time competitor in the WWF in this time space of 1993-1997, he was mainly used as a jobber. In the WWF he was known as The Pug, which makes no sense because he looks nothing like a dog. He later wrestled for other promotions like WCW, and later on the indie circuits. He recently celebrated his 56th birthday.

2. Aldo Montoya.

Justin Credible back in the early nineties was known as Aldo Montoya. This would be a forgotten run, that know one talks about these days, because after leaving the WWF in 1997, he would find work with ECW working for Paul Heyman. His stay in his company would be held in high regard amongst hardcore wrestling fans. He would go back to the WWE in March of 2001, after ECW folded, and was bought by the then WWF, he would get released in 2003, due to positioning, and in ring work. the same issue then came around in 2006, when the WWE didn't see any value in using him. Nowadays Justin has been involved in several controversies, involvolving trying to get money from fans, and drug addiction issues.

1. Duke The Dumpster Drosse.

I'm not going to give this two much writing space, and i'm going to tell you why. He was arrested in Warren County Tennesse for trying to buy illegal images of minors. His real name is Michael Drosse, and his case was thwarted by coinbase, who  declined the payment. I have no time for this person, ( if you can call him that ) and I hope he rots in hell.

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, in the UK you can call the NSPCC on 0808 800 50000.

And in the USA you can call 800. 422, 4453.

 WWE Friday Night Smackdown Review 10.1.2026.

    Intro. 

I have to say that i'm looking forward to this coming Friday, because I will be attending Friday Night Smackdown at the OVO Arena Wembley, and the best thing about this is Wembley is only a 45 minute train ride from my house. I've been looking forward to this show ever since it got announced in early september of last year, because even though i've been to house shows multiple times over the years, i've never been to a live WWE TV Broadcast, so this is going to be very special. I'm excited to see my guys the Temu Bloodline AKA The MFTs, and a man that's going to have a big 2026. The Miz. ( Hoooooooooooorah. ) But in all seriousness Bring on my Guy Cody. More on him later.

Superstars Seen Showing Up.

Giulia. Alexa Bliss. Drew Mcintyre, and. Cody Rhodes were all seen showing up to work. The back drops of Berlin that were shown last night looked stunning.

Randy Orton Segment And Trick Williams vs Rey Fenix.

Randy Orton is back, and he's on the hunt for gold in 2026. I liked this he talked about how great it was to be back in Germany, and his hopes for 2026. This was when he got interrupted by Trick Williams. I liked this. The pair had a decent back and forth segment, that gave us fans a perfect look into were WWE could be heading in 2026 on both main roster brands. Veterans helping the new talent is a good way to shape things. The Miz ( hoooooooooooooooorah ) attacked Randy to end the segment. As Randy walked out he passed Rey Fenix, and just like that we were off to the races. Rey Fenix vs Trick Williams was an unsuprisingly awesome affair. Both have untapped, incredible chemistry, and it was clear to see. Their exchanges were electric, as I sat here in my home eating up every manouver. Trick got the win after rolling up Rey, and this was the right booking decision to make. As the way of how WWE TV Matches go, this was a solid bit of business.

Damien Priest Segment.

Damien Priest told Kathy Kelly that he's looking forward to the future in 2026, ok now someone tell that to Drew Mcintyre that, because he also wants Gold. I get a feeling that this going somewhere.

Giulia vs Alexa Bliss WWE Womens United States Championship.

So Giulia is now a two time WWE United States Champion. This says to me to never take two weeks off from writing again, because if I do then things like this happen. This Match however was terrible. It was a vast shenanigans based exercise. Giulia retained, thanks to Lash Legend. Nia Jax, and. Kiana James. This was a complete waste of perfectly good air time.

A Total Misfire.

What came after the last Match was a total misfire. How can a segment debuting Jordynne Grace, be handled so badly, well that's because it morphed several things together. Jordynne had to compete for air time against. Chelsea Green. Alba Fyre. Matt Cardona, and. Cody Rhodes, oh and the new character that has been given to Kit Wilson is offensive when you dig beneath the surface.

The Wyatt Sic vs The MFT's 8 Man Tag Match.

I didn't like this, on paper it looked like a fun time, but in reality it was a bust that was over to soon. The Matches within the Match failed to get a reaction from me at home, and this should be said, because if it failed with one man in his late thiries, then imaging how many others it hasn't got over with on a global level. The MFT's got the win, and if i'm honest. I was glad when it ended.

Carmelo Hayes Segment And.

In 2026 Carmelo Hayes should be done with The Miz, ( hooooooooooorah ) but not Ilja Dragonov. I want to see this Match again, because these two have awesome chemistry, and the booking will work to their strengths.

Alba Fyre vs Jordynne Grace.

Jordynne Grace, beat Alba Fyre in a flat and forgettable TV Match, and then had a meeting with Jade Cargill. I liked this development, because it's a clever piece of TV booking.

Carmelo Hayes United States Championship Open Challenge.

Enter stage left Shinsuke Nakamura. He was Carmelo's opponent, and if i'm being honest this had no right to be as decent as it was. These worked hard to carve out something good, and as the near falls came into effect, the essence of one way traffic started to form, and this was when Carmelo retained his belt.

3 Stages Of Hell Match For The WWE Undisputed Championship Drew Mcintyre vs Cody Rhodes.

Were already in the start of the year, and were being treated to PLE Matches taking place on standard TV. This was awesome. I'm not sure why in keyfabe terms for why the result was what it was, but I will get into that a little bit later on. The first fall was centred around the grounds of a normal Pro wrestling Match, and it delivered. Both mens history on the independent level from working for WPCW, and. ROH respectively was showcased, and I got that vibe from the word go, as their workmanship showed this. The physicality of the first fall which Drew won by giving Cody a low blow, bled into the second fall, a Falls Count Anywhere Match, this catered to the chaos of the stipulation, as Cody, and. Drew thought into the fans, the backstage area, and all the way around ringside, which led to Drew getting put through the announcers table. Cody got the second fall, this led to the final fall. A Steel Cage Match, and what this gave me was a satisfying conclusion to what was an excellent Match. This was when the booking of the Match started to form it's final masterpiece. The near falls acted like a finely tuned instrument that sounded well being played out live, and just like that we have a new WWE Undisputed Champion, and his name is Drew Mcintyre, and he got what he wanted in the most heelish way possible. He left through the cage door thanks to a returning Jacob Fatu. some fans online have criticised the finish, but when you take a look at Drews character, it all makes sense, and I can't wait to see heel Mcintyre going forward as champion. Many things have been said today about the build to WrestleMania, and how things could play out. It was reported last month by Sean Ross Sapp at Fightful Select, and. Dave Meltzer at the Wrestling Observer that the plan for Mania 42 was Cody Rhodes vs Roman Reigns 3, but with the Royal Rumble coming up in just a few weeks, that also has to be taken into account. There's a reason why this is one of my favourite times of year to be a Pro Wrestling fan.

Overview of Friday Night Smackdown.

As I sat down on a Saturday morning to watch Friday Night Smackdown, with my Sausage And Bacon Sandwiches. I was left feeling full on life by the end, whilst entertained from the start, but the middle left me feeling that a creative shift in WWE is needed, so that weekly TV shows can stand as must see TV once again.

This weeks WWE Friday Night Smackdown is a high 7/10.

Ps. Can someone get Axiom his mask back from Tomasso Ciampa.

 AEW Dynamite Review.

Intro.

I'm kicking things off with an explanation. I'm back for the new year, and things are going to be getting bigger once i've sorted out my domain name, this hasn't happened due to payment issues, but once them sorted. I can put my masterplan into action. It's still my goal to give you readers the best in written reviews, and Top five lists, and that part of my mission hasn't changed, what has changed is the fact that starting up the domain has been delayed. Like I said before once this has been sorted. I will be going to the next level.

JR Is Back.

Justin Roberts kicked off the broadcast by welcoming out Jim Ross back to the broadcast desk. This was a lovely gesture by AEW, and a pleassure to see. Jim in recent years has faced skin cancer, and another bout of bells paulsy. It was just awesome to see one of the voices that I grew up listening two get back on his feet. I get that his broadcasting wasn't perfect last night, but someone else's health should always come first.

Jetspeed Got Decked.

As it turned the TDCWO has a new member, fresh from TNA Jake Doyle. This has come to be after Jake turned down a new contract from TNA, opting to sign for AEW instead. The Demand also had a hand in this. So this begged the question who will be partnering with Jack Perry later on.

Jon Moxley vs Shelton Benjamin Continental Rules.

This Match was excellent. Jon Moxley was one of my favourite wrestlers working under the AEW banner, heading into the back end of last year, whilst Shelton Benjamin remained a solid work hand. These two bounced off the backs of one another with ease, proving that they've got great chemistry. As the time limit started to run down, the physicality intensified, and this helped the story of the Match play out. Jon got the win with five seconds left to go.

The Elite vs The Demand.

This was a superb Party Match, and oh my did it deliver. From The Young Bucks coming out to their old theme, the physicality, and both teams chemistry, acting like a mind melting experience, to Toa Leona showing just how strong he is. The Matches within the Match made for a great story that unfolded over time. The Bucks got the win for their team, thanks to a BTE Trigger. Mark Davis, and. Jake Doyle then attacked The Demand, and Jetspeed came out to make the save. After that the lights went out, and when they came back on Andrade El Idolo was standing in the middle of the ring. If you take your mind back to September of last year. Andrade came back to AEW, after he had been let go by WWE, this led to a legal situation due to a non compete clause that was in his contract, this situation is now been resolved after Andrade got a lawyer who's speciality was centred around contracts to fight the case. I will never understand for the life of me why noncompetes are even a thing. I don't get business protocols.

Willow Nightingale TBS Championship Celebration.

I have a question for you guys. What do you get when you ad cake. Good friends, and. Mercedes Mone losing the plot, complete with a congaline? If your answer was a segment that could do better, then you would be right. This whole segment was nauciating, and something that felt lazy, and very WWE from a bad creative stand point. The Sisters Of Mercy called out Kris Stanlader, and her friends, and Mark Briscoe showed Willow some love in the aftermath.

Sammy Guevara vs Bandido.

Given the talent that was involved, I had high hopes for this Match, but within seconds my hopes were dashed. Sammy Guevara and Bandido should've been the Match of the night on paper, but what us fans got was a watered down look at something that would've been better four years ago. Their chemistry felt off, and the in ring work felt phoned in. Bandido got the win, and if i'm being honest I was glad to see it end, but what came next was awesome. MJF had a face off with Bandido, and it was by far the highlight of the night. From insulting Mexican culture through a translator, some awesome looking suplexes, and two good old fashioned low blows. This was a perfect way to balance the Heel and Babyface dynamic, and their Match next week is going to bang I can just feel it.

Timeless Toni Storm vs Marina Shafir.

I have no words to describe how bad this was. I have seen some bad Matches in my time play out on TV, and this one of the worst. The Match was thrown out when Wheeler Yuta got involved. Orange cassidy and his Conglomeration friends came out to make the save, so The Deathriders vs The Conglomeration storyline must continue. Just end it already.

Pac vs Darby Allin ( Again ).

Now this is more like it. These two have had excellent Matches in the past, and I can't wait to see the next chapter.

Lights Out Match Hangman Adam Page And Swerve Strickland vs Hook And Powerhouse Hoobs.

I liked this, but I can also understand why some fans might think that this Match was creatively all over the place. The near falls, and weapon spots were cleverly placed, and well performed, but all of this felt a bit forced. The levels of violence felt cruelly needed, but as a result I was left feeling empty. This was a good TV Match that I won't be going back to. Swerve And Hangman got the win, and I never want to see a cynder block ever again.

Overview of AEW Dynamite.

This weeks AEW Dynamite was very uneven, and highly forgettable. Yes, it had some good moments, but that's just it. The only way I can some it up is like this. If you eat a more to share bag of crisps, they don't always fill the void, and you're left feeling hungry again. This weeks Dynamite is pure and simple. Crisps.

This weeks AEW is a middle of the road 6/10. 

My Top 5 Favourite Moments From The Monday Night Wars That Caused Controversy In Retrospect.

Intro.

TV Networks are a funny thing aren't they, whether it's over here in the UK, or in the land of the free. WWE, and WCW created great memories, and worrying times for parents. I have fond memories of these times, but when it comes to what has held up well, and what hasn't, you could make the argument that we now live in a very different world.

5. DX Imitate The Nation.

When this took place in the Summer of 1998, it went by with no consequences, but as time goes on attitudes change, so when Peacock got the rights to the WWE Network in January of 2021, this segment was cut out altogether due to it racist theme, as all members of DX donned Blackface. This went unnoticed in the UK, but if this aired today, then the WWE would have to work around stricter guidlines.

4. Ric Flair Is Sent To A Mental Home.

I'm just going to get this out of the way. Making fun of those with Disabilities is just plain low, and at the time this didn't get any attention at in the UK in the mainstream media, but amongst those that cover Pro Wrestling, it was widely condemned. I struggle to get why anyone would think that this was a great idea. It's was never edited out of the WWE Network version.

3. UK Coverage Was Cartoonish.

I feel that this needs to brought up. Over here in the UK if you lived an area where you can get good aerial signal, or if your parents could budget in a satellite dish into their yearly spends, then you were spoilt for choice, when it came to how you consumed your favourite Pro Wrestling shows. WCW used to be a standard bearer on ITV back in the early 1990's taking up a Saturday evening, and afternoon slots, which was awesome, not so awesome was when the WWF moved to sky in the early part of this decade, and just a few years later WCW would start airing Worldwide on the new kid in town Network Channel 5. As much as it was great to get access to this show if you could. If you couldn't then you were left in the wilderness, and even if you had Channel 5, you were treated to the violence being toned down, in the most childish of ways. Case and point the 5th of March 1999 edition of the show, chair shots were viewed like an episode of the 1960's Adam West Batman, say it with me. Pow. Shazam, and. Bop, I mean us fans have had our intelligence insulted enough, for loving this past time, but this was just plain pointless. Why is this so controversial. Well it was due to industry insiders wanting shows to be seen by larger audiences at this time.

2. WWE And Sky Sports.

When I watched the WWE back in 1998 I had to go round to my friends house, because My family couldn't afford Sky at the time, so imagine my horror when I told my mum about the shenigans of Stone Cold Steve Austin, or the time when I told her to SUCK IT. I'm aware of how questionable that sounds given todays context. This came at a time when the network took aim at the direction that the company was going in. In late 1997 the WWE experimented by creating new stars, that pushed the envelope, you had The Undertaker bloodying up HBK, and DX's continued sexualised images and innuendo becoming a major concern. This was when DX flipped the script, complete with F-bombs, and keeping the Presidential Secretary up all night, and just like that USA networks were on board, whilst the UK had it's own issues with the product during this time. 

1. Channel 4 Are The Reason Why I Couldn't Have Nice Things.

In January 2000, us UK fans got to see the fed on Channel with Sunday Night Heat. With the added extra of four PPV's becoming free to air for the first time on terrestrial TV. That was until Mae Young tried to strip off in the ring, and. Cactus Jack and HHH had a bloodbath. Many people took offence to this, and as a result of complaints Channel 4 would air PPV's on a 50 minute delay, so if anything did strike a cut, then it cut be taken out easily. I'm not the biggest fan of Channel 4 these days.

 

 My Top 5 Favourite Pro Wrestling Matches Of 2025.

Intro.

Pro Wrestling has been an interesting comodity in 2025. From failed heel turns. A, company performing to smaller crowds, to both WWE, and. AEW's creative taking a downward turn, this year has seen the sport go through a massive dump when it comes to public perception, but as the creative has gone down that route, the Match quality has remained high, so these are a few of my favourites.

5. Iyo Sky vs Rhea Ripley vs Bianca Belair WrestleMania.

I feel that in 2025 Womens Wrestling has taken a backseat. This is due to a mariad of reasons stemming from a creative stand point, but this was a fantastic watch from the start. Wrestlemania as a hole might have been deemed as a mix bag, but this Match was a shining light that came from a poor build.

4. Hollywood Ending AEW Revolution.

The rivalry between Marieh May, and. Toni Storm was something that I had the pleasure of watching in person at All In 2024, and as it unfolded into 2025, it just got better and better. This was a bloodsoaked masterstroke in booking. It many different dips that kept me hooked. This ended being May's swansong, as she would leave the promotion shortly after this. She would debut on NXT just months later.

3. Iyo Sky vs Rhea Ripley WWE Evolution.

This Match had the build of the best of the best. It screamed urgentcy, and it needed to have time to breathe, this was WWE at it's best in 2025. This Match shone as one of the best PPV Matches of the year. With naomi cashing in her Money In The Bank Contract at the end, just added to the possibilities of were the company could take there womens in the future. Naomi would later on gon Maternity leave, and is expecting her first baby with Jimmy Uso in the new year. Good Luck to them both.

2. Kevin Owens vs Sami Zayn WWE Elimination Chamber.

This Match was poorly received online, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and in this case the viewer, and consumer. I loved this. It was a clear reminder and throwback to the Golden day of HHH's Black and Gold NXT, and to me it was a violent masterpiece that kept me guessing what was going to happen next. Check this one out when you get the chance.

1. Swerve Strickland And Will Osperay vs The Young Bucks AEW All In Texas 2025.

This was a masterstroke in perfect PPV booking. From the outline of The Young Bucks coming out looking like extras from Stanley Kubricks Barry Lyndon, to the overall feel of unpredictability allowing the story of the Match to unfold. The run time of this Match didn't lag at all for, because the near falls had me gripped. This was simply excellent.