MEANING BEHIND SPRINGBOARD STUNNER?

John Cena using the "Springboard Stunner" in his matches. It could mean nothing. Simply adding a new move to the repertoire. It could be paying homage to one the greatest of all time. Or is it something "more"? Is it possible that John Cena is secretly calling out Stone Cold Steve Austin?

Cena has done it before, using media appearances and interviews to talk smack about The Great One, The Rock. It was John Cena's attempt to bring Dwayne Johnson out of Hollywood, and back into the squared circle. Back into being The Rock. And as we all have seen, it worked. He wasn't back "full-time", but The Rock was back in the WWE. His appearances were more frequent, and we saw the two face off at Wrestlemania 28. Then we even saw a multi-month title reign. Which added even more to their second bout at Wrestlemania 29.
Stone Cold Steven Austin's stance on returning to the ring has wavered over the years, and we've seen that he is still in great shape. But, he is waiting for that "right moment". Many thought that moment would've come via a match with CM Punk. Although we are told to never say never in this business, this is even more unlikely given the current situation. So, who does that leave? Everyone will have their favorite, but John Cena has proven he is reliable, safe, and willing. He has shown this in not only his matches with The Rock, but also his matches with Brock Lesner (another "attraction"). Given he was the one chosen, WWE is likely wanting to Cena be the one to face Stone Cold for that "one more match". A match that many have been aching to see happen since the early 2000's. Ironically, Cena was the one people wanted to see make this happen during and post Ruthless Aggression era. Again, is it possible this is what Cena is doing? Austin might not bite on words being said, given Austin didn't walk away to seek other endeavors. He had left due to both physical injury and mental burnout. So, perhaps with Stone Cold being in great shape the time is now. And Cena is using an almost "Stone Cold" trademark, despite the variation. Recently SCSA had talked about his feeling on it, and although didn't outright say he was against this, he didn't appear pleased. Also, apparently had mentioned things about trademark infringement. Even though we've seen others at times use a Stunner variation (Ryback-Backpack Stunner).

So, perhaps this is what John Cena is attempting to do, and perhaps Austin is biting at the bait. Or at least nibbling at it. It would be nice to see though, regardless of your opinion on Cena. We've seen The Rock versus John Cena, and we just recently saw The Undertaker versus Bray Wyatt. With Wrestlemania 32 taking place in Texas, which happens to be Stone Cold's home state, what better setting could there be? If you're a Cena hater, it will at least keep him out of the title picture aka title reign #16.

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TIME FOR REIGNS TO COOK

I know, the title is somewhat of a "wtf", but let me explain. Let's turn back the clock to the 1990's. WWE (as we all know, then known as WWF), had third generation wrestler, who had "it". They didn't know what his "it" was, but regardless, he had "it". WWE hyped him up, showcasing his lineage. He comes from one of sports entertainments biggest family dynasties. Then came out Rocky Maivia. Crazy hair, and a giant smile. Athletic as hell, but his look and WWE's "push" wasn't being bought by the fans. They had him win titles, and be "put over" by some of the best. It just wasn't working. Fans chanted, "Rocky Sucks!", even going as far as chanting, "Die, Rocky, Die!". A change was needed. Luckily, things did change because as we all have seen, it clearly had the "it" that they were talking about. That change came via the glorious, and at times poorly used, "heel turn". From the ashes of the failed Rocky Maivia rose The Rock. Through this turn, he was able to fire back at the crowds, and find "himself". The Rock of course is apparently Dwayne Johnson with the volume jacked up.

Did any of that sound familiar? The first half of what was stated above, it almost exactly what is happening with Roman Reigns. Fans began to reject him when he was getting a push a tad early (perhaps). He is even from the same family, that WWE has been using to try and hype Reigns. Many might disagree with this, especially since it has often been "over-used" or poorly done, but a heel turn might be what Roman Reigns needs. To find himself perhaps, at least as a character. Some might even say that mimicking The Rock would be the wrong way to go. Look at what WCW tried to do with Booker T aka The Book. If Booker wasn't a Hall Of Fame caliber performer, he would have been forever remembered as a "Rock knock-off". He found "himself", but it did help establish him a bit with some fans.
With Roman, it would be both similar and completely different. Yes, he would be making a heel turn like The Rock. Perhaps even using The Rock to make his turn. However, he wouldn't be continuing on as the next Rock, he would still be Roman Reigns. He wouldn't begin to mimic his cousin on the mic or in the ring. He would simply be given a chance to "find himself" without fans burying him due to a WWE push. The Rock found himself firing back, perhaps that is what Reigns needs to finally build his Roman Empire. Or to finish off the title of this article, so that we can smell what he is cooking.

Again, some probably disagree. Either with the approach or to even consider changing Reigns. Understandably, as we are all entitled to our opinions. Yes, he started on the main roster as a heel, but The Shield got over, went face, and only Rollins broke away as a heel. At least this is something other that a feud with Big Show...again. Roman Reigns versus Big Show was used before in an attempt to get Roman over with the audiences as he approached his Wrestlemania main event with Brock Lesner.


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WILL WWE RAW DELIVER?

For a lot of fans, especially before the WWE Network when we were left to order through pay-per-view and may not have the money to do so, the Raw that follows Wrestlemania is where it is all at. First we would get to find out all of the results (before the internet, this was how it was done if not by word of mouth), and of course the fallout or Backlash (some will remember the significance) from the night before. Although they mention it during the fall, but the Raw that follows Wrestlemania is truly WWE's season premier. Whether a continuance of the "previous season", or fresh new feuds. Which at times has meant there would be some debuts made on Raw. Remember when The Rock had done it all, was ready to walk away, and during "Rock Appreciation Night" out came Goldberg to make his WWE debut.

It also made for possible returns to the WWE. Something that will be more the norm than debuts, as there isn't really a competitor at the moment, and most of the significant WCW talent has either already crossed the line, or is too old for it to mean anything. Sting was truly the last piece of that puzzle. It will be interesting to see if Sting will be continuing on, and having any more matches with WWE. He certainly showed last night that he is quite capable to do so. If this was 10 years ago, no doubt about it. We would also see Degeneration-X VS n.W.o. carry on from Wrestlemania 31. However, time is the proverbial biotch so that is unlikely. And that is not to take away from anything last night. That was truly an all around magical moment in WWE and Wrestlemania history.
There are many things each person will look forward to. Personally, looking to see how the mid-card titles go. Rumors stating the WWE is looking to put more focus on them, should mean some great moments, however it could become just series of matches. Only way for this to truly work out, is if at the end of what they are doing, somebody emerges from the group as a main event contender. Remember Macho Man, Ultimate Warrior, etc after they won the Intercontinental Championship? Right into the WWE Championship picture. Something that rarely has happened since John Cena won the US Championship at Wrestlemania XX (20). Also, looking forward to seeing if Sting and Undertaker will be sticking around. And of course, the fallout from the WWE Championship match. Which was beautifully done.

Types most of this while watching Raw actually. Seems, the was a return (Sheamus. Looking...well...you'll see) and we'll find out about Sting and of course how Brock will be used now that he has re-signed. Will he get the WWE Championship back? Will there be another feud for him? Limited appearances again, so they will be meaningful.

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BROCK RE-SIGNING IMPROVES MAIN EVENT

It is being reported that Brock Lesner has opted to stick around the squared circle, as opposed to returning to the octagon. Vince McMahon convinced to Brock to re-sign with WWE, after a lengthy and at times very heated negotiation period. Some will love this decision, while the rest will be against it., but either way the main event of Wrestlemania has instantly improved.

How so? Well, most would agree that having very little to no knowledge of the outcomes makes Wrestlemania that much better. If Brock Lesner had opted to return to mixed martial arts via the UFC, it would almost guarantee that Roman Reigns would be the winner and new WWE World Heavyweight Champion. Almost, because this is still professional wrestling, and Lesner is still a literal beast. Now that he has decided to stay with WWE, the outcome of the Wrestlemania 31 main event is even less predictable. Sure, the safe bet would be for Roman Reigns become champion and have his first run as the face of the company. However, who's to say Brock doesn't retain. Rumors being rumors, say highly possible we see Brock Vs The Rock at Wrestlemania 32. Why not have that be for that WWE World Heavyweight Championship? Other rumors state that WWE is looking to put more focus on the mid card titles (US and IC). The reasoning for having Daniel Bryan and John Cena competing for them at Wrestlemania 31. With Lesner's part-time schedules, it allows for that to truly happen. Even a possible "cash in" by MITB briefcase holder, Seth Rollins, unpredictable. Not as to if he will try and cash in, as that is due to happen, but whether of not Seth successfully cashes in.

Another match that has improved due to changes, is Undertaker Vs Bray Wyatt. No streak, means less worry of ramifications of Wyatt being put over by The Phenom. With less that a week until Wrestlemania 31, we will soon see how all of this goes. The card is stacked like never before, can't wait to see it all unfold.

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WRESTLING FAMILIES

It is "Family Day" here in Canada. So keeping with the spirit of the day here is a small list of families within pro-wrestling. There have been many of them over the years, from all over the globe. Here are a select few...

The McMahon Family

Love or hate them, no wrestling family list is complete with out the "power family" of wrestling.

The Henning Family

Three generations represented. Near perfection in the opinions of some despite lack of pushes from WWE.

The Anoa'i/Maivia Family

Possibly the largest family in wrestling, and loaded with greatness. The Rock, Rikishi, Roman Reigns. That's a sliver of the list.

The Rhodes Family

If you buy into the McMahon/Rhodes debacle, you can't help but give each props for making things work. Despite polka-dots, and what not.

The Flair Family

Ric Flair is considered by most to be the greatest of all-time. His oldest David fell short (mainly from being in WCW), Reid tragically lost his life at a young age. It is in his daughter, Charlotte, that we see the rebirth of Ric.

The Hart Family

It's a Canadian holiday today, and Canada's First Family (of Wrestling) is must have in this list. Second possibly only to the Anoa'i family in size with even the non-wrestling members marrying wrestlers.


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SECOND COMING OF THE ATTITUDE ERA?

Perhaps this is simply continuing to beat a dead horse, but it is hard not to see some similarities between the WWE's Digital Era and their Attitude Era. At least, on the casting side of things. We may never see anything like the Attiude Era, and not just because WWE and their looking to grow as a company (sponsers, etc). But because there isn't any real competition out there to force Vince McMahon's hand in some situations.
Who and what is meant when referencing casting? The wrestlers and their situations. In some cases it mirrors almost perfectly with who and what came before. Almost. Some are likely based on a small bit of hope that the good days will return. And when saying the good days, it is meant with just how hot wrestling was, transcending even the boom in the 80's.

Stone Cold Steve Austin/Daniel Bryan
Not that Vince ever tried to hold Austin down, but that Ringmaster gimmick  didn't help at the time. When Daniel Bryan first appeared in WWE, they didn't really know what to do with him. He was over with the crowd, but didn't have a "character" per say. And when they began the whole "YES!" and "NO!" gimmick, who would have thought it would stop being kind of childish, and become almost an anthem that has even crossed over into other sport markets. So, Austin and Bryan had rough starts in WWE, having established themselves outside of the company as top performers. Both not only got over with fans, they are on their own level, which was proved with both being out with injuries for long periods of time and returning just as hot as they were when they left. It is almost mirrored careers in a sense. And to think everyone thought CM Punk would be the second coming (in a sense), and wanted a match between Austin and himself. Daniel Bryan would make a better opponent perhaps.

The Rock/Roman Reigns
It's not even because they are family, but because their situations are somewhat playing out the same now. Both are third generation superstars. And yes, Reigns was more accepted as when he came in where The Rock was booed from the get go, but he was also a heel and look at things now. Roman was over until he was expected to main event over Daniel Bryan. Fans are starting to boo more. He doesn't have to start coming up with catch phrases, but perhaps a heel turn similar to The Rock will enable Roman Reigns to find his path to the top. Rock Vs Reigns would make for a nice match as well.

Triple H/Damian Mizdow
It has been mentioned here before how their paths seem to be similar. Although nothing has really been reported as to what Damian Sandow/Mizdow did to get stuck with the "Santino Role" (comedic). It was similar to Triple H earlier in his WWE career when he lost his spot in King Of The Ring (to Steve Austin luckily for us) and fell below midcard status. But we knew that the MSG Sendoff was the reason for that (Nash, Hall, HBK, HHH hug in the ring breaking kayfabe for those unaware). The similarities here are also in the fact that they both made things work. We've clearly seen what Triple H did with his career, but Damian made all his lame characters work and even has gotten over with fans with his Mizdow gimmick. Sandow could be a "Heart Break" away from leading an army of "Degeneratives" if things get even more similar.

Undertaker/Man-Kind/Bray Wyatt
All three of these guys are truly unique, but fall into the same genre of characters if you will. There is a strong rumor that if he is able, Undertaker is going to return to face Bray Wyatt at Wrestlemania 31. If was still able to compete, Mick Foley as Man-Kind would make for another great match-up both in the ring and on the mic.

Of course there is some other things like The Authority mirroring The Corporation, and although not what anyone expected, New Day being a new style of The Nation Of Domination (perhaps Roman Reigns could add some much needed grit to this group). And ROH with rumored financial troubles, it makes them seem even more like ECW. Now here's hoping Jeff Jarrett's new company becomes WCW (sorry, TNA).


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WHAT NOW WWE?

Two months. That is the time frame in which WWE has to get Roman Reigns ready for the main event at Wrestlemania 31. Both in character development, and to get over (again) with the fans. Who have somewhat faded since his injury and return to the ring. Unlike Daniel Bryan. He hasn't seemed to lost anything in the ring, nor with the audience. Two also signifies how many consecutive years in which WWE and the Royal Rumble wasn't as well received as they had hoped. Last year, after Daniel Bryan not even being in the match, fans reacted. They reacted in a way we haven't seen in a long time if ever, and more surprisingly, WWE sought to correct the situation. And did just that. Daniel Bryan pulled double duty at Wrestlemania 30, ended up in the main event, and won the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. In hind sight, they didn't really have a choice. Fans had "taken over" episodes of Raw and Smackdown!, and would have likely continued if Bryan didn't win. Add to the fact that Undertaker's streak ended. Again, not really a choice.

What about this year? True, one could easily say that the Rumble took place in Philly, one of the most vocal wrestling towns, and that once they change cities fans will be on board with Roman Reigns winning, and going on to main event at Wrestlemania 31. They might not. Reigns is part of the future. No doubt. Take away the injury and he may be ready right now, but it doesn't feel like he is. Weak promos (which apparently were written by Vince), and really no build up to where he is about to go. To make things worse, it is hard to argue those who felt Daniel Bryan should have won the Royal Rumble match. Despite being out of action for so long due to a near career ending injury, Daniel Bryan is just as over with fans as he was before. One could also point out that he did so with out staying on TV, which they did with Stone Cold Steve Austin when he first injured his neck. And if he had won the event, wouldn't have needed someone to come out to try and change fan reaction (was Rock planned or was it a save attempt?). Although we are approaching 31. Wrestlemania 30 is still fresh in peoples brains, and would have made for a pretty sweet cherry on top of a year long sundae to to speak. Extremely hard to argue is that Daniel Bryan would also make for a much better match with Brock Lesner. Match quality, and a legit (and not overused like with Rey) underdog storyline. Roman Reigns versus Brock Lesner has the possibility to look more like Goldberg Vs Lesner a la Wrestlemania 20.

With this massive storm coming in, Raw is coming live from WWE Headquarters, so we may not really see how WWE reacts to the situation until next week. Could it all depend on how the fans react post-Rumble? Will the fans react? Will we see them take over Raw and Smackdown! again? Guess we will see.

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BASH AT THE...SURVIVOR SERIES

This idea or theory will likely end up in the "beating a dead horse" pile, along with all the other theories and opinions of those who want John Cena to finally turn heel. However, there is always that small chance that it could come to fruition. Didn't have social media in the late 80's and early to mid-90's, so not too sure how people viewed the "Hogan Era". Hulk Hogan as a baby face did run dry, and eventually lead to one of the greatest moments in wrestling history, when the Hulkster turned heel, and formed the n.W.o. with Scott Hall and Kevin Nash.

Survivor Series is the next WWE pay per view, and they will have a classic Survivor Series match with Team Cena facing off against Team Authority. First, there is the obvious Hogan comparison. Started as a heel, then turned into a baby face, and hasn't looked back despite how dry the character is becoming. Cena has said that all the fans would simply start cheering him, and he is right. Same thing really happened with Hogan when he turned. Sure he got his share of boo's as heels do, but like the rest of the n.W.o. he became "cool" again (for a period of time) and rejuvenated his career. John Cena needs to do this, and take things to another level, or at least in another direction. Number one money maker in WWE, but imagine the profits if he were popular with the majority again. Also, Cena has been sporting a lot of red and yellow (before Breast Cancer Awareness effort in October).
Second, they have hinted at a Cena heel turn on a few occasions. Most notably, joining The Authority. Who is whom Team Cena will be facing at Survivor Series. It's almost a perfect setting, more so if remaining similar to Hogan. Of course it doesn't all have to be the same as Hulksters turn, but most of wrestling is reused, but updated and tweaked story lines, etc. At least it will add something new for the next Cena vs Orton feud, which we all know will eventually happen again one day (it's their new Rock/HHH from back in the day).
Lastly, like Hogan, Cena is often accused of holding people back or not allowing others to break the proverbial glass ceiling. Mostly by the IWC, but regardless, it would be an opportunity to help squash those comments and put over new baby faces, instead of crushing heels which include those who turned in order to fit into the main event picture. Goldberg was over, but became "the man" after Hollywood Hulk Hogan did the honors. Dolph Ziggler? Kofi Kingston? The list long regardless of who should be on it.

It has been shot down over and over, but with the WWE Network being rumored as the reason for The Streak ending makes it a possibility. Even if just a very small one. Survivor Series would be a great place and time to do so. A sure way for him to continue to receive boo's from the crowd would be to have his relationship with Nikki Bella part of the storyline.

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WRESTLEMANIA SEED PLANTED, OR ONE AND DONE?

If you caught Raw last night, then you are most likely aware of The Great One making a surprise appearance. If not, you missed out on what was one of the more exiting moments as of late. You missed out on the goose bumps from being electrified. Not even sure if the "dirt sheets" knew the The Rock would be making an appearance.

It wasn't a pure verbal segment either, although it was vintage Rock owning the mic. There was a nice small, one-sided exchange with The Rock layin' the smackdown on Rusev. It was short, yet made an impact. Now that is over, I can't help but wonder, "was that it?". It is almost a throw-back to have a legend make an appearance, run through the current monster heel, and then leave. However, The Rock himself has said he wants to be a part of Wrestlemania 31, after missing out on action for Wrestlemania 30 (other than the opening segment with Hogan and Stone Cold). It was apparently going to be Brock Lesner and Rock at 'Mania XXX, but that all fell through due to scheduling, and now The Streak is over. Anyway, with the rumor still being that it will be Roman Reigns squaring off with Lesner for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at Wrestlemania 31. Who does that leave for The Rock?

If I were in charge of booking, I would have Rusev continue to mow through the competition, even Big Show. With Lana boasting the Russian propaganda. The once we hit the Royal Rumble aka The Road To Wrestlemania, we have Rusev and Lana begin to call out The Rock. The one man to get one on Rusev and go unpunished. It would be USA versus Russia with no real worries about the WWE pulling the plug like they did with Jack Swagger. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is a full-blown patriot, and if there were "issues" regarding the story, after match at Mania The Rock can simply leave again and return when the heat has died down. I don't see what the problem was with Swagger, but this is how I would go about it since it is how it is. Guess we will see once we do reach the Road To Wrestlemania at the start of 2015.

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CM PUNK COMING BACK?

It is professional wrestling, so nothing is too far fetched, and unless they work amongst those "in the know" nobody can say, "that isn't going to happen" or "that will never happen". Some fans are open-mined enough to at least think about the match or scenario someone has laid out for them. Others are a tad bit close-minded and most times can't even accept what they are watching let alone an alternate theory or possibility. And of course there are those still stuck in a specific era of wrestling (from classic, to the 80's and the Attitude Era), however much like the people who don't even watch, their opinions are generally worth less than the Canadian penny.

With the age we live in, and the WWE being more tapped into the fans via Twitter and Facebook, it is harder than ever to tell what is a work and what is a shoot. The saying goes that everything related to wrestling is a work, but that is only because Vince and the wrestlers are smart enough to see when real life situations present a financial opportunity. As we all know, when it comes to business, Vinnie Mac always puts personal feelings aside. Possible exceptions of course, but how do we know for sure it was ever on Vince's part or if there was actual money to be made from them. How many times have we seen Hulk return over the years? Why is welcome back? Hulk makes Vince money (love or hate him, when the Hulkster returns to a WWE platform, it is usually good for business. Elsewhere? Not so much.

With all of that being said, CM Punk's apparent leaving the WWE. How do we know this isn't all one giant, brilliant "work"? The Stone Cold Steve Austin reference was almost too obvious. Add that there were rumors that Punk was hurt at the Rumble right before his departure. Then, we see CM Punk at various places from "The Talking Dead", to UFC events, as well as pics of him hanging out with a bunch of MMA stars. Which natually have sparked talks about Punk taking his MMA training into an octogon. How do we know this isn't all part of a plan by Punk and WWE? It isn't TNA or ROH who have the numbers to match WWE's, it is the UFC. With him being seen there, it is also almost free advertsing for the WWE. Remember that buzz that stemmed from Taker being face to face with Brock after one of Lesner's fights? Even the MMA world was talking about that. So is it too far fetched to think that CM Punk is currently resting and healing right now, and is doing more of the higher viewed spots (he's cancelled some smaller appearances) to keep his name out there as well as the WWE's with Wrestlemania XXX coming up? I don't think so.

Now this part, is a mix of what was stated already, mixed with a bit of dreaming and concluding with what I would say is "good for busniess". Flashback to near the end of 2013. CM Punk has just finished up with his feud with Paul Heyman. He is starting to take the jabs at The Authority, mainly Triple H. Punk is starting to team-up with Daniel Bryan both with grudge against The Authority, when Bryan is attacked and begins a short battle with the Wyatt Family. Daniel Bryan even became a member of the family in order to infiltrate and get Bray alone to throw him an butt kicking. Punk kept jabbing at Triple H and company and then the Royal Rumble happened. He kept jabbing for a few weeks later, then poof! he was gone. Punk was supposed to be in the Elimination Chamber, rumors were swirling that he wasn't happy with being in a match with Triple H at Mania. For the longest time, nobody would even give a definite answer in saying he was gone. One thing everyone was saying, was that he needed to heal up both physically and mentally after pushing so hard for so long. I may be alone, but I am thinking that Punk was injured or burnt out, and was given the time off. And everything since has been "worked" by both parties. Punk getting face time elsewhere, expanding the WWE brand. WWE has been loading their scripts with things that they know the online audience will feed into, and continue to advance this story overshadowing one of their "suprises". They may have thrown a curve tonight by making it that whoever wins between HHH and Bryan enters the main event with Batista and Orton. But, I am thinking Bryan (or both) enter the match, and just as Bryan is about to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship belt, CM Punk returns and screws him over. 

The next night on Raw, Punk would be declared the new "Face Of The WWE" and member of The Authority. He'd eventually win the title of course, if not handed the strap. And then a massive build-up to squaring off with Daniel Bryan at Summerslam. It was said that Bryan's path to the strap was to be a year long culmination at summer spectacular. Rumored that Vince is supposed to return to battle for control, why not have DB be the face of HIS company? Not many will agree with that. I can understand. It is just one of many scenerios that popped into the ol' skull. And of course, especially in this business where things change even during a match, don't read into rumors too much if at all. This was a mix of both, taking what rumors are out there, and going with but also against them. I will add though, that as much as I wanted Austin/Punk, I think Bryan is more the Austin of this generation, and Punk was more The Rock. Can't really compare any with each other, but if forced to that is how I see it at least in a mic style or character approach (Austin couldn't go back to heel after he "exploded", Rock went back and forth).

In closing, try not to initially throw this idea away. Think about it. Even for the sake of broadening ones mind, as it makes trying to play the guessing game with this industry a bit more fun. Especially the moments where we don't know what is truly coming next as there has been a trending problem at times in wrestling. Even without the internet. As always, the business will carry on without him, but it would be nice to think that Punk isn't finished. Contract is up in the Summer, TNA isn't "worthy" and ROH isn't "ready" (bigger star now), and a MMA career may be possible, not something I am itching to see like I was when I heard Brock started. Wrestlemania XXX in New Orleans in April is shaping up to be awesome. Should add something like a Title contract to the Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal, to add a bit more to it, as it does slightly come off as a typical Mania "filler match". I will let it slide for one year, as long as Big Show wins this as he is/was the next coming of The Boss, and seems to have been forced to not only take on a full-time schedule, but also forced to lay down to the likes of Rey Mysterio. Which was okay, and makes sense, but would Hogan slamming Andre at Mania 3 been have huge if we saw Andre lose to anyone, let alone someone smaller than even Hogan? Not really.

Okay, now I am done.

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STRAP OF CHOICE

Unlike the WWE World Championship title belt, the WWE Championship has had its share of evolutions over the years. From the classic style that mirrored what Boxing still uses today, to the Attitude Era styles, to the current rendition, which is one half of the WWE World Heavyweight Championship (World title being the other).

Since the 1980's there have been roughly seven or so different WWE Championship belts, where the World title has basically stayed the same with the exception of the n.W.o. days, where the groups initials were spray painted on the plate (simple, yet awesome if I might add). If they decide to keep the titles unified as the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, curious to see if they keep one of the titles as is, likely the WWE Championship as it is only a year old.

From gold plates, to diamonds, to even snakeskin straps, here are previous versions of the richest prize in Sports Entertainment, here are the WWE Championship belts...

Remember when Hulk Hogan rolled up The Iron Sheik for the win and the WWE Championship? Okay, well you at least remember watching it in highlights over the years, or on youtube. This is the belt that was on the line. Always reminds me of something similar to the old school, traditional boxing belts. This is almost what the current title would look like today if it hadn't evolved over the years.
NOTABLE HOLDERS: Bob Backlund, Iron Sheik, Hulk Hogan.

Pro-wrestling is now redubbed Sports Entertainment and this is the style basically still used today. Very reminiscent of the World title via WCW and later WWE. When I was younger, wasn't aware that they had name plates of the titles back then. Mind you like this title, there was only one name used really back then.
NOTABLE HOLDERS: Hulk Hogan (only)

Similar to the previous rendition, this title belt was only ever held by one person. Adding color would become the standard for years to come, especially the globe in the middle. It looks similar to the WWE tag titles at one point, and possibly an early ECW title belt.
NOTABLE HOLDERS: Hulk Hogan (only).

Not sure if it was Hogan's idea, or if it was Vince's, but all I can think of is that it was just another way of keeping things "fresh". Why else would you change the look of the title belt so many times in such a short period, that consisted of zero title changes? Two eagles on this one, a sign of things to come, but looks like an extra fancy Intercontinental Championship belt. Didn't last long like the others though.
NOTABLE HOLDERS: Hulk Hogan (only).

The eagle has landed, and we can finally add more names to the list of holders. When it was around someones waste or displayed like it is in the picture the belt looks very appealing. However, when being moved or held in the air, it almost seems to fall apart, looking as though the plates are barely hanging onto the strap. Which was one of the reasons it was changed, but this was the first belt to get a "run" and was held by nothing but the WWF/WWE's best.
NOTABLE HOLDERS: Hulk Hogan, Andre The Giant, Macho Man Randy Savage, Ultimate Warrior, Sgt. Slaughter, Yokozuna, Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, Undertaker, Stone Cold Steve Austin, etc.

The Attitude Era marked a new way of doing things, and with that came one of the more popular of the WWE Championship belts. Apparently, after getting cut by the eagles wings on the previous belt, Stone Cold asked for a change. It would later be unified with the other top prize of the Monday Night Wars in the World Championship belt, to become the Unified Championship. But, this was a symbol of the Era that topped them all.
NOTABLE HOLDERS: Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, Triple H, Kurt Angle, Big Show, Kane, Mick Foley, Undertaker, Vince McMahon (yes), and Chris Jericho (while unifying it with World title).

 For many, self includes, a favorite. It was the first time we has really seen a customized belt, and it was very well done and not cheesy like Jeff Hardy's TNA title belt. Even the strap was made from snake skin, keeping with the character of Stone Cold Steve Austin. Of course the Texas Rattlesnake wasn't the only holder of this belt, but the matches between the two for it were epic.

NOTABLE HOLDERS: Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock.

The Monday Night Wars had ended, and were given something that would never have occured if they hadn't of ended, and if WWE hadn't of won (WCW would've likely done something to the belt instead of what WWE did). It was almost fitting that it was Chris Jericho who at that time symbolized both sides of the war, although Y2J never held this strap, as they finally went the "one belt" route after he dropped them at Wrestlemania X-8 to Triple H. It was only known as the WWE Unified Championship briefly, as Brock Lesner would make it "the" title of Smackdown! after they split the brands.

NOTABLE HOLDERS:  Triple H, Hulk Hogan, Undertaker, The Rock, Brock Lesner, Big Show, Kurt Angle, Eddie Guerrero, JBL, John Cena.

Spin! Spin! Bling! Bling! After how stylish the United States Championship belt looked after John Cena made it into a Spinner belt, I was looking forward to what he would unveil after winning the WWE Championship. Like many fans, I was turned off a bit with it being a bit over the top with the ammount of "bling" and when the WWE logo always hung upside down (which only ever "worked" for Miz's character). It made the Million Dollar Championship belt look simple.
NOTABLE HOLDERS: John Cena, Edge, Randy Orton , Batista, RVD, Triple H, Jeff Hardy, Sheamus, The Miz, CM Punk, Rey Mysterio (kind of), Alberto Del Rio, The Rock.

When The Rock came back, even in a part time manner, most of us were pumped. Unlike the current Batista situation, it was set-up in a manner where most of us wanted to see The Rock win the strap and defend it at Wrestlemania when he faced John Cena again. They were able to help soften the blow of CM Punk being the one who had to drop the title to set everything up, by giving us a new WWE Championship strap. Almost looks like a throwback title to the one that started this "look" of using the black leather backing, and also showing how to apply diamonds, etc in a non-over the top manner. Currently part of the WWE World Heavyweight Championship with the WWE World title, and will likely "live on" if and when they split the titles up again. Then again looking at the era in which it resembles (80's), it may not last. And the belt was known as the "WWF Heavyweight Championship" back then. Hmmmm.
NOTABLE HOLDERS: The Rock, John Cena, Randy Orton, Daniel Bryan.


There were more than I had originally remembered, but they all registered when forced to take a closer look back. And there were of course different colored straps for some peoples titles runs (Warrior, etc), and if the rumor I had read was true (the Million Dollar belt was created because Vince couldn't get Honky Tonk Man to drop the IC strap to Macho Man who would've dropped the WWE Championship to DiBiase) then we can technically include the WWE Million Dollar Championship belt to the list. It does look a lot nicer now then it did as a kid. Perhaps that is because I don't "hate" the Million Dollar Man anymore.

Will be interesting to see if there will be a new one soon, or how many more will there be in our lifetime (us 70's and 80's kids mainly). Feel free to comment below on your favorite WWE Championship strap, or in the Facebook posting in which you read this. Until then...

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