In Ring Segment:
James Storm talks about beating Kurt Angle and becoming the number one contender for the world title. He says he will get his belt back at Against All Odds. Jeff Hardy comes out, says the past few weeks he has been screwed, and deserves a title shot. Bobby Roode comes out and confronts both men, saying neither deserve a shot. Sting interrupts and books Storm vs. Hardy tonight, the winner meeting Roode for the world title at Against All Odds.
What I Liked:
The right way to start off a show, identify the main players, showcase your world champion, and book a meaningful main event match with a lot on the line. I feel like Storm and Roode are so solid on the microphone, and their personalities still click even after Beer Money split up. I would love to see Storm vs. Roode with a length match, both brawling, and both really selling the other's move. Hardy added in here is a nice mix, not sure what to expect to happen. This is the way to start a show, not wasting time and effort for a wasted segment.
What I Disliked:
Nothing. Made sense, was logical, and got to the point effectively.
Grade: A
Gunner def. AJ Stlyes:
What I Liked:
The match was very solid from both guys' perspective. Gunner hits a nice vertical suplex in the match, and followed with some nice transitional offense. He connected with a few moves continuously, and really got an aggressive side on AJ. Styles and Flair's past is also showcased a little bit here, with Flair trying to interfere with his former protege. The win is cheap for Gunner, but I feel like he could benefit from any win at this point, continuing his roll. The timing of the match was long enough to build throughout and finish with Kaz and Daniels distracting.
What I Disliked:
I wonder why Gunner does not have a really good finisher, but uses a DDT. What is the point of a move where EVERYBODY uses? I wish they would let him focus on improving his ring work instead of having distractions each week. Styles seems to be stuck with the same guys in a mid card feud, guys like Daniels and Kaz. They are all really good in the ring, but their character development seems to be halted at times. You can tell by the recycled storylines and script writing.
Grade: B
