Random idea: Bring in Bobby Lashley, Derrick Bateman, James Storm and Eddie Edwards as a stable [Archive]

Mr. Nerfect

01-05-2018, 09:23 PM

I think that all four have the opportunity to jump sometime soon. I was thinking about how they would all fit into WWE programming, and I kind of just figured it would be something to bring them all in together as a group of renegades who feel like they've been forgotten or overlooked (that old chestnut).

Bobby Lashley: A former two-time World Champion that had to deal with a prejudice office.

Derrick Bateman: A diamond in the rough that was let go because of his "attitude," and because the big stars were threatened by his potential.

James Storm: "There's nothing really for you in NXT." Meanwhile, Bobby Roode waltzes in and gets given a title opportunity.

Eddie Edwards: Arguably the best technical wrestler in the world (according to himself), and when the WWE sign up everybody on the independent scene, who do they conveniently miss?

Each guy would have a completely different vibe to them. Bobby's the hoss with swagger. Bateman is shredded, but is a "louder" personality. Storm is the old veteran sipping his beer. Edwards is the smaller in-ring whiz. Put them on SmackDown and have them attack The New Day and Bobby Roode leading to an eight-man tag at WrestleMania.

Nicky Fives

01-05-2018, 10:59 PM

I don't see Edwards being brought up to the main roster without a stop in NXT. The rest of the idea I love, could even tease the likes of EY/Roode/Styles/Joe joining them.....

Mr. Nerfect

01-05-2018, 11:06 PM

Eddie Edwards seems like the most "NXT" out of all of them, but I think he would help round out the group. I doubt he would get a massive push out of it all, and would probably be the guy there to take the falls or just make shit look good.

SlickyTrickyDamon

01-05-2018, 11:06 PM

Managed by Don West.

Mr. Nerfect

01-05-2018, 11:09 PM

I was thinking Arn Anderson, but they don't really do managers anymore.

Anybody Thrilla

01-05-2018, 11:14 PM

I would be super down with this.

Loose Cannon

01-05-2018, 11:17 PM

was EC3 really let go because of his attitude?

i could never figure out how they let that guy go. he has everything the WWE likes

Mr. Nerfect

01-05-2018, 11:51 PM

was EC3 really let go because of his attitude?

i could never figure out how they let that guy go. he has everything the WWE likes

I've got no clue. Maybe they thought he was too wet behind the ears or something? Kind of a "go learn a new hold," and then he went to TNA and got really good and has just been there since. He definitely had big paws, and now he's finally put it all together.

rez

01-05-2018, 11:54 PM

or bring Storm in as a face that eventually gets fucked over by Roode....or make em tag team champs.

Mr. Nerfect

01-05-2018, 11:56 PM

I'd also put the US Title on Derrick Bateman very, very fast. I originally had Roode as US Champion dropping the belt to Bateman with some teases of Roode/Storm coming out of it, but you could do Bateman beating Woods and getting to the Roode stuff another way. But get the strap onto Bateman quickly so he further "stands out," even though Lashley is the "leader."

Also have Bateman cut promos on his own about how every time you boo him you're booing America and when people boo him he yells at them "Stop booing America!"

Mr. Nerfect

01-05-2018, 11:57 PM

or bring Storm in as a face that eventually gets fucked over by Roode....or make em tag team champs.

Yeah, you could do that. They'd make a fine tag team. You can't use the Beer Money name though. And you can always get to that down the line.

Mr. Nerfect

01-05-2018, 11:59 PM

This is also a way to bring in Bobby Lashley and "test the waters" with him. They very often like to make guys prove they want to be back, to sort of "humble" them. Bobby working with The New Day and Bobby Roode isn't too high profile. And it also gives the WWE an excuse to play "Glorious Domination" at WrestleMania, and it's unlikely Roode will have any other program that calls for that.

They'll probably want to put The New Day & Roode over, sadly, because that's how they learn those guys for not being their guys, but as I said, you've got Edwards or Storm there to take the pin and protect Lashley and Bateman, somewhat.

rez

01-06-2018, 12:05 AM

Yeah, you could do that. They'd make a fine tag team. You can't use the Beer Money name though. And you can always get to that down the line.

Cola Money

Mr. Nerfect

01-06-2018, 12:17 AM

Haha! The Carbonated Coalition. The Carbon Copies.

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 12:25 AM

Pepsi Pals

Shisen Kopf

01-06-2018, 12:27 AM

Ginger Beer Money Inc

Mr. Nerfect

01-06-2018, 12:30 AM

Royal Cola Rumblers

rez

01-06-2018, 12:35 AM

Royal Cola Rumblers

RC has mad history in the pop renaissance. first diet :eek:

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 12:47 AM

Yo rez, shut up bro.

Mr. Nerfect

01-06-2018, 12:49 AM

Dietnamic Dudes

rez

01-06-2018, 01:01 AM

nah...this beautiful face can't shut up sometimes, pal

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 01:01 AM

Faygos of Fear

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 01:02 AM

nah...this beautiful face can't shut up sometimes, pal

You know what, you're right. I'm sorry. Carry on.

rez

01-06-2018, 01:02 AM

that...

sounds like an ICP concert

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 01:04 AM

It essentially is.

#1-norm-fan

01-06-2018, 01:05 AM

EC3 still has the most annoying promo delivery I can imagine.

#1-norm-fan

01-06-2018, 01:06 AM

The way he awkwardly over-enunciates his words. It's obnoxious. And not in a good heel way.

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 01:23 AM

He's the best promo in TNA, probably.

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 01:24 AM

Besides Eli Drake.

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 01:24 AM

And Dan Lambert, somehow.

Sixx

01-06-2018, 01:32 AM

Lashley and Storm - hell yeah.

Other two guys - no idea who they are.

Sixx

01-06-2018, 02:00 AM

Unless Eddie Edwards is the funny British Ski Jumper, but I somehow doubt he'd become a wrestler.

Mr. Nerfect

01-06-2018, 02:36 AM

Unless Eddie Edwards is the funny British Ski Jumper, but I somehow doubt he'd become a wrestler.

Nah, he's a bit of a plain indy geek. Was in a tag team with Davey Richards where they were "serious technical rasslers." Got a trial in the WWE, but when they were told to go home early, they kind of ignored it, haha. I think it was Davey who got pancaked and they were worried he was hurt, but he was like "Nah, I'm real, let's do this," and the WWE was like "Yeah, we're not giving you a spot."

They both went to TNA, but Davey left and Edwards got a run with their title, I think. He also just recently NOAH's GHC Champion. Like, he lost the belt last week or something, probably because his time with them is coming to an end.

Derrick Bateman was an NXT guy. Jacked to the gills and had a lot of personality. Kind of goofy/obnoxious, but you kind of liked him. He was paired with Daniel Bryan and I remember them doing some funny shit together. Then they never really did anything with him, he was funny with Fandango in NXT Redemption, and then they released him and he went to TNA.

Mr. Nerfect

01-06-2018, 02:36 AM

Besides Eli Drake.

You take that filth out of this thread, Mr. Thrilla.

Mr. Nerfect

01-06-2018, 02:41 AM

I'm struggling to think of a name for them. I didn't want to simply fall back on old gimmicks like the Four Horsemen, because it will pale. I came up with "Epochalypse," but that's a mouthful. Groups that are just named like "The Renegades" or shit kind of annoys me, because it also feels like a placeholder name.

How about Rushmore? You've got four of them, and they think they are the faces that are now defining SmackDown. I also want Bateman to have that cheesy over-the-top American gimmick -- like an edgelord that wants to be respected for being young and rich and a product of the opportunities others fail to take -- so that would kind of fit.

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 02:48 AM

You take that filth out of this thread, Mr. Thrilla.

You don't think Drake is a good promo?

Mr. Nerfect

01-06-2018, 03:01 AM

I absolutely loathe Eli Drake. I think his catchphrases are the worst. They don't even mean anything. He's trying so hard to do a Rock promo, but he's got none of the natural charisma. It's forced like a club promoter trying to pretend they're interested in you to try and sell you something.

Mr. Nerfect

01-06-2018, 03:02 AM

Maybe he's a really nice guy in real life, but in a non-heel way, he irritates me to the point where I can't watch a show he is on. He is by the far the most annoying try-hard in wrestling. At least he's trying, I guess.

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 03:19 AM

I'm sorry, you're just wrong about this one. Beyond the catchphrases, his cadence is natural, his material is poignant, and he oozes confidence. Tell me who is a better promo in TNA besides MAYBE EC3?

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 03:19 AM

Also, and this is a fair question for you...do you watch Impact?

Emperor Smeat

01-06-2018, 03:21 AM

was EC3 really let go because of his attitude?

i could never figure out how they let that guy go. he has everything the WWE likes

Think he was just a victim of the yearly roster cuts at the time. Know Maxine had some attitude issues leading to her release although related to frustrations at being stuck in NXT and WWE unwilling to consider a call up for her.

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 03:26 AM

Fucking love Catrina. That was the best thing to happen to her. And me, I guess.

Fignuts

01-06-2018, 03:33 AM

Wait are allthese guys not in Impact any more? Who the hell is left over there?

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 03:37 AM

They're all still there. It would be a lot cooler if they weren't, though.

#1-norm-fan

01-06-2018, 03:56 AM

He's the best promo in TNA, probably.

He's an unnatural try-hard who overacts. Comes off like he's a kid playing wrestler who's a bit soft in the head.

#1-norm-fan

01-06-2018, 04:00 AM

Eli Drake is a natural though.

Sorry, Noid.

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 04:01 AM

So anyone answer the other question. Besides EC3, who is a better promo on Impact?

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 04:02 AM

Ah, Konnan. But he doesn't wrestle.

Mr. Nerfect

01-06-2018, 04:45 AM

Wait are allthese guys not in Impact any more? Who the hell is left over there?

James Storm has left, and I feel that Eddie Edwards is about to leave. Bobby Lashley is rumored to be leaving too.

#1-norm-fan

01-06-2018, 04:59 AM

So anyone answer the other question. Besides EC3, who is a better promo on Impact?

El Patron. James Storm. Pretty much anyone who is believable and doesn't seem like a kid sending in an awkward video to a YouShoot promo looking like he's auditioning to be a wrestler.

#1-norm-fan

01-06-2018, 05:00 AM

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 05:05 AM

You realize I was talking about Eli Drake, right?

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 05:07 AM

EC3 does sound weird sometimes, yes. I was touting Drake for the past page and a half though.

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 05:08 AM

I should have said "besides EC3, who on Impact is a better promo than Eli Drake", that line of thinking stemming from Noid being so our on Drake. My bad.

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 05:08 AM

I think EC3 is entertaining on the mic, but I get your point.

#1-norm-fan

01-06-2018, 05:09 AM

Oh. You were talking about EC3 being the best promo other than Drake earlier and I didn't realize you'd switched it up. MY BAD.

But the "besides EC3" isn't necessary. Drake is the best period. Not even sure I'd have anyone at a close second.

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 05:10 AM

I'd put Konnan at second after some thought.

#1-norm-fan

01-06-2018, 05:11 AM

Excited for Noid blowing a fuse when he sees this Eli Drake blowing session though.

#1-norm-fan

01-06-2018, 05:12 AM

You apparently missed it a month ago when he spent like 2 pages of a thread basically making it seem like he literally vomits when he sees Eli Drake or hears him cut a promo. It was insane. Still baffled at his level of hatred for the man.

Anybody Thrilla

01-06-2018, 05:14 AM

I don't get that at all. He's money. Also, there's NO way Noid watches Impact if he barely watches WWE. Just seems bizarre.

Sixx

01-06-2018, 05:15 AM

Hm, Lashley has the look, wouldn't be stupid to bring him back.

James Storm, too, though I'm not really familiar with his work.

Mr. Nerfect

01-06-2018, 06:58 PM

I'm largely going to ignore it. You've taken the hatred literally, as if I actually obsess. I've seen promos and he bothers me. That's it. Destor, can you please close and get rid of this thread now. I will not be associated with any pro-Eli Drake nonsense.

His catchphrase is to go "Dummy! Yeah!" over and over again. What the fuck does that even mean? If you can explain it to me in a way that makes sense and isn't lame, I'll let you pick a tattoo for me. He's always waiting for it to catch on, but no one really gets it, because it doesn't make sense and no one is really a fan of Impact Wrestling or cares about him.

Sixx

01-07-2018, 11:54 AM

Anybody Thrilla

01-07-2018, 02:40 PM

I'm not a huge fan of the catchphrase either, but it's pretty short-sighted to behave as if that's all he ever says.

Simple Fan

01-07-2018, 03:21 PM

No one on Impact touches Eli Drake on the mic. Fact of life.

Anybody Thrilla

01-07-2018, 03:42 PM

I see what you did there.

Rollermacka

01-07-2018, 05:27 PM

Derrick Bateman was an NXT guy. Jacked to the gills and had a lot of personality. Kind of goofy/obnoxious, but you kind of liked him. He was paired with Daniel Bryan and I remember them doing some funny shit together. Then they never really did anything with him, he was funny with Fandango in NXT Redemption, and then they released him and he went to TNA.

I was watching OSW Review and they were talking about the time Bryan and Bateman had to do a "love connection" type game (where the Rookie answered questions and the pro guessed what they said) so they made up completely random pre determined answers regardless of what the question is. It was hilarious

Mr. Nerfect

01-07-2018, 06:51 PM

I'm not a huge fan of the catchphrase either, but it's pretty short-sighted to behave as if that's all he ever says.

If he doesn't want me to overlook him, then he shouldn't have the worst catchphrase since "Hoorah!"

Mr. Nerfect

01-07-2018, 06:51 PM

I honestly hope he does explain it to you and makes you get a "Dummy! Yeah!" tattoo.

It's got to make sense, remember.

Mr. Nerfect

01-07-2018, 06:52 PM

I was watching OSW Review and they were talking about the time Bryan and Bateman had to do a "love connection" type game (where the Rookie answered questions and the pro guessed what they said) so they made up completely random pre determined answers regardless of what the question is. It was hilarious

That's the one I keep going back to in my head. :lol:

I also remember them doing some weird stretching segment. Like Bryan was making him "watch tapes" of something. I can't remember the details, but I remember that being so odd it somehow worked.

Rollermacka

01-08-2018, 02:09 PM

01-08-2018, 05:14 PM

Would you call him “Derrick Bateman” or “Ethan Carter”?

Anybody Thrilla

01-08-2018, 05:22 PM

I think Ethan Carter would be better, but I see Bateman being more likely.

Simple Fan

01-08-2018, 05:25 PM

After the Hardy ordeal they seem to be fine with talent keeping their names. EC3 would be way better than DB2.

#1-norm-fan

01-08-2018, 10:07 PM

There were some vignettes cut while he was in WWE still for a "USA Guy" gimmick. I say bring him in with that. Over the top patriot gimmick. Would work well with annoyingly over the top promo delivery.

#1-norm-fan

01-08-2018, 10:09 PM

Mr. Nerfect

01-09-2018, 06:36 AM

Would you call him “Derrick Bateman” or “Ethan Carter”?

I would actually bring him in as Derrick Bateman. I've thought about this, because the Bateman name means next to nothing. But no one really wants to be reminded of the Carters on WWE television either. Bateman can actually tie his history in with Daniel Bryan, and the idea that he was cut from development is kind of a good thread for him to come back with.

I would, however, take notes from TNA on how to do his entrance theme.

There were some vignettes cut while he was in WWE still for a "USA Guy" gimmick. I say bring him in with that. Over the top patriot gimmick. Would work well with annoyingly over the top promo delivery.

I'd actually do a toned-down version of this. I wouldn't want it to be too over the top, but I would like to give him, without saying as much, kind of an alt-left kind of gimmick. As I mentioned earlier, give him the US Champion and have him talk about how he's the greatest representative of the United States, and that whenever you boo him, you boo American Greatness. I'd probably make his moniker "The American Classic" or something.

01-09-2018, 09:50 AM

How set are we on having these guys as a group?

I’m not sure I like the aesthetic of these 4 together, but I do like some of the ideas that have been suggested for the individuals.

Mr. Nerfect

01-09-2018, 10:41 AM

How set are we on having these guys as a group?

I’m not sure I like the aesthetic of these 4 together, but I do like some of the ideas that have been suggested for the individuals.

I LOVE the aesthetic myself. It's one of my favorite things about it. I'm sick of a bunch of dudes who all look the same or come from one place blending together as a team. Bobby Lashley as the ripped hoss, Derrick Bateman as the clean-cut American-flag draped prototype, James Storm as the gruff older veteran in the cowboy regalia and Eddie Edwards as the, frankly, generic indy looking guy in long tights.

#1-norm-fan

01-09-2018, 03:58 PM

They do cover all the bases as a group.

Danny Electric

01-09-2018, 04:02 PM

#1-norm-fan

01-09-2018, 04:03 PM

I feel like TNA was going for a Lesnar-type with Lashley but they butchered it horribly. Wouldn't mind seeing him get a good run as an unstoppable legit fighter on Smackdown. Mainly because I just miss when true credibility was something you could find in more than just one part time guy.

Also, I somtimes forget Lashley was once handpicked by the fucking president to represent him. They could definitely use that in whatever they do.

#1-norm-fan

01-09-2018, 04:06 PM

They will all come in and have a first match against Dolph Ziggler, then get stuck in boring feuds cos creative will have nothing for them.
The WWE roster is too crowded at the moment , no one should be bought in till they get rid of people.

No need to get rid of people. Just give Smackdown a B show instead of having 2 for the 3 hour show and let some of the other guys just be jobbers. They TRY to make everyone relevant at some point and in doing so, bring down everyone else. Some guys should just exist to make the rest of the guys look good. It seems like there's a handful of true main eventers and then EVERYONE ELSE is a midcarder. There should be more levels.

Danny Electric

01-09-2018, 04:09 PM

No need to get rid of people. Just give Smackdown a B show instead of having 2 for the 3 hour show and let some of the other guys just be jobbers. They TRY to make everyone relevant at some point and in doing so, bring down everyone else. Some guys should just exist to make the rest of the guys look good. It seems like there's a handful of main eventers and then EVERYONE ELSE is a midcarder. There should be more levels.

I understand the need for a jobber , the original reason I'm guessing Mahal was bought back and the re hiring of Hawkins.
If Smackdown was to get a B show you know it wouldn't just be made up of clips of what happened on the main show and maybe a Match involving The Ascension.

Danny Electric

01-09-2018, 04:11 PM

#1-norm-fan

01-09-2018, 04:17 PM

I understand the need for a jobber , the original reason I'm guessing Mahal was bought back and the re hiring of Hawkins.
If Smackdown was to get a B show you know it wouldn't just be made up of clips of what happened on the main show and maybe a Match involving The Ascension.

It would. Speaking ideally though. The fact that the 3 hour show has 2 extra shows and the 2 hour show has none makes no sense.

There's enough talent to get a women's match, a tag match and a singles match with some midcarders on a B show every week along with some of those backstage interviews they usually save for WWE.com. Would be useful in theory.

Danny Electric

01-09-2018, 04:55 PM

Sorry meant to say that it would be full of clips.

In theory that would work a treat , but there's a sense of overkill at the moment with the programming. The apathy that is shown to 205 live by a crowd who is ready to leave and for the most part has no interest in seeing these guys wrestle.

#1-norm-fan

01-09-2018, 05:47 PM

Having 205 Live AFTER the main show also makes no sense.

Danny Electric

01-09-2018, 08:12 PM

Completely agree , they should still have the main matches on Raw but film 205 live either before Smackdown or at Full Sail.

Mr. Nerfect

01-09-2018, 09:03 PM

There are definitely big problems with the WWE that would get in the way of anything. At the top they need guys who can be credible stars. The B-show idea makes sense, I guess, but is that going to help anyone, really? Who really got a rub from Velocity (even though I used to love it)? I do think that cycling talent in and out more frequently is better for the talent and better for the health of the industry, in general. I wouldn't want to see them go, but imagine what Fandango & Tyler Breeze could do as a cocky heel team on the independents. No, they wouldn't draw 10,000 people, but they could have some great matches and create buzz which would allow them to come back when they have their routine down as a team.

#1-norm-fan

01-09-2018, 09:13 PM

Ideally with a B show, you're showcasing guys you normally wouldn't want to spend time on the main show on and giving them a chance to show what they can do outside of getting squashed. Done right, it's a useful tool. (See: Creepy Johnny Curtis)

Mr. Nerfect

01-09-2018, 09:39 PM

Yeah, but you'd need to actually write stuff then. I can't see them writing more stuff. It will just be extended matches.

Simple Fan

01-10-2018, 10:31 AM

Don't see Eddie coming to WWE ever. NXT is his ceiling if he does. EC3 has to be EC3, none of this Derrick Bateman bullshit. Lashley return would work but maybe not for him also wanting to do MMA. I like James Storm but see no use for him in WWE at all.

Simple Fan

01-10-2018, 11:06 AM

Plus Derrick Bateman died in a fire work factory explosion.

Mr. Nerfect

01-10-2018, 06:24 PM

EC3 has to be EC3

Why? No one knows who that is.

Danny Electric

01-10-2018, 06:26 PM

To be fair no one would really know who the hell Derrick Bateman was. He would be more famous off his run as EC3.

Danny Electric

01-10-2018, 06:28 PM

Although it may mean that would have to link him to Dixie Carter which I don't think they would do.

Call him BJ6

Mr. Nerfect

01-10-2018, 06:39 PM

Lol, more people would have seen NXT than TNA. I do think the internet would have read that is his name and stuff, but no one watches TNA, haha. No one.

Mr. Nerfect

01-10-2018, 06:40 PM

Call him VK3 and give him a frat boy gimmick with Hornswoggle in college.

Danny Electric

01-10-2018, 07:41 PM

Lol, more people would have seen NXT than TNA. I do think the internet would have read that is his name and stuff, but no one watches TNA, haha. No one.

Im not saying that TNA has a massive load of viewers , but most fans are gonna have no recollection of a guy who jobbed a lot on old NXT shows.

#1-norm-fan

01-10-2018, 07:42 PM

Yeah, I'd lean toward more people knowing him as EC3 than Derrick Bateman simply because it's current and Bateman is long forgotten.

01-11-2018, 05:29 AM

And did more people really watch competition era NXT than have seen Impact?

Simple Fan

01-12-2018, 10:32 AM

Why? No one knows who that is.

Believe it or not Impact is televised around the world and since joining Impact he's made a name for himself. Plus he does other promotions going by that name. EC3 is also way more marketable than Derrick Bateman. EC3 has beat Kurt Angle and Sting, Derrick Bateman hasn't beat anyone.

Just don't see how you think people would know him more as Derrick Bateman. I never seen the guy until he showed up on Impact and they built him up better than they have anyone in their history. If he comes to WWE, which I hope he doesn't then he has to be EC3.

Mr. Nerfect

01-13-2018, 03:26 PM

And did more people really watch competition era NXT than have seen Impact?

Would that really surprise you? 300,000 people watch Impact. Over three times as many people watched NXT when it was on Syfy.

Mr. Nerfect

01-13-2018, 03:28 PM

I'm sure the current crop of fans have read that he was EC3 in TNA. But this assertion that his stock has appreciated so much because of the name change and because TNA has given him a bigger platform is ridiculous. He's more polished. He can go to WWE as Lester Wonderyears and he'll instantly be more recognizable as that than anything TNA can produce. I'd call him Derrick Bateman, not that the name means anything, but for continuity.

Simple Fan

01-13-2018, 04:27 PM

Continuity of what? The guy did nothing in WWE or even NXT. I don't know where you are getting TNA giving him a bigger platform though. Yeah if he comes to WWE he'll be more recognized, same as any other talent that has come to WWE. EC3 is more marketable and its the same reason the kept the names of most other TNA talent. If they can get that name they'll use it.

Mr. Nerfect

01-13-2018, 04:51 PM

He was Daniel Bryan's rookie. I think that's got far more value than being Dixie Carter's nephew, or whatever his gimmick is there. They don't even acknowledge TNA. What does it bring over with him? It'd be like bringing over a kayfabe relative of Eric Bischoff to the WWE using that kayfabe gimmick. Also WWE actively go out of their way to not use TNA names.

01-13-2018, 05:37 PM

Would that really surprise you? 300,000 people watch Impact. Over three times as many people watched NXT when it was on Syfy.

That does surprise me. Mostly because I forgot NXT was ever televised.

Simple Fan

01-13-2018, 05:52 PM

Also WWE actively go out of their way to not use TNA names.

They go out of their way not to mention TNA, not their names. WWE has 4 guys using their TNA/Independent name. Also used Austin Aries and James Storm. Lately if a talent is from the US or Canada and has any name value they'll let them keep it if possible. EC3 being there before is different but that character never got established and likely repackaged once NXT was rebooted if he stayed.

01-13-2018, 06:05 PM

Mr. Nerfect

01-13-2018, 06:05 PM

That does surprise me. Mostly because I forgot NXT was ever televised.

It inherited the ECW slot.

01-13-2018, 06:05 PM

Shall we settle on Nathan Bateman?

Mr. Nerfect

01-13-2018, 06:14 PM

Tut tut Noid.

Looking at a bit of detail; the season of NXT that he appeared on wasn’t even on SyFy. I can’t find any specifics for viewing figures once it went to a web-only show. Meanwhile you quote TNA’s current (awful) viewership when he’s been with the company since 2013 when viewership wasn’t so bad. The last episode on Spike did nearly 1mil in viewers - similar to the NXT on SyFy figures you quoted.

Ultimately I’m not all that bothered. I just think “Derrick” is a terrible name. Derrick is not a superstar, he’s a dork that works in IT.

It’s all moot anyway; give it 6 months he’d just be “Bateman”.

My point is that more people are familiar with NXT and the WWE things than the TNA things. Derrick Bateman has also appeared on SmackDown and Saturday Morning Slam. I know we live in a smarky-smark bubble, but most people don't even know TNA exists. This idea that his run there has been prestigious in any sense other than his performative development is ridiculous.

Most people probably have forgotten that Derrick Bateman ever existed. But those same people aren't exactly champing at the bit to get "Ethan Carter's" autograph either. I'm not trying to state that Derrick Bateman was a big star. Just don't blow smoke up my ass and tell me that EC3 is.

Mr. Nerfect

01-13-2018, 06:15 PM

Shall we settle on Nathan Bateman?

I don't like Derrick either, but again, I'd rather keep the continuity. D.C. Bateman. Run with the American thing.

Mr. Nerfect

01-13-2018, 06:16 PM

They go out of their way not to mention TNA, not their names. WWE has 4 guys using their TNA/Independent name. Also used Austin Aries and James Storm. Lately if a talent is from the US or Canada and has any name value they'll let them keep it if possible. EC3 being there before is different but that character never got established and likely repackaged once NXT was rebooted if he stayed.

01-13-2018, 07:06 PM

I don't like Derrick either, but again, I'd rather keep the continuity. D.C. Bateman. Run with the American thing.

Derrick Carter Bateman?

#1-norm-fan

01-13-2018, 07:10 PM

-edit- I see the Bateman not being on the SyFy version thing was already addressed.

I agree that calling him EC3 would be silly too just because A) Who gives a fuck about his TNA name and B) It's a reference to Dixie Carter, which is weird. But If they DID go with EC3, more people would probably recognize him as that than as Derrick Bateman. You gotta look at who watched the NXT web series too. It wasn't a ton of casual viewers. It was the same type of people who are likely to watch TNA. NO ONE who isn't aware of him in TNA is gonna remember Derrick Bateman from WWE TV. Might as well just give him a different name completely.

... "USA Guy".

Mr. Nerfect

01-13-2018, 07:15 PM

Derrick Carter Bateman?

Sure.

#1-norm-fan

01-13-2018, 07:19 PM

I don't like Derrick either, but again, I'd rather keep the continuity. D.C. Bateman. Run with the American thing.

"USA Guy" D.C. Bateman.

I like it.

Mr. Nerfect

01-13-2018, 07:21 PM

Bateman wasn't on it when it was on SyFy though.

I agree that calling him EC3 would be silly too just because A) Who gives a fuck about his TNA name and B) It's a reference to Dixie Carter, which is weird. But If they DID go with EC3, more people would probably recognize him as that than as Derrick Bateman.

No, but the show was exposed to so many people, and it left the network with 1 million viewers. I'm sure not everyone jumped over, but I think everyone is underestimating the reach of the WWE and overestimating TNA's. I think people are conflating his push in TNA with being at the bottom of the hierarchy in WWE. But more people are aware of who Heath Slater is than have ever seen Kenny Omega.

The only reason he was signed by TNA was because he was a WWE reject anyway. It was "Hey, look at what they're getting Derrick Bateman to do in TNA." I agree with your reasoning in both A and B.

#1-norm-fan

01-13-2018, 07:26 PM

No, but the show was exposed to so many people, and it left the network with 1 million viewers. I'm sure not everyone jumped over, but I think everyone is underestimating the reach of the WWE and overestimating TNA's. I think people are conflating his push in TNA with being at the bottom of the hierarchy in WWE. But more people are aware of who Heath Slater is than have ever seen Kenny Omega.

That comparison doesn't work simply because Slater and Omega are both current. I think everyone's realistic with both WWE and TNA's reach. If Derrick Bateman and EC3 both somehow exist right now, Bateman wins. I think they're both relatively insignificant though. Where EC3 takes over is the fact that he's someone many are currently aware of and Bateman is long forgotten.

Mr. Nerfect

01-13-2018, 07:31 PM

Sound reasoning. I think you hit it on the head when you point out they are both insignificant. That's why I'd rather go with the WWE name just for the continuity sake. I wouldn't be heartbroken if he got a new one though. I just definitely wouldn't go with EC3.

#1-norm-fan

01-13-2018, 07:34 PM

"Rock, Flag and Eagle USA #1 America Fuck Yeah" D.C. Bateman

Mr. Nerfect

01-13-2018, 07:47 PM

I'm fine with that. :y:

A.J.K

01-14-2018, 01:51 AM

Anyone else think Bateman and Chris Masters will show up at the Rumble?

Danny Electric

01-14-2018, 11:39 AM

Anyone else think Bateman and Chris Masters will show up at the Rumble?

Bateman definitely not , I'd feel sorry for the poor guy if he turned up as a surprise entrant in Philly. I'm guessing if he is to come over then it would be at the Takeover event.

#1-norm-fan

01-14-2018, 12:00 PM

Just wish Matt Striker were still around so that if he did show up at the rumble he could be like "OH MY GOD! Derrick Bateman is in the Royal Rumble! I'm marking out, bro!!!"

01-14-2018, 02:27 PM

“HOLY SHI”

Mr. Nerfect

01-14-2018, 05:35 PM

I don't think either is really "big" enough for the Rumble. I'm predicting Jeff Jarrett, Big Show and Rey Mysterio as surprise entrants.

#1-norm-fan

01-14-2018, 05:41 PM

Jeff Jarrett?? I can't see that at all. He's not exactly a WWE favorite and he's not a big enough star for them to bring him in despite it.

SlickyTrickyDamon

01-14-2018, 06:37 PM

Jarrett? He's been a total disaster.

A.J.K

01-14-2018, 07:56 PM

Jarrett could just for the fact that WWE has helped him with rehab recently.

A.J.K

01-14-2018, 08:04 PM

Would honestly mark out if Hulk Hogan shows up as an entrant.

Evil Vito

01-14-2018, 08:57 PM

If Lashley is done with TNA, I'm certain he'll be a mystery entrant.

#1-norm-fan

01-14-2018, 09:46 PM

Rumble doesn't mean much anymore with two world titles. Let Hogan win it. Why the fuck not.

A.J.K

01-15-2018, 01:04 AM

Rumble doesn't mean much anymore with two world titles. Let Hogan win it. Why the fuck not.

I know you're joking but it would be great. Hogan would get his 3 rumble win.

#1-norm-fan

01-15-2018, 03:49 AM

I'm BARELY joking.

Mr. Nerfect

01-15-2018, 06:16 PM

Jeff Jarrett?? I can't see that at all. He's not exactly a WWE favorite and he's not a big enough star for them to bring him in despite it.

He just went through their rehab program. Not sure how long they'd want to wait before they used him, but I imagine he'll talk to people at the company. He's got that "outsider" factor that Bischoff had when he came in. No one thinks they'll see it, despite there realistically being nothing stopping it from happening now that he's not running his own indy.

Mr. Nerfect

01-15-2018, 06:17 PM

If Lashley is done with TNA, I'm certain he'll be a mystery entrant.

It's a bit of a throw away appearance for a guy that they should have a giant stiffy for, isn't it?

Evil Vito

01-16-2018, 04:33 PM

It's a bit of a throw away appearance for a guy that they should have a giant stiffy for, isn't it?

I think they're more about trying to make for a memorable Rumble moment.

I could see Lashley showing up, eliminating some dudes straight away, and then showing up on either Raw or SmackDown that week depending on which GM "signed" him.

Emperor Smeat

01-16-2018, 05:50 PM

If Lashley is done with TNA, I'm certain he'll be a mystery entrant.

According to the Observer, earliest WWE can sign him is February 1st. EC3, who they also want a lot, can be in the Rumble since his release didn't include a no compete clause.

Tonya Harding

01-16-2018, 05:52 PM

TNA lol

Mr. Nerfect

01-17-2018, 01:14 AM

According to the Observer, earliest WWE can sign him is February 1st. EC3, who they also want a lot, can be in the Rumble since his release didn't include a no compete clause.

Yeah, but why. Derrick Bateman isn't exactly AJ Styles. Royal Rumble guys are people you're supposed to recognize.

Evil Vito

01-17-2018, 04:50 PM

Droford

01-17-2018, 04:53 PM

I'm convinced Bateman will be there.

Mr. Nerfect

01-17-2018, 06:01 PM

The big 4 PPVs are predominantly smarky audiences that travel significant distances to go to those shows. I think Bateman would get a pretty big pop at the Rumble.

Can't say the same for when he shows up on Raw or SD in Waco, TX or whatever though.

He'll get a "pretty big pop," but to what end? You're better debuting him with some sort of purpose. Him showing up just to get tossed like everybody else instantly suggests he's just another body on the roster.

Evil Vito

01-18-2018, 11:25 AM

Bateman's canceled his scheduled indy appearance in Houston. It was the same day as the Rumble.

Heisenberg

01-18-2018, 11:42 AM

Lashley could be Apollo Crew's kayfabe cousin and flourish in Titus Worldwide

Nicky Fives

01-18-2018, 12:04 PM

If Lashley comes in, he DESPERATELY needs a mouthpiece.... As soon as he opens his mouth, he loses at least 75% of his draw. Stick him with Byron Saxton. "I'm tired of all the shit I've been getting, I've found someone who will force all of you to take me more seriously."

Danny Electric

01-18-2018, 05:32 PM

So EC3/Bateman whatever you want to call him has been spotted at the Performance Centre, more than likely he would go to NXT first .
But if they did want to use him on the main roster, then maybe he could play somehow into the Angle/Jordan storyline, using his past with Dixie Carter.
Just shooting some ideas , I'd team him up with Kanellis in NXT depending on if he's out of rehab yet.

Evil Vito

01-18-2018, 05:35 PM

I could see Bateman being in the Rumble as a surprise and then going down to NXT afterwards for a stint.

Given that they've held off on debuting Rockstar Spud, I wonder if they might stick him with Bateman and they'll rehash their TNA schtick.