My latest column for upgruv.com, a site of all things trending, is exploring the week that was in headlines. Here’s an excerpt:
Flag match, really?
After the much anticipated return of John Cena to WWE television, the result was a flag match later this month against Rusev.
I’m a fan of Cena and Rusev’s work, and a fan of nationalism. Not a fan of this outdated concept for a match.
Simple often works in wrestling. The American hero versus anti-American still gets a reaction, but the flag match is too simple for today’s product.
Give fans some reasons to care about a rematch between two former United States champions who have fought at a WrestleMania. Make not capturing the flag have repercussions for the loser. If Rusev wins, Cena should wear Bulgarian colors for a month. If Cena wins, Rusev could speak with his Big Bartholomew “southern” accent.
Either of those stipulations might make for a cheap laugh. But both would still be better than cheap symbolism.
Paige’s plan is…?
Front row. Back to the camera. Head masked.
That was WWE’s Paige at Slammiversary on Sunday night. Her boyfriend, Alberto El Patron (a former WWE Champion), was in the main event. After it, he cut a promo ripping WWE, which still employs Paige.
I have so many questions.
Did Paige cover her face to avoid legally breaching her WWE contract by appearing prominently at an event for TNA? Why didn’t she watch from somewhere else — anywhere but the front frickin’ row! — to support El Patron? Was she poking the beast to get released?
And, why should anybody care?
Paige hasn’t been seen on WWE television for a year. A suspension here. An injury there. Another suspension. She’s been on TMZ more than WWE.
Perhaps WWE is indifferent to her actions at this point. Maybe WWE chalked this one up to a girlfriend supporting her boyfriend.
I have a hope this was all a story line that pays homage to Martin Scorsese, and that Paige was undercover as a rat.
CLICK HERE for more including DeAngelo Williams debuting and retiring in the same match, and the bold statement from the Orlando Mayor.
