NWA Smoky Mountain Review (1/28/17)

Welcome Professional Wrestling fans and loyal readers of Rest Hold Party, I am the Local Hero, the Review Guy himself, Cameron McDonley. Today, I hop back on the saddle for a new review!!! This time, I am reviewing a show that has history, that has tradition, and dates all the way back to the territory era. That's right ladies and gentlemen, I am reviewing the newest edition of NWA Smoky Mountain television!

The program kicks off with an announcement regarding the main event at Encore on February 12th. It will be a No Time Limit, No Holds Barred, anything goes contest between Jason Kincaid and Chase Owens for the NWA Southeastern Heavyweight Championship! After that brief announcement and a quick preview of tonight's card, we go straight to the action!

Our first match of the night was a sight to behold, as the NWA Smoky Mountain TV champion Axton Ray defended his title against Timmy Lou Retton. Personally I thought the match was an excellent way to start off the show, as these two had a very fast-paced, highly competitive match. You didn't see either man on the ground too often, as these two wrestlers took flight numerous times throughout this struggle for that prize. Given the size of Timmy Lou Retton, that was most likely not an easy feat to be leaping with grace as if he was a 1990's WCW Cruiserweight. At the end of it all, Axton Ray was victorious and still your reigning and defending Television Champion.
Rating: 3.5/5 

After a quick commercial break, we are treated to a 6-Man Tag Team Match already in progress, as The Hardliners & Travis Lee compete against Robbie Cassidy and the G-Squad. This match was another competitive one, and it stayed that way until The Hardliners and Travis Lee tried to use their numbers game take advantage of a situation that would only benefit them and their victory. Out comes Wild Bill, and immediately they clear the ring. It seems like the playing field is now even, but as soon as Wild Bill went to the top rope, a shocked buzz fills the arena as he hit Cassidy with a diving headbutt off the top, ensuring a victory and possibly a new addition to the stable of The Hardliners and Lee. Pretty fun match with a nice turn at the end. Very enjoyable.
Rating: 3.5/5 

Following the last two matches and another announcement regarding Encore, we have your main event of the evening. The NWA United States Tag Team Championships are on the line as The Heatseekers defend against the Ugly Ducklings. I'm just gonna say this right now. If there's any one match you need to see from the card this week, it's this tag team tile match. It was a hard-fought match between two of the best teams in NWA Smoky Mountain, and four of the best wrestlers in the tag team division. What I loved the most about this match is Sigmon's performance throughout the 20+ minutes that this match was taking place. He was no- nonsense, didn't show off too much. Just went in there and made everything he did look like it killed the guy. His move-set also reminds me of a few well-established technical wrestlers from wrestling's past, especially with his suplexes and the Flying Headbutt. Everybody else performed very well also, and left it all out in the ring. The champions may have left with their belts after controversially using a ladder to their advantage while the referee was not keeping his eye on the action, but at the end of it all, neither team has anything to be ashamed of, as they put on one heck of a clinic!
Rating: 4.45/5 

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Well, that is it for this week's review, I am once again the Local Hero and the Review Guy, Cameron McDonley and I hope to see you all again soon with either another review, or a news article!

Lucha Underground: Payback Time (Review: 10/19/16)

Ladies and Gentlemen, sound the mariachi band, cue the commentators and let anarchy ring throughout the temple! Yes my readers, welcome to another Lucha Underground Review! I am the "Local Hero" Cameron Mcdonley, alongside my trusty keyboard to give you the best review of the chaotic ride that is Lucha Underground. With that said, let's cut the talking, because there's a lot of action we have to experience during this fine hour.

The show opens with Prince Puma preparing for his war with Mil Muertes later on in the show when Vampiro appears, once again offering his managerial services to the face of The Temple. Puma clearly rejected that offer, stating that he'd rather die by Mil's hands than to live by his. Vampiro makes his prediction known to him that he thinks Prince Puma will make "The Man Of 1,000 Deaths" die by his hands. This was a segment I found highly intriguing, because I can visualize how this angle will take shape, with the twisted human being who once set Sting on fire managing a man that is usually a very prideful individual. It'd be like James Mitchell going to WWE and managing a heel John Cena, but not quite. Anyway, the vignette left me very interested, and I'd like to see where this leads to.
Rating: 3/5

Our opening match is once again another product of Dario's Dial of Doom, as Killshot was selected by the hand of the wheel to try his hand at ripping the Lucha Underground title from the cannibalistic monster's grasp. He ultimately did not obtain the victory, as Matanza Cueto defeated his newest challenger in a 20 minute display of physicality, notably from Killshot himself, as he displayed a really solid level of intensity and passion we don't usually see from him. Matanza was not slacking in the aggression department either, as he hit a sickening uppercut to the side of his opposition's head in the midway point of this match. Great match.
Rating: 3.5/5

After a solid and noteworthy title match, an unidentified man with dog-tags similar to the former soldier walked very eerily to the ring. Killshot noticed who he was and embraced him, but was only met with an inverted axe kick and a spinning brainbuster from his once brother-in-arms. Although we do not know his name, it was very clear who he was, because he whispered "You left me for dead" as he dropped his dog-tags on the chest of Killshot. I hope we can get some information on his character name and a further look into his backstory, because this whole ordeal seems extremely intense right off the bat.
Rating: 3.5/5 

Preceding another vague "They'll Be Here Soon" promo, the Trios Champions (Aerostar, Fenix and Drago) entered the ring for what seemed to be another Trios contest when the owner of this esteemed establishment, Dario Cueto himself, shook up the course a bit by offering another flavor, a triple threat match between the champions! It wasn't just for the sick enjoyment of Dario however, as a number twenty spot in the Aztec Warfare match on November 9th was on the line! We were definitely treated to a masterpiece here, as all three of these high-caliber luchadors fought through blood, sweat and possible brain damage for a late entry into a battle royal where the Lucha Underground Championship was up for grabs. There was an excessive amount of high-flying maneuvers from Fenix, but that does not change the overall feeling of the match, as the crowd was hot for all of it and Drago had a decisive victory with a destroyer DDT that looked like he shattered Aerostar's neck. When wrestlers can make it look like they're killing each other, you know they've put on a contest that is one to remember.
Rating: 4/5 

From there, we cut to a brief backstage segment between Cobra Moon and Drago. Moon was almost ordering Drago to win the championship at Aztec Warfare 3 for their tribe. Drago angrily notified her that he left her tribe dozens of years ago before screaming into the sky in frustration. It may have been short, but it was still enjoyable, as it was used to further what seems to be a new storyline for both Cobra Moon and Drago. I hope they do something worthwhile with this, but then again, they don't need me wishing or hoping because I can almost guarantee you that this will be at least fun to watch over the next few weeks or even more if they take it that far.
Rating: 3/5 

Dario Cueto is doing absolutely nothing in his office when a desperate and frustrated Johnny Mundo storms into his office with a bargain for a Gift Of The Gods championship match with Sexy Star next week. Mundo briefly mentions what happened at the end of episode 1 in 2014 when Dario offered him the highest payout in the show's history before handing him the briefcase in desperation to get at least one singles championship in Lucha Underground. Mr. Cueto accepts the money and signs the match, making it set in stone for next week's show.
Rating: 3.5/5

The time has come, the clock has struck noon and the two baddest gunslingers are going at it in the temple! It is Prince Puma going to war once more with his arch-nemesis Mil Muertes in a clash that will eclipse any level of intensity that these two had in any of their past encounters! A war it most certainly was, as this time there was no hesitation, no methodical movement as these two bitter enemies didn't think twice about attempting to eviscerate the other throughout the entire match. Every single move from these two gladiators was done with conviction. Although neither man were killed off in this match, it seems like Muertes has met his match, as Puma pinned him cleanly in the ring for one of the most shocking outcomes in the show's short, but illustrious history.
Rating: 4.5/5 

This brilliant episode ends with a final segment, cutting to Rey Mysterio's training grounds, where he was seen conversing with Chavo Guerrero Sr, otherwise known as Chavo Classic to nostalgic fans who watched WWE in the Ruthless Aggression Era. The former NWA and AWA breakout star, the man who innovated the moonsault was presented with a ultimatum from the King Of Lucha Libre that no parent should be forced to partake in. He either blackballs his own son from the Guerrero family, or Rey himself is leaving that family altogether. This rivalry has surely become incredibly personal, as a legendary family is now caught in the crossfire of what has been a dangerous rivalry so far.
Rating: 4.5/5 

Full Show Rating: 4.85/5

This show was in my opinion, the best episode of this new season, as we were treated to three entertaining matches, segments that were undoubtedly intense, and storylines for the near future were given the seeds to be planted and turned into something worthwhile. Not much else to say, I enjoyed myself watching this, and I hope everybody reading this did as well.

That statement concludes this review, I am the "Review Guy" Cameron Mcdonley signing off, hopefully I will see you all soon. Goodnight everybody!

Impact Wrestling Review: (10/13/16)

Salutations my broken brethren, I am your Local Hero, your Review Guy Cameron Mcdonley and I have the most beautiful premonition.... A IMPACT WRESTLING REVIEW!!! With that said, the time for conversation is OVAH, as we head to the Zone of Impact on this fine Sunday morning!

The show opens with Eddie Edwards in the ring, cutting a promo that is reminiscent of every single "never say die" babyface that has ever been in this sport, when Bobby Lashley comes out and viciously assaults the new champion until EC3 and Moose came to Edwards' aide. Knowing how Lashley lost his title last week, you had to figure he'd react like this, as generic as this segment was. The opening segment was not the best part of the show once again, but just like last week, it planted seeds for future angles, so I'm not disappointed at all.
Rating: 3/5 

Our opening match of the night is contested for the Impact Grand Championship, as Aron Rex defends his coveted championship against Jesse Godderz, In my opinion, it was the weakest match that this division has had since the tournament took place a month ago. Most of the contest was holds and tie-ups, which is not necessarily a bad thing, but that was obviously not what the crowd had in mind, as they were completely dead. A crowd really affects how the home audience enjoys a match, and this match was definite proof, as I cut myself off from it in the 2nd round to listen to music. Thankfully there was one highlight I took out of it, which was a devastating discus elbow from Rex to end the battle late in the 3rd round. Other than that, not much positive to say about this match.
Rating: 2.5/5 

Following this segment was one of very unusual flavor, as the Broken Hardy's made their much welcomed appearances to the Impact Zone for their usual promos of just absolute insanity. Brother Nero had an impromptu concert of his theme song "Obsolete" in front of the crowd, which was surprisingly painless as well. Long story short, it was all fun and games until the Tribunal jumped the guardrail and attacked the Tag Team Champions during their marvelous celebration. I guess having their stones cracked by the boss Billy Corgan earlier was the shot in the arm these guys needed, because they refused to let up until they wiped them out. I always thought this team was great in NXT, and I'm glad they're finally reaching that potential.
Rating: 3/5 

Cody Rhodes finally makes his in-ring debut this week, opposing Mike Bennett on the other side of this six-sided combat surface in what was most likely the best match this week. It was much like what you'd expect between two wrestlers who have the abilities that they undoubtedly possess, as both men took hellacious bumps throughout this 20 minute affair for the sake of getting one step closer to reaching the top of the mountain. If I could pinpoint my favorite points of this match, which is a difficulty on its own, I'd say the Hangman's DDT on the outside by "The Miracle" Mike Bennett, and the superplex inside the ring by Cody. Phenomenal effort by these two combatants, I hope they share a ring again, preferably soon.
Rating: 3.5/5 

The X-Division title was on the line in this next contest, as newcomer Marshe Rockett challenged DJ Z for his title. This match was another solid outing from two fine competitors in their own right, as Marshe impressively displayed his power and aggression with every move he did, including a vertical suplex that looked nasty, especially how sickening it truly looked when DJ Z landed on the ring apron, That Axe Kick is also something special, as Rockett's size allows him to use that move in a way where it looks like he is legitimately killing his opponent. DJ Z was also great here, as he showed off his normal spots to perfection, especially his aerial maneuvers. Hopefully Marshe Rockett gets a title reign soon, because this division needs another monster just like Samoa Joe was.
Rating: 3.5/5 

Impact this week seems to be very wrestling oriented, as there were barely any backstage segments before we had our Knockouts Title match between Gail Kim and *sighs* Maria Kanellis.. This part of the show was shockingly not the worst part of the show at all, as Maria finally got her comeuppance in this angle and had the daylights beaten out of her by Gail throughout this No Disqualification match. Thank God Kim won, because I'm not sitting through another segment between these two. I'm tired of this angle and I'm tired of Maria, case closed. Overall, an okay match.
Rating: 3/5 

Preceding this match, there seems to be a normal conversation between the commentators at ringside going on when the screen goes static, a clock appears on the screen until the feed cuts to three men in masks sitting at a table with 9 or 10 other masks on it. They speak very vaguely, talking almost poetically until the screen goes static again when they show a quote from Martin Luther King Jr. I have a lot of faith that this will be at least a watchable angle, as I am almost sure this won't be like every other stable TNA has done. Then again, I shouldn't hold my breath. Otherwise a very intriguing vignette.
Rating: 4/5 

Our main event of the evening was a match between EC3 and Moose to determine who will go one-on-one against Bobby Lashley next week. The match was decent at best, as it could've been better, but it was still highly enjoyable, so I can't complain too much. Moose obtained the victory at the end of it, making the dream match between Lashley and Moose a reality next week. That match will be one that is must-see, as these two powerful wrestlers will finally collide in an official sanctioned contest. I doubt it'll be better than Cody Rhodes vs Eddie Edwards for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship, but surely it'll be up there right?
Rating: 3/5

Full Show Rating: 3.5/5 

Not much else to say about this episode of Impact, other than the fact that although it might be the weakest episode since they transitioned to POP TV, it was still somewhat enjoyable, and a lot more watchable than a RAW on Monday night. That might change in these next coming weeks with Goldberg showing up in the WWE, but as of right now, the fact still remains that even a poor Impact is better than a deplorable RAW every week.

Anyway, this is the Review Guy himself, Cameron Mcdonley signing off. Goodnight everybody!

Impact Wrestling Review (10/6/16)

Ladies and Gentlemen, the Local Hero has returned to save the day once again! This time, we take the Review Bus to the Impact Zone in beautiful Orlando, Florida for another episode of Impact Wrestling, just days removed from Bound For Glory. So instead of taking up time with talk, let's make that walk down the road of Broken Brilliance!

Impact opens with Bobby Lashley cutting a promo about Bound For Glory and how he has no challengers that can even come close to ending his dominance. Aron Rex interrupts him, mentioning his game-changing win at the PPV against Eddie Edwards for the Impact Grand Championship. Gail Kim follows suit, talking about how times have changed and it's time for a woman to hold either the Grand Championship or the World Title. Eventually every living, breathing mammal holding a championship in this company was standing in the ring cutting promos on each other until Billy Corgan made two announcements. One being that every title is on the line tonight except for the X-Division Championship because of a new concept in that division, and that Bobby Lashley must either face Eddie Edwards, EC3 or Moose in a title defense on this program. All in all, not the best segment on this edition of Impact, but it set up matches for the rest of the show, so I can't complain too much due to this segment having a clear purpose.
Rating: 3/5 

The opening contest tonight is the beginning of this new X-Division concept, known as X-Gold, where members of this esteemed division will be competing in 6-Man Tag Team Matches. The first round of such groundbreaking events is a match between the team of DJ Z, Braxton Sutter and Mandrews, and their opponents Andrew Everett, Trevor Lee and Marshae Rocket. Fun match, wasn't the best match I've seen all week, but everybody performed exceptionally well in this instance and set the tone for the rest of this tournament, which will be taking place over the next few weeks. As for notable moments, Marshae's kicks were lethal in this match. He displayed a more aggressive style that the X-Division has not seen in a long time, and I sincerely hope TNA does not mess up with this new talent.
Rating: 3/5 

Following this enjoyable match was a highly entertaining return of Eli Drake's talk show, Fact Of Life! His guest this week was EC3, and it didn't disappoint for sure! I just love how he annoys all the wrestlers and pushes his comical "dummy" button while the crowd just eats it out of the palm of his hands, and there was no shortage of that at all. Ethan Carter played to his character perfectly, as he showed another side that we don't usually see from him. That my friends, was a side of pure, unadulterated anger. It got to a point where these two egos were face-to-face, about to come to blows. The segment went from senseless hilarity to visible intensity in only a matter of minutes. I look forward to seeing more between these two great athletes, hopefully a match!
Rating: 4/5 

Sadly, the show goes a little downhill for a short while, as the frustratingly annoying Maria Kanellis and her "assistant" Allie, make another irritating appearance on all of our televisions, before Maria and Laurel Van Ness interfered in Gail Kim's match with Sienna, forcing the referee's hand to call a disqualification. It was the usual disgustingly mediocre heel promo followed by a 3 on 1 assault with Madison Rayne on commentary just talking about it and not helping, although she's a face. Yeah, these Maria segments seem to be the only thing that are a constant annoyance on this show. Thankfully, this angle should end next week in the No DQ match between Maria and Gail Kim for the Knockouts Title. If not, well this part of the show will be the time that I have to nap every week.
Rating: 2/5 

Switching gears from a depressing low of the night to another entertaining portion of bliss from the Broken Hardy's, as they face Decay in a Wolf Creek Cage Match. Chainsaws, Crowbars, Staffs, Razor Wire, and Staple Guns were all at the disposal of these two teams. It is safe to say that this has turned from a wrestling rivalry into a how-to on how to maim your opponent with weapons that should classify this match as attempted murder. Unlike their past encounters, there was no shortage of blood here, as Reby was bleeding, Rosemary was bleeding, Broken Matt and Brother Nero were both busted open and so was Abyss. Crazy Steve was the only one who came out with no blade marks on his forehead. This was definitely the time to put your kids to bed, because the sensitive generation would have nightmares, and the PTC would have something to complain about. Great match.
Rating: 4/5 

Cody Rhodes makes his Impact On Pop debut side by side with his wife Brandi, cutting a promo about his list of potential matches and how Michael Bennett was on that list. "The Miracle" himself made his presence felt, cutting a scathing promo on Cody and his wife, which escalated rather quickly into a fight. I can already sense that these two will have a worthwhile program, no matter how long it lasts. This is absolutely another feud that I cannot wait to see more of and I hope these two have a match fairly soon.
Rating: 3.5/5 

Succeeding this segment was a match for the Impact Grand Championship, as the title holder Aron Rex struggled to retain against Baron Dax, as there was an intensity, a fire in this former NXT Mid-Carder's eyes that no one has really seen from him. This contest was not at all what I expected, but it was still worth viewing,as I personally enjoyed it. I wonder who will challenge Rex next, presumably Drew Galloway when he comes back, but until then, his challengers could be anyone in that locker room, and I am intrigued to see who is next in line.
Rating: 3.5/5 

Ladies and Gents, it's finally main event time! Our TNA World Heavyweight Champion, "The Destroyer" Bobby Lashley has to make a decision. All three challengers cut a promo earlier on in the night, explaining why they should be chosen, so now it's decision time! Instead of choosing Moose or the man he defeated last Sunday (EC3), he instead selects who he feels is his easiest match, and that was Eddie Edwards!

The match itself was a very good one, as it told an engaging story. The dominant champion who is far too overconfident, manipulating the crowd by cutting the unlikely challenger off at every possible avenue while not even going for the cover tells the story of a man who is his own worst enemy. Just when it seemed all hope was gone and this mercenary of a man was gonna mutilate another one of TNA's heroes, the former Ring Of Honor World Champion surprised him with a Boston Knee Party, obtaining the pinfall victory and another amazing accomplishment, that being the TNA World Heavyweight Championship!! This was a great match, and an unforeseen ending if you did not read the spoilers or cut yourself off from Social Media. The new champion rightfully deserved that win, and I hope he has a very good run at the top of the mountain!
Rating: 4/5 

Full Show Rating: 3.5/5

Although I have many grievances with Maria Kanellis & Allie as characters, it was overall an incredibly enjoyable show, with numerous positives that effectively outweighed the negatives in this particular edition of #ImpactOnPop . That's all I have left to say about this show, as it was well worth watching.

This has been another fun review, I hope you all enjoy reading it, as much as I did writing it! I will be back this afternoon for a Ring Of Honor review, Episode 263 so if you're an ROH fan like myself, be on the lookout for that! This is the Local Hero, the Review Guy Cameron Mcdonley, saying Goodbye Everybody!

Final Impact Episode!! (Or so we think..) Review: 9/29/16

Ladies and Gentlemen, we have reached our final destination. The inevitable end of a company that has had amazing matches and talent for 14 consecutive years. After endless mistakes and decisions that have put the company's future in uncertainty, we have the last ever Impact, at least for the foreseeable future.

Welcome to another Review of TNA Impact for what might possibly be the final time. I'm the Local Hero, the Review Guy Cameron Mcdonley, and we have a lot to discuss and I only got an hour to do it, so let's cease the interruptions and get straight to the action!

The show kickstarts with a promo segment between EC3 and Bobby Lashley. The two selected their teams for the Lethal Lockdown main event later on in the night. Lashley elects Drew Galloway, Mike Bennett and Maria Kanellis for his assembly of wrestlers. Ethan Carter the 3rd chooses Aron Rex, Moose and Gail Kim. "The Destroyer" warns Carter that his team will be led to the slaughter tonight on Impact. Solid opening promo, nothing too spectacular, just a decent way to open what could be the last piece of programming you ever produce.
Rating: 3/5 

Ironically, we have an X-Division championship match as the first contest tonight. What used to be the very foundation of your promotion is now the cannon fodder of your show. Although that may be sad, the match that we were presented with was possibly match of the night. DJZ and Eddie Edwards poured their hearts out into this battle, and was as fast paced and intense as you would expect it to be. DJZ retained his title as your last presumable champion in a division that while has no shortage of excitement inside the ring, has not possessed star power since Austin Aries was champion (at least in my estimation). Trevor Lee and Andrew Everett made a highly noticeable presence after the match, viciously decimating Edwards and DJZ. I sure hope this company continues, because if booked right, those two can become the next major stars emanating from that crop of wrestlers. Just talent all around that might not have a job after this Sunday, depressingly enough.
Rating: 4.5/5

Following a painstakingly lengthy commercial break, Josh Matthews is in an empty arena with "The Miracle" Mike Bennett and his former henchman/former NFL & ROH star, Moose. A very substantial promo given the cards these two were dealt, as I personally felt they weren't given the ball on this occasion, because if they were, God was it fumbled. I never had any emotional investment in this rivalry, but I will give the match a chance this Sunday because I know these two can at least have a sound match to cap off an extremely underwhelming feud. The biggest positive I can detract is that the angle gave them a reason to oppose each other in the six-sided ring on what is usually viewed as their WrestleMania or Starrcade every year.
Rating: 3/5 

The next match the fans received was a match between Madison Rayne and Laurel Van Ness, who was introduced by the 2nd most irritating character in TNA, Allie. While this was a good match all things considered, the one thing I took away from this match was that the crowd was dead for Madison every time she applied a hold. For somebody of her importance in TNA's history as a pioneer knockout, you could hear a pen drop during the whole match, and especially during her brief comebacks in this unusually prolonged competition. Van Ness connects with the upmost decency of a curb stomp to compose a merciful end to this dragging affair. Albeit still one of the better matches on this edition of Impact.
Rating: 3.5/5 

I feel bad for the Impact Zone, because the disease of overexposure has been ever present on this show, from the idiotic Maria Kanellis/Alie backstage skits, all the way to the persistent appearances from everyone involved in tonight's main event over the duration of the night. That was never more painfully obvious than in this next in-ring promo. Drew Galloway and Aron Rex had enjoyable banter back and forth, don't get me wrong, but we've all seen these two men so many times tonight that it is just difficult to be emotionally invested. Added on to the fact that this match is now cancelled due to Galloway's injury a day later, it really wasn't necessary.
Rating: 2.5/5 

Preceding what was just uninteresting at best, we turn a complete 180 degrees, as we get one of the most entertaining moments of this entire broadcast. Rosemary goes one on one against Reby Sky in a match that while short, was incredibly entertaining. After 10 minutes of physicality, Rosemary mists the referee much to his dismay and disqualifies her. Both the Broken Hardy family and Decay brawled around the arena, dismembering each other with ladders, chairs, electrocutions and strangulations until the brawl subsequently ended with Rosemary incapacitating Reby with a side effect through a table, leaving Decay as the only ones standing from this impromptu skirmish after the match.
Rating: 4/5

Succeeding another sizzle reel publicizing Cody Rhodes' debut for TNA at a PPV that is in a cloud of uncertainty (Bound For Glory). We interrupt your indulgence and enjoyment to give you another annoyance involving Maria Kanellis Bennett. God, I really want her off of my television before I throw a brick at it. Gail Kim's promo was nothing to complain about, but having to sit through Maria making every wrestling fan's ears bleed with that obnoxious voice and her insanely mannerisms that are nothing but indignation. That's all I have to say about this segment before I turn this review into a rant coming from an intense smart mark.
Rating: 1/5

Finally, in what might be one of the most bittersweet moments in my time as a wrestling fan, the main event is upon us. My feelings towards this main event are so weird, because while I am stoked for this main event, I am not ready for this company to end by any stretch of the imagination. I grew up watching this company, and to see it folding before my eyes while being aware that this could be the last main event in TNA history is mind-boggling. It was a great match with an excellent finish that exceptionally booked Lashley as a strong heel champion. However, I do feel like it would be palpable irony if Bobby Lashley, an Ex-WWE main eventer, was the terminal TNA World Heavyweight Champion. It would really put this promotion's 14-15 year existence in perfect perspective.
Rating: 4/5


Full Show Rating: 3.5/5 


Well, what else can I say? On a show that has the possibility of being a medium-sized landmark, it certainly didn't feel like it, as it seems like wrestlers were exposed far too much and barely anyone had anything left anymore. The passion was absolutely stark, and it eerily resembled the dying days of WCW and the original Smoky Mountain Wrestling. I did not fully enjoy this review, as I had this company's predicament in the back of my mind, but the show was watchable at best. Tomorrow, I will review ROH All-Star Extravaganza and ICW Fight Club #004, so be on the lookout for that.

I'm the Local Hero, Cameron Mcdonley, saying goodbye everybody!

Impact Wrestling Review: 9/22/16

Ladies and Gentlemen listen up, it's your Local Hero Cameron Mcdonley back once again, this time with another review! Impact Wrestling had a very newsworthy night of action last night, so let's not waste with getting straight to the chaotic action!

Our first match of the night is surprisingly one I've been looking forward to since its announcement last weekend. Drew Galloway goes one on one against Eddie Edwards in a semi-final match of the Impact Grand Championship Tournament! This contest was definitely as physical as you would expect it to be. These two left it all in the ring with every strike, hold and move that was executed in this highly aggressive contest. One move that I was amazed by was that Belly To Belly Suplex. I swear, I have never seen any kind of suplex with that kind of torque, that amount of snap on it. God, it was brutal. Very stiff affair, but one that I certainly enjoyed. Drew obtains the victory by split decision, advancing him to the finals of Bound For Glory in a solid match.
Rating: 4/5 

Preceding the match,, Galloway calls out Ethan Carter the 3rd to the ring. The two exchange words in a very intense trading of promos until Drew leaves and EC3 calls out Bobby Lashley. Lashley walks ever slowly down the ramp, allowing "The Miracle" Mike Bennett to attack Ethan from behind and to set him up for a rib-breaking spear. Moose runs to the ring and gets a spear for his troubles. Bennett and Lashley shake hands, signaling some form of an alliance.
Rating: 3/5 

After Lashley shoves off The Miracle's advancement of being a friend in the backstage area, Aron Rex faces Eli Drake in another semi-final match of the Grand Championship tournament. This battle was not as exceptional as the first one, but still very solid and well worth watching. If I were to say so myself, Rex was never given the chance to have matches like this one in the WWE and it is a very welcome change to see some great in-ring work out of him that we all know he's capable of. Eli Drake did very well himself, not being afraid of hitting Aron harder than he was hit. Just like the last semi-final contest, I would not be objected to seeing these two oppose one another in a ring once more.
Rating: 3.5/5 

To quote Don West, "The rumors are correct!". Cody Rhodes appeared on a promo package, advertising his debut at Bound For Glory. A part of me wishes they would've kept things quiet and had him debut at BFG the same way they debuted Christian Cage at Genesis 2005, that's just a very small nitpick for what was a very good segment hyping Cody.
Rating: 3/5 

The saga between the Broken Hardy's and Decay continues, as not only do we see Vanguard 1 and a holographic Senior Benjamin stalk Decay, but an ring promo involving the two opposing teams in this "Great War" concludes with the lights going out and resurfacing with Abyss and Crazy Steve tied to the ropes, forced to watch as Reby Sky assaults Rosemary. The intensity seems to keep building with this feud and we should all expect an epic conclusion in two weeks at Bound For Glory.
Rating: 4/5 

DJ Z is in the ring, calling out any X-Division competitors for an open shot at his championship. Trevor Lee accepts, and what we get from it is another solid match between two phenomenal athletes. This division may be lacking star power, but the in-ring combining of the wrestlers' talented and combustible elements has made for strong outings every edition of Impact. Absolutely an enjoyable highlight of the show by far. After the match, Andrew Everett and Trevor Lee attacked DJ Z after the match, but didn't get too far, as Eddie Edwards saved his fallen comrade and requested a title match next week, to wish DJ Z accepted. Looking forward to that match.
Rating: 3.5/5

Here comes the low point of the show. This angle (As I mentioned last week), is the only dragging part of the show every week. The point is to get Allie over as a sympathetic babyface, I get that, but these segments are so annoying, it only makes me think of how unappealing the storyline in general really is. As for the matches themselves, they really served no point except to make Maria Kanellis look even more grudging and obnoxious than she even needs to be. I appreciated the little nod to WCW in 2000 with Gail Kim coming out in a weird ninja outfit and predictably unmasking herself, but other than that, did not find the story any more enjoyable than I did last week.
Rating: 2/5 

The main event of the show is EC3 and Moose vs Mike Bennett. It was not the best match of the night by any stretch of the imagination, but it was still very good and found myself enjoying it for what it's supposed to be. Usual spots you see in matches from all four men and some great tag team psychology, but nothing too spectacular. After the main event, all four men brawled in and around the ring until security and the entire roster broke it up. Billy Corgan makes his only appearance of the night and announces a Lethal Lockdown match for next week on Impact, the last Impact (maybe ever) before Bound For Glory.
Rating: 3.5/5 

Although the main event was nothing too special and the Maria segments seem to get more irritating and trying to watch every week, the show overall was very watchable and engaging, with a lot of intriguing in-ring action. 2016 has really been the comeback year creatively for TNA and I can only hope that I can say two weeks from now that I'm still watching Impact Wrestling on Pop every Thursday night.
Full Show Rating: 4/5 

That depressingly ends this enthralling review. I am the Local Hero, The Review Guy, Cameron Mcdonley and this is my sign off for today. So long everybody!

WWE RAW Review: 9/19/16

I'm not a good guy, I'm not a bad guy, I'm a review guy! Hello, I am Cameron Mcdonley, and yes, when you see my name on this screen, it's time for another review, filled with my incessant rants, ratings and overall thoughts. Since there is a lot, positive and negative to discuss, let's skip the unnecessary talking and get straight to the walking! Grab your blankets, this is gonna be a sleepy ride.

Roman Reigns comes down to the ring as the crowd unleashes their hate on him to start the show. He was about to talk until Stephanie McMahon interrupted him (That's gonna be a recurring theme on this episode, way too many people in one segment) before she got cut off by Mick Foley who got cut off by Kevin Owens. Long story short, this 30 minute promo was to announce the steel cage main event between KO and Reigns. Not much to talk about here, just honestly one of many cringe-worthy, pointless segments on this show.
Rating: 2/5 

As if one boring promo wasn't enough, Rusev does the usual "I'm a heel, let's moan and complain about grievances" concept we get in this company before Mick Foley announces that Rusev vs Seth Rollins is next.

The match itself was not bad at all, albeit, if there was no commentary, I would've enjoyed it... Anyhow, the two had a great match with one another here, highly competitive, but the spot that definitely left its mark on me was the leap of faith from the announce table off the stage by Rollins. For the most part, enjoyable. I wish I had more to say about it but it seems like they were fighting for no reason.
Rating: 3.5/5 

We cut to the backstage area for you guessed it, another pointless segment. There might've been some thought put into it given the "tension" between Charlotte and Dana Brooke, but honestly I don't even understand the objective of that. Usually the ignorant protege/frustrated mentor is an entertaining dynamic, but just like with Maria and Allie last week on TNA Impact, this was just God-Awful. I hope they cut this angle off soon.
Rating: 1.5/5 

After a much forgettable conversation between Chris Jericho and Kevin Owens, we get a match between Braun Strowman and Sin Cara. It was per usual with Strowman, absolute domination and no reprieve for his opponent. I enjoy the squash matches, takes me back to old 90s WWF Superstars. I seriously hope he gets bigger confrontations and an an actual feud soon, because that's gonna be an interesting test for this young behemoth of a man. Plus, his theme song is hilarious!
Rating: 3/5 

At this point, I don't know whether or not I'm watching RAW, or playing Smackdown: Shut Your Mouth for the PS2, because there is an over-abundance of small conversations that repeat themselves and segments that are lackluster. Case and point, the unneeded banter between Sasha Banks and Bayley. However, we get an enjoyable tag match out of it between Sasha, Bayley and the dysfunctional, horrible heels known as Charlotte and Dana Brooke. Charlotte wins because why not have the most idiotic heel in history win a match, just why not? Other than that, nothing too amazing, just pretty good.
Rating: 3/5 

Once we are through with Stephanie trying to sound less stupid and endorsing Kevin Owens although we all know she doesn't know jack about wrestling, we transition to a much more interesting jobber matches than the Strowman match, as Bo Dallas (who seems to be portraying a depressed character) faced a local competitor named Gary Graham. Aggression was very present in this match, and was the only non-frustrating thing about this entire show. With that said, I'm glad he's given more of a push now.
Rating: 3/5 

Finally, for the first time tonight, no backstage segments after commercial break, just getting into the next match, as Sheamus faces Cesaro in another match of this Best of Seven Series. I feel like I'm not the only one completely hating on the idea, as it takes me back to the amazing Best of Seven Series Booker T and Chris Benoit had back in the day on Nitro. However, I sadly know others do not feel the same, so a lot of people are gonna call for this to end sooner rather than later. Regardless. great match, and I won't bash this idea as long as Cesaro goes over at the end of this all, because he needs it for the love of God.
Rating: 3.5/5 

I legitimately thought it was impossible to have a good segment on this show, until the List of Jericho gave me a glimmer of hope. Sadly, not even that can be done right by this ignorant promotion, as it turned into a massive cluster of tag teams fighting while Jericho exclaims his "Stupid Idiot" catchphrase as if his life depended on it. I know it seems I'm too negative on this episode, but seriously, Vince should wake up and realize that his programming is declining in ratings because of idiocy like this every week. TNA is already dead, we don't need WWE to dig their own grave.
Rating: 2.5/5

The eight man tag between the heels and faces that followed was surprisingly decent. All eight of them worked very well and the faces won, applying any final build-up for Clash Of The Champions that they can. Everybody got their spots in, the heels had their momentary heat, overall a major success if you look at it in those terms.
Rating: 3/5 

It seems like we've waited forever, and we finally have it, the Cruiserweight Division! I am a bit frustrated at WWE re-writing history yet again and Mick stumbling on his words, but those were minute nitpicks as this was the best part of the show by far. The match between Brian Kendrick, Gran Metalik, Rich Swann and Cedric Alexander was one to remember, as the new generation of wrestling fans had their first taste of the Cruiserweights, and the older fans had a flashback to the Monday Night Wars and the 2002-2004 era of SmackDown with this great match. Honestly, I hope WWE doesn't mess this up like they mess everything up, but if they do,at least we have this contest to grasp on to.
Rating; 4.5/5 

You know what, I'm gonna make this short and sweet, the main event was hot garbage. The match could've been better given how good these two are in the ring, but these two far from connected last night. Depressingly enough, this crowd was dead to add insult to injury, and the commentary was dreadful as per usual. Maybe if the champion won for a change it would've been better, but the aging imbecile known as Vince McMahon just has to appeal to the muscle-bound troglodytes that infest this company with their stupid mannerisms and inability to connect to an audience.
Rating: 1.5/5 


Overall Show rating: 3/5 


Better show than usual, but still destructively terrible and outright horrible. Again, not much to attest to or speak about, I just seriously hate this company. Anyway, this is Cameron Mcdonley signing off and goodbye everybody!

ICW Fight Club #002

Welcome back ladies and gents, I am the "Local Hero" Cameron Mcdonley, ready to crack my neck and cash some checks with this latest review. This time, we revisit the garage for more swearing, heavier violence, and a doctor's dose of chaos as we review ICW Fight Club, Episode #002! So before we anger Red Lightning and the Black Label, let's get straight to the action on this perfect storm of a Monday night!

After the blood pumping, hype building and just downright amazing intro with some exquisite metal music, we waste no time taking it to the ring as we get ready for an ICW Tag Team Championship match! The announcer didn't even have a chance to speak before Pee Wee made his presence felt and announced the New Nation to the ring as their manager as they face the Local Fire, Joe Hendry and Davey Blaze. The match went on for a solid 10 minutes, There were some really good technical moves and working over body parts, but the contest didn't go too far, as Polo Promotions jumped the barricade and rolled into the ring with security blocking them off from both teams. The 50% ICW Owner, Mark Dallas grabs a mic and says he'll take violence and profanity, but not legalities, so he makes a decision. Polo Promotions will make their in-ring returns to ICW in two weeks on this show when they face the Local Fire in a ladder match for the Undisputed Tag Team Championships! However, that was not all, as he stated another bombshell, announcing that The Dudley Boyz will face the new tag champs at Fear And Loathing!!
Rating: 3.5/5

We come back to a short replay, retelling the events of Shug's Hoose Party when Mikey Whiplash, despite winning the main event against Trent Seven, pulled out of the Fear And Loathing title match and kick-started a hashtag #Trent4Hydro . We then cut to the ring, where Trent Seven makes his way down the aisle to a massive ovation from the Glasgow crowd. When he stepped into the ring, the look in his eyes told the whole story.

He means business, as he made his intentions short and sweet by calling out Wolfgang, the World Champion! Instead, we get the shocking return of Massimo, who we have not seen since his upset win over Douglas Williams at Barramania II. He cuts the typical promo, professing his case about how he deserves the top spot in Insane Championship Wrestling before the two traded strikes to start the match, 10 minutes of fist-to-fist brutality is displayed here, as these men use their already battered bodies as weapons in this fight, not allowing any time to breathe until Trent leveled his Italian adversary with a ring-shaking Trend Setter for the victory in a very hard-fought battle. As ICW fans speak their admiration for his wrestling ability louder than ever, it remains to be seen if this young man will get the opportunity of a lifetime at the Hydro Arena!
Rating: 3.5/5  

Again, we get another show of excellence from ICW in this installment of Fight Club, as each match is greatly physical and very, very entertaining. I am undoubtedly excited beyond belief for this next month, as we get what should be an awe-inspiring ladder match and the return of Team 3D! Things are looking ever brighter for this company and I have full optimism that it will get even better before this year comes to a close!

Full Show Rating: 4/5 


As much as I personally enjoy these reviews, this particular one must come to a somber end. Tomorrow night, I will review Monday Night RAW, so I urge you to be on the lookout for that. With that said, this is Cameron Mcdonley saying goodbye everybody!

Wrestling Couple Tie The Knot

Earlier this week, wrestling couple, Johnny Gargano and Candice LeRae got married at a Disney resort hotel.

Other wrestlers were in attendance such as Joey Ryan and Gargano's tag team partner in NXT Tommaso Ciampa, who from the photos we can safely assume was Gargano's best man.

Gargano and LeRae had become something of a 'famous' wrestling couple before hand, and now they have tied the knot, it looks like that will be the same for many years to come.

As noted by other sources, Gargano will be working his last independent match on September 23rd, before he makes the switch to the corporate giants that are the WWE, and who is his opponent you ask? Well, her name is Candice LeRae.

WWE's Cruiserweights: Seven men chosen to take center stage in Vince McMahon's promotion.

Hello, this is Cameron Mcdonley here with some important news regarding the WWE Cruiserweight Division. The first seven wrestlers have been decided to be the inaugural wrestlers in a revitalized division that abruptly ended in 2008. Without a further ado, let's take a look at each of the seven combatants!

TJ Perkins, who was formerly known as Suicide/Manik in TNA has been called up to the main roster after becoming the new WWE Cruiserweight Champion. He is a former multiple-time X-Division Champion, one of the pioneers of Evolve and one of the standout performers in the Cruiserweight Classic.

Brian Kendrick, who arguably had the best in-ring work of his career until he was eliminated in the quarter finals, has been welcomed back to World Wrestling Entertainment with open arms as a veteran member of this illustrious division. With his years of experience and his well-rounded style, fans casual and hardcore will see a new side of him that nobody has ever seen before.

Another Evolve and CZW mainstay, Rich Swann has been added to the already stacked crop of talent in this division. His high-flying style and his impressive agility will fit perfectly in this critically acclaimed division of wrestlers.

A newer wrestler not seen anywhere except in his native Mexico, Gran Metalik will look to incorporate a lethal dose of Lucha Libre into the division, as the man is quick on his feet, highly athletic and is very intense with every movement.

Ring Of Honor has its place in this division as well with the inclusion of Cedric Alexander! Unlike most of the participants, this man applies a much more physical aspect to an already high-octane level of competition, especially with his signature backbreaker.

Wrestling out of Puerto Rico, Lince Dorado has a huge opportunity in front of him as a part of WWE. While he has a scarce amount of experience, expect this man to show a great deal of heart anytime he makes his presence felt in the squared circle!

Noam Dar is the final man announced to be in this division. For those who don't watch Progress, ICW or Evolve, this young stud brings a much more technical and smash-mouth style to this than the rest. He can take you to the mat and stretch you, but he also does not have any problem with taking you down with a well timed elbow or kick to the side of the cranium.


That is an exciting revelation in this sport today. I am Cameron Mcdonley, and I will see you again soon!