Opinion

The Wrestling Debate Club: Should NXT UK Have Returned?

Chairshot’s Rey Ca$h and WrestlingHeadlines.com’s Clive have a pointed debate on whether NXT UK should’ve returned or not.

Published

4 years ago

October 15, 2020

Rey Cash

Clive: Greetings! I’d like to introduce myself. My name is Clive, and I am and a podcaster and columnist for WrestlingHeadlines.com. I’d like to welcome you all to this, the first in a bi-monthly Brand Extension offshoot, where Chairshot Media’s Rey Ca$h and I take you to Wrestling Debate Club. In written form! Rey, thank you for joining me on this new and potential laden venture!

Rey: My pleasure sir! I’m still astonished that you were so willing and happy to lose a debate against me so publicly, but I’m still happy to be here with you.

Clive: There was me hoping for a cordial and respectful back and forth on this debut installment. Instead, you went for the jugular. If that’s how you want to play it, then let’s jump right in. Unless you have any preemptive sore-loser caveats you want to throw in beforehand?

Rey: Remember Braveheart? The Scot died. On your cue, Clivert!

Statement Up For Debate: These past few weeks have seen the return of NXT UK to the WWE Network and TV outlets around the world. Considering there are still unaddressed roster members implicated in June’s #SpeakingOut Movement, should NXT UK even return at all? Rey, as a proponent for the show’s return, the floor is yours.

Proponent’s Argument: Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, trolls and trollettes of the IWC, I’d like to speak to you about a word that has become a bit of a buzzword in recent times – diversity. Now, more than ever, society has realized the importance of diversity. And I’m not just speaking about racial diversity, gender diversity, or the diversity of sexuality, religion, or class. I’m talking about diversity of choice. In this wonderful business that we call professional wrestling, this particular form of diversity has been quite the major issue over the years. The WWE essentially ran a monopoly on the business for almost 2 decades; so much so that they had to create their own diversity. They tried to achieve this first with the initial brand split, then with the rise of NXT, and most recently, with what Triple H calls “global localization”. It’s because of this that one of the most underserved markets in all of professional wrestling, the United Kingdom, received a WWE offshoot brand in NXT UK.

Now, I know that there has been massive controversy associated with this brand. The timing of its inception with the simultaneous rebirth of World of Sport is fresh in people’s minds, what with the so-called “homogenization” of the British Independent wrestling scene, and most recently, the #SpeakingOut scandal. It’s important to state, as we’ve talked about ad nauseum personally and in our various mediums, that there was a cancer in the wrestling business and it needed to be cut out. For the most part, wrestling – and WWE in particular – has done that. So while there is still some uncertainty with a portion of the NXT UK roster, and there MUST be an amicable resolution on those performers who deserve swift and severe punishment, the point of the brand should not be lost. The diversity of the brand should not be destroyed. The sins of the few should not affect the many. The importance of this brand for the region it serves, and the possibility of what this brand represents is a fire that must be stoked. Not one that should be extinguished. NXT UK gives European and Commonwealth wrestlers a steady wage in their own backyard. They have guarantees that working for the various Indy promotions could not promise. And the prospect of what making it in the WWE can do for a performer is too great to pass up, especially if you don’t have to move stateside. So I’d like to finish my opening argument by reminding you all of the importance of what NXT UK can and should be. A diverse, bustling showcase for the best professional wrestlers that Europe has to offer. A few disgustingly unfortunate controversies should not end this medium.

Opponent’s Argument: Readers, WWE, as we all know, is a publicly traded company. In so being, it strives to be the standard bearer in all things professional wrestling. It even aims for similar standards in the world of entertainment as a whole. With that comes a responsibility. A base level of visibility. A transparency to show to the world that it is not this all conquering evil conglomerate some pockets of wrestling fandom believe it to be.

In the Speaking Out Scandal’s wake, WWE has failed to set the standard. While independent wrestlers around the world have taken quick, decisive, and foundation rumbling measures to not only ensure a safe working environment, but also to present an untainted product to the public, WWE has in some cases portrayed itself as a brush with which to brush under a rug its dirty little secrets. Especially when it pertains to NXT UK.

Yes, some of those with allegations have indeed been shown the door, or at least suspended, pending further investigation. However, other allegations have remained, on the face of it at least, ignored. Why are public statements made for some and not for others? Why, with such an incredibly sensitive issue nowhere near resolved, are some accused not also treated with the visibility given to their peers? The UK and European wrestling scenes are small. In turn, they are close knit. Guilt by association is not a word I wish to use lightly. Yet, innocent wrestlers have toured the world for years with colleagues who are now considered predators, and a cancer to the business.

With police taskforces regarding #SpeakingOut still ongoing as you read this, it is irresponsible for WWE to operate with a business as usual mindset. Not enough has been done to assuage the collective anxiety felt by the Internet Wrestling Community. Until that has happened, NXT UK, now the hub of the BritWres scene, should not be back on our screens.

Proponent’s Retort/Rebuttal/Cross: My counterpart stated that WWE is the standard bearer in professional wrestling, and as such, should set the standard in situations such as this. He’s absolutely correct. Unequivocally so. He also states that WWE seemingly has brushed it’s dirty little secrets under a proverbial rug. Again, absolutely correct. I’d be an idiot if I didn’t acknowledge and lament WWE’s extremely checkered history of shoddy business practices, unfair treatment of performers, and overall crassness. These are all facts. But the question being asked is should NXT UK be ended because of all of the above.

Let’s talk about a few of these dirty little secrets that have been brushed under the rug by WWE. Chris Benoit committed a double murder homicide while under the employ of WWE. There is a very public and saddening list of professional wrestlers that spend the majority of their time under WWE’s employ that died at extremely young ages, with their demise ultimately being tied to the rigors and demands of the WWE model – most notably, Eddie Guerrero. There is a history of racist undertones in gimmicks, who’s pushed to success and why, and in treatment by wrestlers and management. The absolute same can be said for the treatment of the women of WWE historically, probably even more so. And then there’s Vince McMahon, as shrewd a businessman that’s ever lived, but a man who is as devilish as any we’ve seen in this generation. These are all verifiable facts. Do they mean that WWE should cease operations?

The answer should be, and is no. For all of the atrocities that WWE has been responsible for, they have given us just as much, if not more. The amount of lives that the WWE has ruined is likely quadrupled by the lives that they’ve positively impacted – professionally, financially, and for some, even personally. WWE’s success is directly involved in the success of every other wrestling company in the business, and that’s even before they became a conglomerate. In more recent years, WWE has taken a heavy philanthropic charge, placing heavy emphasis on their fight against multiple forms of cancers, the Special Olympics, and women’s empowerment to name a few. There are multiple redeeming qualities that WWE has, and we haven’t even talked about the product. For all of the conjecture about the enjoyment of it, there’s no debate that the biggest and most memorable and important moments in the wrestling world happen in the WWE.

So, am I arguing that the ends justify the means? No, that’s not my decision to make. For every issue that I’m somehow able to accept, millions more can’t. I accept that and I honor that. What I am arguing, however, is that this isn’t a black and white situation. It never is in entertainment. The issue is simply, “What does NXT UK have to offer, and is it still worth it?” With this being the ACTUAL question at hand, I feel that the answer is an unequivocal yes. I ask you, if you shut down NXT UK, what do you do with their near 40 person roster? Are the masses worth sacrificing for the transgressions of a few? I also ask, especially to my counterpart, if you are a wrestling fan in the UK and Europe, what are you supposed to watch? NXT UK has given the European wrestling scene it’s only weekly episodic show. Yes, the bigger Indy companies will still do shows and televise them, but will it have the ease of watching and production quality that the WWE has?

Finally, if we do shut down NXT UK, what does this mean for future brands, shows, and companies? This sets a precedent that if any show has issues with some of its performers, that show should cease. That’s a dangerous precedent to set. One that gives entirely too much power to a society that more often than not abuses it. Instead of destroying what is essentially 50+ people’s livelihoods, let’s get rid of the ACTUAL abusers. Let’s clean up the show, clean up the brand, and clean up the business. Don’t throw it in the trash because a handful of guys are trash.

Opponent’s Retort/Rebuttal/Cross: The question posed today isn’t whether or not NXT UK should be done for good. Rey posits several salient points as to the deeds of the few being outweighed by the needs of the many. Rather, the question asks if it is too soon to bring the product back to the masses.

I was a huge proponent of its arrival on the Network. Proud of its venture onto normal television. Even with the backlash of its apparent harming of the BritWres scene as a whole. But Rey mentions charitable causes and women empowerment programs as WWE’s positives. Indeed they should be. However, when, on the face of it, a complete lack of action has been taken for some still accused, their victims who spoke out are far from empowered. With WWE’s success, as Rey suggests, this problem is a microcosm of the entertainment industry. For WWE to rise above its peers in that arena, more has to be done.

If WWE isn’t as transparent as it can be with these investigations, as the standard bearer that it is, why should companies aspiring to be affiliates buck that trend? If WWE doesn’t call a halt to proceedings until ALL accused have either been routed or cleared, why, then, should anybody else? With the accused (from NXT, Raw, and Smackdown also) wrestling away as if nothing has happened, how long will it be before independent companies wait for the fires to die out again before bringing their own accused back in? It might not take as long next time for a similar scandal to hit the scene.

Proponent’s Closing Statement: Ladies and gentlemen of the IWC, I’d like to make it known officially that I agree with my opponent on pretty much every point he has. I absolutely think that WWE should be held accountable for the inconsistency of how they’ve handled the #SpeakingOut movement accused. I think that there should have been a clear, concise, and most importantly PUBLIC plan as to what happens with those mentioned. I also think that WWE is and should continue to be the leader in the wrestling business, which means that they need to set the standard. And Clive and I both believe that they’ve missed the mark in this regard.

Where we disagree, however, is on one fundamental issue. What do you do until that happens? I’m not going to pretend to be a lawyer or a contract expert, but it’s more than fair to assume that all of the performers signed to WWE have morality clauses in their contracts. The people who have been released thus far have all openly admitted to what they did. The ones still under contract, however, have not. Some of which are actively fighting the allegations legally. This puts WWE in a precarious situation. I’d LOVE to see that WWE released Matt Riddle or Velveteen Dream today, but can you imagine the potential legal firestorm that may bring? They’d have legal recourse to say that WWE stood by them this far, and if rumors are believed to be true, both men informed WWE of their situations before they became public. So this is absolutely a lose-lose situation in the eyes of the WWE.

Now, I’m not sticking up for Riddle, Dream, or any of the accused. I’m not even sticking up for the WWE in this regard, who have the capital and gravitas to deal with any legal firestorm that may come their way. I’m simply trying to point out the delicacy of how this situation has to be handled. And not simply for the performers mentioned, but for the accusers as well. This situation is one that must be handled with care, diligence, and time. That last point – time – is the issue on which my opponent and I disagree. So to end my statement, I’ll ask you this. In a post-quarantine world, do you really think that the NXT UK brand could handle a full on shut down until all legal issues have run their course? Do you think that the WWE can afford to completely shut down a brand, one so important and synonymous with their second biggest market, to wait for the official situations of a few potentially guilty parties?

I believe that the answer is no. I believe that all of the accused should deal with their transgressions, and if true, should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law and fired. I believe that there is ABSOLUTELY no place for sexual assault, sexual deviance, abuse, domestic violence, targeting and grooming, or any of the other things mentioned in the allegations in society, especially in wrestling. But most importantly, I believe that the innocent should not be punished for the guilty. I believe that NXT UK should continue.

Thank you.

Opponent’s Closing Statement: With this being such an incendiary topic, it’s heartwarming to know that Rey and I are on the same page on the majority of the issues arising from this. So much so, it would be pointless for me to reiterate the points my opponent has so eloquently put across.

The issue with time, however, is that its very abundance can lead to complacency. Not just by WWE, who might not be as rigorously investigating matters as it was in June and July. But also by those accused whose status remains unresolved. Whose social media has slowly but surely become more active. Whose friends – even family members, with whom I struggle to believe would have been blind to such behaviour all this time – wait for them to be ingratiated back into the fold; their own potential guilt by proxy equally diminished.

Rey is spot on with the negative ramifications a prolonged postponement would have for third parties and wrestlers themselves. Knowing said wrestlers like I do, however, what with them having lived in each others’ pockets for lifetimes, this disease has to be thoroughly eradicated. Before it can come back, even more damaging to the wrestling community than it was the first time.

Clive: Well, Rey, thank you for joining me on this unique venture. I like to think this back and forth will have conjured up several talking points and issues for those reading to ponder.

Rey: Man, I thought we were supposed to fight? Like joust style. Like on American Gladiators. This was waaaaayyyy too friendly, but you are my brother, so I guess I’ll let this slide. Let’s do it again sometime!

Clive: Oh, indeed we will, sir. Indeed we will. If, however, we are going to do that, a tally has to be kept to see who is more in keeping with IWC sentiments. This where you, the reader, get to have your say. Hit us up in the comments below, or if you find this on social media. Tell us who you think won this debate, why, and if you have an alternative option.

You can find Clive on Twitter @RickyandClive

You can find Rey on Twitter @ItsReyCash

FIN

About Chairshot Radio Network

Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!

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Opinion

Greg DeMarco’s 2025 WWE Royal Rumble Results, Review & Reaction

We are firmly on the Road to WrestleMania, starting with the Royal Rumble! Greg has his initial thoughts and reactions for everyone’s favorite event!

Published

3 weeks ago

February 2, 2025

Greg DeMarco

We are firmly on the Road to WrestleMania, starting with the Royal Rumble! Greg has his initial thoughts and reactions for everyone’s favorite event!

It’s the first Royal Rumble in an NFL stadium (thanks to the WWE calendar change), and both Rumble matches feature a star-studded line-up that makes it much harder than you’d think to pick a winner. I was lucky enough to attend one Royal Rumble live, 2019, and it’s always the best way to set the stage for WrestleMania.

If @whoislaniee‘s rendition of the Star Spangled Banner is any indication, we are in for one hell of a night with one hell of a crowd!

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 1, 2025

Always great to see Stephanie McMahon kicking off a show–the more Stephanie, the better. Apparently we’ve managed to pack 70,000 fans into Lucas Oil Stadium, and if you didn’t know, Pat McAfee loves him some Indianapolis.

With each match you’ll see my picks, in my traditional “Who Should Win?/Will Will Win?” format. I made them in this week’s solo edition of The Greg DeMarco Show, which you can listen to here:

Women’s WWE Royal Rumble Match

Greg’s predictions from earlier in the week:

Who Should Win: Bianca Belair
Who Will Win: Bianca Belair

Last year’s winner was Bayley, entering at #3, and she went on to defeat Iyo Sky for the WWE Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 40.

Iyo Sky enters #1, and I do love the elevated platform–it’s not really a stage, but it does enhance the overall feel of the show. Old school fans will remember the entrance from Montreal watching Prime Time Wrestling.
I feel like Liv Morgan always enters these matches early. I also didn’t realize she’s been in all 8 Women’s Royal Rumble matches.
I do love the “ticker” across the bottom of the screen with stats and info during the entrances. Very ESPN, very “Wrestling As A Sport” to me.
Gotta say I was hoping for the black canvas (I’m biased), but I’ll always take grey over light blue.

Roxanne Perez has “Iron Woman” written all over her entering at #3. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 1, 2025

We even get “Active” and “Eliminated” in the ticket? I am REALLY digging this.
Lyra Valkyria enters to very little reaction–she’s a fantastic talent but has not connected on the main roster.
Lyra with the early wardrobe malfunction and we are already slightly derailed, kudos to everyone for getting it together.
Interesting to have the secondary champions enter back-to-back, and Indianapolis doesn’t seem to care much about her, either. Maybe I was wrong about this crowd, and maybe my criticism of Lyra was premature.
Chelsea thinking she’s dumped everyone and pointing to the sign is a great piece of business.
B-Fab enters at #6, and I would assume she has the lowest chance of winning of anyone in the field.
Man, B-Fab is still very NOT good.
Ivy Nile enters #7, the 5th straight entrant who has zero chance of winning this thing.
Also, we are still without an elimination, but probably 10 “hanging on the rope” spots already.
Ivy Nile is already more over in Indy than the Intercontinental and United States Champions.
Zoey Stark, complete with Barry Windham’s “Stalker” facepaint, enters eighth to continue our run of women with zero chance of winning.
Lash Legend enters at #9, and I have a feeling she’s about to win this crowd over.
LASH POINTED TO THE SIGN.
“Get her on the Fever” – Pat McAfee.
Chelsea Green gives us our first elimination, of B-Fab.
Bianca Belair enters at #10, really hurting my chances of being right.

And here’s my pick to win the Women’s #RoyalRumble, Bianca Belair. At #10? Doesn’t look good for me!

(Seth Rollins won his from #10, I believe.)

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 1, 2025

The crowd definitely picked up with Bianca being in the match.
BIANCA IS A MACHINE.
Shayna Baszler enters #11, reminding me she works for WWE. Which is sad, I really thought she’d have a hell of a run in WWE.
Bayley is #12, and we still have quite the group in this match. Personally I don’t see Bayley being a back-to-back winner.
Sonya Deville is in at #13 to complete the PFC trio in this match. I’m sure that’ll work out well for them!
Iyo Sky is so good, she saved Sonya’s knee spot and I am sure no one noticed.
Maxxine Dupri in at #14, another non-winner, but to her credit she only keeps getting better.
With 12 women thill in this match, I have a feeling we’re getting Nia Jax or Charlotte Flair soon to give us a bunch of eliminations.
Ivy Nile out, followed by Maxxine Dupri, and the countdown is on!
Naomi brings the halfway point with her, entering at #15.

Naomi is a former women’s champion and had an amazing WrestleMania moment back in Orlando–why does Michael Cole keep saying 2024 was her breakout year? #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 1, 2025

All of PFC is gone, and nothing of value is lost (from this match–they are valuable as people).
Jaida Parker, entering at #16, comes in to a better reaction than half of the field. Miss Parker has a hell of a WWE career ahead of her.
Chelsea Green is so damn good at what she does.
And here comes Piper Niven at #17.
Will Piper somehow eliminate Piper?
Yes – the answer to that question is yes.
Naalya enters at #18, her eighth Royal Rumble. She’s a little over 20 minutes away from 3 cumulative hours in Rumble matches.

If anyone “deserves” a Royal Rumble win, it’s Natalya. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 1, 2025

FANTASTIC reaction for Jordynne Grace–that has to raise some eyebrows among leadership.
JORDYNNE GRACE IS A STAR.
Michin in at #20, as we are up to 10 eliminations.

BUT THE INTERNET TOLD ME ALEXA BLISS WASN’T GONNA COME BACK DUE TO A CONTRACT DISPUTE. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 1, 2025

Wade Barrett, Michael Cole, and Pat McAfee crapping all over the wrestling newz sites is amazing.
And you can tell Alexa Bliss is THRILLED to be back.
Zelina Vega in at #22 to not win the Royal Rumble.
HUGE SPOT for Zelina Vega and Jordynne Grace.
If you happen to rewatch this match, watch Bayley very closely. It’s a look inside the business–she’s basically an agent in the ring.
Candice LeRae enters at #23, and I am reminded that she’s the WWE Women’s Speed Champion. I also wonder if they’ve started piping in crowd noise for these entrances.
Of note, we haven’t closed a Royal Rumble PLE with the Women’s Royal Rumble Match since the first one in 2018.
Of the 10 women eliminated so far, 6 of them entered #4-5-6-7-8-9.

Great reaction for Stephanie Vaquer–Indianapolis seems to be an NXT crowd. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

LET STEPHANIE VAQUER HER WIN YOU COWARDS. (Personal opinion, she’s the best women’s wrestler in the world.)
#25 already–we are trying to make up some time.
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaand it’s Trish Stratus.

Honestly, did we need Trish Stratus? #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

Kinda wanted Jordynne Grace to toss Trish Stratus right there.
Piper Niven just kncoked the SH*T outta Trish!
Raquel Rodriguez in at #26, and we have 4 more entrants left.
Nia, Charlotte, and…..Becky? Nikki? (Bella, that is.)
The crowd is NOT HAPPY about Alexa Bliss’ elimination.
#1-3 all still in the match.
Charlotte Flair and her new face at in at #27.

Listen, I’m going to hell, but Charlotte Flair’s entrance reminds me of when JR returned from his stroke. Lay off the plastic surgery. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

Love Wade Barrett pointing out that Charlotte got pyro. I hope Roman gets his, too.
Took Charlotte forever to get her robe off, apparently.
Like I’m supposed to believe Jordynne Grace can’t suplex Charlotte Flair?
Charlotte definitely brought some fire to this match.
Giulia getting almost no reaction is surprising given the reaction of some other NXT talents.
Iyo and Liv approaching an hour in the match, along with Roxanne Perez.

Giulia eliminated Jordynne Grace, which makes me think Jordynne might be spending some time in NXT. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

Nia Jax enters at #29, leaving a surprise for #30? Becky Lynch?
Good for Nikki Bella! And she gave someone in the crowd one hall of a souvenir.
And now it’s time for the “World vs Nia” spot.
Forget Superkick It’s an APRON PARTY.
Roxanne Perez just snuck back in without being eliminated.
Given who is left, it does seem like this is Charlotte’s match to win.
ROXANNE PEREZ IN THE FINAL THREE?

This company obviously believes in Roxanne Perez. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

LOLCHARLOTTEWINS

Winner of the 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble Match: Charlotte Flair

I don’t love the decision to have Charlotte Flair win the Women’s Royal Rumble Match after being gone for over a year, but she IS Charlotte Flair. This should shock nobody. I know Charlotte Flair is a dream match opponent for Tiffany Stratton in the eyes of many, and if she were to put Tiffany Stratton over at WrestleMania, then I will eat my words and say it was worth it.

Hell of a performance for Roxanne Perez, I haven’t seen the tally yet but I do wonder if she broke the record for longest time in one Rumble.

I could go for a Slim Jim meat stick right about now.

Why was Mickie James in the crowd, and not IN THE MATCH??? #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

2 Out of 3 Falls Match for the WWE Tag Team Championships
The Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin) vs. #DIY (Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano, champions)

Greg’s predictions from earlier in the week:

Who Should Win: DIY (but it doesn’t matter in the grand scheme of things)
Who Will Win: DIY (but it doesn’t matter in the grand scheme of things)

(I won’t be live tweeting or doing a bulleted list for these two matches, likely just the two Rumbles.)

Had to laugh seeing the drone in front of Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin during their entrance.

DIY wins 2 falls to 1, making my prediction accurate. That is small change, though. I liked the match for what it was, but it’s a reminder of Charlotte Flair vs. Ronda Rousey from WrestleMania 38–great match, wrong setting. This was an arena match, not a football stadium match. Yes, that DOES matter. Setting is a huge part of pro wrestling.

NXT Black and Gold will always hold a place in my heart, but part of what made that what it was was the crowd. This wasn’t the crowd for this match. Plus it got around 15 minutes, which is about right for a 1-fall match featuring these four. On TV, counting commercial breaks, these guys get 25-30 minutes.

The Street Profits got involved, eventually attacking everyone. I fully expect a WWE Tag Team Championship Ladder Match at WrestleMania, with DIY, MCMG, the Street Profits, and possibly Pretty Deadly and Angel/Humberto. This was really just the beginning–it was just misplaced on this card.

Winners AND STILL WWE Tag Team Champions: DIY

Michael Cole did also inform us that Roxanne Perez is the new record-holder for longest Royal Rumble performance. Score one for the good guy (me, from my tweet above).

Ladder Match for the WWE Championship
Kevin Owens vs. Cody Rhodes (champion)

Greg’s predictions from earlier in the week:

Who Should Win: Kevin Owens
Who Will Win: Cody Rhodes

Love that Kevin Owens took down the Winged Eagle Championship during SmackDown last night, and entered with it. Granted, Cody Rhodes has his, too. But KO has a certain edge to him when carrying that title.

That little ladder is HILARIOUS. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

This match was brutal, and whatever they are paying Kevin Owens isn’t enough. Cody Rhodes was beating on KO as a heel would, but he’s a babyface? I know everyone wants “Homelander” Cody, but really he might be more like “Patrick Bateman” Cody. Either way, as great as Cody is (and he is great), there is one missing element. At this point, it’s obvious to me that Cody is the worst babyface in the company. Look at him: THE MAN IS A HEEL.

While I’m glad Cody is fully out of The Bloodline’s shadow, he just needs to beat John Cena at WrestleMania, turn heel, and truly hit his stride. And I want true heel Cody. Chicken sh*t, goons, the whole thing.

Winner, AND STILL WWE Champion: Cody Rhodes

Cody Rhodes is gonna buy Kevin Owens a lot of cigars, booze, or meat. Whatever that man wants. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

You gotta think Sami Zayn not stopping Cody Rhodes from winning will be a major sticking point for Kevin Owens. Seems like we’ll get Sami vs Kevin at WM41.

Men’s WWE Royal Rumble Match

Greg’s predictions from earlier in the week:

Who Should Win: Jey Uso
Who Will Win: John Cena

Last year’s winner was Cody Rhodes, entering at #15, and he went on to defeat Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 40.

Rey Mysterio (Jr) enters at #2, and it’s obvious that gone are the days where randoms would enter at #1 and #2.
I believe I said on my podcast (if not, I meant to) that Penta would need to enter #1 or #2 so he can have his pyro.

I am so happy for Penta in the WWE. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

I really hope we get a Lucha Underground reference on commentary.
LET PENTA WIN YOU COWARDS! (I know, it didn’t work for Stephanie Vaquer.)
PENTA IS A STAR.
I do appreciate how they didn’t fight on the apron, instead just got right back into the ring.
Chad Gable in at #3, and all we need is for Dominik Mysterio to be #4.
That spot looked NASTY, I hope Chad Gable’s knee is okay.
Carmelo Hayes in at #4, and I am reminded that we likely get Trick in this match.

Trick Williams’ #RoyalRumble entrance is gonna be ICONIC.

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

I know they have a temporary alliance at the moment, but Chad Gable vs. Carmelo Hayes would be an absolute BANGER.
KING CUERNO vs PENTAGON JR! #IYKYK
That spot was far too similar to what we saw in the Women’s Rumble.
Otis in and had some fun.
BRON BREAKKER IS A MACHINE.
The crowd reaction to Bron Breakker tells me the WWE might make even MORE money in the future.
What if Breakker won this match? He won’t, but What If?
If not for WWE, I wouldn’t know who IShowSpeed was.
Honestly, nothing wrong with what they did with IShowSpeed there.
Sheamus enters at #9, and I assume we will see some Beats Of The Bowery.

Gotta play the hits, pal. (Sheamus.) #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

This is the most normal Sheamus’ hair has ever looked.
Crazy that this is only Jimmy Uso’s 3rd Royal Rumble.
Big Jim definitely got a bulk discount on his new gear. I wonder how many color combos he got???
Andrade in at #11, and Wade Barrett points out what I’ve been thinking–why run to the ring?
Jacob Fatu enters at #12 and gets his pyro. The rocket ship has been strapped, pal.
Ludwig Kaiser enters at #13 and no one not named (Greg DeMarco Show co-host) Patrick O’Dowd cares.
Kaiser immediately dumped by Penta, and he’ll probably lose to him on Monday’s Raw, too.

Here comes the most underappreciated wrestler in WWE history, @mikethemiz. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

We lost Michael for a minute there.

The fact that Joe Hendry’s fact on the ticket is “Say His Name And He Appears” is amazing.

Great pop for him, too.

And Michael Cole references Nic Nemeth! #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

I’d actually forgotten that we’d likely get a Joe Hendry appearance, so they got a little pop out of me.
I acknowledge you, my Tribal Chief.

☝️☝️☝️☝️☝️ #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

Roman Reigns vs. CM Punk would be one hell of a match at WrestleMania, just sayin’.
Showdowns like Roman Reigns and Bron Breakker is what the Royal Rumble is all about.
SPEAR TO ROMAN.
That might have been the greatest spear ever.
After Joe Gendry and Roman Reigns, Drew McIntyre gets very little reaction entering at #17.
Drew McIntyre with the very silky smooth hair tonight.
Finn Balor in at #18 and we have our second drone sighting of the night.
Something is wrong with Pat McAfee’s headset. Hell of a showing by Penta, by the way.
Jey Uso in at #20 to a HUGE pop.
LET JE YWIN YOU COWARDS.
Poison Rana by Jey???
Let’s hope AJ Styles can stick around for a bit this time. (Not necessarily in the Rumble, but in general.)

All these megastars, and Jacob Fatu might be the most over guy in the match right now. #ROYALRUMBLE

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

I’d be okay if Braun shaved his head again.
Jacob Fatu can literally do ANYTHING and it makes sense.

JOHN CENA’S SOCKS!
JOHN CENA’S SOCKS!
JOHN CENA’S SOCKS!#RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

CM Punk, John Cena, and Roman Reigns all in the ring all at the same time? YES PLEASE.
Now add in Seth Rollins? This is the greatest Royal Rumble of all time.
The current field: Seth Rollins, CM Punk, John Cena, AJ Styles, Jey Uso, Drew McIntyre, and Roman Reigns. That is ABSURD.
The only man who can follow all that talent is indeed Dominik Mysterio. This is about to be amazing.
Imagine if Dom wins. I mean, just imagine it.
With the addition of Sami Zayn, the storylines in this Rumble right now are insane.
Damian Priest, who is probably challenging Shinsuke Nakamura at WrestleMania, enters at #28.
Two more to go. Any surprises?
LA Knight, who I forgot was in this match, enters next.
I kinda expect him to move to Raw in this transfer window.
Ah yes, Logan Paul. I also forgot he was on this.
We’ve had a Nic Nemeth and now a Ricochet reference tonight. I love when you’re WWE, and you are comfortable talking about (almost) ANYBODY.

If I’m WWE, I have Logan Paul wait until the final two before jumping back into the ring. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

He didn’t, by the way. Opportunity missed.
Final 6: Roman Reigns, Jey Uso, John Cena, CM Punk, Seth Rollins, Logan Paul… STAR. STUDDED.
Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins – the WrestleMania Main Event we never got.
YESSS!
Brilliant spot to have Logan Paul eliminate CM Punk.
Final 3: John Cena, Jey Uso, and Logan Paul. Two of my picks are left.
The action on the outside between Rollins, Roman, and Punk drives home how important the Rumble is to the competitors.
And then there were 2: my Who Should Win vs. my Who Will Win.
Please God let Jey Uso win this thing.
(And that’s not a slight against John Cena.)
YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!

IT’S JUST YOU, UCE! #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

Winner of the 2025 Men’s WWE Royal Rumble Match: Jey Uso

Just like the sign said: EAT. SLEEP. YEET. MANIA. I am so damn happy for Jey Uso. You can tell John Cena was as well, along with Michael Cole. And probably everyone in the entire company. Jey Uso is the success story.

As for the match? Well obviously this is a knee jerk reaction, but eff it–this is the best Royal Rumble Match they have ever put on. The early action was fun and exciting. But from the time Joe Hendry’s music hit to the moment Jey Uso pushed John Cena off of the apron, this match was insane. I think Roman Reigns coming in at 16 was a huge part of that. Once Roman is in the match, you are watching to see a) what he does, and b) if he’ll get eliminated. CM Punk eliminating Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns was beautiful, and then Logan Paul tossing CM Punk was even better. If that leads to Rollins vs. Reigns and Logan vs. Punk at WrestleMania, you can take my money.

My money is a Peacock membership, which is automatically charged. But still. Take it.

If John Cena wins it’s still probably the best Royal Rumble Match of all time. But Jey Uso winning makes that an undisputable fact.

Overall Thoughts on the 2025 WWE Royal Rumble

The Women’s Royal Rumble was decent to good. Loved Roxanne getting the Iron Woman treatment, but in the end it’s another chapter of LOL Charlotte Wins.
I need to rewatch DIY vs MCMG because I was on the phone when my son called. Maybe I will enjoy it more on a second viewing.
The ladder match was brutal but the end result was expected. Cody is still missing something, and I think that something will continue to be missing until he turns heel. He’s just overshadowed by too many of the other babyfaces.
The Men’s Royal Rumble Match was the best Royal Rumble match they have ever put on. Great action in the early half, and from 15 (Joe Hendry) on, it was amazing. The storyline movement with CM Punk, Roman Reigns, and Seth Rollins was (here’s that word) cinema, and having the most over wrestler in the company not named Roman Reigns win, and doing so by eliminating the odds-on favorite, was perfect. I’m biased because Jey Uso was my pick, but it was the perfect ending to what was probably as close to perfect as a Rumble match has been since 1992.

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TheChairshot.com PRESENTS: WWE Crown Jewel Immediate Reactions

Join DJ and Tunney for their immediate reactions to WWE Crown Jewel. For the latest, greatest and up to datest, ALWAYS #UseYourHead and visit THECHAIRSHOT.COM

Published

4 months ago

November 2, 2024

PC Tunney

Join DJ and Tunney for their immediate reactions to WWE Crown Jewel. For the latest, greatest and up to datest, ALWAYS #UseYourHead and visit THECHAIRSHOT.COM