Austin Aries Defeats James Storm
What I Liked:
This was a really solid match to start off the night. Aries, with his athleticism and timing, really controlled the beginning of the match. Storm was able to reverse and send Aries to the outside, with the offense in his hands. Storm would continue to strike down the champion, gain control through blows being exchanged. Aries was able to hit a beautiful dropkick, and really focused on the lower body of Storm. The pacing was excellent, with a larger opponent slowing it down while Aries tried to pick up the pace. As Hebner is distracted, Bobby Roode came out and threw Storm into the steps. Aries, faking like he had no idea what happened, hits the Brainbuster onto Storm for the win. I loved the ending because it brought more than one feud to the forefront of the show, with Austin Aries really turning himself into a full heel. He has slowly transitioned to this, and it continues to come full circle. Well done from all angles.
What I Disliked:
Where was Jeff Hardy? I really feel like he should have came down and tried to attack Roode, since they fight later tonight. The two main storylines are connecting, so continue to connect the final pieces.
Grade: A-
Hulk Hogan and Sting in the Ring
What I Liked:
Both men come out talking about the Aces and Eights. They get interrupted by Kazarian and Daniels, who say they made the wrong choice by picking Bully Ray. They want Kurt Angle to be the man to tag. This was a smart way for them to try and weasel themselves out of an opponent, as well as try to get dissension between Kurt and AJ. Bully Ray defends himself and says this is not a wrestling match, but a fight. Ray says he is going to fight. Ray wants to team with Sting to face the Tag Champions tonight. Once again, TNA does an intelligent job of keeping the Tag Champions in a main spotlight, as well as focus on Sting and Bully Ray. With Aces and Eights not appearing live, it is handicapping them from really doing more with them.
What I Disliked:
There needs to be more Aces and Eights on this show, especially with the huge angle expected to hit a climax at Bound For Glory. Why couldn't they interrupt on the screen? Why couldn't some "pawns" come out and get beaten up? There has to be a little more to these guys that the usual stick each week.
Grade: B+
