FUTURE ENDEAVORS

Rumor mill has it that it is that time of year again. The time of year not long after Wrestlemania, when the WWE releases talent. Some are always obvious picks given a superstars lack of support from crowds or WWE's usage of them. Shocking isn't a word to describe the rest though as there is almost a safe list of people who would likely be allowed to retire or mutually part ways of sorts. People like John Cena, Randy Orton, Kane, Mark Henry given there longevity and status with the company. But there are some that not everyone would expect, people who appeared to be getting a push or character revamp, etc etc. Of course like everyone else, I have my opinion on who may be leaving or who should be in some cases. And they would be...

Ryback

The Big Guy is at home right now, awaiting to talk about his future with the company. Although Vince was a fan of Ryback early in his career, McMahon has other guys who are even bigger to fill that void now. Although The Big Guy may benefit from spending time elsewhere, say New Japan hopefully not TNA, he also may not. Not a good time to be asking for more money, deserving or not.

Adam Rose

Although he claims it was a known prescription, Adam Rose is on his second suspension for violating the WWE's Wellness Policy. With Chyna's recent passing likely due to drugs, not a good time to be suspended for something WWE is trying to eliminate.

#SocialOutcasts

Although I am a fan of all 3, I can see the new age Job Squad disappearing. Things slowed a bit after Rose was suspended, other than some light entertaining moments with Apollo Crewes, haven't seen them as much. Heath has been absent from television, Curtis may have had his time in WWE unless a total revamp ensues (WWE failed this guy), and Bo isn't Bray so  not sure where he stands with WWE officials. Hoping they simply remain as the comedic trio among the 3-man teams all over WWE right now.

The Ascension

Although it was only Konnor who was suspended for violating the company's Wellness Policy (for a second time), it may be a case of taking out two birds with one stone. As a team they have been under utilized and not well received since coming to the main roster from NXT.

Jack Swagger

Swagger had something when he was with Dutch Mantell aka Zeb Colter when the "We The People" gimmick was getting over with the WWE Universe. Ironically, it would likely make for a comedic hit right now given Trump and what has come out of his mouth lately. But, the All-American American was fed to Rusev and hasn't been the same since.

Those listed above are mostly based on current position and usage. Some are used and even fan favorites, but could be on their way out. Dolph Ziggler, Zack Ryder, maybe even Del Rio could be borderline shock level if released, but are still just as possible. I composed what I think is a "Safe List" which you find HERE. Be interesting to see how all of this plays out.

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WWE PAYBACK MATCHES & PREDICTIONS-UPDATED

Some things have been added to the card like the United States Championship match on the pre-show, and Baron Corbin against Dolph Ziggler. On RAW, Stephanie McMahon stated that Vince McMahon would be announcing who would be running Monday Night RAW. Although this is Sports Entertainment, can't see any reason to not have Shane be in charge, and perhaps this could spawn RAW and Smackdown! splitting. Anyways, back  to Payback and predictions...

WWE United States Championship
Ryback V Kalisto (C)
Prediction: Ryback new US Champ.

-Perhaps a Sin Cara heel turn. Ryback doesn't have much else going for him at the moment so why not? To be honest, this guy needs a manager or valet. Not Heyman, but someone else to do his talking and help him go full heel. This is why Vince shouldn't have let the art form die out.

Baron Corbin V Dolph Ziggler
Prediction: Corbin pins The Showoff 1-2-3.

-Dolph seems to be the guy who tests the new guys whom are of the heel nature after their run of squash matches are over. This will be Corbin's first real main roster feud, and Ziggler knows he can still look amazing taking a loss to a rookie. I must add I like the new red in Baron's entrance. They never got the camera angles right on the main shows with the blinding white light, so the red adds to the auro of his persona.

TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP #1 CONTENDERS MATCH

The Vaudevillains V Enzo & Cass

Prediction: The Vaudevillains win.

-I am huge on Enzo & Cass, as are many others, so they are too obvious as well as being an over face team, which is an issue with The New Day being over as well. I can see The Vaudevillains possibly getting stale (unless the gimmick evolves over time), but would be a good opposition to The New Day given the difference in gimmicks. And, I see the Dudley Boyz getting involved and beginning a war with Enzo & Cass. Possibly taking the new team to yet another level.

Kevin Owens V Sami Zayn

Prediction: Sami Zayn with the win.

-Sami has been on the receiving end too many time for this not to culminate with a victory over his long time friend and antagonist, Kevin Owens. Regardless to who wins this or the main event, good chance the next Number 1 contender comes from this bout. Why? Both are over, and this is going to possibly be Savage/Steamboat at Mania 3 good.

Chris Jericho V Dean Ambrose

Prediction: Dean Ambrose defeats Y2J

-No offense to Jericho, who is a future first ballot Hall Of Famer, but after the beating Dean took at Wrestlemania 32 at the hands of Brock Lesner he deserves a win here. Jericho can make him look even better in the process like he does. Why not pass the torch of "talk shows" while they're at it too, Dean's Ambrose Asylum has been pretty decent in its infancy.

WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS

 The Vaudevillains V The New Day (C)

Prediction: The Vaudevillains are new Tag Team Champions.

-Hard to pick given the height The New Day has reached in terms of being over, and The Vaudevillains are rookies with no real exposure on the main roster beyond their matches. So the shock value plays in here, and also shows a start of the supposed change happening.

WWE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP

The Miz (C) V Cesaro

Prediction: Cesaro as new IC Champion.

-The title doesn't make the superstar, the star makes the title. Time to see the Swiss Superman begin his ascension into the main event picture, starting by having a good run with the Intercontinental Championship. Plus, I am already bored with Maryse's return. I hate them mostly, but time for a battle with another couple. I am pretty sure the Cesaro Section agrees.

WWE WOMENS CHAMPIONSHIP

Charlotte (C) w/Ric Flair V Natalya w/Bret Hart

Prediction: Natalya takes the title.

-Slightly bias being Canadian, but also although we're not looking for a direct Ric Flair clone, it would be interesting to see how Charlotte handles a loss. Naitch is a sixteen time World Champ, but that means he lost it that many times as well. Plus, Flair Country is on Hart Land haha

WWE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

AJ Styles V Roman Reigns (C)

Prediction: Roman retains.

-If you read my other posts, then you know this is a very hard one to predict fully. Even though I want AJ Styles to win, I don't see the Roman Empire's reign ending so quickly. Again. I have this gut feeling Anderson and Gallows are going to screw over AJ, add rumors of Finn Balor making his debut soon adds to that. The actions on RAW in London simply added to that feeling. Or maybe they try to help and the Usos get involved and start a war...adding Balor and Samoa Joe (not "Dynasty" but Samoan regardless, and respect has got to be there). Or does The Balor Club join or work for The Authority? Will Roman join Triple H and Stephanie now? Make for a good set-up for Rollins return, who is likely going to be turned face by fans upon his return. Was Champ and top guy in The Authority, coming back to Roman in his spot would make sense.

It is really hard to call as of late, and like DDP of old would say, that's a good thing. With Wrestlemania 32 I went perfect on the pre-show, and then got only the one I wanted to be wrong on correct. The new additions and proposed "change" has things highly unpredictable right now. It feels much better making guesses based more on likes and dislikes, instead of predictability in recent years.

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WWE NIGHT OF CHAMPIONS 2015-MATCHES & PREDICTIONS

Neville & The Lucha Dragons Vs Stardust & The Acsension
Prediction: Stardust & The Acsension win
-It will interesting to see how long this feud drags out. Stephen Amell is adding some wrestling workouts to get inshape...for a rematch? One-on-One with Stardust? 
 
Rusev Vs Dolph Ziggler
Prediction: Rusev wins
-Hard to see where this is all going really. A Ziggler heel turn isn't that far fetched really. And it seems as though Lana and Rusev will reunite one day. So, perhaps Rusev wins and Ziggler turns heel by dumping Lana for Summer (who obviously dumps Rusev), starting a reunion storyline later on.

WWE Tag Team Championship
The Dudley Boys Vs The New Day (C)
Prediction: The New Day retain with help
-Can't see Devon and Bubba Ray losing, but can't see them winning the titles right off the bat. And maybe we'll see Spike make a return to balance out the playing field in a rematch.

The Wyatt Family Vs Dean Ambrose, Roman Reigns, and ???
Prediction: Reigns, Ambrose, and ??? win
-Hard to pick really, not knowing the mystery partner is the reason. If it is someone who is "worthy' then they win, if it is a person who is a borderline "jobber" then Wyatt's should win with Braun Strowman destroying everyone.

WWE Intercontinental Championship
Kevin Owens Vs Ryback (C)
Prediction: Ryback retains
-Still too early for Owens to win gold, despite Ryback's weak mic skills (good memory, as it sounds like he's remembering a script at times).

WWE United States Championship
John Cena Vs Seth Rollins (C)
Prediction: John Cena wins via DQ
-If it doesn't happen immediately, it will happen later in the match. Someone will mention Seth saving himself for Sting.

WWE Divas Championship
Charlotte Vs Nikki Bella (C)
Prediction: Charlotte wins Divas title
-Nikki passed AJ Lee as longest reigning champion, now it is time to give it to someone else and begin to develop story lines beyond this 3-on-3-on-3.

WWE World Heavyweight Championship
Sting Vs Seth Rollins (C)
Prediction: Sting
-Usually wouldn't opt for the legend to win the top title, but this is Sting. Add the fact that many feel WCW guys got screwed over and held back when they went to WWE. Even if a one night only type deal, it would be nice to see. Rollins hissy fit will be quite the sight as well.

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SUMMERSLAM 2015 MATCHES & PREDICTIONS

Cesaro Vs Kevin Owens
Prediction: Kevin Owens
-Hard to call really. But, with Owens coming off a loss in his rematch with Finn Balor for the NXT Championship and Cesaro only really getting over with his matches and not his promos, the obvious is KO with the win. Expect Cole to mention his loss at NXT often.

Stephen Amell & Neville Vs Stardust & King Barrett
Prediction: Amell & Neville
-Of all the previous celebs (minus Rousey) Stephen Amell is pretty athletic and agile. Will be interesting to see just how well he does in the ring for a match. Unless looking to extend this feud, look for Arrow to hit the mark.

WWE Tag Team Championship
Los Matadors Vs Lucha Dragons Vs The New Day Vs The Prime Time Players (C)
Prediction: The New Day
-The titles seem to change often, so why not go with The New Day given they really are working well as heels, despite being not what most expected.

WWE Intercontinental Championship
The Miz Vs Big Show Vs Ryback (C)
Prediction: Ryback
-This match was to take place awhile ago, but Ryback is finally back, and likely to retain. Otherwise, why didn't they strip him of the title, to at least add some "drama" to the mix.

Rusev Vs Dolph Ziggler
Prediction: Dolph Ziggler
-Perhaps we will see Rusev begin to treat Summer the same way he treated Lana. However, can't help but see a swerve where Lana turns on Ziggler and reclaims her spot from Summer as Rusev's woman.

Randy Orton Vs Sheamus
Prediction: Randy Orton
-Why not? This feud has felt a bit stale.

Roman Reigns & Dean Ambrose Vs Bray Wyatt & Luke Harper
Prediction: Bray Wyatt & Luke Harper
-Three options come to mind for the finish. First, Erick Rowan returns and The Wyatt Family is whole again. Second, Dean Ambrose turns on Roman Reigns, leading to a feud. And lastly, Roman Reigns finally turns heel and turns on Ambrose.

Team P.C.B. Vs Team B.A.D. Vs Team Bella
Prediction: Team P.C.B.
-This revolution has been great, but it is time for the trios to split. Here's hoping for some face and heel turns during and after this match.

WWE World Heavyweight Championship/WWE United States Championship
John Cena (C-US) Vs Seth Rollins (C-WHC)
Prediction: John Cena
-This was really hard to choose. Cena would then tie Ric Flair at 16 time World Heavyweight Champion. Which is more of a Mania moment, until you think of Cena passing Naitch and doing so on a Wrestlemania stage. Plus, it is time for Rollins to go a new direction win or loss.

Brock Lesner Vs Undertaker
Prediction: Undertaker
-Another one with a hard to determine outcome. Sure, Taker deserves the win, but there are other things that could lead to some feuds with perhaps Kane, or...Sting?

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WWE BATTLEGROUND MATCHES & PREDICTIONS

Sunday, July 19th, 2015 WWE brings us WWE Battleground. A decently booked card, with outcomes difficult to get a full read on. Which is both frustrating, and very refreshing given WWE's habit of predictability at times. Here are the matches and NGN's predictions...

R-Truth V King Barrett
Prediction: King Barrett
-Truth has been entertaining, but I'm afraid I've got some bad news (couldn't resist). Truth is likely not getting a WWE push of any kind. So, best for someone who has a shot at getting a push to win this one. Not a knock on R-Truth, it is just that much like Santino Marella, Truth can "go" in the ring and has more character range than WWE allows audiences to see.

Randy Orton V Sheamus
Prediction: Randy Orton
-It is kind of a "been there, done that" type of feud. Orton coming back, after Sheamus took him out can only be squashed with an Orton win. If this feud continues on, hopefully it will be with the Money In The Bank briefcase on the line. With Orton taking Sheamus out of the picture.

Roman Reigns V Bray Wyatt
Prediction: Roman Reigns
-Bray always seems willing to put over others and does it well. And WWE still wants to make Roman Reigns the top dog, so his winning wouldn't be surprising. Depends how long WWE wants to drag out the creepy storyline involving Reigns family.

WWE Tag Team Championships
The New Day V The Prime Time Players (C)
Prediction: The Prime Time Players
-It was hard to pick a winner. The tag team titles have been bouncing around a lot, but it would be nice to see them be retained a bit longer this time via The Prime Time Players. If The New Day Does win, it may be possible it is due to their ranks shockingly growing by one.

(this next match isn't happening due to an injury to Ryback, whether they still proceed with The Miz V Big Show remains to be seen, but here's the prediction regardless)
  WWE Intercontinental Championship
The Miz V Big Show V Ryback (C)
Prediction: The Miz
-Ryback seems over with the crowds, however, can never tell most times when WWE is filling the airwaves with "fake" cheers. Personally, The Big Guy is a tad stale already, and should have been built up to facing Big Show one-on-one for the Intercontinental title. Having to go through series with guys like Mark Henry before facing Show for the strap. Went with The Miz as his lack of physicality leading into this seems to trigger the "dark horse" vibe.

WWE United States Championship
Kevin Owens V John Cena (C)
Predictions: John Cena
-Wishful thinking surprisingly. The John Cena Open Challenge for the WWE United States Championship each week has been impressive, why end that now? To possibly help Owens maintain "status" have a returning Sami Zayn do a run in "failing" after KO is able to continue on, followed by a successful run in by Cesaro. Which leads to a feud between the two given Cesaro's recent performance. If he can maintain this run, he faces Cena for the title successfully down the road.

WWE World Heavyweight Championship
Brock Lesner V Seth Rollins (C)
Prediction: Brock Lesner
-This one was truly hard to pick. Seth Rollins is a great champion, but his current is starting to feel stale. Sure, a storyline change could fix that. But, another title run by Brock Lesner could be a new spin on a repeat of last year. If anything, it leaves the door open for two things; Sheamus getting squashed in a cash-in attempt and a reformation of The S.H.I.E.L.D. There is also room for Sting to thwart any Authority involvement, thus leading into a long build-up to something at Summerslam.

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WWE MONEY IN THE BANK-PREDICTIONS

Forgot to do this for the "Elimination Chamber" special event (yes, it is only "ppv" when you order it that way). So, best to get on this for this years "Money In The Bank" special event. Here are Non-Geeky Nerd's predictions...

R-Truth VS King Barrett

Prediction: King Barrett with the win.
-Truth has been very entertaining, but mostly on a comedic level. And well, we've seen what happens to the "class clown" in WWE.

WWE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Big Show VS Ryback (C)

Prediction: The Big Guy beats The Giant.
-Don't see Ryback's feud with Bray Wyatt being fully finished yet. And would make much more sense for him to also drop the belt to Wyatt instead of Show. So, look for Bray to make an appearance at some point possibly.

Kevin Owens VS John Cena

Prediction: John Cena evens the series.
-Hard to really call. Owens is "in" with Triple H. But, John Cena has been making the US title "worth something". His open challenges have made for some really good matches. Showing both that up and comers have what it takes to belong on the main roster, and that John Cena CAN wrestle. So, why stop now? Being beat back to back would halt that.

WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS

The Prime Time Players VS The New Day (C)

Prediction: The New Day retains.
-It may not be what we all expected, but The New Day is making things work in their favor. And the tag titles have been switching hands too much.

WWE DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP

Paige VS Nikki Bella (C)

Prediction: Nikki Bella wins.
-This one is hard to call also. If Nikki has surpassed AJ Lee for longest reign then Paige will win. If not, then look for Nikki to retain despite a failed "twin magic", and holds on until she sets a new record.

MONEY IN THE BANK LADDER MATCH

Roman Reigns VS Dolph Ziggler VS Sheamus VS Kane VS Neville VS Randy Orton VS Kofi Kingston

Prediction: Roman Reigns captures the contract/briefcase.
-Picking a winner was slightly hard to do, but figured WWE isn't done trying to push Reigns into a title run. Even though Kane winning actually makes sense given current situation, and of course Dolph Ziggler deserving another run. One thing is for sure, Neville and Kofi will likely do something to steal the show.

WWE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP-LADDER MATCH

Dean Ambrose VS Seth Rollins (C)

Prediction: Seth Rollins retains.
-Went with Rollins retaining the gold as either the problems amongst The Authority is a swerve, or Brock Lesner will get involved. Or both. Thinking that The Authority will get involved, Ambrose will over come them, only for Lesner to come out and attack Rollins. Which would mean once again that Dean would earn the "win" but not the title.

WE LOVE AND MISS YOU, DUSTY! THE DREAM WILL LIVE ON!

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WILL MANAGERS EVER FULLY RETURN?

Managers, valets, agents, whatever you want to call them have been slowly dying off over the years in the WWE. Which is both sad and ironic as some of the greatest have come from or through the WWE. Legends like Bobby The Brain Heenan, Captain Lou Albano, Paul Bearer, Miss Elizabeth, Jim Cornette, the list goes on. Paul Heyman (who is truly one of, if not the greatest) is keeping the position alive appearing mainly with Brock Lesner. He was put with guys like Ryback and Cesaro but wasn't with them long enough to really do anything. CM Punk he wasn't "needed" but was surly amplified by Heyman's presence.

That is what managers are for, they make their clients better. The most obvious is their ability to cover the weak points, and magnify the strong points (Heyman is a master at this). Best examples would be the managers doing most, if not all of the talking. Both to cut a promo on an opponent, but to also boast about the performer. This helps carry the talent in an area they may be new or struggling with, while they learn to do so or improve on their own. Remember when Bobby The Brain Heenan began to manage Andre The Giant? It wasn't as though Brain was needed, it was Andre The Giant. With Andre's heel turn, most notably against Hulk Hogan, there needed to be more of a verbal build up given the new age of Sports Entertainment. Given his French accent, Andre wasn't always "understandable". So, Heenan would run his mouth, and Andre would basically close with a one liner. It truly added to the build up of one wrestling history's biggest main events. Or how about Paul Bearer shortly after Undertaker debuted? His voice, mic work and ring knowledge added to that character in a massive way. Would Undertaker have become a what he is today if he didn't have Paul in the beginning? Maybe, but maybe not.
We are sort of seeing Lana as a manager, but the more WWE has Rusev speak, the more it adds to the apparent problems that are brewing between them. Which is a shame if it happens. She combines both the mic work of a traditional manager, but also adds the beauty of a valet. Imagine where past stars like Vladimir Kozlov or Ezekiel Jackson could have done with a valet or manager like this. They may have done better, and lasted longer. Or even present stars like Ryback or Big E, who aren't the best on the mic but physical specimens.

Sure, WWE wants their stars to be able to do it all on their own. Understandably so, only the best should be at the top. It is just that history has shown us, sometime even the best can go to another level with a little help. It can also be done through the making of tag teams, but that is another topic for another day. Bottom line, WWE might want to consider even creating their own as Heyman and Zeb won't be around forever.


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