Smark Out Moment

After a while of speculation, it has been made official that John Cena's final match will take place at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at WWE Saturday Night's Main Event XLII.

Previously, there had been rumors that the event would take place in Boston and could be called Ruthless Aggression, calling back to John Cena's debut in the company where he helped make that phrase something to base an entire era of WWE after. Alas, that is officially not true anymore, and whatever reasoning for WWE to go in this direction, they've made this decision.

Unfortunately.

I'll admit, I'm someone who cares more about pay-per-view names than the average viewer. I've written countless articles about old names they should bring back in various ways (like how it's crazy WWE hasn't done a SuperBrawl special or Fall Brawl, or how Breaking Point was a great name) and I've talked on the podcast ad nauseam about how things like Smackville were stupid. Ruthless Aggression isn't exactly the most fired up I'd ever be for an event's name, and the show's title frequently has no bearing whatsoever on the card itself unless it is something specific like Royal Rumble or Money in the Bank, but there is inherent weight to some of that regardless of how WWE likes to overlook it at times.

This is why Saudi Arabia doesn't want "Super WrestleMania" or "Wrestlepalooza", but they want the actual canon "WrestleMania" (again, unfortunately), and at this point, calling John Cena's last match to be in a premium live event entirely dedicated to a tribute to him would be very fitting. The name can be repurposed down the line for other things, and I'm sure they have it trademarked, so why not? This isn't "Return of the Funker" from ECW. And it's John Cena of all people. He's on the upper echelon of company guys for all time.

Saturday Night's Main Event doesn't have any zing to it anymore. The old school vibe has lost its flavor already since it airs more than quarterly and doesn't feature legends talent. Now, it isn't even on NBC anymore, after WWE's streaming deal with Peacock changed once they switched to ESPN+. The benefit of that is how this likely won't have a time limit to it that will result in Cena's retirement speech (if he does one) getting cut off like Goldberg's. However, that means this will just be treated like a traditional Peacock pay-per-view that we've seen over the years, meaning we'll still get commercials and it won't even have the benefit of people watching it on network television. Less people will be watching this now than before, as some people switched to ESPN+ and dropped Peacock since that will only be essentially featuring NXT and SNME.

So if this is just a regular event and not Saturday Night's Main Event, why bother calling it that? Why not just call it WWE Ruthless Aggression and call it a day?

I think the problem lies in rights and trademarks, and I think NXT No Mercy was just an indication of that.

Lately, WWE has been advertising the NXT events without the NXT branding. Instead, they've been having things like "WWE Heatwave" and "WWE New Year's Evil", rather than "NXT Vengeance Day" and "NXT Roadblock". But they switched WWE No Mercy, which had just a WWE logo on it, to NXT No Mercy. I feel like that's because their deal with Peacock is to run only NXT events and Saturday Night's Main Event, and if they were to air something that is just "WWE ____" (such as WWE Crown Jewel), it would violate their agreement with ESPN to air their true main roster pay-per-view content strictly through ESPN+.

They probably can't legally call this event WWE Ruthless Aggression, but they can just run the exact same template with graphics and marquee titling that says "WWE Saturday Night's Main Event: John Cena's Final Match" instead. That would mean there really isn't a reason to call this "WWE Saturday Night's Main Event: Ruthless Aggression" either, as you can't get more of a specific "this is to honor John Cena" tribute than having his name in the title of the event.

But herein lies the potential benefit of this. We might be back in our In Your House era, where WWE had those events and would give them subtitles to differentiate them.

Otherwise, who is going to remember Saturday Night's Main Event 43 compared to 42? But if we take the naming conventions of "In Your House: Mind Games" and apply this, we could have upcoming events with subtitles like "WWE Saturday Night's Main Event: Rage in the Cage" again.

I, for one, call for WWE SNME: Bash at the Beach, WWE SNME: Gold Rush, WWE SNME: Fully Loaded and so much more to make a comeback, and for WWE to experiment with other names like they did during the In Your House era. "Beware of Dog" is a cooler subtitle to go with to help remember which show is which instead of just tossing it out there as another Saturday Night's Main Event.

At least "John Cena's Final Match" gets put on this as a subtitle. WWE should keep that idea going forward. 

All Elite Wrestling released its first console video game outing, AEW: Fight Forever, on June 28, 2023. There was a lot of buzz surrounding AEW: Fight Forever initially, as it was the first licensed professional wrestling game outside of the WWE umbrella in over a decade. Promising a pick-up-and-play control scheme that would hearken back to the glory days of WWF No Mercy on the Nintendo 64, Fight Forever delivered on that particular promise, but it does so at the cost of presenting an overall package that feels generally behind the times as opposed to a nostalgic callback to the boom period of professional wrestling games.

To be fair to AEW: Fight Forever and the team behind the game, they had the unfair task of delivering a high-level video game, all while the brand on which the game is based was less than 5 years old and actively undergoing significant transformations and growing pains. For those unfamiliar, AEW is a professional wrestling promotion that began in 2019. Since its inception, the promotion has been branded as the first major North American alternative to WWE since the closure of World Championship Wrestling in 2001.

The action in a typical AEW match features high-speed action, numerous athletic maneuvers, and multi-man chaos, and it has been that way since the beginning. Therefore, when the video game celebrating this new company is released without features like multi-man Ladder Matches—a match type that has been a staple in games since 2000—it's a significant flaw that affects the game's ability to accurately recreate the AEW experience.

In that same vein, a regular part of a highly anticipated AEW match is the display of "Fighting Spirit" and the ability for wrestlers to kick out of their opponent's finishing move even after 20-plus minutes of combat. This not only keeps the match going but gets fans on the edge of their seats and upsets veteran talking heads who are easily displeased when wrestling is not as it was "back in their day." In AEW: Fight Forever, matches are over as quickly as they begin, with one finishing maneuver being all it takes to end any given contest in under five moments. Something like this is utterly unacceptable to anyone who wants to simulate what they enjoy about their favorite wrestling company accurately.

Entrances are another area where AEW: Fight Forever comes up short, quite literally, if we're being honest. Elaborate entrances are a fan-favorite part of the professional wrestling package. However, thanks to the insistence on making Fight Forever a more arcade-esque experience, the entrances are brief clips that, at times, are shorter than 60 seconds. Fans are given the ability to control pyro and special effects of that nature in the game. Still, it's not enough to overcome the shortness of the actual entrances, which significantly hinders the ability to simulate the true AEW experience properly.

The issues boil down to a disconnect in philosophy between the type of crowd All Elite Wrestling wants to attract with their television programming and the type of audience AEW Games expects to gravitate toward their game. AEW's slogan is "Where The Best Wrestle." AEW pounds its chest on the philosophy that, while WWE is too concerned with being "mainstream," AEW is for the hardcore wrestling fan, the sickos, if you will. On the other hand, AEW Games aimed to create an experience for casual, potentially lapsed, wrestling fans. Ultimately, the clash in philosophies has resulted in a disjointed experience, but this is not the only area where fans have felt let down by AEW's first console outing.

The DLC rollout has also received pushback.

AEW: Fight Forever did an excellent job in keeping its game up to date with the promotion's ever-changing roster. Downloadable content has allowed names such as Swerve Strickland, Adam "Cope" Copeland, Samoa Joe, Jay White, and others to be included in the game, despite Copeland's arrival coming well after Fight Forever was initially released in June 2023. However, each DLC package has come with a new price tag, and the overall price of the complete video game continues to soar, with some early players feeling that the core experience of the game just doesn't warrant continuous purchases.

So, how can AEW Games learn from its mistakes and make its sophomore outing a game worthy of being remembered? It's not as difficult as one may think, especially if they build on the solid foundation they already have with Fight Forever.

To start, the number of match types needs to be increased. Players, especially those who desire a heavy sense of simulation from their gameplay, simply need the ability for more creativity between the ropes and more match types that better represent what is shown on TV every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday night. Fight Forever can't even do Trios (3 vs. 3) matches, and in AEW, there's a whole division and championship belt for teams that compete in groupings of three. Additionally, we all love WWF No Mercy on the Nintendo 64. Still, it's been nearly 25 years, and it's time not to make the idea of living up to that game's particular control scheme the entire basis of one's opinion on whether or not a wrestling game is strong.

It would also help if the price of DLC were reduced or dropped. It would be foolish to expect the latter, as gaming development is a costly endeavor. Still, players need to feel that a game is worth the price and that they can trust the developer to do more than just try to make a quick buck off of them.

AEW: Fight Forever has strong ideas, a fun graphical style, unique mini-games, and even a Battle Royale mode. Be that as it may, AEW's first console outing came away looking like a young wrestler who may be ready for a television debut, but certainly isn't prepared to be the face of the company or carry its World Championship.

Here's hoping discussions of a sequel have already picked up, and wrestling fans can experience a more complete package from AEW Games in the near future. For anyone who hasn't picked up AEW: Fight Forever yet, it is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Steam, and the Xbox family of consoles. Pick up your desired copy here.

There were two major problems with the main event of the second night of WrestleMania.

Cody Rhodes, after everything, lost. In front of a crowd that chanted "Let's Go Cena" in its true spirit, "Cena Sucks" only for the sake of it, and as for Cody... well all they cared about was his song; John Cena stood tall with his 17th World Title. The crowd gave him a raucous ovation… but was that desirable? Is that now deniable? And was it always inevitable?

The end of WrestleMania 41 Night Two also felt... disappointing. Because everyone watching—from the stadium to the streams to the doomscrollers online—was waiting for one man to appear. THE ROCK

The build pointed to it. Or rather, the build was centered around it. The story begged for it. And in the end, he wasn't there. Cause he is oh-so-busy.

But here's the thing: HE DIDN'T NEED TO BE.

Music: Ya Know The Kind That Is Instantly Recognized

Picture this: Cody's rallying. Cena's gasping for air. Then—

"IF YA SMELL…"

The stadium ERUPTS. They might love him or hate him, but in that moment, they WANT him, just like they want John Cena to win No.17. For three seconds, they believe. Cody believes. Cena takes advantage. Low blow. Belt shot. 1-2-3!

What happens next? The crowd flips. Not because they hate Cena entirely—but because they feel PLAYED. They realize in that moment what everyone else around the world already knows, that The Rock not appearing at WrestleMania at all is absolute BULLS**T. They didn't get what they wanted, and Cena just handed not only Cody, but the WWE Universe another "you almost had it" moment. The same live crowd that cheered him over what he could never be: until that night, the face of the company that is unanimously loved, one that actually CAN wrestle. Why? Because he doesn't care about them. Because they are like his toxic ex-girlfriend. And because they haven't earned it.

That's right. The Rock doesn't show. The pop dies. And in its place: boos. Real, hot, visceral boos. Not because the fans don't care—but because they care TOO MUCH.

Cena, in this version, doesn't walk back out of the stadium to a chorus of cheers. He walks out with nuclear heat.

Here's Why It Works

Because this finish—MY finish—is a "f**k finish" in both kayfabe AND non-kayfabe terms, much like what we actually got. But from a meta-angle? It's genius. The nature of the "f**k finish" from the non-kayfabe standpoint may be disappointing, but the RIGHT kind of disappointing. Infuriating. Not deflating. Cody gets distracted by something out of his control. He doesn't look like crap. Cena takes the cheap route, not to piss the internet off, but to piss the crowd off.

You use the IDEA of The Rock—something WWE ITSELF has been dangling for months—as the final betrayal. The internet crowd has been dissecting this angle forever. They were convinced Rock was coming. Or about how he shows up WHENEVER HE WANTS. With no respect for anything or anyone. The music plays, and the rug is yanked. That's next-level trolling, and it makes Rock the ultimate META HEEL again. Not just a kayfabe villain. A real-life manipulator of expectations. A corporate god who just reminded you who owns the show. THE FINAL BOSS.

Would the internet still complain? Maybe. Possibly. Probably. We complain about everything.

But we'd also RESPECT the intelligence of it. That's the difference.

What actually happened at Mania? Also a "f**k finish." But one that left people cold. Cena got a pop. Good for him and good for the crowd. Cody looked like the absolute drizzling sh**s, from looking like a MADE MAN after EVERYTHING he has been through and in particular after his phenomenal job at winning the live crowds back mere moments after he began to get booed in both his verbal battles with Cena. And The Rock. Oh, we all know. He didn't even factor in. There was no narrative hit. Just a miss.

In this fantasy version (which I expect will certainly get me hired to the WWE Creative team once Hunter reads it), the crowd's heat is EARNED. Loud, angry, emotional heat in the building. That's where it matters. Not on the internet. And yet, Cena being booed out of the building seconds after that pop... seemingly impossible to achieve in that moment John Cena would win No. 17, especially without The Rock playing a factor, just became a sure shot.

What Was Needed & What We Got...

What did we need? What was desirable and yet seemingly unattainable? A smart, nuclear heel move that got REAL boos in 2025 when fans just witnessed a long-awaited and highly anticipated moment of sports and entertainment history. How? Engineered through expectation, not action. The same expectations that caused John Cena to turn heel. The same expectations that caused him to win his 17th World Championship. The same expectations that caused The Rock to turn heel. The same expectations that caused Cody Rhodes to finish the story. And the same expectations on the part of the company and the fans that sold 200,000 tickets over the weekend in Las Vegas, that drew millions of dollars, and that got billions of views all over the world.

And "what do we get?" What was undesirable but seemingly always undeniable and inevitable, and when the moment arrived, absolutely undisputed. The biggest heel in the industry being cheered unanimously while the biggest babyface in the industry was not just booed throughout the night but made to look like crap at the end of the biggest show of the year. A failure on the part of the company and the fans while the face of the industry got what he did NOT deserve.

The crowd's hate was desirable; the internet's hate obviously was not. The crowd's love, at least in my humble opinion, was NOT desirable, and yet, as the nature of the live crowds is, it is now undeniable.

Reinforcing Not Just Why, But How It Works

MY finish gives you both. Instant fury and long-term intrigue. It protects Cody. It vilifies Cena. And it elevates The Rock—without him ever needing to show up.

Hell, have Raw open the next night with THE ROCK'S music again. Get the pop. Then send out Cena instead. Let the boos rain down. Let the stadium LOSE IT. Let Cena feel the kind of heat you can't manufacture anymore. Not just "respectful dislike"—real, emotional hatred.

If the goal was to ruin wrestling and burn it to the ground to rebuild it in your image? This is how you do it. You EARN that. You fight for that. Not just in threads or reaction videos, but in the VOICES IN THE AIR. That's the magic WWE forgot.

Especially in a story this self-aware, this layered. That reaction in the building? The respect from the internet? After taking the bold risk of not just going a route no one expected, given the seemingly predictable yet stupendous nature of the prospective WrestleMania card months ago but turning John Cena heel in his retirement year. Not just backing yourself into the corner having heel Cena go for No.17 against the biggest babyface since Cena himself in The American Nightmare but navigating through the impulsive and seemingly menopausal midlife crisis-ridden actions of Dwayne Johnson resulting in using his absence to deliver a stroke of brilliance perhaps even The Final Boss's presence couldn't have.

Best of all, when Cena said all we ever care about is "what do we get," John Cena's promise would still have delivered, "YOU GET NOTHING!"

But hey, unless I haven't taken the bumps and travelled the roads and made the towns, I better "shut up and enjoy it", no? "Know my role and shut my mouth?" So much for expectations.

To sum this up neatly...

For too long, the WWE Draft has been a whisper, not a roar. A procedural shuffle, devoid of the seismic impact it could wield. But what if we transformed it? What if the draft became a night of destiny, a spectacle that redefined the very fabric of WWE? It's time to ignite a revolution, to reimagine the draft as a catalyst for legendary careers.

Let's look outside the squared circle for a moment. The NFL and NBA drafts are events that captivate millions. Why? Because they're more than just player selections; they're stories unfolding in real-time. The anticipation, the speculation, the life-altering moments when a player's name is called–these are the elements that make drafts compelling. WWE, with its captivating storytelling, has the potential to outshine even those juggernauts. But it needs to ditch the procedural nature and embrace the drama.

To truly revolutionize the WWE Draft, we need to move beyond simply swapping established stars. We need to create a talent acquisition event that serves as a launchpad for the next generation of wrestling icons.

Imagine the seismic shift as a coveted free agent, like Miro, steps into the WWE spotlight, signing their contract live on draft night. This isn't just a roster addition, it's a statement of intent. It's about showcasing WWE's dominance and its ability to attract top-tier talent. The arena erupts, the internet explodes, and the wrestling world takes notice. But what if the draft could go even further? Picture this: a groundbreaking talent exchange, a strategic loan from another wrestling powerhouse. Imagine the shock and awe as a performer like Will Ospreay, currently under contract elsewhere, is unveiled as a temporary addition to the WWE roster. A meticulously crafted video package showcases his unparalleled skill, his global acclaim, and the sheer magnitude of this unprecedented collaboration. This isn't just about bringing in a name; it's about creating a moment that transcends boundaries, a moment that rewrites the rules. This type of move creates true shock value, and makes the draft feel like a true event. These talents should be treated like major acquisitions, not just names on a list.

The WWE ID program is the new frontier of talent development, a structured pathway for elite athletes from diverse backgrounds to enter the world of professional wrestling. The WWE Draft should serve as the moment where these top WWE ID program recruits officially earn their stripes, signing their first WWE training contracts live, in front of the WWE Universe. This not only elevates the prestige of the WWE ID program but also establishes a clear and exciting path for these aspiring superstars. Showcasing the unique skills and stories of these athletes will highlight the crossover potential between traditional sports and the captivating world of WWE.

The WWE LFG competition isn't just a contest; it's a proving ground for the most driven and talented aspiring superstars. The culmination of this intense journey should be a live NXT contract signing during the WWE Draft. This isn't just a reward; it's a coronation, a moment where their dedication and talent are recognized on the grandest stage. Imagine the surge of emotion as these future greats ink their contracts, their dreams becoming tangible in front of the WWE Universe. This is a moment of pure triumph, a celebration of the next generation.

The transition from NXT to Raw or SmackDown should be a transformative event, a moment that solidifies a superstar's arrival. Consider the potential of an NXT talent, such as Stephanie Vaquer. A meticulously crafted video package, showcasing her journey, her battles, and her unwavering determination, would create a profound connection with the audience. The moment her name is announced should be a declaration, not a mere roster move. This is about crafting main roster superstars, about making the audience invest in their ascent, and about telling stories that resonate.

The key to a successful draft is storytelling. Each major pick should be accompanied by a well-produced video package, highlighting their background, their journey, and their unique in-ring style. We need to see the human side of these athletes, the passion that drives them. We need to hear their voices, their dreams, and their aspirations. Real one-on-one interviews and behind-the-scenes footage will create a connection. These packages and interviews allow the WWE Universe to connect on a human level with these athletes, fostering genuine investment in their careers and making their success feel personal.

The WWE Draft should be a spectacle, an event that transcends the boundaries of professional wrestling. It should be a night of surprises, of emotional moments, and of genuine excitement. Imagine the reactions: the tears of joy, the shock of unexpected picks, the palpable tension in the arena. This is how drafts should be done.

A revamped draft would inject fresh energy into WWE storytelling. It would create genuine investment from fans, who can follow talent from their early development to superstardom. It would give superstars clear motivation, a reason to fight for a better draft position, a reason to prove themselves on a new brand. It would make every fan feel like they're witnessing history.

WWE thrives on moments. The draft should be one of those moments—an event where futures are shaped, rivalries are born, and careers are launched into the stratosphere. It's time for a change. It's time for a WWE Draft that truly matters. The question is: Are we ready to witness the dawn of a new era?

What are your thoughts? How would you reimagine the WWE Draft?
Share your dream picks and scenarios in the comments below!

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WWE's recent deal with Netflix marks a significant shift in how the wrestling giant will be consumed globally, including in India, starting April 2025. While the move signals WWE's ambition to align with a premium global streaming platform, it also poses unique challenges in a market where its content has long been accessible through affordable and ubiquitous avenues.

India's Unique WWE Broadcast Model

India has always been an outlier in WWE's global distribution strategy. Unlike other regions, WWE's weekly shows (Raw, SmackDown, and NXT) and premium live events (PPVs) are aired live on Sony Ten 1, Sony Ten 3 (Hindi), and other Sony-owned channels via traditional cable and satellite. In addition to live telecasts, these events often air multiple repeats over the next few days, ensuring fans can watch at their convenience—something unheard of in other markets.

WWE content has also been widely accessible through internet services like JioTV, which offered Sony channels for free. Until recently, both weekly shows and PPVs could be watched live via JioTV. However, PPVs have since been removed from the platform and are now exclusively available on Sony Liv through either its WWE Network plan or Premium subscription. The WWE Network plan, priced at ₹400/year, or under $5, offers the full library of WWE content, including on-demand access to past events, documentaries, and classic matches, alongside live WWE shows. Sony Liv Premium, priced at approximately ₹1,000 per year, offers an expansive range of content, including live sports like cricket, football, and Formula 1, as well as several popular TV shows, web series, movies, and live WWE content, including recent shows available to be watched on-demand immediately after the end of a broadcast for a period of 28 days. This makes it a multi-utility service akin to Peacock in the United States.

Despite the recent digital transition, all weekly WWE shows and PPVs continue to air live on Sony channels for viewers with cable or satellite subscriptions, ensuring a broad reach for fans across socio-economic backgrounds.

Sony's partnership with WWE has been immensely lucrative, with their last five-year deal valued at an estimated $180–$210 million. While this is significantly less than WWE's $1 billion-plus deals with FOX and USA Network in 2019, the deal's scale is absolutely staggering, especially considering the purchasing power parity (PPP) of India. For a company like WWE to command such a deal in a country with lower income levels compared to Western markets underscores India's immense viewership and market potential.

The Netflix Shift: Opportunity and Risk

Starting January 6, 2025, Netflix has begun exclusively streaming WWE content around most of the globe, including the United Kingdom, Latin America, Canada, and several other key territories. As for the United States, it is of course the home of WWE's flagship show, Monday Night RAW. However, in India, WWE content will only transition to Netflix in April, after Sony's contract expires. This delay reflects exclusivity clauses and ensures that Sony remains WWE's home for a few more months.

The shift to Netflix introduces several challenges. WWE's content will no longer be available through cable, satellite, or Sony Liv, limiting its reach in a market where affordability and accessibility are paramount. Netflix's lowest-tier plan is significantly more expensive than Sony Liv's offerings, raising concerns about alienating WWE's core Indian audience.

Moreover, there's a stark contrast between Netflix's subscriber base and WWE's fan demographics in India. Netflix largely caters to urban youth in metropolitan cities, offering premium and curated content. In contrast, WWE has traditionally been a staple of kitschy entertainment for Tier 2 and Tier 3 city boys and men, who enjoy the larger-than-life characters and high-octane drama and action. This mismatch in audience profiles could make the transition to Netflix a challenging sell.

Will Netflix's Premium Model Work in India?

The move to Netflix could erode WWE's existing fanbase in India, especially among viewers accustomed to the affordability and convenience of Sony's ecosystem. Wrestling fans in India are known to enjoy the product privately, often considering it a “guilty pleasure.” Unlike cricket, WWE lacks the mainstream acceptance that drives open fandom. Reliable data and Sony's own claims at various points have illustrated that WWE is indeed their most viewed sports-related property in India after cricket.

However, Netflix's credibility and prestige could attract young adults and lapsed fans who perceive WWE as more appealing on a global platform. WWE's product quality, which dipped several years ago, alienated many fans during that time. Now, with significant creative improvements, wrestling is experiencing a resurgence in popularity globally. This could entice not only lapsed fans in their 20s and 30s but also older viewers in their 40s who may see WWE as a compelling form of nostalgia and entertainment. Additionally, for the foreseeable future, WWE will be the only episodic show aired live on Netflix and the only “sport” streamed regularly on the platform, giving it a unique edge.

Sony's Opportunity to Pivot

With WWE leaving its platform, Sony now has a golden opportunity to pivot and explore other wrestling promotions like AEW (All Elite Wrestling), TNA (Impact Wrestling), or even new or emerging companies. These promotions, though relatively unknown in India beyond hardcore wrestling fans, could benefit immensely from Sony's established distribution network and multi-platform strategy.

For companies like AEW or TNA, India represents an untapped goldmine. The country's low purchasing power parity (PPP) often underestimates its potential, but the $180–$210 million deal WWE struck with Sony is a testament to India's immense viewership and market value. With the right marketing and consistent programming, these promotions could carve out a niche and challenge WWE's dominance in what is arguably the largest market in the world.

Sony's experience in making WWE a household name in India could provide a playbook for these smaller promotions. By capitalizing on WWE's exit, Sony could create a fresh narrative and introduce new wrestling content to an audience eager for entertainment alternatives.

A High-Stakes Gamble for WWE and Netflix

For WWE, the partnership with Netflix offers an opportunity to tap into new audiences and expand its digital footprint in India. For Netflix, WWE represents its first significant step into sports entertainment in the country, a calculated move to diversify its content library and capture younger demographics.

However, the stakes are high. Can Netflix replicate the success Sony achieved through its multi-channel, multi-platform approach? Will Indian fans embrace WWE's shift to a premium platform, or will the transition alienate its loyal base?

As WWE prepares for this seismic shift in distribution, the Indian market stands as a litmus test for how well premium streaming services can adapt to price-sensitive regions with entrenched consumer habits. If Netflix and WWE can strike the right balance between accessibility and exclusivity, this partnership could redefine how sports entertainment is consumed in India. If not, it could be a case study in the risks of premiumizing a deeply rooted, mass-market product.

Meanwhile, Sony's potential to introduce new wrestling content could reshape the wrestling landscape, presenting both opportunities and competition for WWE's Netflix journey. For now, fans can only wait and watch—on Sony, Netflix, or otherwise.

WWE Survivor Series: WarGames 2024 had a lot to live up to after CM Punk's return in Chicago at last year's show, which took the world of professional wrestling by storm. However, leading up to this year, the anticipation for the annual Thanksgiving tradition wasn't quite the same—at least until a couple of days before the show.

The frequent taped shows leading up to Survivor Series played a part in that. Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens not being advertised for the event probably contributed too. Sure, they're set to main-event the inaugural revived Saturday Night's Main Event (more on that in a bit), and WWE's "problem" of having too many massive, money-drawing matches is one Tony Khan would probably envy. But short pay-per-views—or at least those with fewer matches and more ads—remain one of the few consistent criticisms of the Triple H era.

Note: this article was written BEFORE the December 2nd episode of Monday Night Raw.

The Bloodline Saga & All It Affects: The Rock, Cody Rhodes & CM Punk

Since Bad Blood, 'The Bloodline Saga' has picked up at a startling pace—or at least it feels that way. Fans were confused: Why were Jey Uso and Sami Zayn so quick to reunite with Jimmy Uso and Roman Reigns? Why didn't it take more convincing? Instead, most of the "convincing" in the story was Jey and Sami working tirelessly to find the fifth guy for the OG Bloodline at WarGames. Was the story being rushed? I had those thoughts too, but in hindsight, it didn't really matter.

Here's why: The Bloodline Saga wasn't moving as fast as we thought. Sure, this storyline has had arcs spanning several months, but Roman Reigns has been a full-time presence lately, appearing on almost every SmackDown over the past few months. The story also progressed on RAW. Naturally, this level of exposure accelerated the pace. Plus, everyone in the OG Bloodline is massively over with live crowds. You might not like it, but the people paying record ticket prices matter infinitely more than the fans on the internet. That's just a fact of life.

And finally, bigger things are on the horizon. If Roman Reigns is now firmly established as a babyface, it doesn't make sense for him to have tension with any of the three Usos anymore— yes, including one Sami Uso.

The return of CM Punk proved this. Some of you might not agree, but I think there was sufficient backstory for Punk to be the fifth guy, and it made sense. But more importantly, Punk is the guy you call on to make any major moment as spicy as possible. The dynamic between these two alphas—the Best in the World and the Tribal Chief—delivered, and then some. Their cinematic promo on SmackDown added exciting layers to the classic, sometimes tired, "can they coexist" trope. But much like the Reigns/Rhodes pairing at Bad Blood, two performers of this caliber made it work. With the cherry on top in this dynamic being one Paul Heyman.

In wrestling, the story never ends. And just look at the possibilities these two weeks have opened up. What is in store for the future is more important than all that has happened in the past. The main event picture in WWE is once again unpredictable, and the most interesting man in the equation turned out to be 'The Wiseman.' That's where the story lies. What favor is Punk going to ask Paul Heyman? How will this entire fiasco lead to a full-fledged blood feud between Seth Rollins and CM Punk?

And then there's the man we all expected to see at the end of the show... THE ROCK. Is Heyman going to align with the Final Boss? Who's first on The Rock's radar: Cody Rhodes or Roman Reigns? And how do all these moving pieces tie in with other major names on the roster?

So, to answer your question: WWE didn't milk the OG Bloodline's road to reunion because we all knew they'd reunite anyway. Instead, their stroke of genius was throwing a curveball that left us with even more questions. Even I was a little turned off by the execution of the reunion arc, but then again, it is fun seeing the band back together, and it's those kinds of leniencies you can take when you have a property as hot and as special as The Bloodline.

Three's a crowd: Cody Rhodes, Kevin Owens & Randy Orton

Let's talk about the Undisputed WWE Champion, Cody Rhodes. He's now entangled in a red-hot feud with Kevin Owens, who's proven himself to be one of the most versatile and dependable performers in the industry over the past five years. It's hard not to root for KO right now, especially because he's entirely justified in his frustrations.

Think about it: KO fought against The Bloodline for four years—long before Rhodes ever returned to WWE. He was screwed out of the Universal Championship more times than we can count. He patched things up with Sami Zayn because Cody urged him to. He even helped Cody dismantle The Bloodline in the lead-up to and at WrestleMania 39. And what did he get for all that? Mr. Nightmare teaming up with Roman Reigns at Bad Blood; the same Cody Rhodes that Owens DID NOT pull the trigger on while he was supposedly injured during their Undisputed WWE Championship match at Bash in Berlin.

But here's the kicker: The American Nightmare is the most universally beloved main event babyface wrestling has seen in years. And this feud with KO has brought out a sharp, compelling edge in him that many of us had long been waiting to see.

Meanwhile, Randy Orton is still out of action thanks to KO's piledriver on SmackDown last month. The narrative here is fire, and there's almost no doubt the eventual match at SNME will be anything short of stellar.

Let's be honest, though—we all want to see that Cody Rhodes/Randy Orton feud. That mentor/protégé dynamic? That's a huge money match waiting to happen. The big question is when and how WWE will finally branch into that story. They have subtly laid out the seeds, and the turn is just a matter of when and not if. And don't forget, the Final Boss—The Rock—is still lurking in the background, ready to shake things up. Whatever Rock does could directly impact when and how Rhodes vs. Orton happens.

Now, back to The Prizefighter. One of the most fascinating aspects of Kevin Owens right now is his relationship—or lack thereof—with Sami Zayn. If KO lashed out at Randy Orton just for siding with Cody, imagine how he must feel about Sami at this point. Let's not forget, Sami Zayn helped The Bloodline make Kevin Owens' life hell for months. He low-blowed his long-time best friend at Survivor Series 2022, just so he could gain Jey Uso's approval.

Owens forgave Sami for everything. EVERYTHING. He even forgave Jey Uso because of Sami and Cody. Then he watched as Cody and Jey celebrated with the Undisputed Tag Team Titles. On top of that, KO was forcibly split from Sami, while Jey Uso conveniently got to stay on RAW. And now? Sami didn't just forgive Roman Reigns' crimes—he actively convinced Roman to take him back into The Bloodline. Roman wasn't even keen on the idea! And yet, here's Sami, that sneaky, weaselly little punk, worming his way back into The Bloodline. This isn't even the end of it. He did all this WHILE Kevin Owens was having this monumental crashout.

This entire dynamic is a goldmine of tension, and WWE's got plenty of options to keep this story cooking.

CM Punk: Best in the World

I'll admit it—I'm probably the biggest CM Punk fan out there. Maybe I'm a little biased, but come on! The man is incredible. He gave Drew McIntyre the best feud of his career, delivered the best feud of the year for the fans, and did it all while injured for a significant amount of time. Just CM Punk being CM Punk.

If you had to list the top 5 feuds of Punk's career, I wouldn't even be surprised if Drew didn't make the cut for some people. But now, we've also seen the seeds for a CM Punk/Roman Reigns story planted—and in just one week.

Here's another reason why teaming Punk with Roman Reigns was an absolute masterstroke: Seth Rollins repeatedly refused to team with Reigns leading up to WarGames because of their storied history. And then there's Punk. "Punky Brewster" (let's roll with it) joined forces with the one guy Rollins hates just as much as he does Punk. Rollins vs. Punk feels like the obvious plan for WrestleMania 41, but with WWE, you can never be too sure.

What's still unclear is whether Rollins/Punk at Mania will involve the World Heavyweight Championship—and if it does, where does that leave the reigning champion, Gunther? Under the Triple H regime, Gunther has been one of WWE's MVPs. Among all the massive names who could potentially face John Cena over the next year, Gunther seems like the most likely opponent for Cena's FINAL WrestleMania match.

Back to Punk and Rollins, though. At this point, it seems even more likely that The Architect will turn heel heading into Mania. And knowing WWE, we can probably expect a slow-burn approach with Rollins' eventual turn rooted in genuine, understandable motivations. One of them—either Rollins or Punk—might even head into WrestleMania 41 as the World Heavyweight Champion. With RAW tonight, we might just get some hints about what's in store over the next few months.

What makes all this even more compelling is Punk's unmatched ability to weave layered, nuanced stories. He thrives on tension, history, and subtle details. Whether it's Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, or even Drew McIntyre, Punk consistently elevates anyone he shares the ring with.

Let's see what Punk has to say tonight on RAW.

Welcome to another edition of POINTS OF IMPACT—a breakdown of the top moments of this week's edition of TNA’s Impact Wrestling.

This segment will fill you in on the most important parts of the show worth checking out or keeping up to date with, in case you missed this episode of Impact Wrestling.

Without further ado, let's inspect the biggest takeaways of the week!

TNA IMPACT WRESTLING: OCTOBER 17, 2024 RESULTS

#5 - Pick Your Poison

It's never great when an episode has a weak start, but my god this week's opening match stank. As part of the Pick Your Poison exchange between PCO and Matt Cardona, PCO would defend both of his title against Rhyno, in what was, apparently, a No Disqualification match. I love matches with weapons in, and I don't necessarily believe that one's matches shouldn't be given a chance just because a performer might be up there in years. That's if, of course, something new is done, something innovative and fresh, especially when it comes to two elder peformers like PCO and Rhyno, who have been in countless weapons-based matches. 

But this? No. This felt like going through the motions, something done to kill TV time. As one might expect, the match ended with a PCOsault sealing the deal for the French-Canadian Frankenstein.

#4 - Poison Picked

The other side of the Pick Your Poison exchange was, on the whole, a lot more tolerable. TNA World Champion did battle with Matt Cardona, who brought with him a team of security meant to fend off PCO should he make his presence known. This match didn't reinvent the wheel in terms of structure either, but it was a lot better paced, and worked by much more agile performers. The security team of Cardona proved to be futile, as PCO would walk out, cutting a path through them to Cardona, who, distracted, was hit with the Danger Zone, giving Nemeth the win.

PCO would carry Cardona to the back, and Frankie Kazarian, who had been on commentary for the bout, would attack Nemeth, only to be sent packing by the combined efforts of Nemeth and Joe Hendry. Determined to get the last laugh however, Kaz would announce that he had been the Special Guest Referee for the Nemeth/Hendry World title bout at Bound For Glory.

#3 - She's Alright

The latest to step through the door from NXT to TNA was Brinley Reece, taking on Ash by Elegance in singles competition this week. Elegance would attempt to bully Reece early on, only to be fought off, leading to the two trying to one-up each other with athletic feats such as different forms of pushups. I have to admit, Reece does have an energy about her that makes her fun to watch, and she's certainly not awkward in the ring. This time around however, she was simply canon fodder, as Ash managed to put her away with Rarified Air after a distraction from her Personal Concierge.

Ash and the Concierge would try to humiliate and beat down Reece after the bell, but coming to her aid and saving the day was persisent ABE rival, Xia Brookside.

#2 - Block Spun

Mike Santana just can't catch a break. He won a big battle this week, set to face Bryan Myers in singles competition, with the System sent to the back. Before the bell could be rung however, Santana had set about Myers with a steel chain, and did the same to the rest of the System, before finishing off Myers with a chain-wrapped Spin the Block. Getting on the mic, Santana would proclaim himself sick of the System, and called out Moose.

When he got no reply, he went out back, and that was where his night turned sour. Waiting backstage, Moose attacked Santana with a bat, getting the last laugh this time around.

#1 - No History Made Today

Leon Slater would look to become the youngest X-Division champion in history this week, whilst the champion in Speedball Mike Bailey simply looked to give an opportunity to a talent he saw a lot of potential in. With the title on the line, neither man held anything back here, and after a disappointing start to the show in-ringwise, this match set the ship straight and then some.

There were so many dynamics at play here, for one. Slater's newly-earned muscle gave him the strength advantage to go up against Speedball's well, speed. And this was not only that, but youth vs experience, striking vs flying, etc. Two men with similar but distinct styles did battle, and put on a match with more twists and turns than one could expect from a TV title defense. Slater clearly won Bailey's respect here, and Speedball in turn paid him the respect of hitting the Flamingo Driver after Ultima Weapon, leaving no chance of a kickout. Slater didn't become X Division champion tonight, but his time is certainly coming.

What did you think of this week's episode of Impact Wrestling?
Do you think any other moments stood out on this show?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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Welcome to another edition of POINTS OF IMPACT—a breakdown of the top moments of this week's edition of TNA’s Impact Wrestling.

This segment will fill you in on the most important parts of the show worth checking out or keeping up to date with, in case you missed this episode of Impact Wrestling.

Without further ado, let's inspect the biggest takeaways of the week!

TNA IMPACT WRESTLING: OCTOBER 10, 2024 RESULTS

#5 - Anddd We’re Back!

Starting off this week’s episode of Impact was a fun trios tag in the Knockouts division, seeing recent allies Rosemary and Wendy Choo of NXT team up with Tasha Steelz to take on Jordynne Grace, Masha Slamovich, and Sol Ruca, also of NXT. 

After a week off due to Hurricane Helene, this was the type of easy to like, fast-paced match this week needed to start with. Grace and Choo got right back into it early on, Ruca got her chance to shine at various points, and all three heels, as well as Alisha Edwards accompanying Steelz, played their part wonderfully. It’s a shame Choo isn’t signed to TNA, because her in the mix full time, able to really let go and wrestle, would be an absolute delight. The Juggernaut Driver would win this one for the faces, all of whom got big reactions from the crowd.

#4 - Fish Clash

The world title match for Bound for Glory is set, and it’ll be Nic Nemeth Vs Joe Hendry. The two shared some respectful jabs in the ring this week, both men expressing admiration for each other, but still wholly confident in their own victory come October 26th. They would be interrupted by First Class who, after running their usual self-promo schtick, would be challenged to a tag match by Nemeth against he and Hendry, a match Santino Marella would come out and make official.

In the main event, Nemeth would fight from underneath for the majority, before a Hendry hot tag managed to turn the tide. The pin and the win belonged to Nemeth however, who, after being tagged back in, would hit Hendry’s standing Ovation on KC Navarro before nailing the Famouser for the 3.

#3 - Finally

Mike Santana has been denied access to Moose for a while, ever since Moose had JDC attack Santana whilst he still held the World title. With JDC dealt with in a Texas Death match, Santana set his sights on Moose this week, calling him out. Moose, with “security” in front of him, answered Santana, saying if he’s going to fight, it needs to be on a big stage. Soon after, the System would attack Santana from behind, but coming to his aid were ABC and the Hardys. 

From the resulting brawl, we got a Santino announcement that Moose vs Santana would officially happen at BFG. And since ABC and the Hardys were in the ring already, Santino decided their scheduled tag match would happen there and then.

#2 - Plot Twist

It’s clear to anyone that the Hardys are not in the physical condition they once were. Time waits for no man, and it is taking its toll on the two icons of wrestling. That isn’t to say, however, that they are past being able to put on a good match. Much of their current TNA run has been proof they still have “it,” and tonight’s match was no exception.

It helps that their opponents were one of the most exciting, most agile and innovative teams of this generation. ABC never stop being fun to watch, and them against the Hardys felt like it deserved the “generational clash” moniker bestowed upon it by commentary. Unfortunately, the match would end when the System re-emerged, attacking both teams, wanting to face neither at BFG. Once again, however, Santino would come out, making a match with all three teams for the tag titles at BFG official.

#1 - NA (Not Narcotics Anonymous)

The Northern Armoury is the name bestowed upon the nee alliance of Sinner and Saint and Josh Alexander, and the trio got off to a hot start this week. With Alexander facing Eric Young in singles action, as a result on the NA’s attack on Young and Steve Maclin eeeks prior, the first half of the match was definitely Alexander’s game.

It wasn’t until the second half of the match that EY managed to fight back and gain momentum, but all his effort would be for naught, as Sinner and Saint’s interference would cost Young the match. A post match beatdown would follow, and then a shot of Maclin, beaten and bound backstage, before Alexander Pillmanised Young’s ankle with a knee drop off the top. This round, just as the last, goes to the Northern Armoury.

What did you think of this week's episode of Impact Wrestling?
Do you think any other moments stood out on this show?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

Subscribe to Smark Out Moment on YouTube, iTunes, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and more!

Welcome to another edition of POINTS OF IMPACT—a breakdown of the top moments of this week's edition of TNA’s Impact Wrestling.

This segment will fill you in on the most important parts of the show worth checking out or keeping up to date with, in case you missed this episode of Impact Wrestling.

Without further ado, let's inspect the biggest takeaways of the week!

TNA IMPACT WRESTLING: SEPTEMBER 19, 2024 RESULTS

#5 - Buckle Up

Stick with me on this one, it’s gonna take a while. Impact started with an in-ring promo from Alisha Edwards, blaming Masha Slamovich for the fact that she and Tasha Steelz lost the Malisha’s tag titles at Victory Road. Masha would make her way down to the ring, revealing she spoke and understood English, claiming to be just as sick of Alisha as every fan in attendance.

Steelz would attack Masha, and although Masha had a brief flurry of resistance, this was shut down by Alisha and Kendra the Kendo Stick. Jordynne Grace would come out to level the playing field, only to be one-upped by Eddie Edwards and Brian Myers, who were themselves followed by Matt and Jeff Hardy.

What followed was a father-daughter announcement of matches. Santino Marella would make Masha and the Hardys Vs Tasha and the System the episode’s main event, and Arianna Grace would announce Jordynne Grace and a mystery partner against Wendy Choo and Rosemary for next week.

#4 - Not Bad. Not Bad At All.

Thank you, Arianna Grace. In her second appearance of the night, Grace would provide a cure for the biggest problem facing the Knockouts tag division, that being a need for fresh faces. Sending out the team of Carlee Bright and Kendal Grey as the first challengers to the new champs, Spitfire.

I knew absolutely nothing about Grey, a former amateur wrestler, and Bright, former cheerleader, but I have to say, they put in a good showing. This wasn’t a long match by any means, but for much of the bout, the champs had to work for their win, with Grey tossing Jodie around, and Bright with some, well, bright offense, such as a cartwheel kick in the corner. This wasn’t to be their night however, as the Pressure Drop from the champs gave them a definitive first defense.

#3 - Praise Be

It isn’t only the Knockouts tag division that needed something new. I have to admit, in recent times, it has felt that the TNA men’s tag division was growing a bit stale, everyone having faced everyone before. The Hardys winning the titles at some point feels like an inevitability, but what then? What about after? To that k say, Sinner and Saint.

Making their return to TNA, this team feels so fresh, so fluid, they’re ridiculously fun to watch. Competent, fiery, and wrestling like two men with real chemistry, this wasn’t their night, but they brought their A-game. Gaining a first class win however, was First Class. I’ve been iffy on AJ Francis in the past, my tolerance of Jim fluctuating, but this pairing of him and KC Navarro just clicks so well. The Deposit, an assisted splash move by Francis and KC, looks amazing, and their clean win here tonight after a great back and forth felt earned, and natural.

These two teams are going to be tag champs in the near future. A well-needed shot in the arm.

#2 - Down, Dirty Death

A rivalry I didn’t expect to ever happen but has been brewing for quite a while, JDC and Mike Santana looked to finally settle things in a Texas Deatmatch this week. With the rules being one most score a fall against their opponent, and then keep them down for a count of 10, this was a suitably violent spectacle, with trashcans, chairs, blood and dives. 

One has to give credit to JDC. Going from a comedy wrestler to what he is now, an excellent heel, one who has proven himself time and again, and does so again tonight. He provides the perfect foil for Santana, cunning in the ways he inflicts pain. All that cunning can’t beat pure will however, as with a dive off a ladder off the stage, putting JDC through a table, Santana would win the match.

#1 - Give It Up For The Six Man Tag

Calling on an old reliable to end the show, the aforementioned six man tag of Masha and the Hardys Vs Tasha and the System closed this week’s Impact, and, admittedly, it delivered on the fun factor.

Everything just felt right in this match. Masha and the Hardys are a great trio, Tasha feels right at home with the vibe and style of the System, combine them together, and you get an entertaining if not innovative main event. The faces would win, not surprisingly, with a Swanton from Jeff Hardy, who was sporting some absolutely wicked Fiend tribute face paint.

What did you think of this week's episode of Impact Wrestling?
Do you think any other moments stood out on this show?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

Subscribe to Smark Out Moment on YouTube, iTunes, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and more!

Welcome to a special edition of POINTS OF IMPACT—a breakdown of the top moments of this year’s edition of TNA’s Victory Road special event.

This segment will fill you in on the most important parts of the show worth checking out or keeping up to date with, in case you didn’t watch it live.

Without further ado, let's inspect the biggest takeaways of the show!

TNA IMPACT WRESTLING: VICTORY ROAD 2024 RESULTS

#5 - Countdown to Excellence

TNA pre-shows are often hit and miss, but this time around, it was a definite hit. Kicking off the pre-show was the returning Leon Slater, who’s clearly bulked up a bit as of late, against Kushida. This was a fun sprint of a match, with the Timesplitter taking more risks than usual, such as a senton atomico off the top rope to the outside, in order to counter the superior speed and agility of the Youngest In Charge. The crowd were hot for this one all throughout, and it would end with an armbar off the top from Kushida for the submission win.

The other match on the preshow saw recent allies Steve Maclin and Eric Young, having earned each other’s respect after their match at Emergence, taking on the team of Jake Something and Hammerstone, two men who’ve had issues with Maclin and EY as of late. This was a shorter match than its predecessor, but was packed with action, with a brawl to start leading to Somethingstone grabbing the advantage, before Maclin turned it around. It looked like EY’s hot tag was going to seal the deal, but in the end, Into the Void by Something gave the heels the victory.

#4 - Not Bad At All

The Hardys in 2024 have been a mixed bag. But I can confidently say this is the most fun I’ve had watching them in a traditional tag match this year, with the duo taking on First Class, AJ Francis and KC Navarro. This wasn’t anything that reinvented the wheel, but to start off the show proper, was more than fun. Navarro is a great get for TNA, Francis plays his role well, and the Hardys really seem to be enjoying themselves, and still mixing it up, like with the Twist of Fate stunner into a neckbreaker they hit in the late stages of the match.

Sometimes however, you can rely on the classics, and the Twist of Fate/Swanton combo got the win for the brothers from North Carolina who, if their backstage promo is to be believed, have set their sights on the tag titles once more.

#3 - The Shackles Are Off

Getting to see Wendy Choo let loose in a TNA ring felt like such a refreshing experience. Long misused and cast into a role where her talents weren’t allowed to shine as much as they otherwise might have, the new dark direction of her character as of late has had a lot of potential, and wrestling on the card of a different company raised that potential a fair bit.

It was an entertaining match, with the family of Jordynne Grace even getting involved at one point to stop Choo cheating, but in the end, Choo would fall like all the rest at the feet of the Juggernaut.

#2 - Spitfire Doesn’t Misfire

In what was a do or die situation for the duo of Jody Threat and Dani Luna, they more than delivered. Agreeing to disband as a team if they lost this match, the pair challenged Masha Slamovich, and standing in for Alisha Edwards, Tasha Steelz. This felt like a nice culmination to the feud, to all the chemistry Spitfire have built, and they would, thankfully, walk away with the win and the tag titles once more.

More notable than the match, however, was what happened after, as Alisha Edwards would get in the ring, and start verbally running down Masha for losing the titles. This would swiftly be followed by Steelz nailing Masha with a sneak attack cutter, effectively ending the team of the Malisha, and setting up Steelz and Alisha as a team. 

Masha and Alisha, if I’m honest, always felt more like a team of opportunity and circumstance than a team that liked each other. Let Masha escape from the tag scene for a while. Like Rosemary, it might be just what she needs to give her a jolt of momentum.

#1 - Anddddd It’s Gone

Speaking of momentum, one man’s hot streak came to an end at Victory Road, as the recently crowned X Division champion Zachary Wentz lost the title back to Speedball Mike Bailey. This being Bailey’s contractual rematch from losing the belt in Ultimate X, the two competitors were respectful but fierce in the action here, in what was undoubtedly the match of the night.

Everything was crisp, fluid and quite frankly brutal looking, such as Wentz’s headlock driver. No time was wasted, no filler detected, just the embodiment of the X Division on display. Effort, passion and determination to steal the show. Not only did Bailey steal the show, he stole the title back, cutting off Wentz’s reign at two weeks.

What did you think of this year’s edition of Victory Road?
Do you think any other moments stood out on this show?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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Welcome to another edition of POINTS OF IMPACT—a breakdown of the top moments of this week's edition of TNA’s Impact Wrestling.

This segment will fill you in on the most important parts of the show worth checking out or keeping up to date with, in case you missed this episode of Impact Wrestling.

Without further ado, let's inspect the biggest takeaways of the week!

TNA IMPACT WRESTLING: SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 RESULTS

#5 - New Liaison, New Fan

We have a new liaison in the relationship between TNA and NXT, and her name is Arianna Grace. The daughter of Santino Marella, perfectly playing her self-absorbed, prom queen-esque persona, made the announcement of her new position, and introduced Karmen Petrovic to answer Jordynne Grace’s open challenge. This was my first time seeing Petrovic in action, and I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised.

Petrovic still needs a little seasoning, don’t get me wrong, but in her match with Jordynne, which Rosemary was seen observing from the rafters, she looked capable, fluid, and bumped her ass off for Grace. The result here was, I’d argue, never in question, with Petrovic falling to a Grace Driver, but this was a fine effort.

After the bell, with Grace celebrating, the lights went out, and when they came back on, an enthusiastic Rosemary looked on with the rest of us at Grace, laid out in the middle of the ring, pillow by her head. It looks like the Demon Assassin’s recent ally, Wendy Choo, has set her sights on the Juggernaut.

#4 - System Reboot?

This week’s episode started, regrettably, with a promo from the System. From this promo, however, we got two nuggets of information. One, that in the tag match against Mike Santana and Joe Hendry, JDC’s membership in the System was on the line. If he and Moose won, he’d be a fully-fledged member. If he lost, that would be it.

Alisha Edwards, put on concussion protocol after Emergence, was gloating about not having to defend her and Masha’s tag titles, when she was interrupted by Spitfire. After initially rebuffing their rivals, a match was agreed to when Threat informed Alisha that they had gotten another shot from Santino, but with the added clause that if they lose, she and Luna will disband as a team.

#3 - Impromptu

Zachary Wentz was cutting a celebratory promo this week, thanking the fans for keeping him going and helping him climb out of a dark place. Having won the X Division title from Mike Bailey at Emergence in an Ultimate X match, the former champion would politely interrupt, informing Wentz that he would be invoking his rematch clause at Victory Road.

They would be interrupted by the Good Hands, and a tag match seeing Speedball and Wentz against the perennial perfect jobbers would commence. After a quick little back and forth affair, the UFO cutter from Wentz sealed the deal.

#2 - Impromptu, Part 2

What was meant to be the first match of the evening, Kushida Vs Laredo Kid, would soon fall to pieces due to one Josh Alexander. Having lost to Nix Nemeth at Emergence, an irate Alexander would attack Kid and Kushida, causing the match to be thrown out. Kushida could not and would not accept this, taking the fight to Alexander and demanding a match with him, right here and now. D.O.A. Marella would oblige, making the match official.

Kushida would have the advantage early on, but Alexander, through brute force, took control as the match went on. Attempting the Ankle Lock but finding no joy in it, Alexander planted his flag, and Kushida’s head, in the ground with a C4 Spike, earning a victory.

#1 - X

I’ll be honest, this week’s main event didn’t do much for me. It made sense, it was logical how it turned out-after confronting Josh Alexander earlier in the evening for his actions towards Kushida, Joe Hendry is attacked by Alexander and cost the match-but it just didn’t excite me.

What did excite me was an admittedly short affair between Eric Young and Jake Something. Both men were looking to capture some momentum here, EY trying to rebound from losing to Steve Maclin at Emergence, and frustration with his career progression very, very visible on Something. Every kickout from EY seemed to enrage the big man more and more, right from the start of the match. Something has always been aggressive, but this was, pardon the pun, something else.

Young would be able to use that rage to his advantage, getting a quick win with his Piledriver. After the bell, he would extend a hand to Something, who took it, only to take EY after the bell. Only the appearance of Maclin, a mutual respect seemingly forming between him and the World Class Maniac, saved the day.

What did you think of this week's episode of Impact Wrestling?
Do you think any other moments stood out on this show?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

Subscribe to Smark Out Moment on YouTube, iTunes, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and more!

Welcome to another edition of POINTS OF IMPACT—a breakdown of the top moments of this week's edition of TNA’s Impact Wrestling.

This segment will fill you in on the most important parts of the show worth checking out or keeping up to date with, in case you missed this episode of Impact Wrestling.

Without further ado, let's inspect the biggest takeaways of the week!

TNA IMPACT WRESTLING: AUGUST 22, 2024 RESULTS

#5 - Bad Night For The Guj

One of the joys of these Ultimate X qualifiers has been seeing debuting and returning talent, and this week, in one of said qualifiers, we got two returning competitors. Bhupinder Gujjar and Jai Vidal both looked amazing this week, moving with conviction, offense looking crisp and on target (aside from that one Vidal dive. Ooof.) And rounding out the trio, and more than holding up his end of the bargain, was Laredo Kid. This match barely left a moment to breathe, and though it would be Kid securing the win with a 450 Splash, all 3 looked like winners tonight.

(Note-the other qualifier, also a great match, was won by Hammerstone.)

#4 - When The Substitute Is Better 

In what was meant to be a six man tag seeing Xia Brookside, PCO and Rhyno against Matt Cardona, Steph De Lander and a mystery partner, a fair few surprises materialised. The first was Kon, a past ally of SDL, appearing as a tag partner for her. The second was Cardona announcing he wouldn’t be competing, and filling in for him was the returning Madman Fulton.

SDL would be extremely hesitant to get involved, leading to Kon, Fulton, and Cardona fighting this battle against PCO and Co. It was a fun, well-paced, six man tag, nothing innovative, but more than entertaining. The last surprise, at least to me, was the faces winning, with a finisher combo on Fulton allowing for the pin.

#3 - Standing (And Limping) Tall

I think anyone who hears the words “Moose and JDC Vs the Hardys” can tell you how that match is going to go. All the hype coming into the match will be behind the Matt and Jeff, they’ll have a strong start, but before long the heels will take control, and eventually Matt will hot tag Jeff. There is a formula to these things, and that is because that formula works. Carrying on their feud with the System, the Hardys put on a great main event this week, both moving well, the match never overstaying its welcome. It was a good time all around.

Jeff’s Swanton would win them the match, but after the bell they’d have to contend with a beatdown from their opponents. Mike Santana would come out to make a save, only to be intercepted by Edwards and Myers, but backup soon came in the form of Joe Hendry. Hendry made the point last week that the System has made many enemies, and that they’re all coming for them. This week, that prediction came true, with the faces standing tall to end the episode.

#2 - Demonic Militia 

Speaking of bad nights for the System, Alisha Edwards, accompanied by her tag title partner Masha Slamovich, took on the reinvigorated Rosemary this week in what was a fun affair. Alisha is just so naturally good at playing an obnoxious heel, and that as a foil for the recently reignited aggression and unorthodox offense of Rosemary made for a match that worked well thematically and offensively. 

Masha would, towards the end of the match, attempt to get involved, but in another example of the System’s chickens coming home to roost, Spitfire made the save, and the resulting chaos allowed Rosemary to hit As Above, So Below, pinning one half of the Knockouts Tag champs.

#1 - Good Graps

That’s the only way to describe my favourite match of this week. Jonathan Gresham Vs Charlie Dempsey was such a refreshing, delightfully technical affair that lived up to the name of both men. It was, in a word, nerd s**t of the best quality. 

Dempsey, this time around without the backup of the NQCC, wrestled the rough, capable style one would expect out of him, and Gresham is still, it would seem, ink and mask free, wrestling as the grappling master we all know and appreciate. Picking each other apart, playing games of one-upping each other, and just overall taking their time, this match came to an end when, after an extended test of strength on the May, Gresham was able to take away all of Dempsey’s limbs, forcing a pin.

What did you think of this week's episode of Impact Wrestling?
Do you think any other moments stood out on this show?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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Welcome to another edition of POINTS OF IMPACT—a breakdown of the top moments of this week's edition of TNA’s Impact Wrestling.

This segment will fill you in on the most important parts of the show worth checking out or keeping up to date with, in case you missed this episode of Impact Wrestling.

Without further ado, let's inspect the biggest takeaways of the week!

TNA IMPACT WRESTLING: AUGUST 15, 2024 RESULTS

#5 - Wedding Crasher’s Plans Crashed

Matt Cardona crashing the wedding of PCO and Steph De Lander, and then attacking PCO last week, is seemingly not going to go unpunished. Provoked into admitting his crimes by Santino Marella in the ring this week, Cardona was faced with a choice: go to jail, or face PCO at Emergence. Cardona, suddenly cowed, pledged to have his lawyers look over the contract for the match with PCO. At Emergence, it seems we’ll see the Deathmatch King Vs the French-Canadian Frankenstein.

#4 - Realest Victim

It was a rough week for Mike Santana, who, set to face Moose in singles action, was found backstage, having been attacked, with the System standing over him. The System would then proceed to the ring, cutting a standard heel promo, before Santana defiantly made his way to the ring and through the System. Though he managed to temporarily dispatch Myers, Edwards and JDC, Santana was dominated by Moose for much of the bout.

He would put up a good fight, withstanding many of the self-proclaimed Wrestling God’s biggest bombs, and even landing a few of his own, but the damage done by his attack, as well as Moose working over his arm, would prove too much to overcome. A spear would seal the deal, giving Moose the pinfall victory.

After the bell, it looked like the System might attack Santana, but Joe Hendry made the save, bringing with him a steel chair, and an announcement. That announcement was that next week, Moose and JDC will face Matt and Jeff Hardy in tag team action.

#3 - Not This Time

Tasha Steelz and Giselle Shaw looked to settle their rivalry this week, with multiple referees at ringside to ensure Steelz wouldn’t be able to resort to her usual antics that have won her victories over Shaw in the past. This would prove a prudent decision, early in the match, Steelz would go for a wrench, an attempt which was caught and stopped.

Tasha didn’t learn her lesson, and the second time, it cost her. Caught putting her feet on the ropes whilst pinning Shaw, the resulting chaos would shift the momentum to Shaw, who hit the Denouement knee strike for the win.

#2 - These Good Qualifiers

We were treated to two Ultimate X qualifiers this week, both of them treats to watch. The first saw Chris Bey, John Skyler and Riley Osborne of NXT battle, and in a match this writer expected to be all about Bey, it was Riley who got the win, hitting an absolutely beautiful Shooting Star Press to get the pin.

In the other qualifier match, Ace Austin, Rich Swann and the other, in this writer’s opinion much more talented member of the Good Hands, Jason Hotch, had a fast paced affair, one that allowed each man to shine. Surprisingly, but pleasingly, Hotch would get the win.

#1 - Wanted Overtime

For the first time in their careers, Josh Alexander and Nic Nemeth faced off in this week’s main event, both with something to prove. Alexander would look to win back the title he never lost, and prove that he, not Nemeth, is the rightful face of the company. Nemeth would attempt to prove he could hang with the likes of Alexander, and that he was not, in fact, a transitional champion.

This was Alexander’s match to lose, in control for much of it. He didn’t lose it, but neither did he win it. The two men were at a stalemate in the last few minutes, until Nemeth hit the Danger Zone. As he crawled over into the pin, the bell would ring, the 30 minute time limit expiring. Nemeth asked for 5 more minutes, while Alexander looked to walk away. It was only after kicking Nemeth in the balls that the challenger himself wanted five more minutes, and while he didn’t get it this episode, he’ll get it at Emergence, as it was announced that Alexander and Nemeth will clash again, for the world title, in a 60 minute Iron Man match.

What did you think of this week's episode of Impact Wrestling?
Do you think any other moments stood out on this show?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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Welcome to another edition of POINTS OF IMPACT—a breakdown of the top moments of this week's edition of TNA’s Impact Wrestling.

This segment will fill you in on the most important parts of the show worth checking out or keeping up to date with, in case you missed this episode of Impact Wrestling.

Without further ado, let's inspect the biggest takeaways of the week!

TNA IMPACT WRESTLING: AUGUST 8, 2024 RESULTS

#5 - Demonic Elegance

Answering Jordynne Grace's open challenge this week was the Demon Assassin, Rosemary, fresh off of an impressive performance last week against a local talent. Looking rejuvenated in their look and the way they wrestle, this is the most credible Rosemary has felt as a singles competitor in years, and against Grace, they gave it all. This was not a long match, but it was an intense one, with counter after counter from both women, vicious offense and a sense of importance all around. Grace really felt in danger at parts, and there was an urgency to Rosemary's offense befitting a title match.

Sadly, we wouldn't see a fitting conclusion to the bout, as Ash by Elegance, accompanied as always by her Personal Concierge, would attack both women with a pink kendo stick, causing the match to be thrown out. It would seem that despite her Slammiversary defeat, Ash is still in the title picture.

#4 - We'll Carry On

After losing an opportunity for the NXT Tag Titles this Tuesday on NXT, and being betrayed by his tag partner Wes Lee after the bout, Zachary Wentz would look to regain momentum this week in a qualifier triple threat for the X Dvision title Ultimate X match at Emergence. Wentz faced off against KC Navarro, high-flying indie stalwart who has made numerous appearences for TNA in the past, and NXT's Dante Chen. This was my first time seeing a Chen match in full, and I was pleasantly surprised by what I saw.

Chen is naturally charming, and quite smooth in the ropes. If he were to be booked on a path of underdog victories, as well as get a new finisher, the future would be bright for WWE's first athlete born in Singapore. Tonight was not his night however, as Wentz would pick up the win, and qualify for Ultimate X, with the UFO Cutter.

#3 - Not Quite Top Firm

After picking up a win against Gallus' Joe Coffey at NXT's Great American Bash, Joe Hendry would look to continue his momentum against the firm's enforcer, Wolfgang, in the main event of this week's episode. An athletic, brusing, versatile big man, I've been a fan of Wolfgang since my days watching NXT UK, and he and Hendry put on a great main event this week, a battle of two big, beefy men.

Wolfgang would attempt to keep it slow and painful, clubbing blows, submissions, offense on the outside. He worked over the back of Hendry, but Hendry would persevere, managing to hit his big offense such as the fallaway slam. In the end, 252 pounds of pure motivation would triumph over sadistic strength, as Hendry hit the Standing Ovation to score another win against the supposed top firm of NXT.

#2 - Risky but Successful

Speedball Mike Bailey is a glutton for punishment. Insisting on having to qualify for the Ultimate X match for his title, with the caveat that should he lose the qualifying match, he'll relinquish the X Division title, he took on two of his current tag partners this week, as Speedball, Trent Seven and Jake Something all battled for a spot in Ultimate X. Speedball Mountain would attempt teamwork early on, but this would break down, with all three men going for broke.

Everyonr got a chance to shine here, with Something presented as the most powerful threat with spots like his powerbomb catch. However, Bailey, betting on himself and not panicking, managed to get the win in the end, hitting the big man with the Cyclone Kick and Ultima Weapon to put him away.

#1 - An Octopus Never Changes Its...Ink?

The feud between Jonathan Gresham and Kushida took an interesting turn this week, as the Gresham we've become used to over the past few months, constantly masked, spitting black ink, one of few words, was nowhere to be seen. Interviewed backstage, Gresham would say he had no memory of recent times, saying he was "sick" and looking forward to getting back in action. Confronted by Kushida, who refused a handshake from Gresham, the two would go on to have the match they were meant to have at Slammiversary. And what a match it was.

If this was a trick by Gresham, we've yet to see how, as the two men simply went out and had an excellent, tightly worked, technical wrestling match. Gresham would act possibly heelish at times, such as when he claimed he couldn't break a submission after Kushida reached the ropes, as he was supposedly stuck, but there was no trace of ink here. Just good graps. Both men targeted a limb, Gresham targeting Kushida's leg, whereas Kushida went after the arm of the Octopus. It was the Timesplitter who would get the win, locking the Hoverboard Lock on Gresham and earning a quick tap out after reversing a running crossbody.

What did you think of this week's episode of Impact Wrestling?
Do you think any other moments stood out on this show?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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