WHO'S NEXT?

It's happened. The WWE Network has launched. While many of Vince's fellow promoters and businessmen all seem to think this is a bad idea, none of them are willing to bet against Vinnie Mac. I can see how this benefits them from guaranteed PPV views equaling more endorsements and things like that, to collecting a bit off of things we've all watched for free for years now, etc. And even if it fails like the XFL did before, they simply take the hit and go back to being a money making juggernaut. Vince McMahon's greatness lies in his willingness to "try". Even when, sorry, especially when people say it won't work (see inaugural Wrestlemania, amongst other things).

With access to the WWE's libraries as well as all the companies that they've acquired over the years, mixed in with the age that we live in currently and the current success of superstars Goldust and the New Age Outlaws making a resurgence of sorts of the Attitude Era. I am left wondering who could we see in a WWE ring in the future? Whether it be in-ring or or a non-active role. What superstars of yesteryear will begin to make appearance upon the list of what is "trending" a la Twitter, Facebook or some other form of social media? There are plenty out there who can "still go" and simply haven't been back  in WWE for awhile or luckily didn't end up in TNA Wrestling at some point over the years. Of course there are also those who have, but may have been forgotten. If anything perhaps it will help some of them get into the WWE Hall Of Fame and/or sign a Legends contract with the WWE. Some seem to be getting work at the new WWE Performance Center as trainers, etc, even then, it is one step closer to being called back up.

Here's a list of possible stars who we could see again in a more current role in the WWE thanks to the WWE Network launching...

Goldberg

New fans and old fans alike will witness and rewitness "The Streak" in all of its glory. Which was pretty well done I must say, it was how it was ended that was a tad bit suspect. It did have to end at some point. Add this to the fact that there is still a "Goldberg" chant that happens when ever Ryback is out there. Will lay mostly in Goldberg's hands though, as it has been more of his own preference not to be apart of the WWE.

Ken Shamrock

It is possible that some fans today aren't even aware of the UFC Hall Of Famer's run in the WWE. Not sure if others would want to see it, but in the properly run UFC, this would never happen, but Ken Shamrock Vs Brock Lesner. Of course the risk of "ego" could have this match turn into a shoot, but if the two were to remain professional, they could possibly come up with some new moves that incorporate multiple MMA's styles into pro-wrestling's catch-as-catch-can form.

Kurt Angle

He's in TNA Wrestling and still going, but cannot mention the two names just mentioned without adding Olympic gold medalist, Kurt Angle to the mix. He's expressed that he would be willing once his contract is up. Whether Kurt is still in good condition (with TNA who knows) and can have another run or not. Whether it would be to face the "new" Brock Lesner or to simply take his place in the WWE Hall Of Fame.

Kevin Nash

He's had some appearance over the years since leaving TNA Wrestling, his initial Royal Rumble return a couple years ago was huge. Maybe not a full-time inring job, but I could see a "back to basics" and being a bodyguard of sorts for HBK types (endurance, speed, etc) like Dolph Ziggler if he goes back to heal. Or even in some type of training role. He may be limited in moves in some other peoples opinions, but none can deny Big Sexy's mic work, can't teach the "it" factor, but you can teach those who have it how to deliver it.
Apparently he doesn't care about being in the HOF but I think that is to ensure he's talked about as being the one who "never got in" long after he's gone. Nash, always thinking.

Owen Hart

Obviously we won't see the late wrestler perform again, but with the WWE Network long time as well as a whole new generation will get to see Owen and all of his greatness. Not sure of the details, but perhaps Owen's wife would be open to him being inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame. Not a single drop of pressure though, given the understandable circumstances. But, it is really nice to see that a new gen' will get to enjoy The King Of Hart's as much as we did and will again.

E.C.W.

A chant that has somewhat died off like the "what?" chant has, possibly "Yes!" and "No!" being to blame, but don't be surprised if you don't start to hear it once again with the ECW catalog, not just WWE's ECW, but the original E.C.F'n.W. library in all its blood and glory. Now there aren't many that the WWE would really bother since they didn't push that many in the past, but the ones that did make it in the WWE like RVD (who's there now kinda), Tazz (in TNA doing color), and Bully Ray aka Bubba Ray Dudley and his brother Devon (Bully is in TNA, not sure where Devon went. Retired?). Who all added to the WWE's success pre and post purchase of WCW. The WWE Network could lead to a small last ECW run, or at least small solo runs for some, Hall Of Fame inductions for others.


There is really an endless list, all depends on everyone's favorites and if anyone even bothers to make some noise about the stars of yesteryear, but with the new generation there is a chance that at least the current levels get increased and the WWE takes notice. It is interesting to wonder how things would have been during any of the past era's let alone the Monday Night Wars if we had he multiple forms of social media that we have today. Which superstar and moments would have been top "trends"? Head to head for top spot on Twitter or Facebooks "trending" list, Stone Cold Steve Austin and Goldberg. Degeneration-X and the n.W.o. Think about it. Pro-Wrestling dominated television during the "Wars", and has always been one of the leaders in PPV's. Imagine what it would've done to the social media outlets at those peak moments. A lot more #SuckIt #nWo4Life #WhoopAss #SOB and heavy flow of #HolyShi...you get it.

Could give ol' Stone Cold the extra push he needs to at least give us...one more match!

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#22?

The Streak almost cements that Undertaker's status. Not only because of the wins, but because of what it has become. An attraction. A main event attraction. Similar to what the late Andre The Giant was, only the caliber of matches are a thing of beauty. The last few years, the Deadman has gone to extreme lengths to ensure his match would be "Wrestlemania Moment" worthy and a worthy contender for "Match Of The Year" honors.

A lot of people surprisingly want or feel the streak needs to end. I disagree. It is all over what that happens. And with a year to heal and prepare, it should make 23-0 or 25-0 possibly. And the matches keep getting better. If the early matches in the streak were ever remotely good, it was because of the Undertaker. Take a look back, you'll see which opponents would be hard for anyone to work with...

Brock Lesner

The front runner in the rumor department. And has been a rumor since their brief face to face at an UFC PPV while Brock was exiting the cage after his fight. We may have seen these two square off during Brock's first run in WWE, but not on the grandest stage of them all, plus let's not forget, this is a different Brock Lesner. Will be interesting to see if they work some MMA-esque things in the match. 'Taker is a fan, and you can tell by his legendary strikes, may be "pulled' (luckily for his opponent) but they are near perfect form. Oh, and with Brock being more than just an amateur wrestler and now more rounded MMA fighter. As if I had to mention that. This match also has the drawing power that transcends into the MMA community (fans and media) who will watch and cover the event because of Brock's involvement. Especially if he is victim #22 and not the one to who ends the streak.

The Shield

All signs seem to be leading to a break-up of the dominant trio. Although many are thinking that they will all face each other at Wrestlemania XXX, I think there is a chance the split will happen at 'Mania, or the next night on Raw after the Deadman reclaims his "yard" making them "famous" (more so). Remember the last time we saw the Undertaker, it was The Shield who took him out of action. Retribution is coming at some point. Could it be a Wrestlemania XXX?

John Cena

Cena was rumored awhile ago, but now rumors and some recent events point to Cena facing Bray Wyatt at Wrestlemania XXX. Which is fine, Bray deserves a match with one of the WWE's biggest names. For the casual and hardcore fan alike though, Cena would've possibly been the biggest threat to the streak. For the casual fan he is what "Hulk Hogan" was in the 80's generation, then the rest are a mix of "it should end" and "Cena needs to turn heel". If it does end, it should go to someone who's proven himself not a "hopeful", and if Cena were to turn heel, this is one of the ways that would make it go over very well. Even the casual fan could have an issue with the streak ending and be against the person responsible. But also, being a loser to 'Taker at Mania is an honor, and Cena has also earned that.

Sting

For years, the rumors begin with "The Road To Wrestlemania" that WCW and TNA Legend, Sting, would be signing with the WWE. Not only to be inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame (deserved when it happens), but also to fulfill a dream match against The Undertaker at Wrestlemania. With each passing year it gets closer to the "we hope it doesn't happen" age frame, but with a certain "Icon" no longer under contract with TNA, he rumor mills have been saying Sting is close to arriving. Most are stating this match won't happen this year, but there is high hope and more possible to happen at Wrestlemania 31 in LA. But, would be nice to see sooner than later with age being a possible but slight factor.

CM Punk

His "walk-out" may be legit. But, maybe it isn't. With the Undertaker apparently working with his opponents well in advance to fine tune their matches at Mania, perhaps that is where CM Punk has been. Also take a look at Undertakers last string of Wrestlemania victims, Shawn Michaels at 25 and 26, Triple H at 27 and 28, and then CM Punk at Wrestlemania 29. Just in case you missed the pattern, Undertaker has been facing his prey two years in a row, and CM Punk is set for his rematch. And although it may not be "the" main event for the strap, it is the next best thing, and better than facing Triple H.



With a lot of people being rumored and confirmed for the Raw immediately before the WWE Network Launch (Monday, February 24th, 2014) and the Phenom being one of them, I am sure we will get the answer as to who his next victim will be. Although it could be answered sooner than that via tonights Raw or next Sunday's "Elimination Chamber" PPV. Regardless, personally I can't wait.

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JOURNEY TO GREATNESS

Not to be confused with the WWE's annual "Road To Wrestlemania", which is currently underway. This is about professional wrestlers who have gone through a string of characters before finding "the one". Some entrants on the list are those who had found the perfect character, but then revamped themselves to prolong their careers within the squared-circle. From a simple heel or face turn to a complete over haul, in most cases it was a matter of being allowed to be themselves. With the volume cranked past eleven as they say.

Will try to leave out the wrestlers who had already discovered themselves, but the WWF (WWE) forced a gimmick of sorts on them, but there are some who took their careers to another level with said gimmick...

Stone Cold Steve Austin

Stunning Steve Austin, and The Ringmaster. Austin made the "Stunning" thing work, and made it even better when teamed with the late Brian Pillman for the tag team "Hollywood Blondes". The Ring Master gimmick, despite adding the "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase Sr and holding the Million Dollar Championship belt didn't help this one. A combo of being himself (which he did in a short stop in ECW before) and Jake "The Snake" Roberts religion gimmick at that time, the "Austin 3:16 Says I Just Whooped Your Ass!" line was dropped and the rest was history. Oh Hell Yeah!! WHAT?!?

Hulk Hogan

The stars of the 80's, especially the ones who were at the forefront of Vince McMahon's vision of Sports Entertainment, are hard to add but hard not to add to this list. As most were already established stars across the territories before Vinnie Mac scooped them all up and made them global superstars. Which is where most of todays fans joined pro-wrestling fandom. The Hulkster made the cut for his ability to prolong his career, and even go to another level when he turned heel and unleashed the Hollywood Hogan gimmick on us via the n.W.o. Which translated into another "run" when he returned to the WWE and turned face. Even beating Triple H for the Undisputed WWE Championship strap. Love or hate him, he's the Babe Ruth of professional wrestling, Brother!

Bubba Ray/Bully Ray

Shocked that a current TNA star made the list? Understandable. However, I felt this one deserved in. Starting as the stuttering member of one of the greatest tag teams ever (Dudley Boys/Team 3-D), and evolving off of that and being more of the leader/mouth of the Dudleys. What helped him make this list is that he was able to find a gimmick that worked for him after the tag team split. Something that wasn't happening in the WWE days when they attempted to do the same. Bully Ray was even the leader of one of TNA's better things in the Aces & Eights faction. And he's in the best shape of his career.

Rikishi

Fun fact: Yokozuna was supposed to be a member of the Samoan tag team, "The Headshrinkers, but was replaced by Rikishi when they (WWE) decided to put Yoko in the Sumo gimmick instead. After that, he became The Saulton, and followed by more of an urban version of himself, and then finally, he became almost the wrestling equivelant of Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez, became famous for dat butt. Talented in the ring of course, but the "Stink Face" would always garner a massive pop from the crowds.

Triple H

He came into the business via WCW as "", then came over to the WWF(WWE) and started as a blue-blooded snob from Greenwich, CT (Vince's jab at his neighbors) Hunter Hearst Helmsley. He really took off after forming DeGeneration-X with WWE Hall Of Famer Shawn Michaels and becoming Triple H, and then exploded after taking the reigns of D-X. Then he evolved into The Game. Now he has extended his characters career until his end with the corporate angle. Unless of course he and Stephanie get a divorce one day, but even then, the McMahons have a habit of pushing personal feelings aside in the name of business.

Kevin Nash

True, Big Daddy Cool made it big with the "Diesel" gimmick, but things went to another level when he and Scott Hall jumped ship to WCW, and used his real name Kevin Nash a co-founder of n.W.o. But not all are aware of the failed gimmicks Big Sexy had tried out before becoming Diesal or ending Goldberg's streak. There was Vinnie Vegas, Master Blaster, Oz (a rip-off of The Wizard Of Oz) as well as others. But I am sure Nash counts all the money he's made over the years and laughs along with us.


There are many others who have either gone through a string of failed gimmicks, or upgraded their gimmicks to remain fresh, but end up "making it" or at least have a lengthy career. Perhaps another list in the future covering some more like Kane, or even his brother the Undertaker. Love or hate the "American Badass" gimmick, it made way for a great return of the "Deadman".

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FEMALE HALL OF FAMERS

Congrats to Lita on her upcoming induction into the WWE's Hall Of Fame. She'll be joining other female Hall Of Famer's, Trish Stratus, Mae Young, "The Fabulous" Moolah, among a few others. Which is also well deserved, having established her own niche in the history of pro-wrestling being unique from those she was competing with as well as those who came before her.

With the list of female wrestlers in the past being quite low, especially in comparison with the guys, it isn't a surprise that the female count within the WWE Hall Of Fame is low. And with the the inductions seemingly creeping into the "Attitude Era" in terms of the inductees (mostly), which is also when there was a real resurgence in the women's division, it isn't odd to wonder who would be next. Also, it would be wrong to wonder who should be in there but curious as to "if" they ever will. They say to never say never in this business, so here's a list of possible future female WWE Hall Of Fame Inductees...

Medusa

In the early 1990's she was Alundra Blayze the WWF Womens Champion, when the women's division was somewhat making a return after a slight hiatus, only for it to kind of disappear once again. The next time we saw her and the WWF Womens Championship belt, was on an episode of WCW Monday Night Nitro, with Alundra Blayze now known as Medusa, dumping the title belt in a garbage pail on live television. She is also a former WCW Women's Champion. If she doesn't get inducted, it may be by her own decision. Vince and the WWE are known for "sucking it up" for the good of business, and despite the major insult with the belt it was a massive moment in the Monday Night Wars and the history of wrestling.

Ivory

The mouthy firecracker of the women's division, but despite the ability to talk (a lot), Ivory could "go" in the ring. Her three title reigns showed that. As annoying as her "Right To Censor" gimmick was, it was meant to do that and she did it amazingly. Even standing out from the rest of the RTC at times both in the squared circle and on the microphone.

Stacey Keibler

She did try to develop some in ring ability, we all remember her foot chokes on her opponents showing us all her super long legs. It was her performances as a manager that earns her a spot though, if not just for her popularity (it is a business after all, and she drew on looks alone). She was a new age Miss Elizabeth, and as long as she was put with someone who was talented, she didn't over-shadow them, and helped their careers. Plus, there were rumors Stephanie McMahon was trying to get her inducted this year as a "big" name induction.

Luna Vachon

If there was one "Diva" who truly broke stereotypes on women's wrestling it was Luna. Coming from one of wrestling's family dynasties, she had the ability in the ring, cut it was her over the top character that helped her stand out amongst the more traditional "Divas". Not only a great wrestler, she also made for a perfect manager/valet for anyone who has a "weird" gimmick and need help getting over. Never did get a title reign, so perhaps an induction into the Hall will suffice.

Victoria/Tara

She came in as one of The Godfather's "Ho's", but then, like her friend Trish Stratus, this former fitness model became one the best female wrestlers of our generation. Who can forget her "Street Fight" match with Trish back in 2003? They proved the girls can do what they guys can on that night. She's been in TNA Wrestling the last few years, but like many others, isn't at the present moment. Would be nice to see her recognized in the form of a WWE Hall Of Fame induction. Two title reigns as WWE Women's Champion in the WWE, her reigns in the competing (now floundering) TNA are also worth mentioning, although won't help any in her getting the nod.

Jacqueline

She may have been tiny, but if there was a female wrestler that you thought could kick your butt, and most likely could, it was Jacqueline. She held her own on the mic, in the ring and in a bikini (90's and 00's was loaded with that), and even held her own against the men, winning the WWE Cruiserweight Champion in 2004 to go along with her two reigns as WWE Women's Champion.

Chyna

This one mat fall entirely on her. On both a personal and on a business level. Obviously she would have to completely sweep her feelings on Stephanie & Triple H and what had happened in the past. Old, long story short; Chyna & Triple H were a real life item that ended when he hooked up with Stephanie in real life. But, even more important than that is she would have to remain clean and sober like a list of other wrestlers have seemingly, and rightly so, have had to do (ie Jake Roberts most recently). And perhaps, just maybe stay out of the porn industry as well. We'll have to see if the former WWE Intercontinental Champion and former WWE Women's Champion ever gets into the Hall.


There could be others as well, women like Torrie Wilson, Molly Holly, among others. Regardless, the list is a lot shorter then the men's. I would possibly induct a female every other year as to not run the list dry. Stacy Keibler and Torrie Wilson are pushing it, as they weren't the best of wrestlers when they attempted, but still drew in money for WCW and WWE. Unfortunately, the list isn't going to get much longer as the now "Divas" division is openly mocked at times. Luckily, there are still some names that could one day be Hall Of Famers (AJ Lee, Natalya Neidhart, etc). Hopefully by then we can include TNA female wrestlers in the list, as they had for the longest time, a much superior women's division. Until then...


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MISSING FROM THE WWE HALL OF FAME

Being more similar to the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame than that of a professional sports Hall Of Fame, like that of baseball in good old Cooperstown. Things like politics, popularity, are amongst the things that are weighed in on during the selection process. Not exactly sure mind you, but all these things seem to be involved when looking at past inductions and the snubs that occur every year.

Here are a list of wrestlers, managers and celebrities that have yet to be inducted into what has become the illustrious WWE Hall Of Fame...

"Macho Man" Randy Savage

Similar to the Sting rumors and speculation that occurs this time of year, Macho Man's right up there with Hall Of Fame whispers. Reasons for why the late legend range from him wanting his family (The Poffo's) to all be inducted, similar to that of the Von Erich family, to the ever popular, Vince won't induct Savage because Randy had relations with Stephanie McMahon during his WWE tenure. With Macho Man having passed away and his brother and the McMahons staying tight lipped on the situation, we may never know why. As outlandish as the Stephanie thing may seem, the fact that Vince is well known for "sucking it up" in the name of business, it isn't so far fetched, however with how proud of a man that Randy was, the wanting the Poffo family to be inducted seems reasonable as well. Fans don't care, we just want it done. Ooooooooh Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa! Dig It!!

Owen Hart

I've read that it is the late wrestler's wife who has doesn't want this or anything to do with wrestling. Nobody can blame her with the way that Owen lost his life, the circumstances surrounding that situation. It could however be nice ending to all of this, allowing her and Owen's fans to fully move on. There is good news as the WWE Network will have Owen's WWE career on display, with of course Over The Edge being edited out of respect for the late wrestler and his family. Perhaps one day this induction will happen. Bret will do the honors of course.

Enhancement Wing

Up until the Monday Night Wars begun really, these wrestlers were not only key to developing and debuting talent, they were at times just as known as the people they were putting over. The Rock's catchphrase "Jabroni" sort of made them a pun, but let's not forget their importance in the past. Sean "X-Pac/Syxx/123 Kid" Waltman began or appeared to begin as one in the WWE. Don't forget names like "Iron Mike" Sharpe, or *pats self on the back* Barry Horowitz. Even the Hardys were an enhancement tag team before stepping up to non-Jabroni status.

Chris Benoit

Despite how great he was in that squared circle, the decision to not induct him makes complete and total sense with how things occurred. Which is sad, as again he was a great wrestler who had legendary matches with the likes of Jericho, Booker T, list goes on, but don't forget about his matches with Olympic gold medalist, Kurt Angle. If things were different, imagine the match(es) the late wrestler would have had with todays superstars in both WWE and TNA. Names like Daniel Bryan, CM Punk, AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, etc. And we will be able to see past action involving Benoit on the upcoming WWE Network.

Scott Hall

Hey yo! Now it is possible, and likely that the WWE has been waiting for Razor Ramon to clean up and get healthy, and stay clean. Which from what I have seen has been the case with everyone's favorite, Bad Guy. It was speculated that Scott skipped out on being with Shawn Michaels for his induction, as to avoid any old demons knocking him of the wagon, but he appears to be doing well so it may just be a matter of time. If Wrestlemania takes place in Atlanta  again in the future, would love to see a "n.W.o" theme with Hall, Kevin Nash and Sean Waltman all going in.

Mr. T

I was surprised when I read that he wasn't already in, as I assumed he perhaps was inducted during the days when the HOF wasn't as big of a deal as it is today. He was, for most of us, the first celebrity to step between the ropes and be in the match. First in the main event of the innaugrial Wrestlemania teaming with Hulk Hogan, and then in a Boxing turned Wrestling match with the legendary Rowdy Roddy Piper. I heard this has been on his end by declining the induction, but I pity the fool who doesn't think he should be in there.

Tazz

If there was anybody who transitioned from ECW to WWE the best, it was Tazz. Some may say Rob Van Dam, but Taz was allowed to speak more, and was even able to extend his career behind the announce table. It may be due to his tenure at TNA obviously, but the moment he is off that sinker, it is time to have an ECW themed Hall Of Fame. It isn't as often as it used to, but there are still "ECW" chants at times. Tazz, Paul Heyman, The Dudleys (when Bully/Bubba Ray is done in TNA) and RVD (when he's finished wrestling) all deserve a spot. Any area would work, but Philly or New York would be quite the rowdy Hall Of Fame crowd to hear. The Human Suplex Machine deserves to make the HOF just another victim.

Eric Bischoff

Love him or hate him, Easy E' gave us a really good WCW for a long time. There may have been some old school fans at that time who didn't like things, but the ratings and money didn't translate that. Bischoff took WCW and went head to head with Vince McMahon and WWE, and was winning and almost put them out of business. This of course, turned into the WWE and the talent raising their games even higher for not just the comeback, but the purchasing of WCW. Some of the greatest moments in pro wrestling came from Eric Bischoff's WCW (Hogan and n.W.o., Goldberg and his streak, etc). He may have to be completly done with wrestling before this ever happens, but with past promoters and wrestlers have proven Vince will induct you if it is good for business. I think this would be. the case.

Vince Russo

I AM JOKING!!!! RELAX!!!! Laughter is good for the soul ahahahaha

Vince McMahon

He isn't a young man, even though he may outlive us all. However, in any case, it would be great to see Vinnie Mac break down and be genuinely humble, but more importantly, it would be great to see him thank all the wrestlers who sacrificed so much to help his company grow and dominate. It would be interesting to see who he would name drop in doing so. One would think 'Taker would be, given his loyalty through the "War". Austin for the money. His father was inducted in the 1996 Hall Of Fame ceremony.

Wrestling Families

I have read there is talks of the WWE inducting "matches". Which I am not quite sure is good, with some matches being great matches but then some matches were simply hyped up matches (ie Hulk/Andre at Mania III). Factions is a good way to continue on going, however, I think that perhaps they should look at inducting wrestling families first. We have the Von Erich Family in there, and numerous members from wrestling families in there, why not have that be a new "wing"? Families like the Hart's, Vochon's, Poffo's, Windham-Rotunda's, Armstrong's (Road Dogg's family), amongst others. The first induction really should be the Anoa'i-Maivia family, not only huge, but several current and future Hall Of Famers are amongst them.


Goldberg, Lex Luger, and a long list of others deserve a spot, and then there are those still in "the game" who it will become a matter of when, or "why not's" every year they don't. There is Sting, but he may be close to achieving this if reports are correct.

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WRESTLERS WHO NEED A #2 COMPANY

Now I am not saying the WWE needs another promotion trying to take them down, but a little competition doesn't hurt. If anything it makes things better on a variety of levels. With one being the talent. In the territory days talent would have a run in one area, then move to another area and have a run there, and then return to the first territory. Some would go to a variety of places, but the reasons were mostly to keep the talent "fresh". There would be times where territories would trade wrestlers with each other to help one another and the talent out. This carried on somewhat when it was down to WWE, WCW and ECW even. Although this time around it was more about stealing talent (which is how WWE choked out the territories). Regardless of "how", the talent was still able to refresh themselves and extend their careers. Examples of this were Hulk Hogan who went over to WCW from WWE, and then was even able to extend his career with the nWo and his Hollywood gimmick.

It was somewhat still there when TNA has slowly began to attract former WWE talent, which worked well at the very beginning with stars like Kurt Angle, Christian, Jeff Hardy (very early TNA), etc. They were even able to give Sting another run. But, that quickly turned into what WCW was before it "died", with most of the new talent being WWE rejects stealing time from TNA talent, instead of working not only well, but greatly with them (ie Angle/Styles). Yes, there are many other problems within TNA, but signing better WWE alumni would help, as again, there are times when it had worked wonderfully. No, I don't think those listed should sign with TNA, I am simply saying a new #2 company would help them in my opinion, Ring Of Honor is the ECW of the three for me, as it appears more "raw" like ECW was in comparison to the "Big 2", so it is on TNA or maybe even Jarrett and Toby Keith's possible new promotion, to step up and give these WWE stars a fresh run. Even just to prove to the WWE that they are capable of main event status, or great matches with TNA alumni (those who remain that is).

The Miz

Now the "haters" rate The Miz on where he is at, while I rate him on how far he has come. I can remember The Miz when he was a reality show nobody on "Million Dollar Tough Enough" (I also remember Ryback from back then too). He has come a very long way as a talent both in the ring and on the mic. From the punk kid in the caprice pants, who apparently was kicked out of the locker room for awhile backstage. He is a great heel, and at times works well as a baby face, but a change of scenary would greatly benefit him. New storylines and matches with new list of talent. Where he can hit the refresh button while also possible learn an extra thing or two in the ring.

Zack Ryder

Personally I am not a fan, but he has a large internet fan base, which nowadays means a little something. He's pretty much run his course in the WWE, unless he goes back into tag-team wrestling I don't see any future other than "enhancement talent" aka a Jabroni. A new company, a new lease on life. He could perhaps go in a direction he wants or someone will have an idea for something that would work. TNA had the jump on WWE in the social media department if you think about it. They just didn't capitalize like the WWE tends to do with things. Ryder could perhaps himself capitalize there, and have a Christian (Cage) like run. Woo Woo Woo! You know it....maybe.

Kofi Kingston

I always say that he needs to turn heel, but perhaps it is the WWE who has not allowed that, or even character expansion. Kofi has been the new Shelton Benjamin for years, he needs to be more than the MITB and Royal Rumble guy. He's talented enough to have some amazing matches, but he needs some fresh faces to keep that interesting really at times. More likely to break mid-card status elsewhere also.

CM Punk

He needs to let things heal both physically and mentally first, but wouldn't it of been nice for Punk to have some options upon his return? True, even being absent from the WWE for a bit and then returning will be great. We know he is likely going there though. Ring Of Honor maybe, but right now a well paying and also a possible post career with the WWE, chances are higher he's coming back to Vince.

Christian

He is part of the reason I wished TNA had done well, especially when the chances of either a match against Edge or an E&C reunion with him were not happening with Edge's retirement due to his spin and neck. Add that his run was short, and never played out to anything. He really needed a successful home to go to for one more run and then "One More Match!". Christian is scheduled to be in the upcoming Elimination Chamber match for the WWE World Heavyweight title, but he is really the sleeper pick in this one, when the main event of Wrestlemania XXX is on the line. If WM30 was taking place in any part of Canada, or even Florida, I would give him a shot, but I don't see it. Christian Cage was a proven main event talent while in TNA.

AJ Styles

Now he's not a WWE talent, but that is kind of the point, he isn't and might not ever be one. There weren't many, if any, people arguing that TNA was "The House That AJ Styles Built" both inside or outside the walls of TNA Wrestling. He isn't under contract with them anymore, and if they don't turn things around by the look of things, won't be the only TNA Original who says goodbye. Which is sad as they are very talented. Here's hoping Jeff Jarrett doesn't forget the guys and gals who helped him TNA a success if and when he opens the new wrestling promotion with Toby Keith. AJ Styles would make a great addition to any roster. WWE doesn't seem to see even CM Punk/Daniel Bryan as a big deal, let alone either of those two with AJ.

Curtis Axel

Even with the slight bump in the tag-team  division, I still don't see being paired with Ryback as a good thing for this third generation superstar. They need to give his character time to grow. Randy Orton wasn't an immediate success, and it was a little obvious they were hoping for an immediate new Rock in the beginning. I don't know all the details with DiBiase Jr, but he wasn't given much time (nor the money his father was during his run) to grow. Curtis Axel (Joe Henning) could've benefited from a bit more one-on-one time with Paul Heyman as his manager perhaps, a throw back to his father and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan.  A new fresh scene could also help, instead of watching possible greatness go stale in a dead end tag team. If it was more like Legacy? A lot better situation.


There are other stars such as Dolph Ziggler, and again, I am not saying anyone needs to jump over to TNA, definitely not now as the problems go further than signing the wrong talent in the past, and the current roster isn't bad at all, just lacks depth. Also, I am not saying to hop onto whatever Jarrett and Keith bring us. Just stating that these guys and others not listed could use a change of scenery to freshen up, or find something that works, or prove, etc etc. The best times in professional wrestling have come when there were more than one dog in the yard.

Stay Nerdy!

IT'S IN THE GENES

It may not always be genetics, but there is definitely a perk to being apart of a wrestling family. Since the end of the territory days, with the exception of Kerry Von Erich maybe, there hadn't really been a known to be next generation wrestler until The Rock in the late 90's being the WWE's first 3rd Generation Wrestler. Most but not were aware of the 2nd Generation stars like "Macho Man" Randy Savage, Jake "The Snake" Roberts, Bret "The Hitman" Hart amongst others.

The WWE currently has roughly 10+ next generation wrestlers working both the current main rosters as well as NXT. Some are part of their characters or announced every show like Cody Rhodes and Goldust being the 2nd Generation stars following in their legendary father, Dusty Rhodes footsteps. There is Curtis Axel (Joe Henning) who is currently following in The Rock's initial steps, using a combo of both his father (Rocky Johnson) and Grandfather (High Chief Peter Maivia) with Rocky Maivia. Then there is Roman Reigns of The Shield, who is in fact a third generation superstar in his own right being son of Afa (and is also brother of former WWE star Rosie, Super Hero In Training). Plus others, some of whom will be mentioned below.

Here are a list of some of the wrestling families, while I'll be sticking with the better known members, in most cases some of these bloodlines seem to produce nothing but wrestlers, who simply never made it to WWE, WCW or even TNA Wrestlings rosters over the years.

The Anoa'i/Maivia Family

Possibly the largest wrestling family there is, and a knack for giving us top performers over these years. Greats like High Chief Peter Maivia, Wild Samoans Afa and Sika, Yokozuna (yes non-hardcore fans he was actually Samoan), Rikishi (who's used many monikers), The Rock, Umaga, Rosie, and a bunch of others who've both made the top companies and haven't, yet wrestled elsewhere. Current stars from this family include Jimmy and Jey Uso (Rikishi's sons) and Leati Joseph Anoa'i better known as Roman Reigns.

The Hart Family

Canada's top or better known wrestling dynasties. With the Hart's every one of wrestler/promoter/trainer Stu Hart's sons wrestled and his each of his daughters married a wrestler. Best known would be Bret "The Hitman" Hart and his brother Owen Hart and their brother in-laws Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart and "British Bulldog" Davey Boy Smith (who is cousins with Dynamite Kid, who's ex-wife is Bret's ex-wifes sister). Of course there is a third generation with D.H. Smith (Harry Smith, son of Davey Boy Smith and Diana Hart), Teddy Hart (son of wrestler B.J. Annis and Georgia Hart, and Natalya Neidhart (Jim Neidhart and Ellie Hart) who recently married WWE star Tyson Kidd (TJ Wilson).

The Guerrero Family

They are Mexico's Dynasty to at least the mainstream media. Similar to the Hart Family, every one of Gory Guerrero's sons was a wrestler, even his wife, Herlinda Llanes came from a wrestling family. Best known is the late Eddie Guerrero and his wife current EXCUSE ME! star Vickie Guerrero. Also there's Hector Guerrero, Chavo Guerrero Sr (better known to current generation as Chavo Classic perhaps) and since I don't want to leave him out finally Mondo. Third generation star is Chavo Guerrero Jr who's been in WWE, WCW and TNA. Also there is Eddie and Vickie's daughter, Shaul Guerrero, working under the name Raquel Diaz on NXT. Guerrero Siempre!

The Windham-Rotunda Family

I was surprised by this at first, but then everything made sense. In this family it seems to be a case of genetics and upbringing. Wrestling legend Black Jack Mulligan (Robert Jack Mulligan) is the father of wrestling greats Barry Windham and Kendall Windham, but is also the step-father of another great, Mike Rotunda or I.R.S., Irwin R. Schyster. Rotunda is father of current WWE and NXT superstars, Windham Rotunda aka Bray Wyatt (he was known as Husky Harris during the "Nexus" days) and Bo Dallas (Taylor Rotunda).

The Poffo Family

Even though there isn't going to be a next generation star from this bloodline by the looks of it, they deserve mention, not just for level of greatness, but for the shock that I am sure I wasn't alone in feeling when I heard this bloodline. Angelo Poffo, Randy Poffo and Lanny Poffo. The late Angelo Poffo is the wrestling legend and father of the late and legendary "Macho Man" Randy Savage and his brother "The Genius". And of course we all know that Randy was once married (in real life) to the late Miss Elizabeth (Elizabeth Hulette). If never going to be an induction into WWE's Hall Of Fame, we would love to know the reason.

The Rhodes Family

"The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes (Virgil Runnels Jr.) is a legendary WWE Hall Of Famer, and is father of two future HOF inductees, Goldust/Dustin Rhodes (Dustin Runnels) and Cody Rhodes (Cody Runnels). Dustin really came into his own once he became Goldust, and is leading a small "Attitude Era" resurgence within the the WWE. And was of course once married to Marlena (Terri Runnels). Cody is so good he successfully "gimmicked" a protective mask and then a mustache. That takes skill. Also, Dusty Rhodes is the brother in-law of Nasty Boys member Jerry Sags (Jerome Saganovich) and Tugboat/Typhoon/Shockmaster (Fred Ottoman). Both of whom are also Cody's Uncle. Cody's Godfather is also wrestling great Magnum T.A. (Terry Allen).

The Flair Family

Perhaps Ric Flair was "too great" for his sons to succeed in wrestling. With David Flair, it could have been from being in WCW during the wrong era and/or not being in the WWE instead. With Naitch's other son, Reid Flair, it was a tragic case of a drug over-dose that is likely the cause for not getting to the level he was capable of reaching if not for his demons. There is a ray of light within the Flair Family (which is Fliehr in real life) with The Nature Boy's daughter Ashley Flair is on NXT using the name Charlotte (likely homage to Flair country Charlotte, NC) WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

The Von Erich Family

Possibly the most tragic stories of all the wrestling families and in a business loaded with it. Wrestling great Fritz Von Erich (Jack Adkisson) had 6 sons; Jack Jr, Kevin, David, Kerry, Mike and Chris. Jack Jr passed at the age of 6, but the other Von Erich sons all followed their father into the business of pro wrestling. Tragically, only Kevin Von Erich is still alive, with his brothers all meeting untimely deaths at young ages. Kerry Von Erich was best known to WWE fans as the Texas Tornado back in the 90's, where he actually wrestled on a prosthetic leg, but took his own life at the age of  . There is a ray of hope in the Von Erich clan, while Kerry's daughter Lacey Von Erich was at one time wrestling in TNA, and Kevin has two sons currently breaking out in the business. Perhaps one day we will see The Claw return to the main stage at the hand of a Von Erich..

The Henning Family

The wrestling great, Larry "The Axe" Henning is father to the late, legendary "Mr. Perfect" Curt Henning. And of course put the names together and you get current WWE third generation superstar, Curtis Axel (Joe Henning). Curt's daughter Amy is also a wrestler apparently. An almost "perfect" wrestling family. Pun obvious. Pun intended.

The DiBiase Family

"The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase Sr., was the son of Helen Nevins a female wrestler and her husband, his adoptive father, "Iron" Mike DiBiase. Tragically, Mike died from a heart attack during a match with "Mountain Man" Mike in July 1969. There is a thrid generation of DiBiase's in the wrestling business, with Ted DiBiase Jr having formerly been in WWE, and his two brothers Mike DiBiase II and Brett DiBiase although currently retired were also professional wrestlers.

The McMahon Family

We may not always like the product that they give us, or the desicions that they make at times, but we should all be thankful that this family has existed in professional wrestling. Beginning with boxing and wrestling promoter, Roderick McMahon. Followed by his son also a wrestling promoter, Vincent J. McMahon who gave us Vinnie Mac, Vince K. McMahon. Hard to put one label on Vince promoter, entrepreneur, wrestler list goes on. Even that applies to Vince and Linda's children, Shane McMahon who worked for the family company on all levels from office to ref to even wrestling as well, and same can be said for Stephanie McMahon-Levesque, who is married to WWE great Triple H (Paul Levesque) who is now doing what the McMahon's do behind the scenes also after a stellar and now part-time wrestling career.


The list of wrestling families is pretty extensive, with mine being the tip of a massive ice berg. Remember the little baby Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat brought with him during Wrestlmania IV? For those unaware, that was his son and even he's in the business right now

A few others from the endless list of other 2nd and 3rd generation stars are;

• Jake "The Snake" Roberts
• Wes Brisco
• Tamina Snuka
• Deuce (Jimmy Snuka Jr.)
•  "The Mountie" Jacques Rougeau
• Ray Rougeau
• "Road Dogg" Jesse James and referee brother Scott Armstrong