Top 5 Times Pro Wrestling Took Inspiration From Real Life And Caused Controvery.

Written By Patrick O'malley.

Intro.

In life we all take influence from the things that go on around us. In  Company's like WWE. AEW, and. TNA they are no differant. This is how the world works, and it's how it's going to continue to work. Influence is a vital ingridient in life, sometimes it can go down well, and in others it can turn out to be catastrophic.

5. Jake Roberts Alcoholism.

The world was a very differant place as the then WWF entered the Summer of 1996. WCW was starting to batter them in the weekly TV ratings, and there need for sensationalism, was proving to be a bit problematic. As the WWF was heading towards that years Summerslam Jakes drinking issues were becoming even more previlent. Instead of writing him off from TV, they had Jerry The King Lawler ghode, and bully him. I heard in an interview with He Who Shall Not Be Named that was conducted for Jakes 2006 DVD Pick Your Poison. That this story was set to highlight the issue of children growing up with an alcoholic parent, basically stating the fact that if you don't put these issues on TV then no one talks about them. In this case Jake should never have been put in this situation, and care should've been taken when it came to talking about these issues.

4. Pillman 316.

I remember watching this as a nine year old kid, and being traumatised, because I thought that this was real. As a matter of fact I wasn't the only one who thought this. It garnered massive attention in the States, and over here in the UK complaints went to the ITC, the now Ofcom. The inspiration came from how the company managed to blur the lines 3 three ways between fiction and reality, composing violence, and shock tactics. This segment aired on the November 4th edition of Raw Is War, and also played into the fact that home invasions were a pivotal concern stateside.

3. TNA Claire Lynch Saga.

I know what you're all thinking, how was this storyline controversial, well, let me tell, this told the story of an illegitimate child being born. From the aspect of date rape, and addiction themes, this in an instant red flag. The storyline in my view, that aired throughout October of 2012, just reminded us that Trash TV influences from the 1990's from the likes of Maury Povich, and. Jerry Springer were still running how some parts of the mainstream media treated topics like this. Thankfully these days society knows how to show forms of compassion. I just don't get how this storyline got out from the writers room.

2. Chris Jericho vs Cm Punk 2012 Rivalry.

As the Spring of 2012 was coming around the corner. The WWE was heading into it's biggest WrestleMania to date at that time. You had The Undertaker vs HHH in a Hell In a Cell Match, and. The Rock vs Cena heading towards the end of its year long course, and then on the underrated hand we had Chris Jericho vs Cm Punk. This storyline was highly controversial, as it laid bare Punks family issues that stemmed from Drug and Alcohol addiction. This would bring in a form of harmful storytelling that WWE use to this very day. Issue based story's are a form of entertainment that need to be held with cotton gloves, because if you get this right they can save someones life, whilst on the other they could cause immense backlash. I know friends who've had issues with substances, and it's not an easy thing to overcome, and having things like this air on TV don't always help. Back then fans treated this as a fictional rivalry, nowadays I would like to think that in 2026, we could look at these issues with a bit more compassion.

1. Paige vs Charlotte Flair.

when you take a look at the 2015 build to that years Survivor Series, you might remember the rivalry between Paige, and. Charlotte Flair. If you take your mind back to April of 2013, you will remember the headlines when Reid Flair Charlotte's younger brother died from a drug overdose in a hotel room in Charlotte North Carolina. Like we all knew this would have ripples in both her and her dads life. Ric had his own issues at the time that led to Jim Ross getting released from the WWE in the summer of 2013. Fast forward to the November 16th edition of Monday Night Raw 2015, and the contract signing between Charlotte Flair, and. Paige, and we were treated to the moment when Paige brought up Reids name, and alluded to how he died. This generated a lot of attention in the Pro Wrestling Media, and wider outlets. This is my opinion. I thought that this was unessciary, and offensive to those who've lost loved ones from this form of god awful addiction. This segment was panned by fans on social media.

Overview Of This Piece.

The one thing that I want fans to take away from this list, is to show compassion for those who are less fortunate, and try to understand there struggles. I've been in some difficult places in my life, and i've managed to get them by understanding that my issues are small in consideration to those, that face worse struggles. Just show some compassion people, it's not that difficult.

 Easter Sunday Friday Night Smackdown Review. 5.4.2026.

Intro.

I having to start with another apology, this is due to the fact this review is coming out late. My plan was to have this out on Saturday,  but due to the fact that my day job needed me. I had no other option but to delay this piece. I had plans to cover the UFC fight Night Apex card as well, and that unfortunately will now be out tomorrow. You guys know that I hate having to do this, but if i'm needed elsewhere, then whether it's family, friends, or my day job, that has to come first.

Superstars Seen Showing Up To Work.

Rhea Ripley. Michin. Bfab. Jade Cargill, and. Team Blair were all seen showing up to work.

Randy Orton Segment.

Randy Orton kicked off the broadcast, and he went straight to business by imitating Cody, he said that the reason that he's going after title number 15 is the same reason that Cody is holding onto his belt, at this point he pointed to his family who were sat at ringside. He said that Cody doesn't have that killer instinct, because Cody isn't a killer. This brought out The American Nightmare, and just like that it happened, before Cody could lay a hand on Randy. Pat Mcafe came out and kicked Cody in the family jewels. Pat took to the mic, and proceeded to waffle on insulting the fans intelligence, complaining about the product, whilst highlighting how bad WWE is at the moment. This was who Randy Orton was on the phone too. All of this was completely tone def, and painfully excruciating to watch. This was beyond bad, it was a slap in the face to fans who've watched for decades, and spent their hard earnt money on this company. It was reported by Cassidy Haynes over at Bodyslam.net, that this call came from the head of TKO Ari Emmanuel, so this wasn't a Nick Khan, or HHH call. This was later confirmed by Sean Ross Sapp at Fightful Select. I get why WWE would do this, but in this form of a segment Celebrity endorsement doesn't work, and this fell into that heavily. It was also later reported by Cassidy Haynes, that Cody was legit pissed off with this. I don't blame him. He answered this back later on.

Rhea Ripley vs Michin.

I felt sorry for these ladies, because they had to follow the garbage that became beforehand. This Match was highly predictable, the overall feel of this Match was off, and it all came from the prior segment. The fans sounded like they weren't into this, and it's not the fault of the ladies. Both Rhea, and, Michin were working hard to get fans on side, and not even having Bfab, and. Jade Cargill at ringside could save this. Rhea got the win. You could get the sense that fans had been taken aback from the opening segment. Iyo Sky made the save. I sense an Iyo Sky heel turn. I can just sense it.

Alestair Black Segment.

Is anyone up for Alestair Black vs Matt Cardona. No one I hear. Oh well were in for a treat later on.

Tama Tonga vs Uncle Howdy.

Thank God the battle of the Lantern is now over. Tama beat Howdy, and then pissed off Solo by giving Howdy back the lantern. Solo wasn't happy, and neither was I, because my god this was awful.

R Truth Segment.

God bless this man, and his utter cluelessness. He accidentally booked him and Priest in a Tag Team Championship Match, against Kit wilson, and. The Miz. Kit Danhausen is not Toxic, you are. Also R Truth was robbing Nick Aldis blind.

I Love Jacob Fatu.

I've got to admit it. The Mania Match i'm looking to seeing most Is the Drew and Jacob Unsanctioned Match. These had solid vingnettes last Friday.

Sami Zayn Segment.

This was way too long, and didn't get to the point quick enough. From Trick Williams hanging out with his mate Lil Yachty, him taking Sami's pyro, and him ghoading Sami into giving Carmelo Hayes a rematch for the United States Championship. The Promotrain between Sami. Trick. Yachty, and. Carmelo was exhausting, and it felt it had zero pacing. Sami agreed to give Carmelo another shot at the WWE United States Championship.

Alestair Black vs Matt Cardona.

Alestair Black, beat. Matt Cardona in what was a fairly flat, and boring TV Match. So far this Broadcast has stunk.

R Truth Segment.

Truth is now getting confused With Asuka, and. Danhausen, and Priest isn't happy with being put in a suprise Tag Team Championship Match. Don't ever change Truth.

Team Blair vs Bayley And Lyra Valkyria.

This arguably the best Match on the card, but given the show has been very below par. The bar wasn't exactly high. I liked the chemistry that was on display from both teams, and the physicality played into the near falls with pure ease. Team Blair got the win, and were then beaten bown by The Irresistable Forces.

Team Damien Truth vs Kit Wilson and The Miz. WWE Tag Team Championship Match.

Was this Match any good, if i'm being honest, no, but I did have fun watching it, because it was just so silly. I mean a ref getting cursed by Danhausen, and just like that the Match was done. Team Damien Truth got the win.

Cody Rhodes Segment.

I've said all that I want to say about the hole Randy Orton/ Pat Mcafe story, so i'm just going to say this. Ugh sigh.

Sami Zayn vs Carmelo Hayes WWE United States Championship.

On a broadcast that was beyond poor, this Match wasn't bad, however it felt incredibly forced, and rushed overall. Don't get me wrong I like both competitors, and I don't blame them for how this Match was booked, but lets just look at it this way. If you were in a fast food restaurant and your order came out to quick, what would you think. I would this was made to quickly. This was the problem with this match. sami got the win, and is going into Mania as The WWE United States Champion.

Overview Of This Weeks WWE Friday Night Smackdown.

This broadcast. I mean those are the only words that are coming out of my mouth at this point, because my head hurts. This weeks WWE Friday Smackdown wasn't all round bad, it was more like a brain fart on the rd to WrestleMania.

This weeks WWE Friday Night Smackdown is a low by WWE Standards 3/10.

 What Are The Best Pro Wrestling Segments Of All Time.

Written By Patrick O'malley.

Intro.

The art of the noble Pro Wrestling Segment is a known staple of any weekly TV show, as the decades have gone on, these moments have gone down in infamy, from Austin getting arrested, and escorted from the arena. Shane Mcmahon out smarting his old man, and buying WCW, and we can't forget about Steiner Math, however i've decided to check out the best ones from over the decades. So sit back, get yourself a drink of something cold, and i'll get into it.

5. MJF vs Wardlow.

Taking place in the build up to AEW Double Or Nothing 2022, This segment would deal with the consequences of Wardlows actions from Revolution the prior March. Max was at his verbal best as he laid insults into his former bodyguard, this led to Wardlow getting ten lashes from his former boss. This has been hailed by some fans as one of the best segments that AEW has been commited to producing, and i'm going to be honest, this one, has to be one of my favourites.

4. Cm Punk vs MJF.

Taking place not soon after Full Gear 2021, and if i'm being honest, I didn't have this on my bingo card that year, mind you no one had Cm Punk returning to the industry that spat him out just seven years before this. Both men took fiery shots at one and other, and you could tell that this wasn't just the standard promo, because what we got treated to was pure and utter virile hate, spewing out from both mens lips, this was the perfect blend of backstage politics starting to play out, as real distain became evident. This would start off one of AEW's best ever told storylines.

3. This Is Your Life.

In the year of 1999, the heat that surrounded the WWF was palpable in a positive way. Business was up, Live attendences were breaking arena records, and the TV viewership was breathing life into TV schedules across the globe, thanks to its colourful stars. Step Forward The Rock, and. Mankind. On one late September Rar Is War Who Shall Not Be Named gave them the stage, and they didn't just deliver, they smashed it. This was sexual toilet humour, being served to the young audience, and fans ate it up. This is the segment from this period that I always come back tp, and it never fails to make me smile. Who's up for a slice of, um, pie. Because i'm hungry.

2. Le Dinner Debonair.

This aired on the 21st of October edition of AEW Dynamite. You know that this was a gold standard segment when Jim Cornette slates it. This segment was the perfect blend of comedy, and musical theatre being placed on a weekly TV show, as it folded in multiple differant storylines. I don't have many nice feelings about Chris Jericho these days, but this took place in a time when he still had a bit of minor of credibility. He and MJF bounced off of each other with pure comedic effect, and it worked with ease. It's been said before that apparently Chris Jericho, and. Tony Khan sat in an editing room together for hours, and it made it to air, just minutes before the broadcast went live. I still watch this now, and it never fails to make me laugh. I heard a story that Cm Punk loved it, because of the line. Hey Young Bucks screw you. Did you see what I did there, a bit of humour can go a long way. I mean just ask my shadow.

1. The Trial Of Sami Zayn.

This is arguably the best segment that WWE have ever committed to a weekly TV Show. Take yourself back to January 23rd 2023 edition of Monday Night Raw, this wasn't just a segment, it was a celebration of drama being played on the 30th anniversary of WWE's weekly flagship show. Romans Grooming of Sami Zayn is some of the most captivating TV that WWE has ever produced, and having this 16 minute long segment play out the way that it did just days before the 2023 Royal Rumble was a smart piece of booking, and business. Monday Night Raw has seen it's fair share of gravity shifting segments and moments, from Stone Cold Steve Austin attacking He Who Shall Not Be Named in a hospital. The Festival Of Friendship, John Cena putting a verbal beating on a sucker'n suckertash loving Roman Reigns. Mick Foley turning back the years, and becoming Cactus Jack, and Chris Jericho debuting on the mic against The Rock, but this one out did all of them. The dramatised potioning was on point, as the tension between The Bloodline members escolated as the segment went on. This is flawless TV at its very best. This is a must watch.

Overview of this Piece.

You guys know that i've been watching Pro Wrestling for nearly over three decades, and i've seen loads of things that I love, whilst watching tons of what i've hated, the basis behind this piece was real simple, I decided to focus on the things that I loved, instead of focusing on the things that I hate, because when you take a look outside your window, there's enough hate in the world, and if i'm being honest, there's no need for it. So take my advice, embrace the love, and never ever let hate win.

 AEW Dynamite Review 2.4.2026.

AEW World Heavyweight Champaionship Contract Signing ( Or So I Thought ).

This had me howling laughter, until the point that it wasn't funny. Tony Schiavone stood in the ring trying his best as a broadcaster to maintain his composure, as the Pyro went off he tried to talk, he looked visibly confused, and then Chris Jericho returned, he stated that He's home in AEW. It was reported by Daze Meltzer that Jericho was supposed to return after he had trade marked the phrase Cornerstone had come through. I didn't like any of this. All of this looked, and felt like a mess, and very out of time. It's no secret that I'm not a fan of Jericho. I'm not going to try and tell people how to feel about the man, because I can only talk from my own perspective. I'm not a fan of Jericho for reasons that I can't talk about online for legal reasons.

Osperay And Mox Fight.

Will Osperay, and. Jon Moxley then had a fight complete with a couple of f bombs. ( More on Will later on )

We Finally Got The AEW World Heavyweight Championship Contract Signing. The Demand vs Kenny Omega. Jungleboy Jack Perry And Brody King.

This was excellent. The struggles of power, and passion were played out here with ease. Both men hit the high marks, from Kenny's many names, his stomach issues being used as Max's best form of rhetoric, to Max being his usual offensive self. Speedball Mike Bailey then tried to calm things, whilst hitting Max with some home truths. Kenny is a living legend, who's the reason for why Max has a job in the first place, whilst Max rents out space in his own mind, because that's were he's a legend. Speedball then challenged Max to a Match in the main event. Max accepted, and the Match was set. Kenny was then in action teaming up with Jungleboy Jack Perry, and. Brody King, to face The Demand. This was ace, and after its lofi start, it managed to develop itself into one hell of a Party Match. The Matches within the Match were solid, and that triple suplex was chefs kiss. The physicality is a solid staple of any AEW Party Match, and as the Match went on the near falls were given time to breathe. Kenny and his mates got the win with a v trigger, and one winged angel combo.

Cage And Cope Are In The Building.

I'm just going to say it, whether it's real or keyfabe, Violence against women should never be used for laughter. Cage threatened to clean out Renee Paquette with a steelchair. I get that this was a part of the show, but when you look at the statistics to do with Domestic Violence during sport shows in America, and in the UK, its astonishing, so please take note of this AEW. Ropongi Vice then got battered because Cage And Cope got there Dates wrong. FTR are on Collision lads.

Pac vs Will Osperay.

When this Match got announced last week. I felt excitement run through my body, because I was reminded of their All Out 2024 banger that was awarded 5 stars by the Wrestling Observer. Did this match up to that, well, no, what we got was another staple of fantastic storytelling, and immense in ring work. Wills selling was on point, as the near falls were cleverly woven into the story, as the final exchanges saw Will get the win. Jon Moxley and the rest of The Deathriders then came out and put a beating on Will, and then Jon cut a scaving promo on, whilst reminding him of the numbers game, whilst also stating to never get personal with him again. All of this was excellent. Having Will face Pac, is an advertisement for Wembley, and a clear way to shift tickets. Currently the ticket toll stands at 22.000 tickets sold, with the venue being set up to hold 37.000, this means having Matches like this on weekly TV isn't just needed, it's a must. So you in August if you're interested.

The Brawling Birds And Mina Shirakowa vs The Triangle Of Madness.

( Insert Brawling Birds theme here ) We are The Brawling Birds hooroo, we are The Brawling Birds, there going race up them apples and pairs, because we are The Brawling Birds. This Match was decent, and it managed to showcase both teams chemistry, as the Match went into it's final run. The Birds got the win when Jamie Hayter hit Julia Hart with her Hayter aid finisher.

Darby Allin Segment.

Darby Allin came out, and went straight into business and called out MJF, after he cut a solid promo on his thoughts about who wins between MJF and Kenny Omega, and he said that he wants Max. He was then met by TDCWO, and Don Callis told him that if he wants a shot at Max, then he has to go through one of his deciples, and he chose Andrade El Idolo. The Pair will face each other at Dynasty. The family wanted in on the action, and just like that we got a feeding frenzy, leading darby to be saved by Kenny Omega, and. Jungleboy Jack Perry. I'm not sure what to make of this.

MJF vs Speedball Mike Bailey.

This was nearly my Match of the night, and if it had a few more minutes added to it, then we would talking a bit differantly. This was a TV Main Event worthy of that title. It was a heavily layered physical run through that hit every stop that you could think of. It was a pure momentum filled affair, that delivered as both mens manouvers became high octane, as they went on the offense. MJF got the win, and then laid in some digs on Mike, as Kenny was left helping his friend as the show went off the air. This was an excellent way to end the show.

Overview Of AEW Dynamite.

Putting the opening, and. Darby Allin segments to one side, this was a good episode of weekly TV, and with Wembley coming up on the horizon it's important that AEW gets on track with it's momentum, and on the strength of this weeks show. I think they're on track to do just that.

This weeks AEW Dynamite is a solid 8/10.

 UFC Fight Night Adesanya vs Pyfer ( Delayed Edition )

Intro.

This is the time of year that I genuinely get excited, whether it's the build to AEW Dynasty. WWE Wrestlemania, or the many stacked UFC fight cards, this time of year brings up so many positive feelings for me. I don't think that i'm alone in feeling like this, because no fight, or Pro Wrestling fan are the same, but we can all agree that this time of year is like christmas when you take a glance at the full card line ups. The UFC cards that we've got coming up, leading to the White House card on the 14th of june, and international fight week at the end of that month, the next few months are going to be something special.

Terrence Mckinney vs Kyle Nelson. Lightweight.

There really isn't a lot that I can say about this fight, because it was one and done in less than a minute, as Mckinney got the win, with his crisp stand up boxing.

Mansur Abdul Malik vs Yousri Belgeroui. Middleweight.

The 1st round saw both men fail to utilise there groundgame, as they kept it standing. This was the same thing when it came to the 2nd round. Malik showed tremendous heart, as Yousri's striking just got better as the round went on. Yousri's striking was the talking point of the 3rd round as he got the win by TKO. This was an excellent performance from the Middleweight stand out.

Julian Erosa vs Lerryan Douglas. Featherweight.

Many MMA fans have asked one question over time, what happens after a fighter comes up good on Dana White's Contender Series, If your name is Lerryan Douglas, and you've come up through the regional scenes in Mexico, and moved to the States to pursue your dream, and then the UFC come calling, then you pick up the call. He put Julian Erosa to sleep with a stunning TKO in less than two minutes of the 1st round. I did hear that he was awarded a performance of the night bonus, and you know what ,he deserved it.

Niko Price vs Michael Chiesa. Featherweight.

I think there could be an arguement that both Niko Price, and. Michael Chiesa are two of the best UFC Fighters to never hold UFC Gold. This in my opinion is an arguement that will go on for years, and given the fact that this was both mens final UFC fight, you could get the sense of occassion when watching this fight play out. The fight never got out of the 1st round, as Chiesa rhoad off into the Seattle night life with the win By Submission. Michael thanked his family and the UFC, as he took his gloves off, and left them in the cage. I feel old, because i've been watching Michael for nearly 14 years, since his debut on The Ultimate Fighter Season 15 when he was part of Team faber. It was also touching to see Dominic Cruz give him his flowers.

Maycee Barber vs Alexa Grasso. Flyweight. 

On the Prelim Card for UFC 323 Maycee Barber, beat Karine Silva in a three round war. Many critics within the MMA world started to wonder where Maycee was going next. Earlier in the year her fight against Erin Blanchard was cancelled after she collapsed before making the walk to the cage. The UFC got her to undergo health tests, and she's been given a clean bill of health after working with seizure specialists. I feel that this important to mention, because it's awesome to see her back, however last saturday wasn't her night, after she suffered a nasty KO at the hands of Alexa Grasso

Israel Adesanya vs Joe Pyfer. Middleweight.

This was an interesting composition, because both men are in differant stages of there career, one man was on the rise, and the other was at a crossroad. The 1st round was an all standing affair as The Last Style Bender, couldn't find an answer to Pyfers stand up, this would be the same story when the 2nd round saw the fights end. Pyfer got the win, as his boxing remained crisp, and clear. This result has brought into question the desire to compete of the former UFC Middleweight Champion. Israel has done everything, and has come back from defeat, however I feel that his time in the Octagon is coming to an end. This takes nothing away from Pyfers win, because this guy has overcome his own demons, as he opened up to admitting that he wanted to take his own life. I think this man has immense strength, and shows what it means to have true fighting spirit.

Overview Of UFC Fight Night Adesanya vs Pyfer.

I now that I don't get time to watch the Prelim Cards for any UFC event, due to timing, but the main card was a steller outing. This UFC event had some of the best performances of the year, and you could tell by the amount of bonuses that were handed out, whilst on the other hand it marks the end of two careers, and starts the downfall of a legend.

UFC Fight Night Adesanya vs Pyfer is a high 8/10.

 WWE Monday Night Raw Review. 31.3.2026.

Superstars Seen Turning Up.

Cm Punk. The Irresistable Forces, and Oba Femi were seen turning up, as fans were taking there seats. The sight of seeing a kid getting to her seat with her dad was a nice sight to see.

Cody Rhodes Segment.

This didn't land with me. Before Cody could even get his famous catchphrase out from his mouth, Step forward Stephanie Mcmahon. This promo segment failed on every level, from its promise to its delivery. It feels to me like we've been down this road already, so to this offered up nothing new. I'm not the biggest fan of Stephanie Mcmahon, because all of her awful attributes were on display here. She's an awful promo, and isn't very believable. We as fans know that Cody is going to have to go to the well when it comes to this new version of Randy Orton. I expect this Match to get the Hell In A Cell stipulation, even though it doesn't deserve it. I didn't like this.

Grifthausen Is Back.

Danhausen is on the grift again, and this time he asking Ishowspeed for money, as LA Knight was heading out to do guest commentary on the next Match.

The Usos vs The Vision WWE Tag Championship New York Street Fight.

With this weeks Monday Night Raw coming from Madison Square Garden, you would think that this was quite fitting, however the Match felt like a standard TV Street Fight. It's not the fault of both teams, this is due to the fact that this stipulation has been bastardised over the years. This followed the same old tropes that i've seen before, cheating, table, and. chair spots, to the changing of the belts before Mania. The Vision are our new WWE Tag Team Champions thanks to a final sequence that hand picked The Vision as new champs. This didn't do anything for me.

Liv Morgan Segment.

This was another segment that I didn't like. Liv Morgan has been slowly grating on me, and her asking for a fight in this sense, whilst also insulting Stephanie Vaquers mum, actually made me laugh, because WWE made her sound like a school child insulting someone during break time. This caused Stephanie to come out, and both ladies had a fight as Roxanne Perez returned to save her mentor Liv.

The Irresistable Forces vs Bayley And Lyra Valkyria WWE Tag Team Championship.

Even though this Match was thrown out, due to Team Blair, and The Bellas getting involved. The physicality wasn't bad. Who's up for a 4 Way Match at Mania. Hunter does like his Multiman Matches doesn't he.

Danhausen Segment.

Danhausen told the fans that WWE are heading back to Madison Square Garden on July 18th for a Saturday Nights Main Event. He even had a new t shirt cannon called 2.0, so sexual innuendo for everyone then.

Brock Lesnar Segment.

From the word go this felt differant. Brock came out in his fight gear, and Paul Heyman was being his mouthpiece again. But after Paul had ushered two sentences Brock called out Oba Femi, but he was met with Adam Pearce, because there would be no violence tonight. Oba then came and took out a load of security, and came face to face with Brock, this was when HHH came out to bring in a sense of order. Brock gave a security guard an f5 to end the segment. This was yet another great segment between these two, but in my opinion this doesn't change my mind. Brock should be no where this card due to him still being mentioned 40+ times in a sex trafficking lawsuit. I'm not going to stop talking about this, because issues like this need talking about. I love Oba, I just can't get behind him facing Lesnar. 

Finn Balor Vingnette.

Finn Balor Challenged Dirty Dominik Mysterio to a Match at WrestleMania. Dom answered this back later on.

Penta vs Kofi Kingston IC Championship Open Challenge.

I like how WWE are making there midcard titles feel like workhorse titles, just like  they did back in 1996. This is the perfect example of that. Penta got the win, he will defend his IC title in a Ladder Match. This sounds interesting.

Paul Heyman Segment.

Paul Heymans segment was quite simple, but effective. After he complained about the lighting guy, he went into business, but was told to shut up by Adam Pearce, who informed Paul that all charges against Seth Rollins had been dropped in Boston. This means one thing. Look behind you paul. Seth sneaked up and attacked him with a steelchair, and then Seth was suddenly pulled out of the ring by Gunther, who then choked Seth out on the announcers table. The pair will now face each other at Mania. Back at the beginning of the month it was reported by Dave Meltzer, of the Wrestling Observer, and. Sean Ross Sapp at Fightful Select, that WWE were hopeful for both Bron Breakker, and. Rey Mysterio to be part of Mania, with this development this is now not going to happen. Rey injured himself on the go home show before the Royal Rumble, and a couple of weeks later the same thing happened to Bron. This is a clear redirect, as plans have been forced to change.

Raquel Rodriguez vs Iyo Sky.

This was another Match that did nothing for me, because it was beyond flat, and the crowd didn't seem all that pleased with it. Raquel got the win, and Hello Kabuki Warriors. I tired of this Iyo/Kairi/and Asuka storyline.

Roman Reigns Segment.

This was no notes perfect, just pure out of control violence. Complete with Roman taking a gts, and then getting powerbombed through the announcers table. This was awesome.

Overview Of WWE Monday Night Raw.

This weeks WWE Monday Night Raw was a near complete mis fire, the segments were good, but the in ring work severly lacked.

This weeks WWE Monday Night Raw is a low 4/10.

 WWE Friday Night Smackdown Review 28.3.2026.

Superstars Seen Getting Ready For Work.

Randy Orton Segment.

I liked this. The show kicked off with everyones favourite viper cutting a promo explaining his actions for attacking Matt Cardona last week. I thought that his promo was interesting, Randy Orton cut what sounded like a backwards you people Promo, because the voices that he hears are from the fans, which is why he did what he did. This made Matt come out and  have a face off, only for the Randy to vacate and leave. He would later on be seen talking to Nick Aldis, stating that he wants a Match against Cardona. This would be our Main Event later in the broadcast.

Trick Williams Segment.

Nick Aldis was seen telling Trick Williams that he's got a Match at WrestleMania, so step forward Sami Zayn, who did his best left out Child routine, when he asked what about me. Nick told him that there's no plans for him at Mania. Sami walked away, and then he stepped back up, and knocked Trick straight olut of his Lemon Pepper Steppers. I like how WWE are booking Sami Zayn at the minute. The way his heel turn is being planned is fascinating.

The Bella Twins vs Team Blair.

This Match did nothing for me. The Irresistable Forces came out to take a look at the action, and cut a standard tv promo. The Match was flat, boring, and highly unoriginal from the outlay to the finish. The Bellas got the win, thanks to Lash Legend. Oh, and Hello Lyra And Bayley.

R Truth Is Living In The Past.

God Bless R Truth. Truth was getting a new clubhouse under construction, this caused Priest to pull his confused face. Jellyroll praised the Tag Champs, whilst Rhea Ripley just showed up. Truth thought that Jellyroll was Dominik Mysterio. Don't ever change Truth.

Rhea Ripley Segment.

This segment was all over the place. I really didn't like any of this. Rhea's delivery sounded a bit off, and you could tell from the start. Jade Cargill and he band of ladies Michin, and. Bfab then came to the stage, and just like that all four ladies started tripping over there words, and it got worse from there, because the impromptu Match that followed between Rhea and Bfab afterwards can only be described as awkward. The Match was thrown out when Jade got involved.

Danhausen Segment.

I love Danhausen, especially when he curses idiots like Kit Wilson, and. The Miz, oh and Miz nothing takes Gum of the bottom of your shoes.

Drew Mcintyre Segment.

Drew Mcintyre made a promise to Kathy Kelly, that he's going to bring Danger to Jacob Fatu. ( More on this later )

JellyRoll vs Kit Wilson.

From inapropriate poetry, to all round fun. I liked this. Is this the type of Match that's going to win awards in the Wrestling Observer, well, no, but it was a load of fun, and I had fun watching it. Jelly got the win, and then walked out with his son. JellyRoll would later on be seen talking to Matt Cardona, telling him that Cody Rhodes is on route to Smackdown in the same bus that WWE are charging $ 10.000 to sit on. I think that WWE are a bit clueless, because I don't think that they know that some fans would dig into their savings just so they could do that.

Carmelo Hayes vs Sami Zayn WWE United States Championship Open Challenge.

I liked this. Trick Williams came out to tkae a look at the action, whilst also spy on the man who knocked him out of his Lemon Pepper Steppers. The Match played out in the form of an standard TV Match, the physicality was good, and both men showed that they had good chemistry, especially as the finish came into focus. Trick placed the belt in the ring for Sami to use so that he could get dq'd. Sami turned this away, and after a malet by the ropes with Trick allowed Sami to give Carmelo a hellouva kick for the win. Nick Aldis then told sami that he now has a place on the Mania card defending his belt against Trick Williams. So kids let this be a lesson to you, cheating can get you places.

Jacob Fatu Segment.

I liked this. Jacob is a guy that can't be held back, He spoke about how Drew is trying to take food of his kids plates, whilst threatening to dog walk Drew. This caused Drew to walk out on stage and fire back against Jacob. Both men sounded decent on the mic, but it was what came next that got me. Nick Aldis came out, and said due to both men not being medically cleared, they couldn't  batter one another, but night one of Mania sounded like a good option. In a Match that WWE will hold no legal responsibilities, and the ref will only be there to make the count. An Unsanctioned Match. I like this development. It was reported earlier this week, that WWE were floating the idea of potentially booking these two in the Hell In A Cell structure. I'm glad to see that they haven't gone down this route, because this rivalry doesn't warrant that stipulation. This makes a lot of sense.

Giulia vs Tiffany Stratton

This was the worst Match on the show, and if i'm being honest a complete let down. Giulia sneaked a win by getting her knees up, when Tiffany attempted a PME, and rolling her up. This was a poor outing.

Randy Orton vs Matt Cardona.

I don't know what to say about this Match other than I was bored watching this. The in ring work felt lethargic, and if i'm being honest flat. Randy Orton took home the win, and with 11 minutes of the show left, Cody Rhodes was seen showing up to the venue, and being given the camera walk through treatment. This came to a head when both men met in the ring, and just like Cody and Randy got into a fight. This was a pull apart brawl that had to be seperated by security, that led to a personal moment, when JellyRoll tried to calm things down, and got RKO'd for his troubles. The Match wasn't for me, but the end segment was a bit of me.

Overview Of WWE Friday Night Smackdown.

This weeks WWE Friday Night Smackdown was all over the place. The in ring work went from good to outright poor, whilst the segments followed the same pattern. This is the rd to WrestleMania, and you're not going to get everything being perfect all the time.

This weeks WWE Friday Night Smackdown is a low 5/10.

 Top 5 Times Pro Wrestling And MMA Have Helped Me In My Real Life.

Written By Patrick O'malley

Intro.

It's been said overtime that Music can help fans of bands and artists through some bad times in life, whilst other mediums like Film/TV can also be looked at in the same space. I've been through some bad things in my life, from trials and from tribulations to outright heartbreak, and the big question how did I get through these moments? Well it was my love for both industries that I want to work in. It's important in life to never loose sight of your goals, and when things get tough, you've got to find it in yourself. This is what has carried me through some of the worst times of my life.

5. Feeling Left Out.

Even in adulthood you can still feel like you're the odd one out, and it's not always your fault. I remember when I was about 20, all my friends went to the reading festival, and I couldn't go, this was due to the fact that I couldn't afford a ticket, but when they came back it was like I didn't even exist, and just like that I felt a distance between them and me, and when I sat back, and took this all in. I realised one thing, because most of them had gone to university, they had moved on from me. It was around this time that I saw Summerslam 2007, and I started to think, you know what life isn't that bad, even though the WWE was going  through an incredibly bad space of it's own at this time, due to wellness policy violations, and real life themes that I can't go into due to the facts being against a Kid. I know what your all thinking, do I still speak to these people, well, no. I don't hate them, because we just grew apart, this is just a sad part of life. It happens.

4. Being Broke.

I get that some people have things way worse than me, but at one point in time when I was sixteen I had just been let go from my first Job. This was the first time that I had visibly lost confidence in myself, this was evident when family and friends noticed this. I found myself in a state of being bitter, that made me not a very nice to be around. For about two months I found things in quite the state. This came at the time  of WrestleMania 20, and I was going round my friends house to watch it the night after it happened, and this is when my friend, who I still talk to today, gave me some cold hard truths. WAKE UP AND START MOVING, and he was right. What happened might have shaken my confidence, but it didn't defeat me. And this is the important thing. I was let go, and looked down due to the fact that I had learning issues, and from that moment on. I knew that I shouldn't just take things in life, when you have to get up and fight, then stand up and be counted.

3. Heartbreak.

In some moments in anyone's life, you can look at a TV show like Dawsons Creek, or. My So Called Life, and think this is relatable. I've been through this myself. My first major heartbreak was when I was 18 years old, and I made the mistake of falling for my best female friend. Months went by, and I didn't Say anything, and just before she was due to go to leave town. I decided to say something, but the day before I was due to do this. I was going to let my feelings go, and then when I stepped into Tesco on a Thursday Afternoon to get my mum some milk. I saw her with her Boyfriend, and she was happy, and I knew that it would be wrong of me to ruin what she had. Sometimes you've got to put others first. A few weeks later I went to visit a friend, who I still talk to today, and we ended up watching WWE Taboo Tuesday from that year, and we got talking about this, and he gave some great advice. Patrick you've got to embrace the friend, so I did.

2.  Injuries. 

I used to do Karate in my younger years. This ment that I've sustained some bad knocks, that the normal body shouldn't take. I was about 15 years old, and I was at home recovering from a minor knee injury, and this when I discovered MMA. One afternoon I went to my friends house, and he had gotten hold some of the early UFC PPV's on DVD. They were regional 1, so you needed a special player in order to play them, and just like that, going round my mates house became a great form of rehab. We just sat there sat there watching Shows like UFC 18, and the submissions compilation that was out at the time. No one likes being on the sidelines, but if you've got friends like this, then you're pretty much set for life.

1. My Learning Issues.

I've made it clear over some of my posts, that I've had issues with my learning since I was a kid, and i've been lucky enough to have be supported by some incredible people, who I still talk to today, however others haven't been so supportive from old friends, to people that I have worked with in my day Job. When you meet people, you should always look at people in there eyes, because that way you can tell a thousand stories be told, so when they act like assholes, you can see if anything is going in other areas of there life. This is just my thought. Pro Wrestling has helped me immensely in my life. I learnt how to accept others, and from this my friends accepted me. This is a life lesson that you're getting for free, and on the house. Which Pro Wrestlers, and MMA fighters have I learnt the most from, well that's easy. Jeff Hardy comes to mind, alongside John Cena. Chuck Liddell, and. Randy Couture, these individuals all have had there own struggles in life, whilst coming through the otherside. John has faced significant backlash over being over used by the WWE. Chuck has overcome bad accusations that I can't condone, but has always had a never say die attitude when it came to his fighting. Randy Couture took the UFC to court over unfair pay, whilst Jeff has battled his well publicized demons. I have looked at Jeff a lot in the past when I've made mistakes in my life, and when he's fallen. I always find it inspiring when he works things out for himself, you can overcome anything if you put your mind to it.

Overview Of This Piece.

Writing this piece felt like I was going to a therapy session. I laid a lot as bare as I can. This wasn't easy, and I had to take breaks during the writing period, but once it was done. I felt a bit numb, because what I wanted to say was through with, and this left me feeling quite relieved. I just hope that this piece helps anyone out there who's in a bad situation.

 AEW Dynamite Review. 26.3.2026.

Written By Patrick O'malley.

Kenny Omega vs Swerve Strickland No1 Contendership vs EVP Status.

I'm suprised that this went on first. The Match was a PPV level affair being played out on national TV. Both mens selling was the main backbone of how this Match played out, as the physicality became the story of what was to come. The near falls added drama to what was an already excellent Match. Kenny got the win, and these are my thoughts. This is one of the best bookings decisions that Tony Khan has made in a long time. This when you look at another Match, and segment on this show,  you can see a clear route to Wembley when you look at the bigger picture. I loved this.

Will Osperay Segment.

Will Osperay was in the mood to do some f****** swearing next, as he called out Pac, and challenged Jon Moxley to a Match at Dynasty. This was sensational stuff. Will vs Pac next week, yes please. There Match at All Out 2024 was a banger, so I can't wait to see this one. I think a certain someone who works for Whatculture is feeling a bit scared. I hear that Will hates honourary Geordies aswell.

Deathriders vs Top Flight And Zeda Steel.

When I started watching this Match at 9am in the morning. I forgot just how good Top Flight are as a team. Top Flight have been working a lot on ROH, so if you've missed them on TV, then this was for you. I liked the Matches within the Match, as chaos on the outside from the likes of Christopher Daniels, and. Wheeler Yuta gave life to the fire, as The Deathriders got the win when Mox gave Darius Martin a stomp for the win. Jon then accepted Will Challenge For Dynasty. I fully expect the Continental Championship to be put on the line during this Match, this is my clear path to All In for Will.

The Bucks Are Back.

This route of booking for The Young Bucks is the way that AEW should take them, because on there way back to the belts they should put on banger Match, after banger Match.

Speedball Mike Bailey vs Rocky Romero.

This would've been better placed on Collision. The Match was decent, and Bailey got the win. Kenny Omega vs Speedball Mike Bailey at a later date, oh go on then AEW if you must.

MJF Segment.

This arguably the moment of the night, and the best thing on the show. MJF came out, and was in full promo force upon his return, after taking a trip to Disneyland. He came out and didn't hold back as he laid into insulting Hangman Adam Page. He went through his arsenal of promos, and was then met by Kenny Omega. The thing with Kenny Omega is that he's not known for fire promos, because he delivers his words with pure simplicity, but this was awesome, you could get another sense of the grasp of were AEW is going with it's Main Event scene, and it's really exciting. The minor dual that both men had last night was great and is a fantastic way to set up for next week. MJF vs Kenny Omega at Dynasty. I have no words. This segment was awesome.

Cope And Cage Segment.

In a segment that was recorded earlier in the day by Renee Paquette. Copeland promised revenge on FTR whilst Cage just acted like my asshole, and I loved him for it.  This led to FTR coming out, and doing what both Dax And Cash do bes. Deliver a promo with pure hatred, and self indulgence, also Tony Schiavone, I agree with. It's a miracle that the Glourious man known as Big Stoke can walk again. Ladies of the night look out.

Orange Cassidy And Roderick Strong vs Clark Connors And David Finlay.

This Match did nothing for me, and was the lowest point of the broadcast. I just couldn't connect with this. Clark, and. Finlay got the win. That's it.

Divine Dominion Vingnette.

Ok ladies I get that your the new Tag Champs, but no one likes a pair of gloaters. I'm not connecting with these two. And i'm not sure why.

Kyle Fletcher Segment.

Kyle embraced Konosuke Takestita, and just like that the band was back together. I think that Okada might have something to say about this. I sense an implosion is coming.

Thekla vs Mina Shirakowa AEW Womens Championship.

With the slot that both ladies were given, you could get the sense that both ladies tried their best to get there stuff in, and this Match was pure evidence of my point. The physicality was good, and their chemistry followed this pattern. Thekla retained. A lot has been said about Toni Storms absence, and the only thing that I have to say is this. I hope that she's ok, and doing, well, because that should at the front of fans minds.

The Demand segment.

Ok this was a thing. I don't think this was a good idea. Ricochet has been involved in some pretty awful controversy, in which he insulted a fan online for having m.s. I'm not the type of person who would lobby for someone to lose there job, but this isn't a good look for him, or the company. The controversy is still being talked about, so this is a bad idea to put him on TV at this time.

Rush vs Darby Allin No Count Out Match.

I'm just going to say, if you were one of those people who raised there voice by chanting displeasure towards ice, then I applaud you. I love the fact that Pro Wrestling fans are becoming sports answer to Rage Against The Machine, because it's needed. These pages have no time for racism or any kind of bullying. The Match was great, and had some solid moments, from Rush teasing the ball to the fans, to Darby proving once again that he has no back, by taking some bad looking bumps, to him getting the win by roll up, and was then taken out by Mark Davis, and beaten down by the rest of TDCWO, to take the show of the air. The continuing teases and easter eggs for the Main Event scene is ever evolving, and it's exciting to see.

Overview Of AEW Dynamite.

This weeks Dynamite is a reminder of just where AEW is going with it's Main Event, whilst the mid card continues to develop, as we head onto the next PPV, which is part of the long and winding road, as we head to Wembley this Summer.

This weeks AEW Dynamite is a solid 8/10.

 

Top 5 Men Pro Wrestlers Who Under The Age Of 35.

Written By Patrick O'malley

Intro. 

As I grew up watching this great industry on TV in the early nineties, and eighties it was a rarity to watch women in the ring, yes womens Pro Wrestling was a thing, with faces like Wendy Richter, and. The Fabulous Moolah ( ugh ) all becoming known faces. In these years Pro Wrestling was largely viewed as an all boys club. This meant that in my opinion the ladies were forgotten, the nineteen eighties, and. Nineties were the proving ground for this. The recent years have changed this narative only slightly, but if you were a fan in these decades, then all you had was the focus of the men. This has changed as the younger demographic of fans, and performers have come into the scene, so sit back and read my list of the Top 5 Pro Wrestlers Under The Age Of 35.

5. Jevon Evans 21.

This made me feel old. Lets just put it this way. I was 17 when this man was born. Jevon is a talent that has come up quickly. 2024 was his year as he made NXT his own, this ment that a move to the main roster was just around the corner. He moved to the main roster recently, and so far i'm thinking that his future is starting to look bright.

4. Jungleboy Jack Perry 28.

Coming from a famous background that has been tinged with sadness. Jack made his debut for AEW in 2019 just months after his dad Luke Perry passed away. His Matches on the indy scene were what set him on the map from a young age, as he helped his godfather david Arquette get into the world of indy Pro Wrestling. Jack has also won Major championships in AEW, and also causing his own boss to fear for his life.

3. Sammy Guevara 32.

These days Sammy Guevara can be found working his craft for Tony Khans ROH Brand, and if i'm being honest, this is quite sad. Sammy has been to be one of the four Pillars in AEW, alongside. MJF. JungleBoy Jack Perry, and. Darby Allin. in the early days of the promotion he was partnered next to Chris Jericho. Jake Hager, and. Santana and Ortiz, as part of Jerichos Inner Circle faction, that I liked at the time. I thought that this was a sensible move, when AEW got started Sammy was only 25, and had been working local shows around Texas for quite sometime, whilst working for AAA. Evolve, and having a run in Sinclairs ROH, before Tony Khan bought the Promotion and its video libary in early 2022. I get that Sammy might have reached his ceiling in AEW, but this doesn't change how talented he is.

2. Carmelo Hayes 31.

This guy can't miss, and when you take a look at his journey from working the Indy route, to making the refresher factory version of NXT his own, you could say that Carmelo Hayes is him. I'm writing this part of the back of seeing him face Leon Slater when WWE Friday Night Smackdown rolled through OVO Wembley Arena this past January. Carmelo is the type of performer who if you gave him slop, he could turn it into something appeteising. Melo don't miss, and you know what that statement is so true.

1. MJF 30.

Were do I begin, when talking about Maxwell Jacob Freeman. The Plainview Long Island native has become a staple of weekly TV, and someone that I always look forward to seeing. His promos against the likes of Cm Punk. Darby Allin, and. Brian Pillman Jnr went from harmful. Insult inducing, and must see, as we saw the world through his eyes. He might be better than all of us, as his Matches have been likened to eras gone by. The energy that he brings with him is something that can't be taught, and if you could bottle it up Max would ask for a stake of the profits. His Matches with the likes of Bryan Danielson. Jon Moxley. Cm Punk, and. Hangman Adam Page, will be discussed as the stuff of legend as the years go on. For my money Max is the best Champion in any promotion working today.

Overview Of This Piece.

When I sat down to write this piece on Monday evening, I had the same thought pattern as I did when I wrote my Top 5 Women Pro Wrestlers Under The Age Of 35. The men in my life, from my friends to my family have shaped how I see the world, and. Pro Wrestling and MMA have been a major part of my development. Watching men in Pro Wrestling didn't teach how to be a man, what I learnt from the sport was how to treat others, if someone does something bad, then I knew I must go the other way. This is a rule to live by when it comes to how I choose to live my life.