The Main Events
– John Cena and Alberto Del Rio took a big step up for me tonight. WWE booked an Arm Wrestling Match between the two, focusing on the strong arm of Cena. We all know the storyline and why they are fighting. Cena goes off cuff and talks to Superman in the crowd. I love this about Cena because you know this was not planned. He is smart, quick witted and connects with so many people. Whether he is cheered or booed, there is always going to be a time where he gets even the biggest haters to laugh. He had some of them in the crowd tonight. Cena wins the contest in about a second. Del Rio is upset and wants to go again, but he strikes the champion. Del Rio finally crashes Cena through a table. He stands tall and leaves the segment getting the better of the champion.
Most Arm Wrestling matches are the same. This wasn't and was actually a good segment for both guys. Cena becomes a big face with his promo and Del Rio uses that promo to really gain heat from the crowd. This was the best part of their feud thus far. I am not sure if that is saying much.
Grade: B+
CM Punk and Daniel Bryan vs. Curtis Axel and Ryback ends in a "No Contest." Earlier in the night, Ryback and Axel both claim they are no longer " Paul Heyman Guys." The match was a solid ending to a mixed night. Ryback was in control and actually made some quick and intelligent tags to Axel. They kept fresh and tried to target the mid section of Punk. Bryan and Punk hit suicide dives heading into a commercial break. When we return, Ryback gets the better of Punk with a delayed suplex. After more fast offense and the faces getting more on the offensive, Punk sends Axel outside and Bryan tries to roll Ryback up, then he locks in the YES Lock. Ryback grabs for the ropes but the lights go out. Here come the Wyatt Family. The lights come back on, but Punk and Bryan are nowhere to be found. Ryback shoves Axel into Harper and Rowan, so the family attacks. They beat down Axel and Ryback with big boots and clotheslines. Punk and Bryan run back in and attack. They escape without much damage and taunts The Wyatt Family as Smackdown ends.
Great ending and a very logical progression from the beginning of the night. Punk and Bryan left and attacked, making it seem like they are in control of the mind games. Punk knows how to play those games and you can see Punk actually thriving off of the mentality of Bray Wyatt. I still WANT Bray Wyatt to be involved in the actual match at Survivor Series. He needs to, so this match feels more important. It wouldn't bury Punk or Bryan if they actually lose 3-2.
Grade: B+
WWE Smackdown Grade: C+
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