*Official WrestleMania XXVII Thread - The Biggest WrestleMania Ever*

[Londoner]

That to, but i was referring to the theme as it was on just now. :mad:

[Londoner]

Miz's entrance and build up= Awesomely Awesome.

[Providence Peep]

Pretty average Wrestlemania that felt more like an extra long RAW episode or regular ppv instead of being the main ppv for the year

This is exactly how I felt as I was watching it and I feel the same way this morning. There were a few great things about Mania, including the Taker/Triple H match, but overall I am disappointed with the show and I don't think it lived up to the hype at all. It pains me to say it, because I've been a fan of the WWE longer than some people here have been on this planet, but it's honestly how I feel. The Cena/Miz match blew big time, especially the ending. This was the first time that a WrestleMania disappointed me. :|

[Londoner]

Cena's been so shit so far, im about 6 mins into it. Miz doing his best to make it entertaining.

[Xero]

Thought the crowd wasn't as hot as it could have been, and I feel that brought down the PPV for me. Mind you, this was likely more to do with being in a stadium than anything else.

Sheamus/Bryan being kicked off really disappointed me, especially when Cole/Lawler went so long (more on that later). They could have easily shaved a minute or two off a few matches and put it on.

Didn't like Rock's opening promo. It made it feel like RAW, and it felt like it dragged on. It should have been shorter. But I do understand why they did it.

Edge/Del Rio opening confused me being the opener and didn't feel right that they were jerking. Otherwise, okay match.

Ryder doing "Friday" cracked me up.

Cody/Rey was easily Match of the Night for me. Really great psychology in this one. Hope Cody goes far this year.

Corre/Team Show... Pretty much what I expected, tbh.

Orton/Punk was good. It started a bit slow but gained steam throughout the match, which is a good thing.

Lawler vs. Cole was a let down. Cole definitely needed some offense, but his portion of the match went on WAY too long. They should have done something within two or three minutes, had him run into the Colemine and let Lawler take over from there. Also, having Cole win was a bit ridiculous. HOWEVER, I have a feeling this will lead to Cole becoming a non-commentating character. In which, case, it's fine. I'm just wondering if it'll be leading to a rematch.

Undertaker vs. Triple H was an odd one. I was into it, and I enjoyed it, but there was something off about it. It felt like a really sluggish match and the crowd didn't feel as into it as I felt they should have been at points. it was a "solid" match, but it was NOT match of the night. Despite having the tools and spots NEEDING to feel "epic", it just didn't feel epic to me. Again, solid match, but not epic.

Snooki match was whatever. LOL at Morrison posing behind Snooki making the pin.

The main event was an okay match. It felt like a standard Cena match. The double count out, though, was ridiculous, and absolutely didn't need to happen. They should have had Rock come down during the match instead, or something. The count out completely killed the flow of the match. Also, even though it was "restarted", I felt a bit ripped off that the fucking Mania main event ended in a draw. You just don't do that, restarting the match or not.

With that said, I've heard people bitching about Mania closing with Rock. While I'd prefer the current generation to be standing tall, if they're going to be doing Rock vs. Cena in the near future, it was the right thing to do. If they DON'T have Rock for at least one match, then the last segment was terrible. It all depends on what the followup is.

Overall, it wasn't the WORST Mania, but it's not near the top. C+ rating I'd say. I think I was more let down this year than any show, because I felt like there was so much potential. I won't say the ball was dropped, but they fucked something up.

[Providence Peep]

Problem with this statement. This was Mania, not some throw away middle of the Spring PPV. Mania was meant to end feuds. To be a culmination of feuds on one night. Mania is not meant to move along storylines, it is suppose to be THE place to end them with the following Raw to start the new feuds.

THIS!

[Londoner]

^ Mania isn't used just to end feuds though?

[Providence Peep]

Why not give Lawler his moment though. I don't understand that. Cole can easily come back with something tomorrow night on Raw. Give the night to Lawler, who they built up as having his first Mania match in forever. To be honest. Someone who throws out immature name calling really isn't going to come with with a mature enough response anyways so you don't even have to respond.

I just think they built it up for Lawler to get his moment, why not give it to him

Yeah, Lawler losing his first (and probably only) WM match was one of the many disappointing parts of the show, IMO. For the life of me, I don't understand why he was screwed like that.

[Xero]

Oh, and while I loved Miz's entrance, Cena's entrance was one of the most absurd bit of wrestling I've ever seen. Since when is Cena religious? I just couldn't believe they did that.

Probably Cena's most ridiculous entrance ever.

[Londoner]

Oh, and while I loved Miz's entrance, Cena's entrance was one of the most absurd bit of wrestling I've ever seen. Since when is Cena religious? I just couldn't believe they did that.

Probably Cena's most ridiculous entrance ever.

Yup, agreed.

[Providence Peep]

Does this mean that a Cena heel turn is finally coming up?

The fact that it didn't happen last night is another thing that made WM disappointing. Sure, from a marketing perspective, I can see the need to keep him face. But with The Rock back, now would have been the perfect time to turn Cena heel and it should have happened at Mania.

[Xero]

lol, WWEShop is selling "winner" shirts, like the Superbowl or World Series.

http://www.wweshop.com/category/prChampionshipGear?cid=email_2011champgear-01

[Londoner]

lol@the double count out

[Londoner]

hhahhaha loving the rocks promo here

[Londoner]

Lame main event but good ending

[Londoner]

Dunno why people are bitching about the ending, doesn't 'bury' anyone whatsoever. It was the only way it could end.

[Dirk Ziggler]

Dear WWE. Please refund me my $64.95. Thanks.

[Team Sheep]

<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/s2giMbglSy4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

:D

Loved the Miz' video before his entrance too.

[Gertner]

lol we can comment on Ryan Clark's news stories right now. Gonna flood his inbox.

[MoFo]

Lara Emily is such an emo.

Looking at the card beforehand there was nothing amazingly special to get your hopes sky high, it was never going to be comparable to Wrestlemania 17, so I dont see how anyone can feel 'letdown' or 'disappointed'.

In fact, it exceeded expectations by a mile for me, a really enjoyable event where the lesser matches picked up the pace ie Orton/Punk & Cody/Rey, and some genuinely great moments.

Stop thinking about what it could of been and look at it for what it is, a solid Mania. 25 was like a million times worse, wtf.

[RatedGSuperstar]

Oh, and while I loved Miz's entrance, Cena's entrance was one of the most absurd bit of wrestling I've ever seen. Since when is Cena religious? I just couldn't believe they did that.

Probably Cena's most ridiculous entrance ever.

It's like they knew he would get booed, and tried to think of a way for him to enter without getting booed. "It's the South! They love Jesus!"

And they still booed. Louder, even. That was great.

[Gertner]

hahaha, shit I've already been blocked for posting comments on Clark's news stories.

[Mr. Nerfect]

I don't want to sound like too much of a smark, but I got really bummed out when it came time for the WWE Championship match, mainly because I realised that Sheamus vs. Daniel Bryan had been bumped. As I was most curious about this match (not the most hyped, but the most curious), I felt short-changed out of something I was personally paying to see. I really feel like this was a shitty thing for the WWE to do. Especially when we get so many fucking hype videos promoting how great the WWE. Yeah, man -- we ordered the fucking show -- can we see it now?

I understand entirely why The Rock opened the show. Probably the hottest open they could go with, but it felt...weird. It wasn't bad, just seemed to drag. They easily could have gotten The Rock out and just say "Welcome to WrestleMania!" Done. People pop, and I still get to see Sheamus vs. Bryan.

Edge vs. Alberto Del Rio was a pretty good match. I found it weird that it curtain jerked, but the WWE has put World Title matches as openers before, just never at Mania. I was pulling for Del Rio, and he impressed me here, but I understand why the WWE don't want to Brock Lesnar the guy. He needs some revenge, though, and he needs to look like a fucking beast on a mission. Ricardo Rodriguez always entertains me.

Of the backstage segments, I liked the one between The Rock, Eve Torres, Mae Young and Steve Austin; and I liked the one featuring Snoop Dogg, Roddy Piper, William Regal, Chris Masters and Zack Ryder. I think they could have very easily scrapped the Pee-Wee Herman bit, though.

Cody Rhodes vs. Rey Mysterio was my favourite match of the night. Cody Rhodes arrived as a star here, and people noticed it. The kid should now have a rocket strapped to his back.

Randy Orton vs. CM Punk was a good match that I felt really used the skills of both guys really well. Punk looked savvy and dangerous, and didn't get hurt by putting over the big babyface at all.

Jerry Lawler vs. Michael Cole was a lot of fun. Could it have ended earlier? Sure, but I understand why it went on as it did. Cole winning was to build up his heel heat, and to remove Josh Mathews from commentary so JR and King could have centre stage.

Also, I'd like to point out this is where I became really hyped about Bryan vs. Sheamus, because I thought we'd get JR calling a Daniel Bryan match. So yeah, that made me feel extra ripped off.

The Undertaker vs. Triple H was a good match, don't get me wrong -- but it felt weird. It's like they went too fast into the big shit. It's funny, because a lot of anti-smark smarks love throwing around the term "spot-monkey," but this match was essentially all spots. That's not a criticism, as I felt it also gave the match it's life -- just a funny obserservation. Ultimately, what elevates this match beyond "Oh! He kicked out of another finisher!" is that there was an awesome story tying the spots together (as in any match). It wasn't told by the dissection of a body part, or physical pacing; but rather the desperation and imagery The Undertaker and Triple H used.

I feel that it could almost be compared to Shawn Michaels' most recent matches at WrestleMania -- including his one against Ric Flair -- in that imagery was used so powerful to tell more of a narrative than most matches.

The Snooki stuff was bearable because I love John Morrison and Dolph Ziggler, and Trish Stratus and Layla were fucking smoking. Snooki got me to chuckle when she accepted the boos. I wish I had gone with "splash" in Tipsters, like I had originally predicted. This was short, sweet, and the guys did very little, but enough. Plus, they'll be in the news. Awesome for them. Also gotta love Morrison making sure he's shown by getting right in there with Snooki. Smart man. He also looked like more of a star tonight.

The WWE Championship main event was done about as well as it could have been. The match itself wasn't that great, but people were burned out by this point anyway. It was time to end the show. The draw didn't bother me, because I knew it wouldn't end like that, but also because it itself would have told the story -- John Cena didn't lose, but he couldn't beat The Miz at WrestleMania. It'd be weak, don't get me wrong -- but I made peace with it. Then The Rock gave Cena the Rock Bottom and all was good in the world. Also, Cena's entrance baffled me. The guy must be a Christian or something. But it totally felt out of place. The Miz's however, was perfect.

The Corre vs. Super Faces went so quick I forgot about it. I understand why it did, and the way it broke down explained how it could end so quickly, but I do think The Corre really need to recover. And even if they haven't been impressing people backstage, or whatever -- they are still the fucking champions of your company. Don't make your champions look like idiots.

[Londoner]

holy fucking noid post

[Flash Funk]

Going to keep it positive here.. Cody Rhodes is on his way to main eventing, Taker-HHH was maybe the most intense, physical match ever..and the Miz you can hate me now video was fantastic.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Oh, and while I loved Miz's entrance, Cena's entrance was one of the most absurd bit of wrestling I've ever seen. Since when is Cena religious? I just couldn't believe they did that.

Probably Cena's most ridiculous entrance ever.

Cena isn't religious. The city of Atlanta is. Gospel is huge down there. Cena isn't a 1920's Chicago gangster either.

Not that I loved Cena's entrance. Loved the Miz's entrance though. Probably why I didn't like Cena's.

[Xero]

So if Mania was held in England, Cena's going to come out doing a Monty Python skit?

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Yes.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Also I don't know if Cena is religious or not. In fact I'm pretty sure he is. So "Cena's not religious" is probably wrong. BUT, the gospel thing was definitely a shoutout to Atlanta.

[Gertner]

So if Mania was held in England, Cena's going to come out doing a Monty Python skit?

Cena would come out trying to return a dead parrot.

[Xero]

Whether Cena is religious or not is really moot. It comes down to the character. A shout out to Atlanta or not, it didn't fit with his character whatsoever.

It's like Orton never mentioning his bus and basically not caring about anyone, then suddenly he has a bus and Punk is getting to him by going after his wife, who has not been seen or referenced in two years.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Rock and Cena talked about God on Raw last week. It's definitely not moot. But whatever I don't care.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Someone mentioned this in the thread before, but my biggest gripe about this PPV was the planning and organization. For the biggest show of the year, there was a ton of stuff that seemed rushed or unrehearsed. And yeah part of it is Sheamus/Bryan getting bumped off the card, but there were other things that just seemed very amateurish about the show. Dunno, just kinda lacked that professional polish that most Wrestlemanias seem to have.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

This is probably a middle of the road Mania. Definitely not at the bottom though.

[jkman61494]

I didn't order WM and after reading the message boards here I'm glad I didn't.

What I am usually seeing is that WM was "bearable" or "decent". Like Lara is saying though, if there's any one show the WWE puts out that should be more than decent, it's Wrestlemania.

The fact is, they've really screwed themselves from putting forth an amazing show.

1) First and foremost, the booking for this was horrific. The height of WWE booking in perhaps the past five years was late 2009-Survivor Series 2010. They managed to put over a TON of new talent, and had one of the best new heels in years in Wade Barret and The Nexus. Now, Barret and his group are two minute jobbers to Santino Marella.

The booking went from strong to burying most stars, and force feeding 2/3'rds of the storylines into this WrestleMania. Even Orton/Punk. The WWE was building Cena/Punk i.e. when Punk joined Nexus to begin with?!, and gave no reason to just scrapping the feud.

2) For years now, the WWE has had some sort of gimmick match to get at least six wrestlers involved, most recently MITB. They scrapped that just so they can put more emphasis on a pay per view months from now and six mid to upper tier stars didn't get shown on tv. I'm glad Rey and Cody had an awesome match, but that's something that could have been on ANY pay per view.

Cody vs Rey vs Kofi vs Kane vs Big Show vs Barrett vs Sheamus vs Bryan in a MITB match.

3) I'm reading here with people talking about the finishes of matches, most notably the Lawler match. Many are rightfully complaining about the match, with those defending it saying it'll continue onto Raw. All I have to say is WrestleMania is where feuds come to conclude, especially those not revolving around a title belt.

Overall, it's quite depressing to see WWE take the momentum they had in 2010, and kind of piss Wrestlemania away into a pay-per-view we could see in June, sans Taker/HHH who only wrestle in one pay per view a year lately.

[Mike the Metal Ed]

Is he using a choir so we'd feel bad for booing Cena or something?

Worked for me, it's hard to boo Cena when you're standing next to a kid whose mum is on stage.

[jkman61494]

By the way, regarding Kurt Angle's post on the front page, frankly the guy has some nerve himself.

Does he not realize he stole the Ankle Lock from Ken Shamrock!?

[JimmyMess]

Yeah I like Kurt Angle, but there has to be a work aspect to this. He has to be fucking with the internet smarks out there, to see what kind of shit he can stir.

No one is that stupid/arrogant. Well maybe there are...

[BigCrippyZ]

Just finished watching WM again.

I will admit the pacing/flow of the show felt weird and off most of the night. Lots of kinda random fade to black/video package/commercial spots and huge silent spots in the commentary.

Match of the night for me has got to be Taker vs HHH, followed with a somewhat close 2nd of Rey vs Cody and then 3rd would be Edge vs Del Rio. By the way, I really loved Cody's mask/hooded look. Makes him look like a badass. I don't really watch Smackdown too much so I wasn't aware how new it was, etc., but I like it and feel like he could be a main event player soon.

Taker and HHH told a great and intense story to me. One veteran telling another it's time to call it quits and wanting to make him realize that, and the other veteran just simply refusing to quit or possibly admit that it might be time to hang it up. I also really loved some of the "shadowboxing" and disoriented type of selling that Taker did through the end of the match.

Miz vs Cena match was pretty much what I expected, nothing great but also not much more they honestly could have done here with The Rock getting involved. I loved Miz's video, but I honestly felt like I was in church for Cena's video and I just don't get why they thought that was a good idea. It actually kinda turned me off from a lot of the match and I felt like maybe the live crowd felt the same way. Just weird.

I was a little disappointed that they just completely removed Bryan vs Sheamus. I guess they felt like the match didn't have enough build/excitement, which may have been true because I wasn't necessarily looking forward to it from that standpoint, but I felt like it would have still been a solid match to have seen between the two.

Cole vs Lawler was too long and I felt like Cole wasn't ready to be put into a match. Lawler and Cole seemed pretty nervous/hesitant with each other, especially when it came to Cole taking bumps. Nice to see Austin and watch him deliver some Stunners though. Always a plus IMO.

Overall, I feel like I got my moneys worth. Was it the best WM ever or as solid as some in the past? No, but it's far from the worst Mania ever or in recent memory, that's for sure. I think it helped that I went in with lowered expectations too.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Angle was probably drunk and felt a little courageous. It happens.

[JimmyMess]

Angle was probably drunk and felt a little courageous. It happens.

This.

Like I said, I'm a Kurt Angle fan. People say stupid things sometimes!

[jkman61494]

Well he has a bit of a point in that I don't know why Orton started using an Angle Slam. However, the ankle lock bit is laughable.

[legendkillerRKO]

Maybe watching this Mania with a group of friends made it more entertaining for be but people sayin it was awful? come on now. Stop taking "artistic combat" so seriously and just enjoy it. The fact that they put on a decent quality show while their whole company is in a state of flux from the front office to older talents getting ready to leave and trying to boost young guys should be commended. Tonite's Mania was about getting some of the young guys to a higher level so yea its not going to be epic, but just enjoy it. In the words of Ron Simmons DAMN!

[Rammsteinmad]

My thoughts pretty much echo Noids. Was gutted the Bryan/Sheamus match didn't happen. But the undercard matches mostly stole the show.

One thing that I can't seem to get about Wrestlemanias anymore, is that in the past they would have a four-hour event with all the advertised matches, skits, drama etc, and each match/skit would be designated a decent amount of time. Over the last couple of years matches have been bumped from the card, rushed etc, due to 'time restraints'.

We were pretty much ripped off of three of the nine matches that were advertised. US Title match got bumped, and the two tag team matches barely got started before they finished! The other three hours got shared between six matches and shit loads of promos/skits/stupidly long, unnecessary entrances.

Overall I'd give it 3/5.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Maybe watching this Mania with a group of friends made it more entertaining for be but people sayin it was awful? come on now. Stop taking "artistic combat" so seriously and just enjoy it. The fact that they put on a decent quality show while their whole company is in a state of flux from the front office to older talents getting ready to leave and trying to boost young guys should be commended. Tonite's Mania was about getting some of the young guys to a higher level so yea its not going to be epic, but just enjoy it. In the words of Ron Simmons DAMN!

I dunno man. When you're charging people $60 to watch your show I'm pretty sure you disqualify yourself from using the "just go with it" excuse.

[Rammsteinmad]

BTW I didn't pay for it, so I don't feel 'ripped off', but had I paid for it I would have been a bit disapointed.

[AJHayes]

The only thing that disappointed me was Cenas obvious lack of effort. It was a complete disgrace as well as a slap in the face to everyone who wants to be a wrestler as well as everyone in the wrestling business.

Snooki put in more effort than Cena.

[Jordan]

The only thing that disappointed me was Cenas obvious lack of effort. It was a complete disgrace as well as a slap in the face to everyone who wants to be a wrestler as well as everyone in the wrestling business.

Snooki put in more effort than Cena.

That is ignorant, how could you possibly believe this?

[Shadrick]

Yeah it was bad but not the worst, it was better than at least 2,9 and 11, which isn't saying much mind you. But yeah it's not the worst ever that's just as idiotic as Shadrick saying it was the best ever

lol.

[wwe2222]

Very lackluster to me. Overall the pacing of the show was soooo slow.

Like last year's Hart-McMahon match, Lawler-Cole just took way too long. It should have been King beating up Cole, few stunners, and celebrate. Instead it got drawn out and the weird DQ ending.

HHH-Undertaker was mostly ok, but again, the time it took Undertaker to get out of the ring was painfully long and killed an already dead crowd.

Orton-Punk, Miz-Cena, and Snooki match were highlights of the show. everything else was yawwwn.

It wasnt the worst wrestlemania, but it was painfully slow and boring.

[jkman61494]

You can say they put over younger talent but really?

Take a look at Summer/Fall 2010 and see who had prominent positions and how they weren't even on the card.

[AJHayes]

That is ignorant, how could you possibly believe this?

Look at the match. Miz was consistantly crisp and on his game. Cena was sloppy as fuck and didn't look like he gave a shit. The crowd was hot for Miz and dead for Cena.

Snooki pulled something I didn't expect out, and that's what mania is all about. Going above and beyond to send the crowd home happy.

[Jordan]

I just gotta say that Triple H and The Undertaker are absolute legends and put on one of the best matches they possibly could. Wow, what an amazing dramatic confrontation, I loved the build up (sorry guys, I know a lot of haters are here) I loved every moment of that match. That's up there with HBK/Taker as far as best performances at Wrestlemania.

[Jordan]

BTW It was not a lack of effort on Cena or Miz's part, did you really think they would steal the show? They did what they do, they had a little match to bide the time for The Rock to steal the show, which is what pretty much everyone expected and wanted. Not every match has to be Steamboat/Savage to be good... That match wasn't great obviously and they will have more I know, but it served its purpose and sent the crowd home happy.

[Corndad]

Wow just read an interesting fact. This is the first Mania not to have a single title change hands.

After sleeping on it gonna see where they take things tonight on Raw with Rocky/Miz/Cena to make a final determination about Rocky owning both current stars who just Main Evented the biggest show of the year.

I also wanted to throw it out that Snooki did alot better then I thought. The match was kept short and served it's purpose well.

Cody Rhodes will be Main Evening a Mania in next 2 or 3 years.

[Rammsteinmad]

Considering the great year WWE has had since WM26, WM27 could, and should, have been so much better.

[Lara Emily]

TNA Wrestling performer Kurt Angle, a former WWE Champion, posted numerous messages on his Twitter account during WrestleMania XXVII criticizing Randy Orton, Jack Swagger, Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler for using his trademark finishing maneuvers during their respective matches.

The tweets are as follows:

"To WWE wrestlers, Don't use my Finish. Get more Creative. Hmmmm- Orton. Did I say that."

"I heard Orton had an Awesome match though. Ur welcome. Lol."

"I guess Swagger will use my Ankle Lock as well.Very creative. I'm the Best in the World. You Guys will never be Kurt Angle.can I get an AMEN."

"Kurt Angle will never die. TNA. WWE. I'm a leader. Not follower."

"Why would WWE use my finishes? Is it because I won't go back? R Orton- Angle Slam. M Cole- Ankle Lock? They have some nerve."

"Jerry Lawlor did it too. But He is a Legend. WWE really stuck it to Me.No Love lost. I'm glad that I helped Your biggest Event of the Year:)"

Hey Angle where did you get the triple Germans from?

[MoFo]

Wrestlemoania

[Jordan]

Angle was obviously drunk and angry. He's fucked up. To really get into a self twitter flame fest you gotta have sunk to some levels, especially when it's about move you stole from other wrestlers.

But even saying that "stealing moves" is retarded, you can't steal a move, it's just kinda impossible to say who came up with it first, because its always possible somebody else did it before you did, weather you thought of it, or not.

Angle was just jealous because his PPV's still draw 1500 people and he gave up his Wrestlemania spot so he could still do pain med's and drink.

[Jordan]

Angle was obviously drunk and angry. He's fucked up. To really get into a self twitter flame fest you gotta have sunk to some levels, especially when it's about move you stole from other wrestlers.

But even saying that "stealing moves" is retarded, you can't steal a move, it's just kinda impossible to say who came up with it first, because its always possible somebody else did it before you did, weather you thought of it, or not.

Angle was just jealous because his PPV's still draw 1500 people and he gave up his Wrestlemania spot so he could still do pain med's and drink.

[JimmyMess]

Hey I just realized something. There was no classic "montage" vid of the whole event that usually plays at the end.... unless I missed it....

Was there one for the last couple? I always loved those, with whatever hard rock theme they use

[Jordan]

Hey I just realized something. There was no classic "montage" vid of the whole event that usually plays at the end.... unless I missed it....

Was there one for the last couple? I always loved those, with whatever hard rock theme they use

The show went a legit 4 hours there wasn't time.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Here's my full breakdown:

-I understand why they did The Rock's promo to start. Problem is it really only mattered to the 71,000 or so people live, where they were able to interact and respond to The Rock. For the people watching at home it just seemed like a waste of time and the type of promo you'd start Raw with. It's really unfortunate that Bryan/Sheamus likely were bumped just to clear room for this and the long Mania entrances.

-Edge/Del Rio was pretty good, and a fun enough opener. I kept thinking Christian was going to turn, even after the match was over I figured he'd hit Edge with a tire iron. Really think Del Rio should have gone over if only because the Rumble winner now hasn't won 4 years in a row. Plus, although I like Edge, there really isn't anything left for him to do because he's literally done everything. I figure Edge won here to prevent 2 heel champs from walking out of Mania, but since they put this match on first a heel win wouldn't have made a huge difference. Ah well, Del Rio will win it within a few months.

-Rey/Cody was really good with some great psychology employed. I definitely thought Rey was winning it after he hit the 6-1-9 and I marked out when Cody kicked out. Really happy that Cody won and I'd love to see him slide into the main event picture during the year.

-The backstage stuff got a few chuckles out of me except for the Pee Wee Herman bit. The Snoop Dogg bit was my favorite mainly because Regal and Ryder were hysterical. Also the Bellas are hot so no complaints from me seeing them on screen for a minute or so.

-The 8-man tag was really disappointing to me. Don't get me wrong, I figured it would be relatively short and the flurry of moves to close the match was a given, but I didn't think that would be the only thing that happened. Could have given this a few more minutes to let a couple more guys get ring time. Hated The Corre losing and think they need to do something big at Extreme Rules.

-Punk/Orton had some brilliant parts although Orton's selling was bothersome at times. Sometimes he wouldn't sell the leg at all and then he'd look like he'd been shot. Actually thought Nexus may have returned and done something just because Punk is still wearing his armband which makes little sense if the stable is no more. Still a good match overall. Finish was somewhat telegraphed but still made for a great visual.

-Cole/Lawler was a massive letdown. Obviously it was never going to be good from a quality standpoint, but I think Cole just got in WAY too much offense and it just dragged on for way too long. Could have shaved a couple of minutes off of Cole's offense and given it to the 8-man tag. The lack of a Piledriver was really upsetting. I have no doubt it was WWE's decision to not let him do a Piledriver even though I'm certain King could deliver a perfectly safe one. The decision reversal was total bullshit unless it leads to Cole being a full-time manager or something, as others have suggested. Booker and Josh being stunned was totally random and seemingly only done to allow JR and King to call the rest of the show - as if Josh and Book couldn't believably leave on their own.

-I actually liked Taker/HHH a lot. Sure it wasn't as good as either Taker/HBK match but it kept me entertained throughout. I only "bought" one false finish, when HHH Tombstoned Taker. Otherwise I knew the rest of the moves were going to be kicked out of, Taker/HBK may have ruined false finishes for me. Given how dead he looked after the match and how he barely escaped this one, it's very possible that he won't work another match until WM 28. Either way, I have no doubt that Taker's WM 28 match will be his last. I'd like to see him exit at 20-0 but since his whole deal with the streak now is "I only die when the streak dies", him losing wouldn't surprise me. Cena is really the only guy believable enough to end it at this point.

-The 6-person tag was meant to be a pissbreak and nothing more, which is a shame since Morrison and Ziggler are really talented but hey at least they get a payday. Snooki getting the pin was obvious and I was shocked at how many people thought Trish would actually get the pin in Tipsters. I would do unforgiveable things to hook up with Trish and Layla.

-Miz' video package was incredible, Cena's sucked. Overall I just wasn't feeling the main event. Felt like a standard Raw main event for the most part and it just felt like everybody was waiting for The Rock. I DID bite at the false finish with Cena hitting the second Attitude Adjustment, though. Ending the match with a double countout only to restart it just felt really lame. I almost think Rock running out and hitting a Rock Bottom on Cena for the DQ ending would have been more of a "shock" ending instead of telegraphing it with The Rock's promo/making it a no DQ match. Either way, they made the right call with keeping the belt on the shit-hot Miz and Cena/Rock at Summerslam needs to happen or else this was all a giant cocktease.

There were some ups and some downs, so yeah...lackluster as I said before. Thumbs in the middle, probably pointing slightly downward because there have been other mediocre Manias that were better than this. It wasn't the worst Mania by any means but it wasn't a home run.

Overall, really happy I took the chance on streams and found 3 that I kept cycling through as they'd get taken down and brought back up again. No way was this worth $65.</font>

[The Fraze]

So we're blaming The Rock for Sheamas/Bryan being bumped? How bout we blame Snoop Dogg and Snooki you fucking jabronies?

[theregulator]

i wonder if hbks wife got pissed at him or at least was a little jealous because sunny was there and also a few pictures were taken with them together that i saw.

[Rammsteinmad]

Of course she's jealous. She's a woman.

[CSL]

The only thing that disappointed me was Cenas obvious lack of effort. It was a complete disgrace as well as a slap in the face to everyone who wants to be a wrestler as well as everyone in the wrestling business.

Snooki put in more effort than Cena.

And the award for 'Stupidest/most ill-informed/most ridiculous thing I've read about Mania since it finished 2011' goes to AJHayes. Great work scout, you had some tough competition.

[Evil Vito]

So we're blaming The Rock for Sheamas/Bryan being bumped? How bout we blame Snoop Dogg and Snooki you fucking jabronies?

<font color=goldenrod>...because there are ALWAYS a few token comedy backstage segments and there was going to be a 6-person tag match one way or the other to get divas on the show (Kelly was initially tabbed for the spot before they got Snooki). Whereas Mania usually doesn't start with a 15 minute promo.

Hell, it's fine that they had a Rock promo, it just baffles me that they didn't know ahead of time that they would need to cut one match off entirely. Second time in three years they've needed to do that (Miz/Morrison vs. The Colons in the first ever Unified Tag Title match at WM25).

It's like they don't realize ahead of time how long entrances and shit are going to run.</font>

[Volare]

Miz's entrance and build up= Awesomely Awesome.

It made a a statement about Miz's evolution throughout the business and how he's become what he is today. AWESOME.

[Volare]

<font color=goldenrod>...because there are ALWAYS a few token comedy backstage segments and there was going to be a 6-person tag match one way or the other to get divas on the show (Kelly was initially tabbed for the spot before they got Snooki). Whereas Mania usually doesn't start with a 15 minute promo.

Hell, it's fine that they had a Rock promo, it just baffles me that they didn't know ahead of time that they would need to cut one match off entirely. Second time in three years they've needed to do that (Miz/Morrison vs. The Colons in the first ever Unified Tag Title match at WM25).

It's like they don't realize ahead of time how long entrances and shit are going to run.</font>


15 min Entrance, spot, spot, spot, spot, pin. (insert random ass segment) Next match repeat.

[VSG]

And the award for 'Stupidest/most ill-informed/most ridiculous thing I've read about Mania since it finished 2011' goes to AJHayes. Great work scout, you had some tough competition.

Dunno Lara Emily's "'Twas so horrible that it is forgettable" sounds right up there.

[Lock Jaw]

http://i51.tinypic.com/6f8emc.jpg

[Lock Jaw]

Also, I bet James Steele is gonna buy one of these:

http://www.wweshop.com/images/products/31384th.jpg

http://www.wweshop.com/item/triple-h-skull-mask/carsousel2/17-00385

[Jeritron]

It was a very strange Wrestlemania. I don't think it sucked, because I enjoyed it, but there are a lot of positive and negative thigns I can say about it.

It's pointless and stupid to judge Wrestlemanias against eachother because they're all relative to their era. I'd only judge Wrestlemania 17-27 against eachother, because it's a whole different standard and era.
Comparing this to Wrestlemania 11 or 16 is a hard bargain.

[DAMN iNATOR]

Oh, Ryan Clark, you just believe everything you see on the internet, don't you?

As noted earlier here on the website, WWE issued a press release touting
WrestleMania XXVII as the most attended entertainment event in Georgia Dome history, with 71,617 in attendance. WWE claims the previous attendance record at the Georgia Dome for an entertainment event was set by The Backstreet Boys, which attracted 65,658 fans on February 19, 2000. WWE’s statement is false as according to a 2009 article on Billboard.com, that particular Backstreet Boys concert drew 73,337, not 65,658.

Anyway, I was extremely impressed with this year's edition. I must say, from my perspective it lived up to all the hype, and the only real low points were having Sheamus and Bryan go dark instead of live was a mistake, we (the place I was at) were one of many who experienced the signal downtime of roughly 5 minutes during the Cole v. King proceedings, didn't even mind the "swerve" by the "GM" at the end. Hilarious stuff. Didn't like how short the CORRE v. Kane/Show/Kofi/Santino was or the clusterfuckerry at all. BLEAH! Taker v. HHH was another classic, not quite as good as Taker vs. HBK I at WM 25, but the best match of the night for sure. Was impressed with Snooki's athleticism, somebody get this girl a contract pronto! (ok, maybe not really, but the short bit of work she did was impressive...) Finally, I'll just say I'd like to see where tonight picks up between Miz, Cena and Rock, and I'd like to find out if Cena will show up wearing a fuzzy red head, gloves and boots to match his outfit and start talking like Elmo... :shifty:

[What Would Kevin Do?]

http://withleather.uproxx.com/2011/04/the-best-and-worst-of-wrestlemania-xxvii

I agree with pretty much most of this.

[Juan]

TNA Wrestling performer Kurt Angle, a former WWE Champion, posted numerous messages on his Twitter account during WrestleMania XXVII criticizing Randy Orton, Jack Swagger, Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler for using his trademark finishing maneuvers during their respective matches.

The tweets are as follows:

"To WWE wrestlers, Don't use my Finish. Get more Creative. Hmmmm- Orton. Did I say that."

"I heard Orton had an Awesome match though. Ur welcome. Lol."

"I guess Swagger will use my Ankle Lock as well.Very creative. I'm the Best in the World. You Guys will never be Kurt Angle.can I get an AMEN."

"Kurt Angle will never die. TNA. WWE. I'm a leader. Not follower."

"Why would WWE use my finishes? Is it because I won't go back? R Orton- Angle Slam. M Cole- Ankle Lock? They have some nerve."

"Jerry Lawlor did it too. But He is a Legend. WWE really stuck it to Me.No Love lost. I'm glad that I helped Your biggest Event of the Year:)"

Randy Orton issued a response on Twitter to Kurt Angle's rant regarding wrestlers using the Ankle Lock:

"Everythings been done before as far as 'moves' go in the sports entertainment. I want to thank SCSA for the 'Thesz Press'. And I know for a fact that SCSA got the 'Thesz Press' from Dutch Mantel. Point being, instead of taking offense to someone using your move, consider it a sign of respect. Btw does anyone know what Ken Shamrocks finish was? I believe Jack Swagger used ankle lock outta respect for Ken?"

CM Punk has chimed in on the Kurt Angle situation, providing some enlightening insight as to what really happened with Angle's Twitter account. Punk tweeted on Monday:

"my twitter account was hacked", is the new: "I'm a sloppy drunk douche".

[What Would Kevin Do?]

Yeah, I don't get Angle. "I'm going to respond to what you said, and justify everything i said earlier... BTW, I didn't say those things, my account was hacked."

[AJHayes]

And the award for 'Stupidest/most ill-informed/most ridiculous thing I've read about Mania since it finished 2011' goes to AJHayes. Great work scout, you had some tough competition.

Clever girl.

I truly appreciate the humor in your reaction to my post in a "discussion" forum. It speaks volumes for your intellect. You and the other that lashed out at my opinion should really reconsider your priorities. If you are unable to discuss things like a rational adult, then maybe I could redirect you to 4chan or ebaums world.

[CSL]

lol what are you talking about sweetheart? You made what in my eyes was the stupidest statement I've seen in relation to Mania and I pointed this out. If for some reason you feel the need to go in depth and discuss why what you said is glaringly retarded, we can do that too. But please don't think you're on some variety of higher ground because you structured your dumb fuck words into something that gives the impression that you know what you're talking about/are stating fact. Bless.

[Mjdiesel]

lol what are you talking about sweetheart? You made what in my eyes was the stupidest statement I've seen in relation to Mania and I pointed this out. If for some reason you feel the need to go in depth and discuss why what you said is glaringly retarded, we can do that too. But please don't think you're on some variety of higher ground because you structured your dumb fuck words into something that gives the impression that you know what you're talking about/are stating fact. Bless.

Oh I know :roll:

[Volare]

http://i51.tinypic.com/6f8emc.jpg

God I love that background for Cody.

[Mr. C]

Shame Daniel Bryan vs. Sheamus got bumped.

Alberto Del Rio vs. Edge: This match shouldn’t have started off the show.

Cody Rhodes vs. Rey Mysterio: Didn’t care much.

8 Man Tag Team Match: This match should’ve been Big Show, Diesel, Kane, & Santino Marella vs. The Core and lasted 5-6 minutes. Would’ve been fun for the crowd.

CM Punk vs. Randy Orton: I loved this, and it really stood out to me. Well done to both.

Jerry Lawler vs. Michael Cole: Stupid.

The Undertaker vs. Triple-H: The ending needed to have a boom at the end via the Tombstone rather than Hell’s Gate.

6 Person Tag Team Match: The most pointless match in history.

John Cena vs. The Miz: The crowd, which was poor, was dead by this stage. Oh, and more Rock.

5/10

[Mjdiesel]

And the award for 'Stupidest/most ill-informed/most ridiculous thing I've read about Mania since it finished 2011' goes to AJHayes. Great work scout, you had some tough competition.

You're an asshole.

[D Mac]

Just watched it. I'm so glad I have PW Torrents and didn't have to pay for this shit. :cool:

[Mr. Pierre]

-I really liked how Edge/Del Rio kicked off the show. Even though it's a World title match, I had a feeling that this match would be completely lost if it were placed in the middle of the show, and it wouldn't get a great reaction. By opening, it guaranteed a hot crowd and it worked.

-Rey/Cody told an awesome story with the mask/knee brace aspect. Some really nice, innovative spots too that were memorable (stalling superplex was mint). Cool to see Cody go over.

-Corre/Team Show had it's purpose. Majority of the buyers/those in attendance really don't wanna see it anyway, so why not make it an exciting 90 seconds? I was glad it was a squash, and Corre will recover if the writing team wants them too.

-Punk/Orton was great. Punk is such a creepy heel, and Orton sold the leg like a champ. I loved the finish too. I hate sometimes how wrestlers go out of their moveset to produce a cool finishing spot, but Punk's springboard clothesline is a move that he uses every match, and it was perfect timing. Great match.

-Cole/Lawler wasn't what I expected. I thought this would without a doubt be the blowoff and Lawler would beat the shit out of Cole for about 3 minutes, concluding in a piledriver. Then post-match after Lawler leaves, Stunner to Cole and Swagger. Instead we got a continuation/cliff hanger finish that'll set up for an Extreme Rules match. If that's what they want, then it makes sense, but I was expecting more finality to it.

-Taker/HHH was amazing. The story, expressions, spots, everything. When the match was made I thought "there's no way HHH wins". But they did such a great job of selling the story of Taker being "done" that I completely bought into it. The Tombstone was fucking perfect, as was Taker's post match selling. Incredible match that stole the show.

-Morrison/Snooki/Trish vs. Ziggler/Laycool was entertaining. Perfect amount of time was given to this one, everyone hit their signature stuff, and it concluded with a surprising finisher from Snooki. I was really impressed with how well this match worked, and it was good card placement.

-Cena/Miz was a solid main event. Crowd was exhausted though at the start, but the match was great and the crowd was wide awake by the last 5 minutes of it. Miz kicking out of the Attitude Adjustment was a nice touch too and really put Miz over. Rock's involvement was expected and everyone was waiting for it and I was happy the way it turned out. When the Rock's involvement in Mania was first announced I thought we were in for a lame "Cena/Rock respect" hug and handshake at end Mania with Miz getting his ass kicked. Instead Miz got a huge win that solidifies him, and we now have Rock vs. Cena for Mania 28. Sounds awesome to me.

[NormanSmiley]

i guess for some people being let down is a correlation to their high expectations for this PPV. i had very low expectations for this years mania and only having read the feedback and not watched it its hard to comment but...

how anyone could be surprised the taker/H match felt slow moving has either never seen these guys wrestle or forgot about it like vince did.

usually WM serves as a wrap up to long built up storylines, but the cole/lawler thing will just continue on i suppose.

not sure where the edge del rio xtian thing goes from here but was surprised del rio took the L.

happy to see cena lose however it happened.

[CSL]

You're an asshole.

Coming from a monstrosity like yourself, that's quite the compliment.

[Volare]

lol

[Inadequacy]

I'm happy to see the love for Rey/Cody here, probably one of my favourite matches on the card.

Curious to see St. Jimmy's thoughts on the Miz being in and winning the main event of Wrestlemania.

[Rammsteinmad]

Just rewatched some bits of WM. God Eve is such a stupid bitch. When she's talking to the Rock she's being all 'yeah I'm having a great week, it's been fantastic' whatever...

Are you shitting me?!

If I was Eve I'd be all 'Are you kidding me Rock? I'm the Divas Champion and I've been left off of Wrestlemania! WWE can kiss my ass!'

But instead, she was enjoying herself. :|

[The Fraze]

She's in a promo with The fucking Great One. It's like a dream, BOOM!

[Asmo]

Just saw it off the net. Enjoyed most of Wrestlemania, barring the Corre/4 Faces showdown. Loved the skits they did with Snoop Dogg (Ryder & Piper were hilarious!), but thought every thing else (that includes the Rock's skits) was bad cheesy bullshit.

Missed Daniel Bryan / Sheamus. That should've been the opening match - no matter how much time it got, they would've easily got the crowd pumped up. Not saying that ADR vs Edge was bad, but it seemed like just another match, not something for the World Heavyweight Title.

Taker / HHH was enjoyable - especially Taker's reactions towards the end of the match. IMO, the Streak became bigger than Taker here.

That hype video for the Miz was awesome, to say the least. Brilliant production values. Didn't care much for the match, save the Rock beatdown.

All in all, this wasn't a HUGE letdown, but yeah, since ADR didn't win, DB/Sheamus didn't happen, and the Rock seemed off in his skits, it won't be close to my favourites.

[MIZantine Empire]

Just saw it off the net. Enjoyed most of Wrestlemania, barring the Corre/4 Faces showdown. Loved the skits they did with Snoop Dogg (Ryder & Piper were hilarious!), but thought every thing else (that includes the Rock's skits) was bad cheesy bullshit.

Missed Daniel Bryan / Sheamus. That should've been the opening match - no matter how much time it got, they would've easily got the crowd pumped up. Not saying that ADR vs Edge was bad, but it seemed like just another match, not something for the World Heavyweight Title.

Taker / HHH was enjoyable - especially Taker's reactions towards the end of the match. IMO, the Streak became bigger than Taker here.

That hype video for the Miz was awesome, to say the least. Brilliant production values. Didn't care much for the match, save the Rock beatdown.

All in all, this wasn't a HUGE letdown, but yeah, since ADR didn't win, DB/Sheamus didn't happen, and the Rock seemed off in his skits, it won't be close to my favourites.
i dont think the rock seemed off..that backstage one with him and austin gave me chills. brought back alot of memories. reminded me of a smackdown i went to back when the rock and austin were feuding. once the cameras cut off stone cold and the rock toasted each other and went turnbuckle to turnbuckle taking beers to pound town.

[VSG]

Where are you guys rewatching this anyway?

[James Steele]

www.juststreamit.com (http://www.gaybeef.com)

[St. Jimmy]

If you wanted to see the miz build up promo it's finally up:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHOMIL_6x7k&feature=related

[St. Jimmy]

HATE ME NOW

[Volare]

www.juststreamit.com (http://www.gaybeef.com)

This site is perfect for some of the "younger" members.

[XL]

My Take

THE HOST

I get that The Rock had to do something to open the show but he could have just come out to the stage and given a short "Welcome to WrestleMania" intro rather than make the walk to the ring to give us a 10 minute speech. This made it feel like an episode of Raw.

His backstage stuff was OK but I think I worked out why I'm not digging The Rock at the minute: He's "trying too hard". Or he's "hamming it up". Kinda thought the latter, in sort of a "Haha, don't worry Hollywood, I'm not taking this seriously". His delivery is over the top, he needs to be a bit more subtle, a bit more "real". He seems to be Dwayne Johnson playing The Rock, if that makes sense.

Either way, for this opening promo and the subsequent backstage ones (sans the face to face with SCSA) to bump Sheamus/Bryan from the card is annoying to say the least as I was honestly looking forward to that match.

Also, he could have dressed up a little more, he did have guests afterall.


WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

I think it's placing on the card took everyone by surprise, as did a win for Edge. Don't mind ADR taking the loss but I do wonder where this leads in terms of the post-Mania title scene. Don't really wanna see a rehash at Extreme Rules to be honest.


HHH v UNDERTAKER

This result here is "a given" yet they managed to get me to "buy" a lot of the later near falls, so kudos to them. I do think a lot of that was "Well HHH does have a lot of pull, maybe they will drop The Streak to him" but regardless that match should have worked for smarks and marks alike.

I did feel the pacing was off but hey, it was a good match.

I found the post-match pretty interesting. Taker, the mythical phenom, being carted up the ramp on a stretcher with an EMT holding his hand was an odd sight to say the least. If they weren't looking to "humanize" the character with new intro music/different promo style, then they definately did it here.


SNOOKI

I was impressed with her Handspring Elbow. I hope that some of the people that bitched about her involvement managed to swallow their pride and give Snooki her due for that move alone. Hopefully it got WWE the mainstream attention they craved. And, let's be fair, Kelly Kelly - who would have been in the match in Snooki's place - is only slightly better in-ring anyways.


MIZ v CENA

The Miz' intro video was incredible. Cena's went on too long and the angle they used (religion/praying) kinda came from leftfield for his character. I realised that the match wasn't gonna be anything special given Cena's "limitaions" in the ring and Miz' relative inexperience. I wonder who called that match in the ring?

The double countout seemed unnecessary. If they needed The Rock there, have him come out before the match, he was the host afterall. Or just have him come out of nowhere to hit the Rock Bottom.

Putting him over both the current top face and top heel irked me a little but if they're starting the build to Mania 28 now/Rock is sticking around, it's no massive issue.


FINAL THOUGHTS

Worth the money. There were 6 of us who paid £2.50 each so it was inexpensive. Moreso the experience of watching it in a group with a few beers probably lifted what may have been a mediocre event to a really enjoyable experience. I'd recommend everyone to watch it this way in future.

[Emperor Smeat]

I think some reviews or reports were saying the reason The Rock's opener was a bit long was him having to stall for time because the WWE messed up with getting something ready or didn't plan the timing parts for the whole event.

After the Rock, the WWE almost redid the opening to Mania with the pyro and music even though moments earlier they did the same for the opener and the anthem singing.

[Aguakate]

LOL an EMT was holding Undertaker's hand while he was being carted off?

[CSL]

Not sure if anybody's mentioned it but I wanted to mention how unreal Triple H's selljob for the finish of his and Taker's match was. Fucking outstanding.

[MIZantine Empire]

Not sure if anybody's mentioned it but I wanted to mention how unreal Triple H's selljob for the finish of his and Taker's match was. Fucking outstanding.
yea i agree..it was capped off perfectly with him getting a hold of the sledge, and then dropping it. the slight thing i dont like is i wish instead of tapping, he just flat "passed out"

[MIZantine Empire]

I think some reviews or reports were saying the reason The Rock's opener was a bit long was him having to stall for time because the WWE messed up with getting something ready or didn't plan the timing parts for the whole event.

After the Rock, the WWE almost redid the opening to Mania with the pyro and music even though moments earlier they did the same for the opener and the anthem singing.
they were prob having problems with receiving the shipment of del rios car from his mansion in mexico..lol...damn logistics

[Damian Rey]

EDGE V. DEL RIO
Hot opener. I was stunned to see it on first, but they worked a tight, quick paced match up that saw both guys look like they were in line to win. The ending sequence was great, and while I wanted to see Del Rio go over, the match overall was well done.

RHODES V. MYSTERIO
Great match to hopefully cap off what has been a great mid card fued. I personally feel Cody arrived here. He and Rey worked a well paced match, there were some great spots, and Cody going over should do some wonders for him.

PUNK V. ORTON
I think Punk proved once again that he is more than main event capable in the ring. This was by far my favorite Orton match in God knows how long. Punk has helped carry both Orton and Cena to two of their best matches within a few months. Randy was crisp as well, and he and Punk have some great chemistry.

COLE V. LAWLER
Biggest dissapointment of the whole featured card for me. Everything here was wrong. The pacing, the structure, everything. I look back to No Way Out 2003 as the perfect way to build a match between a wrestler and a non wrestler. Austin v. Bischoff was perfect. Austin shows up, Bisch gets in some no so effective offense, and Austin spends 10 minutes destorying him. The beginning of this match with Lawler beating up Cole in the Cole Mine, was great. Everything after that stunk. Cole got in way to much offense, and the pacing killed the crowd. The reverse decision was dumb as well. For all the heat this match got in the weeks of build, the result was very underwhelming. And, seriously, why would anyone think Cole's getting a pilediriver here? The current generation knows Lawler's finisher as the fist drop. Not to mention, Cole didn't need a piledriver, he just needed to get destroyed. That didn't happen.

CORRE V. SHOW/KANE/SANTINO/KOLFI
I was really let down here. For one, the match should've been longer. Barrett and Big Show have been getting built to this match since Barrett stepped foot on SD!. For a blowoff match, this was horrendous. Not to mention, I think they missed some neat spots. Gabriel hitting the 450 would have been awesome to see at Mania, Zeke dominating Big Show and giving him a standing suplex would have been a great visual, and I really think Barrett hitting Wasteland on Show would have been an awesome highlight. Alas...

TAKER V. HHH
Honestly, I did not care for the match a whole. I feel like it was paced too slow in the beginning, and they pulled out the big spots too early. I did like the outside spots, especially the AA spinebuster through the announce table. But I felt that, with them having to sell the spots, the match kind of dragged. Would have preffered they built them up a bit more. I loved the overall idea of Taker refusing to quit despite having nothing left. The Tombstone to Taker at the end had be believing it was over, and Triple H selling Hell's Gate, and faintly tapping out, was a great finish.

MORRISON/TRISH/SNOOKI V. LAYCOOL/ZIGGLER
Loved seeing Trish and McCool mixing it up. That was half of what i was looking forward to. Wish Ziggler and JoMo would have gotten more time to show off. Was admittedly impressed with Snooki.

MIZ V. CENA
I don't know what people were expecting, but they pretty much put on the match I expected. Neither guy is known for having great matches. So I was content with what they did. Was shocked Miz flat out kicked out of a huge AA. That was a helluva way to put the guy over. I should note that, at first, I was not happy with the double countout. But, looking back, I'm happy with the decision. I personally feel that the double countout puts over Miz huge. Cena flat out could not beat him. Miz escaped the STF, he took two AAs and still would not stay down. Having the double countout ensured that, at the end of the day, Miz was just as good as Cena. Rock hitting the Rock Bottom was awesome, and Miz going home as champion after being booked the way he was during the initial match shows just how much faith WWE has in Miz as a top performer. Would have liked Rock to leave Miz be, and let him have his moment, with the fans going home to the site of Miz holding his title, but they went with the happy ending of Rocky standing tall, which I can get.

The biggest dissapointment was the bumping of Sheamus and Bryan from the card. I feel bad for the fans, who probably missed out on what would have been a great match, and even more so for Bryan and Sheamus, who had the chance to wow the world at the biggest show of they year taken away from them.

But overall, I'm satisfied. No, it was not the "greatest" WrestleMania. But it's damn sure not the worst. There's a lot of great things to take home from this Mania, particularly the in the first half.

[XL]

(Thanx fr) My Take: Part II

How did I not mention...

RHODES v REY

I named Cody as my MVP for SmackDown months ago so to see him going over in a match against Rey at Mania is most pleasing. His character is incredible and his ringwork has come on leaps and bounds. I heard that Rey hand-picked Cody as his opponent, don't know if he insisted that Cody go over but either way it's a classy move from a guy that I don't really like.


MANIA AS A END POINT TO FUEDS

I think that Mania should end fueds. Or at least some of them. At least that way we wouldn't get WWE <s>Rehash</s> <s>Backlash</s> Extreme Rules being the same card with added bells and whistles.

The only fued I can think of that ended at Mania was Miz v Cena (and the build up to that was more Cena v Rock anyways). Cole v Lawler is still going. Cole is still on commentary being over-bearing and we haven't made ANY progression with the storyline. Lawler had his Mania Moment taken away by the Anom GM, I thought we might have been given the reveal on Raw, but no, things continue as they were.

Cody v Rey looks to continue. As does Edge v ADR, Corre v Big Show, etc. Virtually no closure and/or progression. It seems that Extreme Rules just serves as an avenue to give back the win to the guys that lost at Mania.

[addy2hotty]

I doubt they would blow the GM reveal on the same night as the Rock/Cena announcement.

Can't be far away now though.

[XL]

I agree. But in terms of progressing the Cole/King plot something needed to happen. I'm not even sure they have a reveal planned at all.

(I think they should add Natalya into he fued. Nat - King - Cole. Geddit?)

[Poit]

And, seriously, why would anyone think Cole's getting a pilediriver here? The current generation knows Lawler's finisher as the fist drop.

To be fair, Lawler did make 2 piledriver attempts at Elimination Chamber.

[Damian Rey]

To be fair, Lawler did make 2 piledriver attempts at Elimination Chamber.

Yea, on a professionally trained wrestler who knows how to take them, and is a safe bet to come out of it without injury. Cole is not a wrestler. He obviously doesn't know how to bump. At all. I would not at all be comfortable seeing him taking a piledriver.