Tyson and Hart

The big news of the last few weeks has been the rumors/announcement of WWE getting Bret Hart and Mike Tyson. Tyson as guest host of January 11th Raw was made official yesterday on WWE.com. However, Bret Hart is still only heavily rumored, although almost all but confirmed to show up on the January 4th edition of Monday Night RAW.

Obviously I'm not the first to talk about these news stories. And I think much of the world agrees that these two men could possibly turn the wrestling business around. Both men are household names that have been involved with wrestling that both have unfinished business in WWE AND are not over used in the media. So both prove to have a much greater upside for WWE especially starting off the new year and the road to Wrestlemania 26. The success of their appearances depends on how WWE uses them... DUH! The Guest Host gimmick has been a somewhat success, as it is getting WWE some mainstream attention. However, I've believe since day one (and I may have said this in the past) that the Guest Host gimmick needs to lead to a major attraction match/storyline/feud. And now WWE has that chance to do exactly that!

The first two weeks of 2010 are definitely pivotal weeks for WWE, TNA, and UFC... More so WWE. Its no secret that WWE is still seen as the leader in Sports Entertainment. I know some will disagree and say UFC. But really it isn't. Its quite obvious that Spike TV, who house the television programs of TNA and UFC, see WWE as the leader. The first two Mondays of 2010 Spike TV is placing TNA and UFC in direct competition of WWE. Granted UFC is definitely the superior product right now, but for whatever reason its still seen as "number two" to WWE. It does better numbers on Pay Per View and Television but it still hasn't, in my opinion at least, definitively set itself apart from WWE. TNA, on the other hand, is most definitely number 3. But Spike TV has really been trying to create a powerhouse cable channel for the last ten years, especially when it comes to the male demographic. It was very strong when WWE was there. But once WWE left it had a void to fill and they seemingly haven't decided who will fill that void. They chose TNA first and then it was UFC. UFC has definitely been more successful in filling the void. The Ultimate Fight = MTV Tough Enough and UFC Fight Nights = Monday Night RAW. But I think Spike almost agrees with WWE's argument about why they are better than UFC... "We guarantee excitement" AKA... "We admit it... We fix our matches." UFC doesn't do that so their product can be and is extremely hit and miss. So they look to TNA to bring in Hulk Hogan and make a go at WWE on Monday Night January the 4th, however still giving UFC that chance to take out WWE on Cable TV like they have done on PPV by airing Fight Night on Monday January 11th.

Read this on Eric Garguilo's Camel Clutch Blog, "It is quite possible that TNA and the UFC woke up a sleeping giant that has been thirsting for competition for over eight years." I whole-heartedly agree with that statement. TNA, UFC, and Spike TV have awoken Vince McMahon. I'm sure he'll admit that his product hasn't exactly been up to par lately... The numbers don't lie. Viewership is down on Pay Per View... Viewership is shaky on both Cable and Network Television... Arena's aren't selling out like they use to. He knows all of that. But as long as no one was directly challenging him... He knew that everything would be alright. WWE's number aren't what the use to be but really in the grand scheme of things aren't that bad either. WWE is just coasting, just like most entertainment avenues. But they are now awake. And really it couldn't be a worse time for TNA and UFC. Generally, January marks the beginning of the Road To Wrestlemania. The Royal Rumble PPV is usually in January and it sets up the main event for March/April's Wrestlemania. They've picked to start a war with WWE during the most import 3-4 months of WWE's Calendar!

Enter Mike Tyson and Bret "The Hitman" Hart. What was thought to be an almost guaranteed "this will never happen..." Bret Hart back in WWE is going to happen. It was very lightly rumored as early as September of this year when they re-enacted the INFAMOUS Montreal Screwjob at WWE Breaking Point. Talks of the imminent return of Bret Hart exploded when his name was mentioned by Dennis Miller on a recent edition of RAW. With TNA airing a special on Monday Night January 4th headlined by the return of Hulk Hogan to wrestling... Its almost a guarantee that "The Hitman" will return on January 4th as well. Hart hasn't hid the fact that he is NOT one of Hulk Hogan's biggest fans, dating back to Wrestlemania 9. Since the early 90s rise of The Hitman, its almost been his mission to prove to the world that he is Hogan's equal. Granted in the last few years, I haven't been Hart's biggest supporter... I will agree that Hart is definitely deserving of being placed into the same category. And I do understand is frustrations. And if its true that January 4th marks his return to WWE, he is definitely poised to make a bigger impact than Hulk Hogan on TNA. Why? The obvious reason is... This marks Hogan's 1 millionth return to wrestling dating back to Wrestlemania 9! Hogan has been known to walk away more than once, and each time he comes back it means less and less. Granted, Hogan will always get the hero's reaction because well... He's Hulk F'N Hogan! But how many times has Hart walked away and come back? Technically never. You can argue about his Hall of Fame induction... But it was just a quick speech and a DVD we got out of that. Really, nothing was resolved. Hart hasn't gotten the proper send off that he deserves. Hart hasn't gotten to resolve his issues with McMahon or Michaels or even Triple H for that matter. I know most people rather that issue not be rehashed for fear it won't live up to what we believe in our minds. But it has to happen. Hogan may be the biggest star ever in profession wrestling. But even he isn't bigger than the most controversial moment in wrestling history. That alone is enough to crush TNA on January the 4th. But couple that with the fact that Hogan has been regularly seen on television in some fashion for the last 10+ years, while Hart has not. Hogan's reality shows may have made him money and a household name again, but they killed his star power a bit... I've seen Hulk Hogan a lot but I haven't seen Bret Hart a lot. Sure people will tune into TNA on January 4th at 8 PM, including me. However, if Bret Hart is on RAW starting at 9 PM... I'm going over the USA Network right away. TNA... Hulk Hogan isn't your answer... Unless he puts someone like AJ Styles or Samoa Joe or Christopher Daniels over in a big way.

The next week UFC goes head to head with RAW... WWE is bringing in Mike Tyson (with the possibility that Bret Hart will still be around). Tyson only recently has re-entered the world of entertainment with his appearance in The Hangover as well as his documentary. Despite Tyson's checkered past, he's been reinvented as a changed man. Who didn't feel sorry for the man losing his daughter? No matter how evil someone is, for someone to lose their child in such a way that he did... It is tragic! Tyson, like Hart, hasn't been in the public eye all that much in the last few years. UFC Fight Night, went from being a special one night affair, to being almost a monthly affair featuring their undercard fighters. Tyson gets attention where ever he goes... People want to know what the hell he's going to do next! He, once again like Hart, has unfinished business with the same people... Shawn Michaels and Triple H. Back at Wrestlemania 14, Tyson turned on DX. But DX didn't get their revenge!

With DX having the Tag Team Championship, allowing them to appear on all the WWE Brands... We could have a great feud brewing involving DX, Tyson, and Hart over the next few weeks. I would assume that Hart can't wrestle. I know there are reports saying he will. I doubt that, as Hart hasn't really looked all that good lately coupled with his fairly recent stroke. So I would hope this means that Bret Hart can elevate some younger talent in the next few months. All the ingredients are there for a huge Wrestlemania Moment. But will it happen?

What has happened though is WWE, TNA, and UFC have people talking and it could only benefit the world of fighting entertainment!
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Thanks for reading over the last year. 2010 looks to be a big year for both wrestling and myself in the wrestling world. I should have some new projects that I will be working on as well as continuing my work with WXW-C4 and WSU.

So have a happy holiday season... And until next time... You Stay Classy!
Dan "The Phan"

Plugged into CZW!

Finally... I've found the time/motivation to blog once again. Haha... I tried to sit down a few weeks ago and tried to blog about TNA's "blockbuster" signing of Hulk Hogan. But the Phillies were in the series, and well I got swept up in that.

Anyway, when I first started this blog it was going to be my way of "journaling" my wrestling journeys. But I hadn't really had anything to really chronicle until this past weekend. As I took part in my first major CZW event, Night of Infamy. I'm not going to lie... (Here comes the mark-out moment) It was rather surreal. I can remember where I was when I first saw CZW Fake You TV with Wifebeater running rough shot all over the particular match I saw... And I was still in High School... Sorry to make some people feel old. So to be getting a shot at the announce team was definitely very cool. And it was a goal accomplished.

After all the stories I've heard in my past about Combat Zone Wrestling, I can't say that I concur with all I've heard. It was a great atmosphere. And CZW is definitely wanting to make a splash once again, like they did almost 11 years ago. Not going to lie, they definitely are poised to make that impact again.

It was great to see some old friends at the event. But one person really stuck out to me at the event. That person was Ryan McBride. Although he was on the losing end of a Junior Heavyweight #1 Contender's match, he was very impressive in my eyes. I'm not trying to take anything away from the rest of a fantastic event or the other great independent talents. But McBride stuck out as having that "IT" factor in my eyes. I don't know what it was, but I think that's why they call it the "IT Factor." He seemingly is the total package. I definitely see some big things in McBride's future.

Again, the event as a whole was great. It is definitely obvious that they want to make Cage Of Death 11 the biggest event in their history. Everything that happened on Saturday set up Cage Of Death 11 almost perfectly. I can say that after this past weekend, I am definitely happy to be home at the Arena calling a PREMIERE wrestling company. So be sure to get your tickets for COD11 at the Arena on December 12th... Like the tag line says... It truly will be the Renaissance of Ultraviolence... The beginning of rebirth of CZW.

So I'll see you all at CZW COD 11...

Until next time... You stay classy,
Dan "The Phan" Cowhey

The State of Indy Wrestling

I know I've been gone for a LONG time... But here I am, I'm back atop my soapbox. Actually I have been very busy reconstructing WSUwrestling.com. Please let me know what you think of the site. I am still hard at work reconstructing some areas, such as the roster section. But I'm very happy to be on board with the WSU team, as I believe they have a great product and work ethic. So be sure to check out the site and check out an event soon. I've also been busy working with WXW-C4, as they have really taken things to a new level up in Allentown, PA. So there is another group you should check out at WXWC4.com.

Before I go any further... I'd like to send my condelences to the family and friends of Annihilation, AKA "Big Joe." For those who may not know, the "7 foot" Annihilation passed away this weekend. I can say I had the pleasure to get to know him. Actually, he along with Pete Hunter were the first two men in the wrestling world that I got to know. He took time out of a Sunday a few years ago to come up to my Alma Mater, Cabrini College, to help promote the first wrestling event I ever had the pleasure to take part in. He was also one of my first interviews too. I can't say I have a bad memory of him. It is truly ashame that someone was taken away at really a young age. So again, I want to send my condolences and prayers to his family.

After the past few weeks, it seems as though things are beginning to look up for indy wrestling. Obviously there is still a very long way to go. But I think the "top dogs" are starting to take their spots. Which really is for the best.

Unfortunately it looks like the biggest casualty could be Ring Of Honor wrestling as they have lost two of its biggest stars. Both Bryan Danielson and Nigel McGuinness have both reportedly agreed on WWE contracts. And I believe I saw rumored that the WWE also has their eyes on Claudio Castagnoli and the Briscoe Brothers. And in all honesty, I can also see Brent Albright and Colt Cabana getting a second chance. But in any case, ROH has seemingly been hurting since thier ill-fated Pay Per View deal. And it seems like they just can't catch a break.

But what is good is the fact that we will have the potential to see some fantastic matches on weeking on WWE Programming. Personally I am excited to see the Briscoes, as they had some of my favorite matches that I've called.

Where one door closes, another opens. Dragon Gate USA as seemingly pulled off two great events, with a third on the way. Although its still very early, they could potentially fill the void that ROH will leave should it close. So who ever is leftover in the WWE "raid" of ROH could end up here with a fresh group of wrestlers.

On the TV side, CZW will now re-enter the world of Television on the ION network. For CZW and for wrestling this is huge. As one of the main problems with ROH's TV deal is the fact that it is NOT on in their main areas, New York and Philly. Now I don't know now much about the ION network, but the fact that it is on my cable is all that matters. They are able to at least broadcast across the Philadelphia area, the area that hosts their events! Although CZW only will air I believe once a month, the Sunday prior to their shows, but still its a start. Now I don't know anything more than any other person, but I would believe that this deal works in benefit of CZW. They could create their TV program as a must see event, almost like WCW Clash of the Champions. Also, they have only room to grow. As if they do well on their monthly timeslot, I'm sure they'll have the opportunity to have more shows. Their product won't burn out on TV. And the strategy is great... The week prior to their event. Now I'm sure it will take a show or two to find out if TV will sell their building or not, but still... Their use of TV is fantastic.

WXW-C4 has seemingly taken things to a new level, as I said before. Obviously they had a huge void to fill when Afa took his product to Florida. But it seems like they are taking a slow approach, and I can definitely see the product changing for the better.

WSU has seemingly conquered the Women's Wrestling field or are at least neck and neck with Shimmer. A year ago, Shimmer was all the talk. But now it seems like WSU is. Their promotion style is fantastic. I know from working on the "inside" at a few different promotions that most don't really want a women's division. Not because they don't like women's wrestling, but mainly because they can't invest the same time into a women's division as a men's. Essentially, they want to give women a fair shake, but they have to book 4-6 women each show taking up 2-3 matches from a show that really can't go more than 10 matches. That is all just to build credible challengers. WSU is basically offering to send their women to other companies and have their title on the line. This works for the "buying" company as they get established wrestlers fighting over an established title, all without having to put work into it. For WSU this works as advertisment for thier next event and their overall product.

So it seems that the product in the Northeast US is starting to turn around. Obviously there is still a lot of work... But it seems like the top dogs are starting to emerge. I'm actually finally starting to be excited again for wrestling in general.

Until next time... You stay classy.
Dan "The Phan"
http://www.myspace.com/thephan11
http://twitter.com/thephan11

So he said "Summerfest..."

So its been awhile... I typed up my thoughts on WWE/UFC Battle but I wasn't pleased so I didn't post it up. And since, well I've been busy with new website projects, one of which is the newly redesigned WXWC4.com.

Anyway, I felt compelled to comment what seems to be the hot topic in the wrestling world this week... Jeremy Piven saying "Summerfest." Wow... Is this how bad things have got? That's a talk for another time.

I've heard nothing but bad comments about his hosting job. Quite frankly I thought he did pretty good. I am a fan of his, so maybe my opinion is a bit swayed. And bringing Dr. Ken I thought was great too, although if you haven't seen the Hangover then you may not understand Dr. Ken. Granted I didn't think Piven was fantastic and stole the show, but I thought he did good for what was GIVEN to him. I think it should have been expected that "The Goods" was gonna be promoted throughout the show, so that didn't really bother me. What did both me was how the WWE chose to use him. If anything the blame falls on whoever wrote the show. Anyone who knows Jeremy Piven, knows he plays a damn good HEEL. Old School is a perfect example. On top of that, Piven has been in the news in the last few months as being a bit of a prima donna of sorts, which seems to be untrue but the fact is he's a heel in the eyes of Hollywood right now. So why wouldn't you have Piven be a HEEL the ENTIRE show? It wasn't until the end of the show that we got to see Piven in true form. That alone is what killed his appearance. Jim Ross basically said in his blog he should be a heel as "thats what he heard." They already had it promoted that way. WWE dropped the ball there. And really... How many of these hosts will actually be hardcore wrestling fans? So I think it would work to the WWE's advatage to allow more heels.

So he said "Summerfest?" How many times as Good Ol' JR screwed up? It happens. And I actually wasn't surprised that he said it. As we here in Philadelphia got the treat to have Piven in town last Friday. As he was in town to... You guessed it... Promote "The Goods." First he was on the Preston and Steve Show on WMMR and then later on in the day he was at the sneak peak/Q&A. On Preston and Steve, we got a little insight into Jeremy Piven. He admitted that basically he's not all that good at getting the script right, especially with last minute changes. I'm sure in the two weeks that we were told Piven was hosting, I'm sure they told him that WWE is building towards Summerslam. But I doubt he was given a script until probably a few hours before RAW. So I wasn't surprised when he screwed up. You also have to remember, he's not in his element. Wrestlers and wrestling personalities pretty much do everything live and have to be on their toes. Piven and most other actors... Don't. Sure he's been on a stage in front of a crowd, but after weeks of rehersal. Wrestlers may be able to get in the ring for a few moments before the show. Go back at watch Robert DiNero on SNL... One of the greatest actors of all time, and if you watch SNL the entire show he's looking at the cue cards!

So I say backoff... He did the best with what he was GIVEN. I think the real argument is... We don't want Celebrities taking up time from the wrestlers. So far the host thing hasn't been so bad, but... I can't imagine this going on forever. If anything they should use this as a vehicle to get a big celeb/wrestler storyline for Wrestlemania and then just call it off.
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So here's the part where I shamelessly promote... WXW-C4 debuts in Drums, PA this Saturday. Go to the show, and visit the new site WXWC4.com!

Actually there are quite a few shows this weekend to choose from. Its actually good to see, maybe things are starting to turn around in the indy wrestling world. So really if you can't make it out to Central PA... Go to one of the shows out there. I garauntee there won't be any celebrities taking up your wrestlers time!

Stay tuned as my next project should be unveiled soon... As I am very glad to be working on it.

Until next time...
You stay classy,
Dan The Phan

What's the Story?

This another "fan" inspired blog. The reason I say "fan" is... Well, not quite sure if he is or not... I'm willing to bet he isn't... But that's besides the point. This "fan" IM'd me on AIM about 2 weeks ago now, saying "wwe sucks." No "hey," "what's up," nothing... Just simply "wwe sucks." I responded by politely half disagreeing, half agreeing with him. He then said "Anyone who remotely thinks wwe is good doesn't deserve to live." OUCH... I just jokingly said "I guess I don't deserve to live." He responded... "Yep," "storylines don't have a place in wrestling." He then signed offline, and I haven't spoken to him since.

I got to thinking about our conversation. Not about the quality of WWE Programming, but the last comment "storylines have no place in wrestling." Obviously, he has a right to his opinion... Even if it is wrong! Haha... Just kidding, who knows if its right or wrong. However, I do disagree with that statement. Why? Because as long as I can remember, storylines have been apart of the professional wrestling business. I have read a lot of books on the history of wrestling, seeing as I was a history major in college. And all my research has seemingly shown that storylines have been apart of wrestling since the early 1900s.

Personally, I think storylines are an important part of professional wrestling. I know I am taken in by a GOOD storyline. Keyword: GOOD. I have always found that I am more attracted to matches that have meaning. And it doesn't necessarily mean a detailed storyline with twists and turns. If you look at The Undertaker / Shawn Michaels feud from Wrestlemania 25 this year, there was nothing really in depth, just simply two of Wrestlemania's biggest stars going head to head. And that so far has seemingly been the match of the year. Although it is hard to picture... But just imagine Wrestlemania 25... Mark Calloway versus Michael Hickenbottom. No backstory. No gimmicks. Just two guys "fighting..." BORING! That match was so exciting, not just because it was a GREAT match, but it was two guys who built up their careers for the last two decades! It was a clash of the titans!

This is why I personally have always found it hard to follow boxing and MMA. I by no means am saying it is bad, but it is just not my cup of tea. But there isn't really a story, in boxing moreso than MMA. Granted there have been fighters people have followed... Muhammed Ali, Mike Tyson, Floyd Mayweather, etc. They were/are all great fighers, but I think they all have something in common... They all were characters. That is why we followed their careers. Of course I picked these three to prove that point. But really... I couldn't tell you any of their stand out matches. But I can tell you how Mike Tyson has been in trouble with the law a million times, how he bit off the ear of Evander Holyfield, etc. MMA is attempting to give back stories, which is why it has more success than boxing. But right now, I don't see anything that stands out. Other than we are basically watching a Shoot Wrestling. I will admit though, Lesnar/Mir II has got me interested... But why? Is it that Lesnar/Mir have a bit of a history? Is it that Mir beat Lesnar, but now Lesnar is the Champ? Is it UFC's Past vs. Present? There's a story there!

Pull out at of the "Difinitive Collections" from WWE. I find them very hard to get into. Sure, I know I am seeing classic matches. But I don't understand why they are so great. They just show the match. They don't show the weeks of TV leading to that classic match on PPV. Wrestling operates on storylines and current events. What was hot in 1980 may not be hot now, especially if the story isn't there.

Storylines are just necessary. Granted, where a good storyline can create a "Wrestlemania Moment," bad ones can kill great matches. Triple H vs. Chris Jericho at Wrestlemania X8 I think it was... Both men were in their prime. Wrestling was still a hot business. What was the story? Not HHH and Y2J's past. Oh no... It was HHH's divorce with Stephanie McMahon and the ownership of the family dog. Does anyone remember the match? Nope... They remember how dumb that storyline was.

In my opinion... And remember its just an opinion... Storylines are just necessary in wrestling. And if you look closely every sport has storylines now. Granted, not written in a board room in Stamford, Conn. or Orlando, Fl.. Just look at last year's World Series... What was the story? Could the Philadelphia Phillies end the 25 year championship drought?
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I do want to say that everything I say in this blog is my opinion, right or wrong... And it is really to entertain. I do hope that no one takes offense as I respect any opinion I receive.

I do want to add that John House and Michael Pancoast have come up with a great site: http://www.hybrident.tv/ I am glad to see that they are continuously adding great new content as well as being able to come to terms with CZW and their new webshow to continue. Of course I have alterior motives... Haha... I can mark out to myself and watch WXW-C4 Blast TV on http://www.hybrident.tv/.

Also... I have gotten into the Twitter craze. I figured... I'm a commentator... Why not commentate everyday life? If you haven't had more than enough Cowhey in your life... Follow me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/ThePhan11... Again its all in fun.

Anyway... Until next time...
You stay classy,
Dan The Phan

Work or Shoot: The Montreal Screwjob

So to my surprise today I got a reader question. It actually isn't the first time I have gotten a response to my blog, but this is the first time someone has asked a specific question. So needless to say I am a bit flatter.

Here is the email word for word:
"Hello, I read your articles on the web and I respect your opinion very much. With regard to the famous Montreal screwjob, I am convinced that it was a very, very sophisticated WORK and not real. I'm still not sure how the hell Vince & Bret pulled it off. I'm just curious what your opinion is & when will we find out the full details ? When one of them passes away ? Thanks. Alan"

Funny this is I had been contemplating writing about this (well, writing about Bret Hart) the last few days, as I had finished Bret Hart's book about 2 weeks ago. I just felt that I wouldn't be fair in my assessment, plus I felt this subject was a little played out. But I've been inspired. The book is a very good read, a little tough to get through at first, but great nonetheless.

I should first tell the story of the "Montreal Screwjob" so that those who don't know... Now know what I am talking about. Here's the abridged version... 1996 Bret Hart resigned with WWE for 20 years that would add up to I believe $20 Million over WCW $9 Million contract for a shorter period of time. By the fall of 1997, McMahon basically told Hart that he could not live up to his end of the contract and he could negotiate with WCW once again. Hart did sign with WCW sometime in November of '97 I believe, meaning his final match would be Survivor Series '97 versus Shawn Michaels for the WWE Title in Montreal. Obviously one would think Hart would drop the belt and go off to WCW. Not that easy, in his contract he had creative control in his last 30 days of the company, meaning he didn't have to lose if he didn't want to. Without going into all the details, Hart didn't want to drop the title to Michaels. And really there was nothing McMahon could do about it, except break "kayfabe" (basically to break character, storyline, and basically reveal the mystery behind the show) and screw Bret Hart out of the title. So Michaels was able to convince Hart to allow HBK to put Hart in his own Sharpshooter manuever. This allowed enough time for McMahon to come down and ring the bell and declare Michaels the Champion, and breaching his contract with Bret Hart.

Here's the video of the incident:


Afterwards, Hart went ballistic and eventually knocked out McMahon in the locker room after the show. Hart would then go onto WCW and wouldn't be used properly and eventually had to retire due to injury. Where on the flipside, this incident was the catalyst that started "WWE Attitude" and made Vince McMahon the evil boss. If you really want to learn more about this story visit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montreal_Screwjob

Ever since this incident people have wondered was this all an elaborate work? The one thing I think we all do know is a "work" is basically McMahon in the end allowed Hart to get more money out of WCW because of escalating Hart's value in '96. Other than that, nope... As much as I want to believe that this was a work. I don't think it is. Mainly because what was the payoff of it? Sure McMahon, and WWE came out on top after the incident. But Hart? Hart really never recovered from that one incident. I should preface this by saying that in recent years I have not really seen Hart in the same light as I did when I was younger. I've kind have felt he's come off as a bitter old man. However, after reading his book I have changed my tune a little bit. I can see why he is the way he is, he's always seemed to struggle with what pro wrestling has become. He was around when it became mainstream, and he was around again when it became edgy. So as I may disagree with his opinions, I respect him again as I did when I was a kid.

I digress... Hart never really recovered from this incident. Can you blame him? Up until that point he was protrayed as Canada's Superhero. So I can kind of see his point of why not to drop the belt. But in the end, he probably should have... For his own sake. Things probably would have turned out a lot different.

Work? Nope... As much as I want it to be, its not. But really its hard to judge. If you really start to look into it, there are so many different versions of the story of what happened on November 9, 1997. How can you really find out the truth? I think that's really what perpetuates the theory that it was an elaborate work. I must say what is even more amazing is that Vince McMahon himself has said the least about this. Honestly he's really the one who knows the truth, as he's the one who in the end made the decision to screw Hart. I think if anything, in McMahon's mind... He was working everyone and I think his hope in the end was to get Hart back for a huge match with Michaels. But again its really hard to say. Because I believe that Hart and Michaels both swayed the story to benefit their side of it. So I can't really say I fully believe either side. And I don't believe they did it to be malicious either, I think its just the way it happens. I know I sway a story just a tad from time to time to prove my point or make the story more entertaining. And it just becomes whisper down the lane, like in Michaels case... He had a ghostwriter, so I'm sure the ghostwriter embellished a little bit. There is just so much to go through to really find out the true story that we probably will never get the real one. So forever we will have this arguement whether it was a work or a shoot.

I just don't think it is until proven otherwise. If anything we just see the nature of the wrestling beast. As much as it is scripted... The people involved get swept up in the sport of it and in the end you have a real fight behind the scenes.

In case you were wondering... Who's side am I on? Sorry, Bret, I'm on McMahon's side. During that time in wrestling, you couldn't trust anyone or anything. So he had to be sure that the WWE Title was on Monday Night Raw on November 10, 1997.

So there's my long winded answer, Alan. Thanks for writing in. Of course you are all welcome to write in to give your opinions and/or questions.

Until next time...
You stay classy,
Dan "The Phan"

Franchising WWE

So the big news this week, Donald Trump "owns" Raw. It seems like many were not fond of the idea of Donald Trump being "owner." I, on the other hand, have a different look on it.

It is obvious that this is just a storyline. And in case if you didn't know the USA Network let the cat out of the bag on that. Which I thought kind of sucked. Yeah, its a story... But don't need to come out and say it. It kind of takes the little bit of mystery left in wrestling out of it. But I digress...

What's funny is last week I came up with a very similar idea myself last week. My idea revolved around remaking ECW into more of a resemblance of what it once was. Granted, ECW will never be what it was... But I think what Heyman was trying to build up before he left WWE was great. Basically, it was a way of having ECW be ECW again, while still being under the WWE umbrella. Last Monday, basically that happened with RAW... Just not explained very well.

If you think about it... They have been trying to make RAW, Smackdown!, and ECW 3 seperate "Brands." Problem in the end always is, Vince McMahon (storyline McMahon that is). McMahon is what keeps everything seem the same since before the draft. He had full reign over RAW, Smackdown!, ECW, Superstars, the Pay Per View, etc. The General Managers worked for him. So while the point of having 3 Brands was to in esence create its own competition, it really didn't. Although they had the interbrand matches (which at first meant something), they really became just WWE Matches. Interbrand matches lost their meaning quickly.

Esstentially, RAW has been "Franchised." It still falls under the WWE umbrella, however it can seem to operate independently... Basically being like any other sports team. The Phillies operate independently from MLB, but they play in a league operated by MLB. This is why I think Trump "owning" RAW is a very good thing. By having RAW being "bought," this allows to have the semblance of competition between the brands. Those "working" for The Donald will want to "beat" those "working" for Vince McMahon. I would assume that this will be to test out the waters to have Smackdown and ECW "bought." In a way it would bring back the nostaglia of the NWA. McMahon would still be the ruler of the wrestling world, however each "brand" will be competitive to be better than the other. I see this allowing much more freedom of the brands. It would also allow for possibly more spots on the roster, as I would assume WWE could use this move to kayfabe the television networks to get more TV time for "B Shows."

Now... I will agree... I don't think Trump is the man for the job... At least from a character point of view. The Donald is not an actor, he's simply a billionare. What little I have seen from his Apprentice TV show, he barely speaks other than his "You're fired!" What is good about naming Trump "owner" of RAW is that it makes sense for him to purchase it. He's obviously got the money to do it and he's worked closely with professional wrestling in the past. I would assume that this will only be a short term character to likely name his general manager. Which hopefully would be someone more accepted in the wrestling community.

Time will tell how this whole "Franchising" of RAW will go. I would venture to guess that this is the future of WWE. Whether this will be what turns things around in the big leagues or not remains to be seen. Tomorrow night starts the "test drive."
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Big weekend coming up for Philadelphia Wrestling, as "The Legends of the Arena" invade the former ECW Arena on Saturday June 27th. What great about this show is that it benefits a great cause; cancer research. Its almost ironic that the ECW Wrestlers, the same wrestlers who were deemed degenerates to society are the ones to really try and make a huge difference in the world.

My good friend RC at Completely Damaged had a chance to talk to some of the people that will be at this huge event recently... Check out his video -

COMPLETELY DAMAGED - June 2009


Also be sure to check WXW-C4's debut on http://www.hybrident.tv/!

Thats all for now... Until next time...
You stay classy!
Dan "The Phan"
ThePhan11@aol.com

Taking the good with the bad

Before I even start to get on my soapbox. I do want to send a get well wish to an old friend, Drew Blood. I haven't gotten all the details yet, but I do know that he took a life threatening fall at CZW Best Of The Best on Saturday and had to be rushed to the hospital. I do send out my prayers and wishes to an awesome person, friend, and wrestler. Drew Blood is one of the more underrated indy wrestlers out there today, I think in many Philly Wrestling Fans' minds you are the true winner of Best Of The Best 2009. Get Well Soon!
-----------------

Lately the wrestling world has been shocked by a few releases, mainly Mr. Kennedy and Umaga. I'll admit it, I was as shocked as the rest when I heard those two names. Both stars were prominently featured on WWE TV over the last few years.

Mr. Kennedy just returned from injury and really seemed to be poised to be a World/WWE Title Contender by the end of 2009. His promo that night during the Denver Debacle Raw, I thought, was awesome and shot him right into contention. Esspecially considering it seemed like short of HHH Return or Cena post-Big Show feud there was no one else "interesting" to put in the role against Orton. I figured they'd wait until the end of 2009 to give him the shot to see if he could stay healthy. I think before I laid my head to sleep at 11:15 that night, it was already reported Kennedy was injured. Although that seemed to have been proven to be false, it was enough to get Kennedy out the door.

Umaga on the other hand... As much as I liked this gimmick... Which I know has been done a million times in some form or another. I felt as though he wouldn't get to the top. Looking at his feud with CM Punk, I think he was going to be in the "Jake The Snake" role - grooming contenders for the title. I was still shocked to hear he was released. Looking back, I'm not totally surprised either. He's been on the shelf a lot himself. Later it was reported that it was a Wellness Program Issue. Which is good that the WWE is seemingly sticking to their guns. However, bad for Umaga.

Now I don't really wish for anyone to be fired. I can understand the need for it. Its just a necessary evil, for the time being at least. So as bad as it is to hear that two of my more favorite "new" talents have been let-go. I can see the potential upside.

I think its pretty safe to say that Kennedy and Umaga will be snatched up by TNA. Which is good for them as they will probably get comparable pay for less dates, which is ALWAYS the upside for signing with TNA. But honestly, unless something drastically changes... I don't see this really benefitting TNA in the long run. I hope I'm wrong... But I think it goes back to what Heyman suggests, TNA is simply WWE-Lite. But that's something for another time. Point is, I think Kennedy and Umaga will be okay once their no-compete clause is up.

I do see the potential good for WWE in this... I'm sure these two were more of the higher paid stars in the locker room. Freeing up some money that I know the WWE is tight on right now. On top of that, it opens two higher spots on the roster for other stars to step into. Which could freshen up the shows that right now desperately need to be freshened up... At least on the RAW side of things. And should TNA not screw up with these two, could jump start a much needed WWE/TNA Feud. Obviously that is me being optomistic.

Now granted, this situation is much different than say the Developmental Talents that have been released. Kennedy and Umaga leave huge gaps in the roster that will need to be filled. Those Developmental Talents won't get the huge offers from TNA, and likely will ended up in the unstable independent market.

Point is... You have to take the good with the bad. And in the end, both could get that second chance to be at the top of the business.

On a side note... Why does WWE choose to release talent that is currently on TV? Never made sense to me. Granted I'm sure when its time to go, its time to go. But never really understood why within a week of a high profiled match on RAW, they chose to get rid of Kennedy? Does make sense. It makes the news that much bigger, and gives something for a potential employer [TNA] capitalize on. I've often thought, is this McMahon's weird way of helping TNA in an attempt to jump start his product. I doubt it. But I always wonder.

For those in the Santa Marie, California area... Check out VendettaProWrestling.com... Their debut is July 11th.

Well until next time... You stay classy,
Dan The Phan

Ah... Memories...

So I ended last week shamelessly plugging my weekend schedule. So I actually pulled double duty on Saturday at WXW-C4 in Allentown, PA. Now when an announcer says that it means he or she is commentating and ring announcing, not working two matches like it means when you are an actual worker. Although I think I did as much running around! Haha... And then I just went and hung out at the UWF Wrestlefest show in Fairless Hills, PA. Both shows decent and fun, and really that's what it is all about, right?

But going to both those events really brought back some memories. At WXW-C4 I met up with the guy who gave me the booking, Doc Daniels. Having to run some errands before the show, I tagged along and we just talked about what we were up to of course, and then we got back to the old times in PWU. In the middle of our conversation, I get a text from another good friend, Aramis. Later that night, All Money Is Legal was booked so I got to see some more familiar faces. The next day, I tagged along with my friend RC for his Completely Damaged Taping at Wrestlefest. I didn't even know who was on the card other than Little Guido and Justin Credible. And in walks yet another familiar face, Amy Lee, with the conversation going to the "old times."

I've really avoided talking about PWU publicly since I left and its closed. But after this weekend I can't help but be a little reminiscent. Pro Wrestling Unplugged is where I got my start. All I wanted for years was to be a part of wrestling, as I got older I figured I probably wouldn't ever be in the ring (subconsciously that is). The older I got, I had dreams of running a pro wrestling event at my high school and then college... And it happened! 2 months later, I was a commentator for PWU.

Just as fast as it all happened it was all gone. Almost exactly two years later, PWU died. Sure it went on a little longer, but it died for me and most others in the locker room. It was weird, we all were really unsure what lied ahead for all of us.

After this weekend, I couldn't help but realize how great we had it. I was and am very lucky to have been apart of something like PWU. Now, I'm not comparing it to ECW. I'd be kidding myself if I said we were revolutionary like ECW. What I can say is we were a family like ECW. I didn't realize it at the time, but we were all so close. I was down at the [ECW] Arena 2-3 times a week seeing the same people and having a great time. And seeing those old faces, I realize how we didn't need Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, etc., etc., etc.... To stay in touch. We would see each other a day or two later in South Philly.

Granted a lot of negativity always seemed to swirl around PWU. But most of us seemed to ignore it and keep marching on. And like it or not... PWU had some 5 star shows. Were all of them 5 star? No... But just like anyone else, we had our ups and downs.

What made the family at PWU so great was that it was a mix of local stars, big names, legends, and homegrown talent. The homegrown talent is what was going to take PWU into the future. And in a way it did, it brought some talent to the forefront... Most notably, Devon Moore and The Best Around. We all tried to put at the best product at every show.

And we were all loyal! Maybe too loyal. It was inevitable. Working for Tod Gordon and THE ARENA... And slowly watching our crowds grow. How could you not be loyal? Was it a detrement to some of us? Maybe. Some have been able to prove that they are more, while others are seen as "too PWU." For every one bad talent, there was a fresh new star coming into their own. We all learned together, and we truly did band together. If given another chance, I could name 5-10 others that can join to the level of our friends: Devon Moore, TJ Cannon, and Bruce Maxwell.

Can PWU ever return? No... For all the good that did come out of it, it seemed to constantly be overshadowed by negativity. But the people from that place could most definitely build a strong locker room.

I know there are some out there who will say... "Dan, how can you talk so much good about that place?" Its easy, I was there and it was fun... Which really what its all about. "Wouldn't you want to go back and never work for them?" Absolutely not. As I am sure label with the stigma of PWU, I wouldn't change a thing. I got my start there, I learned there, and I made lifelong friendships there. "But, Dan, what if you never shake the stigma?" Oh well... I achieved more than I ever dreamed in this crazy world of wrestling. I'll carry that stigma like a battle scar, and just go to prove myself for the rest of the world, just like I know all my friends in PWU are doing right now.

Since this is probably the last time I talk about my PWU past until my shoot interview and biography come out... Haha... I want to shout out to those people... Jake Black, Nate Stein, Pete Hunter, John House, Teddy Fine, Aramis, Chris Ansert, Phil Boucher, Devon Moore, Drew Blood, TJ Cannon, Bruce Maxwell, Annie Social, Amy Lee, Kidd Legend, Detox, Mike Kehner, John Finnegan, Adam Flash, Stephanie Flash, Luke Hawx, Too Cold Scorpio, John McChesney, Erik C. Jones (Eek!), The BackSeat Boyz, Gary Wolf, All Money Is Legal, Dr. Don Bootz and of course... Tod Gordon. All of these people are truly great people, I know I may have missed some... And I'm sure some people may not a agree. But again these are the people that truly great people. And I know they all will work their asses off to make any promotion great!

I think its safe to say that chapter is now closed. And now I'm more motivated than ever to make those people proud.

Until next time...
You stay classy!
Dan "The Phan"

Can't We All Just Get Along?

So I could help but read on DOI this past weekend about what seems to be by all accounts one disaster of a show and crazy "side shows" at two events. I'm not here to bash companies or people... Really I never am. I don't ever want people to get the wrong idea. ANYWAY... It brings me to my title... Why can't we all just get along?

I mean really. In this economy combined with the fact that wrestling isn't exactly at its peak, you would think the wrestling universe, at least on the independent level would unite or at least be cordial to each other. To me it seems lately that people want to make DOI's Headlines on Monday morning. This is no offense to DOI, but of course they will post the crazy stories! What else is there to post? It seems to be a rarity that we get on DOI or other such websites, "Five Star Show on Friday Night in (INSERT CITY HERE)." Rather we get "(Insert Name Here) causes a commotion in (Insert Promotion)'s locker room." And for day or even weeks we get wars of words. I can't blame DOI for putting the news up, it is entertaining to read even if you don't know the people involved. But its just a sad state when that's what we see more making the headlines.

To hear that this guy or this group of guys "invades" another show... Its really sad. What is there to gain? And I'm not talking about well planned invasions (example: CZW versus ROH)... I'm talking about people just buying up tickets to crap on another show. To hear that local police had to come in... For what? Granted, I agree with the saying "Any press is good press." But at what cost? The way I see it... If local police has to be called into a venue, will that venue bring ANY wrestling company back? I know how hard it is to find venues to host wrestling. Wrestling has been hurting since the Attitude days already... No one wants a "hardcore" show in their building. And when there are good companies out there who want to expand but can't because of nonsense... For what?

On top of that... When you have unorganized companies/promoters trying to plan events as well. That also kills venue's charity to allow wrestling in their building. And I know all to well about unorganized companies/promoters! (I allowed myself to get fooled one too many times)

Again I'm just giving my opinions from afar. There are a lot of great companies out their that know how to do business... You've got your CZWs, Chikaras, NWSs, WSUs, etc. Just looking at those 4 names right there, all of the companies have regularly scheduled events, you RARELY hear about backstage nonsense, and they don't step on others toes... In fact they work with other area companies quite diplomatically. All I'm really saying is that we need to watch our steps more closely so that we can blosom again.

I'm sure you're saying... But, Dan, weren't you preaching death to CZW when you were with PWU? I wouldn't go that far... HAHA... But in all seriousness, I'll admit that I did have a pride for PWU and I'm sure from time to time I probably talked bad about CZW or some other promotion. But I think I've matured much over my time in this crazy wrestling world. And looking at things now, I realize that you can be competitive... HELL, you HAVE to be competive... But there is a line that you can't cross. Did I cross that line from time to time? I hope I didn't, but I'm sure I did... But we all make mistakes, and all we can ask for is to learn from them. And right now, we all need to learn as a wrestling world from our mistakes.

Okay... I'm off my soapbox. Haha... Catch me this Saturday at WXW-C4's "Go For The Gold" at the Mountainville Memorial Hall in Allentown, PA at 7 PM more info at WXWC4.com. I'm also going to be heading out with Completely Damaged TV (http://www.myspace.com/completelydamaged) on Sunday for their taping at WrestleFest in Fairless Hills, PA. And of course you can keep up with me or get in touch with me at my MySpace, MySpace.com/ThePhan11.

Well... Until next time... You stay classy!
Dan "The Phan"

Owen... 10 Years Later

Originally when I was going to sit down and write a blog today... This wasn't going to be the topic. But I felt compelled to write it. I can vividly remember waking up for school on Monday May 24, 1999 to my mother telling me that Owen Hart had died... Back then I never order the PPVs, my parents never wanted to shell out the cash! Anyway, I found out the details and I was shocked. And looking back now, after all these wrestling deaths and how the media portrays wrestling as a whole. Its truly ashame that someone so talented and seemingly kindhearted was taken sooo soon.

Since the WWE released their Bret Hart DVD a few years back, I've been kind of sour to the entire Hart Family. I've seen a lot of them as just bitter people, who have giant egos. I heard all the stories. But since starting to read the Hitman's Biography and since meeting Jim Niedhart, I've started to see that Owen, Bret, and Jim are truly class acts. And its truly sad how a negative aura has surrounded them.

I think Owen was the biggest victim of all. Out of all the Harts, he seemed to be the most level headed. And out of all the Harts, I truly believe that he was going to be the star. I know that Bret is seen as the #1 Hart. But looking at Owen Hart, he had a lot of the qualities that Bret lacked. Owen could be the underdog, he could be the evil villian, he could be the comedy act, he truly could do it all. Just to think, if one stupid little stunt were never attempted how different the world of professional wrestling would have been.

What makes Owen's death so tragic is that out of all the deaths that the media likes to tout, his was one not caused by anything he did or put into his body.

And even though, I am a fan of shocking the audience (when it deems necessary), I think what happened to Owen Hart should be an example of going to far. Granted people have repelled from the ceiling before for example: Shawn Michiels and Sting... But why was it necessary for Owen to do it? And by no means am I here to crucify the WWE. I don't know what their plans were at the time. But why do it? When Sting repelled from the ceiling it made sense. But Owen? It was a comedy act. I believe part of the plan was for him to have an "accident" and get stuck in the harness or get tangled up. But what purpose did it serve?

And now that I truly think about it for the first time. What purpose did the Blue Blazer story serve to begin with? I believe that is a problem in wrestling. I can't tell you when it started... But it seems to me that the wrong people end up in high places in the world of wrestling... Well, entertainment... Heck I'll take it one step farther. The wrong people seem to make it into high place in ever facet of the world. That's not to say that things are NEVER done right. Its easy to look back and say, "Well, that was sure stupid!" But it is true. In this case, it seems to be Vince Russo. Now I know that he gets burned at the stake more often than ANYONE in wrestling. But a lot of what people say is valid. The guy is creative. That I can't take away from him. He's proven that he can put together some great stuff. But I think his problem has been he doesn't know that everything that come out of his mind isn't all EPIC. I think his flaws shine out more now that McMahon doesn't have him on a leash, which has been said a million times. But if you look at a lot of Russo trademarks you can ask the same question... What was the purpose of that? I find myself asking that question everytime I catch TNA. As much as I want to like TNA... I can't help but see the same flaws I saw in WCW. And really... The same flaws I saw in the WWE when he was there. I just think the WWE just has enough smoke and mirrors with Austin, Rock, DX, and Undertaker to cover the nonsense up.

Don't think I'm hear saying, RUSSO KILLED OWEN! Because he didn't! Who would have known that the rigging was faulty? Who would have known that on May 23rd Owen would have plummeted to his death? Who would have known that the greatest wrestling tragidy would have happen right in front of a sold-out Kemper Arena and almost broadcasted on Pay Per View Television? Who would have known?! But what I am saying, I think wrestling (and entertainment) as a whole needs to just realize that everything that we put out there needs to have a reason. Looking back, the Blue Blazer flying down into the ring had no point.

I truly belive that the World of Wrestling truly lost quite possibly one of its greatest diamonds in the rough ten years ago. And the Hart Family lost a truly great son, brother, and father. I hope that more people in the world could be more like "The King Of Harts."



Also, I'm proud to announce that this blog will now be featured on PopCultureMadness.com! Visit PCM for all your pop culture news!

Be sure to also check out... IndyWrestlers.net. If you are a worker you can post your booking info right there along side yours truly to get yourself booked in some great indy promotion!

And if you want to book me as commentator, ring announcer, or even a manager just email me at ThePhan11@aol.com!

Who was I kidding?

So a little over a week ago I came on here and said that I was taking a break from wrestling. Who the hell was I kidding? Almost the second I posted that up I felt that itch that I first felt when I put together the first PWU event at Cabrini College three years ago. I have dealt with those personal issues and now I’m ready to go.

The question is where? Actually… The more appropriate question is… Who will use my services? I know in the coming weeks I’ll be working closely with WXW-C4 Blast TV. But other than that where can I go? And that seems to be the problem I’m having. PWU? As much as I love PWU… The PWU that I know is done.

So who will have me? Unlike some people out there, I know where I fall on the food chain. I know that I haven’t built my reputation up enough to be able to say, “I can walk in [insert promotion here] and be put right onto the commentary table.” So what do I do? I guess just sit back and wait for that chance again, and I know it will happen. But just for fun, where would I like to go?

Dragon Gate USA

Right now this “start-up” company tops my list. I personally have already called some Dragon Gate bouts in the past as part of their brief partnership with Pro Wrestling Unplugged. In fact, the second event I ever commentated on was PWU/Dragon Gate “East Meets West” event. Plus, the style of wrestling that surely will come out of DGUSA’s events will definitely help enhance my own commentating abilities. I’ll admit the style of wrestling is something that only commentated that one event 3 years ago when I was very very green, so it will be very challenging. But I believe that it will be a challenge I am up for. Plus, to start fresh with a essentially new company will be a perfect fit for me.

Combat Zone Wrestling

My how times have changed! Haha… If you had talked to me a few years ago I would have been preaching “Death to CZW.” Now here I am thinking, I would love to call some CZW Matches. The thought crossed my mind while in PWU, not going to lie about that. I mean really who is still holding strong in the indy scene right now? CZW has had its ups and downs, yet here it stands. Plus, I have friends there now and I would love to call their matches again. Plus, it would be a little poetic that a student of John House ends up in CZW? I mean come on? Haha… But seriously, it’s another style of wrestling that can only help me improve while at the same time I have some familiarity with the stars such as Devon Moore, Drew Blood, and The Best Around.

Velocity Pro

VPro of course is always in my heart as well. They truly top my list. I hope that if and when it returns to The Arena in South Philly, they would allow me to come back and call the matches. It would be fun to call their first ever World Championship match. Plus, I was there in the beginning I’d like to be there again.

Women Superstars Uncensored

Funny thing is… WSU’s promotion of their product is what draws me in. I went up to the Smackdown! tapings in East Rutherford, NJ a few months back and every car in that lot, including mine, had a WSU flyer on the window. WSU’s Angel Orsini has managed to be featured on a few other websites, magazines, etc. And now with Mercedes Martinez as champ I believe that they can only produce more quality events. Right now they just seem to have a solid product, in such an unstable market right now. Plus, I just think it would be interesting to call and all women event. And on top of that, I have a friend or two working there.

Jersey All Pro Wrestling

I was ready to submit a tape to JAPW when they had their contest looking for an announcer. But they decided to call off the contest and so I never filmed a tape. However, JAPW is one of the top companies out there that despite its ups and downs still remains. If I were to get a chance there it would open up a new audience to me to try and win over. Heck really with any of these places I have named it would open up a new audience. To prove to myself that I can truly be “The God Of All Media…” Well, Wrestling Media. Haha…

Right now the question is who will have me? Only time will tell. But I do know that anyone of these companies or any other company that I haven’t named I would love to work for. For me, I’m a fan at heart and just have a blast anytime I’m behind the mic. It’s a lot better than when I was a kid announcing my matches on Royal Rumble of SNES! Haha…

Until next time… You stay classy, Wrestling Fans

Dan “The Phan”

Some Time To Myself

I was going to come back here to my blog and write about Wrestlemania 25... Then I was going to come on and give some comments about Harry Kalas' death. But today here I am at work (so bare with me if this blog is more ADD than usual)... Here I am at work writing this blog that isn't exactly insightful or happy like my others.

Before I continue... Most who know me... Hell even those who don't... They know that WRESTLING IS MY LIFE. But as I come up on my 3rd Anniversary of being in the world of wrestling I can't help but feel disappointed. The big world being thrown around is Recession. Well the world of wrestling has been in a recession now for a year if not more. And right now is a big time in my life. I can't help but feel this is my crossroads.

So right now I am going to tag myself out of the world of wrestling and take a bit of a break. Will this be forever? Probably not. But I think I need some time to deal with myself.

So what does this exactly mean? This means that I will NOT be participating in the upcoming Pro Wrestling Unplugged event that I am currently scheduled for next weekend. As of now that is the only event I am currently booked for. So as of now I am going to wish my friends at PWU the very best as they restart the company. Maybe one day I will work for them again. Just to clarify... This in no way is a reflection of PWU. I love PWU. Its where I got my start. Its where I met a lot of people that now are close friends. So please continue to support PWU as the have their NEW BEGINNING. I however will not be there to lend my voice.

You will, however, be able to see me this Sunday if you live in Allentown, PA as I already have recorded a few episodes of WXW-C4 Blast TV that airs on Service Electric Cable. But that really is my last horrah for awhile.

But this by no means is goodbye forever. Wrestling is my life! I just need this time to sit back and deal with myself first. Whether this will be a few days or a few years, I don't know. But I do know in the words of Vigo the Carpathian in Ghostbusters 2... "Death is but a door... Time is but a window... I'll be back!"

Until next time...
You stay classy, wrestling fans.

Dan "The Phan"

Time For 'Mania

The more I try to be different... The more I'm just the same. Haha... It is time for Wrestlemania, and of course that means I, along with they other couple million internet wrestling know-it-alls, will be talking about "The Granddaddy of them All!"

As much as I am excited for Wrestlemania, I have to say... I think they needed one LESS week of promotion. Here we are 4 days and some hours away, and we still have an ECW and a Smackdown! to get through. What else is there? Last week, to me at least, really seemed to be a great last shows into 'Mania. This week, it seemed they needed material... When it came to the Main Events at least. But hey, usually WWE has it the other way, not enough time to properly promote the next PPV, which I'm sure will happen for Backlash.

So where to start...

JBL/Mysterio for the IC Belt: This has the potential to be a very good match. However the build up to it was sub-par. I think they were doing a good job with JBL going onto the net to promote his appearance at 'Mania. But I think this match was just thrown together. And thats what I think hurts it. But then again, why is this going to be such a memorable JBL appearance? As much as JBL is really past what he was a few years back while he was a World Champion... He still has the ablity to make some really awesome heel material. Rumors were/are he's retiring... But how is that memorable? If he was a face again, then it would be... But as a heel? I still think JBL/HBK at 'Mania would have made more sense too. So who will come out on top? This is a hard one, as it is expected that Rey is going back to Smackdown! So if he were to win do we get the IC Title on Smackdown! and the US Title on RAW? But that isn't so illogical, as the US Title has been more stable in the last year. Whoever the winner, I think this match will set the tone for the Draft and possibly Money In The Bank. What I am confident in saying is... I think this match will open the show. Both have opened 'Mania in the past, and I think this is a sure fire good opening bout.

Next...

I personally would put the Tag Match, but I have a feeling its gonna be Money In The Bank as the #2 Match.

Money In The Bank: This is another hard one. Personally... I'd like to see Punk win it again. But I doubt that will happen, as that right is reserved for Edge (Who only one it once techincally, but has had the "case" twice). I'm kind of scared of the quality of this match, as it has been the highlight of the last few 'Manias, but this time is has 2 big men. Now I personally think its fun to see ONE person out of their eliment in a match like this (Kane was awesome in the TLC on RAW a few years ago). But two? Although I was never really a R-Truth fan until recently... I think he would have been the better pick over Mark Henry. But I could be wrong, as Henry has grown on me. So winner? Henry out... No question about that. Punk... I think he's out for the reasons I said above. Finlay out... I don't see him as ever being the top guy, but the guy that grooms the next top guy. Kofi Kingston? That would be another surprise to me. They took him out of the Chamber before, so how much faith do they truly have in him? Plus, I think he could run with the IC or US Title for a bit. Who does that leave? Kane, MVP, Benjamin, and Christian. All are good candidates. But going by recent events, I would say MVP is probably poised for it. Personally I think they could have kept the streak going until he qualified for this and then won it. But either way, I think he's in the best spot right now. Benjamin is pretty much a perennial midcarder, as they've changed the wrapping so many times but he's essentially the same guy we first saw in Team Angle. Kane? Although it would be fun to really put their money behind him, I think he's kind of peaked at least in the powers-that-be's eyes. And Christian? If rumors are true... McMahon won't put the money behind him either. But then again... Why did he allow him to comeback? Maybe the Cap'n will make it Hap'n.

Next up...

Jericho vs. The Legends... Easy... No contest finish with the Legends looking good in the end. Whereelse can you go with this? Short of a match between Rourke and Jericho. And of course... Rourke will be involved. It just has to happen. I'm sure the only reason there was cold feet was because of the Oscars. Now that's over with, Rourke will play a part in the match. If he doesn't, I'll be disappointed. Another scenario... Hogan? Rumors were going around about him and 'Mania... Could it happen? Another thought... MORE LEGENDS. OR... Glass Shatters... Austin stuns Jericho. In any case, Jericho (the top heel) does the job and we get a fun match.

I'm going to say the Tag Match is up next...

Colons vs. Miz & Morrison... I think this is another easy one. Jake and I noticed probably about 6 months ago that Miz & Morrison are on EVERY WWE SHOW. And I don't think WWE even has noticed this yet. As much of a makeshift tag team this is... They seriously are the #1 Team out there right now, where as the Colons who have the potential are not in M&M's league. Plus, basing off of what I have written so far. All faces are going to win. A heel or two need to come out on top. And Miz & Morrison is exactly that, plus... They are the face of WWE practically. They are the ones doing the radio and TV shows, the charity events, and again they are on EVERY WWE SHOW EVERY WEEK!

The Hardys Face-off... I guess the third time is a charm... In this case its like the what... 3 billionth time?

(Side note... Watching ECW now... And Matt Striker as an announcer sucks. I heard a Big Pun and a Notorious BIG reference... I don't think he realizes they are two different people. Ugh... But I suppose he's better than me! He's there and I'm here. Back to the blog...)

They've tried and tried and finally got a halfway decent/believable Hardy Feud. And now, they are probably gonna have this as a one and one feud. So who comes out on top? I'm going to say Matt Hardy... As he needs this more than Jeff does. Jeff has always been seen as the "Shawn Michaels" while Matt is "Marty Jannetty." Even though, personally I think Matt has been better (until recent months as Jeff really has become a main eventer). Another scenario... Jeff wins and we get a Hardy Boyz vs. Miz & Morrison leading into the summer.

Next... Either World Title 3 Way or HBK/Taker...

I'm going with World Title 3 Way... Who wins though? I'm going to say Cena, as I believe HHH is dropping the belt to Orton. I think this match DIDN'T need Big Show, in fact I think the 3 Way Match at 'Mania went from being not done to being OVER done. Although now thinking, it may be Big Show winning with Orton winning later on. Giving us Cena/Orton and Show/Edge in the summer. Another scenario would be Cena winning and Orton losing leading to the same feuds. I guess either way, I've just cover both World Title matches but HHH/Orton Match will Main Event the entire PPV.

25 Diva Battle Royal... This will be before the Main Event. Who wins? Who knows? I think this won't lead to any angles. So I'm assuming we'll get some Santino Marella fun. And probably a Beth Pheonix win, positioning her as the top Diva in WWE today.

Last but not least... I probably the best story in WWE right now (As Orton/HHH didn't need this week's RAW and made it overkill last night). Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker... For me being an Undertaker mark... This is quite possibly the scariest match in regards to the streak. HBK could really be the guy to do it, as he "put down" Flair last year... Which I still think was dumb to a certain extent as they could have given the rub to a young star. I believe the same scenario is here. I think what makes this hard to call is the fact that Flair was known to be retiring, here Taker isn't... Rumored at times, but nothing close to be confirmed. And its my belief that the day Taker loses at 'Mania is the day he retires. So is it time? Looking at my Wrestling 101 book, no it isn't Taker's time. Michaels has been the one looking good every week. And usually that would say that Undertaker is winning. Plus, I believe if its going to end they are going to do it in style. And I believe there is too much going on for it to be the end... Random thought... JBL's History Making Moment Here?

Well there's my long winded predictions about Wrestlemania... Is there a NCAA-like pool to enter here? I feel fairly confident in my picks... Haha... In other news, visit my friend RC's site for Completely Damaged. He went from interviewing me to interviewing the guy I want to be, Joey Styles. Anyway, check it out http://www.myspace.com/completelydamaged.

If I don't blog before then... See you April 25th at PWU New Beginnings (ProWrestlingUnplugged.com)!

Stay classy,
Dan "The Phan"

Shook off the Rust

Well the whole point of this blog was supposed to be chronicling my life in pro wrestling. And well since I started the blog my chronicles have merely been behind my computer screen. Its amazing how time flies... I hadn't been behind the mic since September 20th! I went from announcing every single month sometimes more than that, to nothing! Although I haven't brought attention to that, I've missed it. I know I'm not in the ring so I don't really get that rush that some guys get... But damn I get a rush still. I probably will never step in the ring, but I still have that wrestling bug and announcing is the next best thing for me.

Did I make poor "political" decisions to get me in this hole? Possibly... Okay... Probably! Haha... This is probably why I should never run for a government position. Haha... But nevertheless, I've kept myself somewhat active in this crazy world so that I don't fade out and in hopes of getting my "chance" that may never come. Its my vice... What can I say?

Anyway... Finally, last week I made my "triumphant" return. I really wouldn't call it triumphant as I was cringing at my very very rusty play by play. But I made my return to WXW-C4. It was actually my first time working for the Anoa'i Family in about a year and a half. As I think about it... That was another bad "political" decision... Haha... Either way though, I've kept in touch with the people up there and was finally able to work another show last week. Going up I had a feeling I would encounter a ironic "job" as when I arrived I was told I would be working with Maven Bentley of CZW Fame. Haha... Obviously those who follow the internet reports like they are the bible would expect that the two of us threw down. And while that would be an enjoyable story to tell, nothing of the sort happened. Sorry. Actually it was really the first person outside of Jake Black that I felt that I was able to work with well. I've worked with others, but I've been told they didn't come off as well... But I feel that Maven and I, with some more broadcasts could work out pretty good. So although I was sub-par, I think the time off helped me break away from my "one trick pony" so to speak. Plus it was also nice to just shake off the rust and get back out there. And what was extremely awesome to see up there... They had a packed house, more people than the last time I was up. And on top of that it was a HOT crowd. After hearing and seeing so much negativity lately in the independent scene, it was a sight for sore eyes to see that. I think what was more interesting was... It was simple booking. It wasn't complicated. I was talking with my roomate earlier and we kind of agreed that entertainment in general tries to be too complicated. Too many swerves and nonsense like that, when really whats on fire now? UFC... And you know what? UFC has a simple formula... Two guys kicking the crap out of each other. That isn't to say you can't have swerves and whatnot... But keep it simple. Re-train the fans. WXW-C4 seemed to do that and I believe when they eventually try to break the mold and "challenge" the fans they will only get better.

I think I covered it all... Soon yours truly will rise once again a be "The God Of All Media" as I will be all over PWU and WXW-C4. So stay tuned... And more importantly...

Stay Classy,
Dan "The Phan"

Competition

Here I am again... Lately the creative juices have been flowin'. Which weren't flowing for awhile.

ANYWAY...

Over the last week or two the idea about competition in wrestling has been on my mind. It is no secret that I "left" Pro Wrestling Unuplugged for a brief time to join the new Velocity Pro. And its no secret that I "left" Velocity Pro to come back to PWU. Yes, there is a whole story behind it... But no I won't go into all that now.

However very recently it all started getting me thinking. Granted I am on the side of letting the workers work wherever they want and pretty much be booked however the promotion feels fit, within reason. I say within reason because... Well its not good for one company's champion to be booked for the "competition" and to not be booked to win. Hence why I totally agree with the decision to dismiss The S.A.T. from PWU... They were PWU TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS JOBBING IN CZW! Yeah I know... I contradicted myself. But it makes sense. Other wrestlers have worked both and some currently work both PWU and CZW or CZW and Chikara, or whatever. But very rarely to champions get "jobbed out." Now if its out of state say like PWG all the way out in Cali... Well then who cares?! But when its in the same market (in this case Philly) its a huge deal. Otherwise I don't really care who works where.

With that being said now... I do understand why other promoters are uncomfortable with people working competing companies within the same market. While I don't really like it... I understand it. And this is the thought that has been "haunting" me. Because it really gets me contradiction myself. Rewind to January 2007... The Philadelphia Wrestling scene was seemingly hot! Maybe not as hot as it was in the late-90s into early 2000s, but it was hot! I was still a young buck in the wrestling business and it was exciting. I'm sure if you go back in the posts on DOI you'll see the back and forth battle between PWU and CZW. At the time, talent was held closely by the management by either company. Very, very, very few worked both at the same time. And it made sense. It was almost a mini-WWE/WCW feud. I think a few of the workers benefitted from this "war" as I know some people were paid hefty just to stay with one company or another. And who won in all of this? The Philadelphia Wrestling Fans! All the message boards were on fire. People were choosing sides. It was great. Competition is a very good thing.

Now February, 2009... The war is more or less over. Maybe it will flare up again. Who knows? But now I sit here and go... Why? Why can't this person work here, etc.? Who cares?! Do I look at things this way because I'm not out there calling all the matches like I was back in 2006-2008? And at the same token... People are calling it all a "war" when there really isn't. We're in a terrible economy and no company is staying afloat easily. Here now I look at things like... Well I think a few of us should try to team up to keep going. Or do we try that competition thing again to get people into it. Because we all know, no one will go out to a show or buy into a product that doesn't satisfy us. We all do it. What are we to do?

It looks like the wrestling world has decided to keep competing with each other. So that's what the name of the game is. Some will be left behind, while others will strive. And honestly... Although I am a little worried about the not only the state of the wrestling world, but the economy... I remember that I'm a history teacher and remember that this was all experienced before and there is a light at the end of the tunnel. So the thought of competition gives me hope that the wrestling world will survive and be stronger.

Stay classy...
Dan "The Phan" Cowhey

Jericho versus the World

That's right... Two blogs in very short period of time. And on top of that, I gave my blog an official home right here on Blogger.

Not many people, that I could tell, wrote about Chris Jericho's run in with some fans over the weekend. The news picked up on it and all. Funny, when he was trying to be mainstream, it didn't really work out. Now he's mainstream with very little effort, although that's probably proof that the WWE Machine works.

Anyway, if you didn't hear/see the news... Jericho was trying to leave a house show over the weekend and was mobbed by a group of fans. Long story short, he was blocked in the parking lot by a huge group of fans and was being harassed. One thing led to another and he was spat on and attacked. During the attack he hit a female fan, male fan, and a worthless security guard (or two or three). Just search for it YouTube and you'll find it. Actually Fox News did a piece on it for one of their legal shows. One lawyer sided with Jericho, while another sided with the fans.

I should start off by saying... I love the fans! I hope I personally have a fan or two out there, even if I've only been in the "spotlight" for 3 years. But even the fans can agree that there are some out there that "cross the line." For crying out loud, I'm from Philadelphia and I know every Philly fan out there will admit that we cross the line time to time. (Cheering at Michael Irving NECK injury) Personally I believed these people crossed a line. Granted, Jericho I'm sure played it up since he's heel and he seems to be a little more old school at heart. Hell, that's probably the best part about being heel. You can be a dick in "real life" and get away with it. But still, he's trying to leave. People circled his car and prevented that, and security just stood there picking their noses. Obviously Jericho isn't gonna run them down in his car. From the videos I saw, it really didn't look like he got out of the car to kick some ass. I'm sure he figured he'd get out, maybe sign a few autographs to appease the people and leave. But then he got harassed. Sure, he egged them on all night. But still did he take a swing at people during the show? No! So whether the guy is a jerk or not is besides the point. At that point, security should have stepped in and moved the mob. If it was a "real" sports star that would have happened. And a guy like Terrell Owens garners more heat than Jericho. So yeah... He was justified. And yeah... WWE is right by not punishing him. Hell... They probably liked it! Now he's more of a heel by hitting a fan or two and making it onto the news. And sure the news gives it a negative spin. Just look at the video, and from the fan accounts I saw, Jericho was pretty much justified.

If you read any biography of wrestlers that have worked the Old School or Mexico, you'll fully understand what Jericho did. To the best of my knowledge stuff like this doesn't happen anymore, except in Mexico. They are just a different breed of fan there. They get so wrapped up in wrestling that they take everything to heart. But back to the point... They are trained when they are heels for situations exactly like this. I think its Eddie Guerreros Biography that really explains this. They are pretty much told to grab the first person they see and just go nuts on them, and that prompts everyone to back off. Look at the video, Jericho does that. At the very end of the video when a couple people come at him, he gets his hands on one guy and takes him to the ground and lands a few shots. He lets go and just goes nuts at security. And look! The crowd backs away. And Jericho finally is able to leave.

Even if Jericho is somehow in the wrong. I really blame it on the security. They all pretty much allow the situation to escalate. They don't lift a figure until Jericho goes after someone.

And really I could go on about security but I don't really feel like it. Haha...

My verdict...
Jericho is innocent
(And I'm not just saying that because I'm a Jericho Mark!)

Stay classy,
Dan "The Phan" Cowhey