Paypress testing

Category: Impact Wrestling

  • TNA Wrestling TV tapings results: TNA Knockout departure, Earl Hebner wrestles

    Some notes from the April 22nd TNA Impact TV tapings:

    • Jeff Hardy was out performing his entrance music song when Decay came out.  They laid out Jeff and were told they were paid to attack him but didn’t say who paid them.  James Storm made the save, and said he wanted his tag title rematch with Jeff as his partner. TNA Tag Champions Abyss & Crazzy Steve then beat Hardy & Storm in a tag title match when a fake Willow distracted Jeff.
    • Jade went to a no-contest with Gail Kim when Sienna laid out both of them.
    • Al Snow did an interview heeling on the fans and said he was the Donald Trump of pro wrestling and would build a wall and decide who got in. Mahabali Shera then beat Snow when Grado interfered.
    • Mike Bennett said he wanted a match with Earl Hebner as a future Hall of Famer against a current one. Bennett then beat Earl Hebner, but EC 3 made the save so Bennett vs. EC 3 will continue. 
    • Tyrus then attacked EC 3 which led to EC 3 beating Tyrus in a last man standing match.
    • DJ Zema Ion & Eddie Edwards beat Trevor Lee & Andrew Everett when Ion pinned Everett.
    • Fake Willow was out and Jeff Hardy attacked him. Hardy then beat Willow and went for the mask, but two more guys in Willow masks attacked Hardy. Of course, one of the Willows was Matt Hardy.
    • Sienna beat Velvet Sky in her final match with the company. They gave Sky a farewell live and posted on the website that she was leaving. It was described as a mutual departure.
    • Eli Drake interviewed Bram. He wanted Bram to just hand over the King of the Mountain title rather than even bother with a match. Bram refused, and Drake said he can cash in his briefcase and win it at any time. Bram attacked him and he ran away.  
    • TNA World Champion Drew Galloway beat Bobby Lashley via DQ in a lumberjack match for the title due to outside interference.

  • TNA Impact Wrestling 5/3 taping results: Jeff Hardy, Lashley, new female debuts

    TNA Impact Wrestling ran a set of TV tapings Thursday Notes in Orlando, FL, for Pop TV that will begin airing on Tuesday, May 3rd:

    • Eddie Edwards beat Caleb Konley. This may have been a dark match.
    • James Storm cut a promo that he’s now a singles wrestler.
    • Jeff Hardy and Mike Bennett had a confrontation that led to a match that Hardy won by DQ when Bobby Lashley ran in and speared Hardy.
    • James Storm beat Abyss who was accompanied by the rest of Decay who had new looks. Abyss now has face paint.
    • Sienna (aka the debuting Allysin Kay, a 28-year-old vet of AIW, Shimmer, Shine, etc.) debuted and laid out Jade.
    • X-Division Champion Trevor Lee beat Mandrews
    • King of The Mountain Champion Bram retained the title in a match against Eli Drake, Jessie Godderz, Robbie E, and Andrew Everett. Drake attacked Bram post-match
    • Jeff Hardy wrestled Lashley.  Drew Galloway was ref.  Bennett interfered and they had a four-way brawl.  
    • In a cage match, EC3 defeated Rockstar Spud. Bennett was out supporting Spud.

  • Aroluxe Marketing revealed as company negotiating with TNA

    Dave Meltzer revealed today in a breaking news audio update that the company that Impact Wrestling/TNA has been negotiating with is Aroluxe, a company that former wrestlers Ron and Don Harris are involved with. The Harris brothers were mid-level stars in both the WWF and WCW in the late 90s and were brought in to TNA by former owner Jeff Jarrett when the company started.

    Negotiations are still ongoing. TNA president Dixie Carter was hopeful of securing a deal whereby an investor would purchase 49% interest in the company, allowing her to maintain a majority interest. Whether she finds a company willing to do that or not, the company is in a crunch position as they are essentially out of money and will require a cash influx to get them through their next set of TV tapings scheduled for later this week.

    If Carter is not able to find an investor willing to let her maintain control of the company there will obviously be a shakeup in the company and details of that are likely to come out in the next week or so.

    Total Non-Stop Action Wrestling started in late 2002 as a weekly pay per view product owned and operated by Jeff and Jerry Jarrett. Father Jerry pulled out of the partnership early and Jeff went to Panda Energy for financing to keep the company afloat. They remained as a weekly PPV property until late 2004, when they secured a broadcast contract with Fox Sports Network and used that platform to move to the more traditional monthly PPV model.

    They were at times in their history profitable but ever since spending big money to acquire free agents Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, Jeff Hardy, Rob Van Dam and others in 2010 the promotion has been a money loser. They started on SPIKE TV in 2005 and at times garnered audiences upwards of 1.5 million. By late 2014, they were down under a million and on top of the declining ratings, the promotion was secretly employing Vince Russo as a consultant despite the fact that SPIKE executives had made it clear they did not want the company to have any dealings with Russo.

    They moved to Destination America in 2015 and it quickly became clear that it would not be a good fit. Destination America announced midway through the first year that they would not be renewing them for a second season, despite announcing a “multi-year” contract  at the start of the relationship. In late 2015 the company announced that they would start the following year on POP TV, the former TV Guide channel. While no terms were announced at the time, it was believed to be an ad revenue sharing deal.

    POP TV president Brad Schwartz announced that they hoped that the promotion would return to the 1.3 million audience level with the move to POP. This despite the fact that the show averaged less than half of that number during it’s year on Destination America. With the move to POP, ratings declined even further, settling in around 300,000 despite being available in 80 million homes in the United States.

    Also discussed in the breaking news update was the cancelation of the New Japan PPV scheduled for later this month in Kumamoto, Japan. The earthquake was devastating as there are already 41 deaths and 968 injuries attributed to it and over 91,000 people have been evacuated from their homes.

  • TNA Impact Wrestling results: Mike Bennett vs EC3 plus tag team action

    Previously on Impact:

    Last week on Impact, Drew Galloway retained the TNA World title in a hard fought battle with former champion Matt Hardy. Enticing the crowd, Ethan Carter III and “The Destroyer” Lashley had another staredown that ended with Lashley backing off.

    Tonight:

    For the first time ever, “Miracle” Mike Bennett takes on Ethan Carter III. TNA has been slowly building to this match since Bennett’s debut, which was also Impact’s debut on Pop TV. Additionally, TNA Tag Team champions Beer Money issued an open challenge to any and all tag teams for tonight.

    Show Recap:

    Matt Hardy’s music kicks the night off as Josh Matthews welcomes us to the show. The Pope is back on commentary after suffering a beating at the hands of Lashley last week.

    Matt, Tyrus, Rockstar Spud, the beautiful Reby Sky and her little rascal, Maxell stand in the ring. Matt looks pretty snappy in his suit tonight. He talks about all the hard work he’s put into his career, and he feels he’s built a great legacy for the last name “Hardy”. He claims Jeff is ruining all of that and tarnishing their last name.

    Jeff comes out to the ring. Josh mentions that Matt has always lived in Jeff’s shadow and he’s bitter about that. Basically, Matt wants Jeff gone and wants him to stop using the last name “Hardy”. Matt suggests that Jeff should change his name to “Creature” or “Willow”. This prompts Matt to challenge Jeff to match, but Jeff won’t fight his brother. The crowd chants, “Jeff is better.” After a little more pressure from Matt, Jeff finally accepts and we have a faceoff.

    – Beer Money makes their way down to the ring for their open challenge. James Storm roars into the ring on the Boozer Cruiser… again.

    TNA Tag Team champions Beer Money (Bobby Roode & James Storm) vs. Decay (Crazzy Steve & Abyss) w/ Rosemary vs. Eric Young & Bram vs. The BroMans (Robbie E & Jesse Godderz)

    Back from commercial, The BroMans, Decay and Eric Young, and Bram accept Beer Money’s open challenge. The match starts with a wild brawl with all eight guys fighting in and around the ring.

    In a hilarious spot, James Storm got on the Cruiser and rode it around the ring in a complete circle until he collided with Bram. The BroMans take over and start clearing the ring. Surprisingly, Jesse Godderz hit some impressive moves, including jumping up and hitting a hurricanrana off the top of the ropes onto Crazzy Steve. Robbie E. hit a dive to the outside taking out everyone on the floor. EY and Bram had yet another miscommunication causing EY to accidently hit Bram. EY turned around and ate a superkick from Storm. Beer Money picks up the win and retains their titles.

    – Backstage, Matt reveals to Jeff that their match is set for next week. Matt wants the match to be an ‘I Quit Match.” Jeff challenges Matt and Tyrus to tag match for later. The winning team gets to pick the stipulation for next week. Either an “I Quit Match” or a “Full Metal Mayhem”.

    – Back from commercial, somebody jumped Eddie Edwards backstage but Eddie didn’t see who did it. Josh reveals that Eddie is scheduled to challenge Trevor Lee for the X Division title.

    – “The First Lady of Pro Wrestling” Maria Kanellis comes to the ring and says she saved the Knockouts Division by getting the title off of Gail Kim. Maria claims to be the boss and leader of the Knockouts. Maria brings out “her Knockouts Champion” Jade. She says that Jade is champion because of her and Jade owes her. Therefore, Maria wants Jade to hand her the belt, but Jade refuses. #byefelicia

    Gail Kim Interrupts. The Dollhouse and The Beautiful People all come out as well. Basically, they don’t like Maria and everyone wants to be in charge. Billy Corgan comes out and announces Jade will defend the title against Madison Rayne. He also announces that next week all the Knockouts will battle it out and the winner will become the leader of the Knockouts Division.

    – Backstage, EC3 promises to teach Mike Bennett a lesson tonight that someone should have taught him long ago.

    – Back from commercial, Eric Young and Bram are backstage arguing. EY is upset about the constant miscommunication. EY has the King of The Mountain title with him and tells Bram to make things right.

    TNA X-Division champion Trevor Lee w/ Shane Helms vs. DJ Z

    Edwards is injured from the mysterious attack which took place earlier, so he’s out of the title match. DJ Z comes out to fill the vacant spot in a non-title match. He’s on fire to start the match by hitting a sweet dive to the outside. On commentary, Pope speculates that Helms and Lee might have had something to the with Eddie’s attack from earlier.

    They have a really good match with DJ Z getting in some really cool offense. DJ Z had the match won, but Shane distracted the referee. Lee got the advantage and set up for his finish but DJ Z rolls him up for the surprise win. Post-match, Shane and Lee went to beat down DJ Z, but Edwards ran out for the save.

    – Backstage, Jeff Hardy reveals his partner for tonight is TNA World Champion Drew Galloway, making it Matt and Tyrus vs. Jeff and Drew.

    “Miracle” Mike Bennett w/Maria Kanellis vs. Ethan Carter III

    As EC3 makes his way to the ring, Josh reminds us that he has never been pinned or submitted. EC3 dominated the early moments of the match. Bennett got the brief advantage after Maria distracted EC3. EC3 regained control and back dropped Bennett to the outside then gave him a sick suplex on the ramp. Bennett took back over and slowed the pace of the match down.

    EC3 made a fiery comeback by hitting his version of the Stinger Splash which Josh called the EC3 Splash. EC3 hits the TKO and had the match won, but Maria put Bennett’s leg on the bottom rope to break up the pin. He chases Maria around the ring, which gave Bennett the chance to hit the ace crusher. Bennett grabs a chair, but EC3 ducks and locks on a submission. Earl tries to get the chair out of the ring, but Maria grabs it. While this is going on Bennett taps out, which the referee doesn’t see. EC3 grabs the chair and beats Bennett with it, getting disqualified.

    – We get a recap of Al Snow attacking Mahabali Shera and Grado two weeks ago.

    – Backstage, Al Snow apologizes for his actions and breaking Grado’s arm. He reminds us that he’s been suspended without pay. He’s going to the ring to call out Mahabali Shera to give a public apology. 

    Snow is in the ring and calls Shera out to apologize. Shera is full of passion and anger as he professes his urge to knockout Al, but Al wants him to listen first. Al mentions that he’s 53 and has been doing this since he was 18. He gets a nice reaction from the crowd for that.

    Al says everyone tells him wrestling is passing him by. He becomes intensely emotional, especially when talking about how difficult wrestling had been early in his career. Al promises to pay for Grado’s medical bills and wants to help Shera accomplish his dream of becoming World Champion. Al apologizes and they embrace. As they leave, Al jumps Shera and viciously beats him down. Al was great in his role and was so good that despite being the heel, the crowd chanted, “You’ve still go it” after he backstabbed Shera.

    – In the back, Snow gives a passionate speech about wrestling not changing, and how he’s disgusted that a “fat turd” like Grado is in TNA.

    TNA Knockouts champion Jade vs. Madison Rayne

    As the match gets started, Josh announces that next week all the Knockouts will face off in a ladder match for control of the Knockouts. They explain that whomever wins will have the authority to make matches and grant title shots. Jade is in control of the match and dominates the action. Josh says that Jade reminds him of Ronda Rousey because they’re both hard hitting. Madison takes the lead for a brief moment, but it’s not enough as Jade picks up the win and retains her title.

    TNA Champion Drew Galloway & Jeff Hardy vs. 
Matt Hardy & Tyrus w/Rockstar Spud & Reby Sky

    As the competitors make their way to the ring Josh reminds us what’s at stake. If Matt and Tyrus win, next week’s match between Matt and Jeff will be an “I Quit” Match. If Jeff and Drew win, the match will be “Full Metal Mayhem”.

    Matt teases starting the match with Jeff, but he quickly tags out to Tyrus. Jeff and Drew use some of the old Hardy Boys double team moves to gain control of the match, and they clear the ring.

    Tyrus and Matt get the advantage and isolate Drew in their corner. Drew makes the hot tag to Jeff who runs wild and takes out Tyrus. Jeff hits the twist of fate and goes for the Swanton bomb, but Tyrus steps in the way. Jeff dives onto Tyrus, which gives Reby the chance to give Matt a hammer. Matt uses the hammer on Jeff and hits the twist of fate to win the match. Next week Matt faces Jeff in an “I Quit” Match.

    Post match, as Drew helps up Jeff, Lashley hits the ring and takes out both Drew and Jeff. Lashley hits the spear on Drew. On the outside, Lashley spears Drew into the steal steps. Lashley poses with the TNA World title.

    – Next, we get a cool video in black and white. It shows Jeff leaping off of a huge structure with a graphic promoting next week’s match between Matt and Jeff on the screen.

    Next Time on Impact:

    It’s Hardy vs. Hardy as Jeff Hardy goes one on one with Matt Hardy in an I Quit Match. The Knockouts compete in a ladder match battle royal for control of the Knockouts Division. Also, the X Division Champion Trevor Lee will defend his title against both Eddie Edwards and DJ Z in a triple threat.

  • TNA Impact will no longer have second Tuesday airing

    TNA Wrestling, effective immediately, will no longer air a Tuesday night replay on Pop TV.

    The only airing of the show tomorrow will be at 9 p.m. Eastern and 6 p.m. Pacific time.

    Impact will have a second airing on Pop TV on Saturday mornings at 11:30 a.m. Eastern time.

    But any change of time slots isn’t the best thing right now when they are in negotiations to sell a stake in the company and it’s most valuable asset was nationwide prime time coverage, and the new time slots aren’t strong for the West Coast.

    TNA has no house shows scheduled at this point and it’s next TV tapings are 4/21 to 4/24 in Orlando at Universal.

  • TNA Impact results: Drew Galloway vs. Matt Hardy; Eric Young vs. Jeff Hardy Six Sides of Steel

    Previously on TNA Impact:

    In Last week’s main event, Drew Galloway defeated Jeff Hardy in a hard fought battle to retain the TNA World title. Additionally, Matt Hardy, Tyrus and “Miracle” Mike Bennett defeated Ethan Carter III and Beer Money in a six-man tag. In an interesting note and potential spoiler for those who haven’t heard, one half of the Tag Team Champs, Beer Money’s Booby Roode, appeared in the crowd at NXT TakeOver: Dallas this past Friday night. He was shown and acknowledged on TV by the announcers. Roode was granted his release a few weeks ago from TNA and finished up at the last set of tapings. He is expected to appear tonight and in the coming weeks on Impact due to the show being taped several weeks in advance.

    Tonight:

    TNA is promoting tonight’s Impact with the theme Revenge. Tonight’s show is all about getting back what the wrestlers feel they so rightfully deserve. TNA World Champion Drew Galloway will defend his title against the very man he defeated for the title, Matt Hardy. Jeff Hardy battles Eric Young one on one in a Six Sides of Steel Cage match. Additionally, The Pope takes on “The Destroyer” Lashley in a street fight. 

    Show Recap:

    – Josh welcomes us to Impact with the heavy news that tonight is all about revenge and vengeance. Jeremy Borash joins Josh on commentary because The Pope will be in action later.

    Six Sides of Steel Cage: Jeff Hardy vs. Eric Young

    We kick off the night with Hardy’s Revenge. We get a recap of Eric Young piledriving Jeff through a table and injuring him back in January. EY promises to piledrive Jeff from the top of the cage. Jeff comes out and brings a table with him.

    Before the match officially starts, EY, Bram and Jeff brawl around the ringside area. Bram and EY throw a table and chairs into the ring.  Young sends Jeff into the ring briefly having the advantage until Jeff makes a comeback. Jeff hastily knocks Bram off the apron. 

    Back from commercial, the match has officially begun and Jeff is in control. Jeff sets up four chairs in the center of the ring. He attempts to give EY a twist of fate through the chairs, but EY countered and piledrove Jeff though the chairs creating a pretty sick looking spot. Jeff won the match after hitting a swanton bomb from the top of the cage onto EY who laid weary on the table.

    – Backstage, TNA President Dixie Carter is sick of the beef between Maria Kanellis and Knockouts Champion Gail Kim. Dixie asked both whom they spoke with in TNA management that gave them the authority to make two separate number one contenders matches. Neither had an answer for her. Dixie made Gail Kim defending against Jade and Madison in a triple threat for later. Maria started to annoy Dixie so Dixie walked away and Maria chased after her calling her name.

    – Backstage, Jeff ices his neck and quotes Vanilla Ice by saying “Ice, ice, baby.” Jeff acknowledges the he will be watching the world title match between Matt Hardy and champion Drew later.

    – In the ring, J.B. hosts “The Final Word” and brings out the participants in tonight’s main event to have their final words. First, Matt Hardy and The Brand (Reby, Maxell, Tyrus & Rockstar Spud) make their way to the ring. J.B. goes to introduce TNA World Champion Drew Galloway, but Matt interrupts and does the introduction. Matt did a pretty poor job introducing Drew, but that might have been the point.

    This was just a basic segment where they argued back and forth setting up the main event. Matt became irate when Drew brought up Jeff. Tyrus took the mic and reminded everyone that he is the number one contender after winning Bound For Gold back at Bound For Glory. Tyrus teased that he might use his title shot tonight. Matt was shocked after hearing this news.

    – Backstage, The Pope gets ready and pumped up for the street fight, which is coming up next.

    – Back from commercial, Ethan Carter III congratulated Tyrus for contemplating cashing in his title shot. EC3 reminded Tyrus that he cost him the world title. Tyrus told EC3 that he hates him and EC3 told him he hates him more.

    On commentary, Josh and J.B. point out that the Bound for Gold title shot is not like the Feast or Fired. Apparently, Tyrus can’t just cash in his title shot and must inform TNA Management ahead of time.

    Street Fight: “The Destroyer” Lashley vs. The Pope

    Lashley jumped The Pope has he made his way to the ring. This was basically a glorified squash match. Lashley dominated The Pope and got a majority of the offense. Pope smashes a trashcan into Lashley’s face, gaining him the brief advantage and allowing him to use the Singapore cane. It wasn’t enough as Lashley speared The Pope to win the match.

    Post match, Lashley wasn’t satisfied with beating The Pope and gave him two more spears. Ethan Carter III came down for the save, but once again Lashley just backed off and walked away from EC3. As Lashley walked away, “Miracle” Mike Bennett blind sides EC3 and jumps him with the steel chair, and then left him lying in the ring.

    – Back from commercial, EC3 is still in the ring and calls out Bennett to come back to the ring. “The First Lady of Pro Wrestling” Maria Kanellis comes out to introduce The Miracle, but EC3 interrupts and demands Bennett come out.  They argue back and forth and setup a match for next week. Bennett and Maria started to leave, but EC3 chased after Bennett. Mike pushed Maria into EC3 and ran into the back.

    EC3 and Bennett fought all over the backstage area and into the parking lot. Bennett hit EC3 with a tire iron and escaped in his car.

    – Backstage, Rockstar Spud met with Tyrus. Spud came up with a plan, which he wrote on crumpled piece of paper. Tyrus didn’t care about Spud’s plan and doesn’t need it.

    Knockouts Champion Gail Kim vs. Jade vs. Madison Rayne

    Josh recaps the events that lead to this triple threat match. Match starts with Gail and Madison taking turns beating on Jade. Jade hit a dive through the ropes onto Madison on the floor. Gail went to climb to the top, but Maria came out and hit Gail with the belt behind the refs back. Jade pinned Gail Kim to become the new Knockouts champion.

    – They’re teasing that Tyrus might be added to the main event to make it a triple threat or he’ll just use his title shot.

    – Backstage, Jade is celebrating becoming Knockouts Champion and her victory. Jade said The Dollhouse was holding her back.

    – Next we get a recap of TNA Producer, Al Snow attacking Grado and breaking his arm last week.

    Al Snow is talking to Billy Corgan and he’s upset that TNA management let someone like Grado into TNA. Billy informed Al that he is suspended and must give a public apology.

    – In the ring, X Division champion Trevor Lee and Gregory Shane Helms call out Eddie Edwards. Last week, Helms gave Eddie a week to decide if he wants to tag team with Helms to challenge Beer Money for the belts. Eddie turns down Shane’s offer and tells him “No”. Shane is not happy to hear that. Shane and Trevor are about to jump Eddie. Beer Money comes down to the ring and Shane and Lee leave immediately.

    Beer Money is left alone in the ring and they turn their attention to the other tag teams in the TNA. James Storm did most of the talking here and Roode paced back and forth. Suddenly, Decay came out and demanded a title shot. Beer Money and Decay brawled around ringside, eventually making their way into the ring. Security came out to break up the brawl.

    – In the back, Matt Hardy gives his final words for tonight’s main event (despite the segment earlier). The story here is that during the promo, Matt was unaware that Tyrus slowly approached in the background.

    – Backstage, Beer Money issues an open challenge to any or all tag teams for next week.

    TNA World Champion Drew Galloway vs. Matt Hardy w/ Tyrus and Rockstar Spud

    Josh reminds us that Tyrus must decide if he’s going to be a part of the match. Tyrus teases using his title shot but it’s all just a distraction to give Matt the early advantage. Matt jumps Drew and is in control right out of the gate.

    Back from commercial, Drew and Matt are trading shots on the apron. Spud grabs Drew’s leg, which gives Matt the chance to hit the side effect on the apron. Matt faked an ankle injury and took his boot off, which he then used, but only got a near fall. Drew hit the future shock DDT on Matt, but Tyrus pulled the referee out before the three. Jeff ran out and brawled with Tyrus. Matt screamed at Jeff, “Get out of my life!” like any other typical family drama. Drew made Matt tap out to the Iron Maiden to retain the TNA World title.

    Next Time on Impact:

    Next week’s Impact features Ethan Carter III taking on “Miracle” Mike Bennett for the first time ever. Also, Beer Money issues an open challenge to any and all TNA tag teams. Plus, the feud and bad blood between Jeff and Matt continues next week.

  • TNA Impact Wrestling results: Drew Galloway defends the title against Jeff Hardy

    Previously on TNA Impact:

    Last week, new TNA World Champion Drew Galloway proclaimed that people would start looking at the TNA World title and Impact Wrestling differently. He promised to put TNA on the map again. Perhaps he’s on to something, as ratings have been going up ever so slightly the last two weeks and started to do so the night he won the title. In last week’s main event, Jeff Hardy was victorious in a gauntlet battle royal featuring the promotions top stars to earn a shot at the TNA World Title.

    Tonight:

    Tonight’s Impact features a huge main event, as Drew Galloway will defend the TNA World Title against Jeff Hardy.

    Show Recap:

    –Josh Matthews and The Pope welcome us to Impact as Matt Hardy, Reby, Tyrus and Rockstar Spud make their way to the ring.

    – Matt is demanding his return match for the TNA World title and wants it before Jeff gets his shot in the main event. Suddenly “The First Lady of Professional Wrestling” Maria Kanellis, looking stunning, interrupts and introduces “Miracle” Mike Bennett. Bennett calls Matt old and tells him to relax. Bennett thinks neither Matt nor Jeff deserve the title shot; he does. Reby and Maria argued back and forth. Reby called Maria “fire crotch.” Reby had to be held back from attacking Maria who didn’t back down. Matt and Bennett tease fighting each other but they’re interrupted by the catchiest music in wrestling and Ethan Carter III.

    EC3 was hilarious here referencing The Three Stooges and prayed to the Lord of Professional Wrestling to find a place for Bennett’s wrestling career in the afterlife. EC3 wants to face Bennett but the Miracle isn’t interested. Instead, Matt Hardy challenged EC3 to face all members of The Matt Hardy Brand (Hardy, Tyrus, Spud and Reby.) EC3 agreed to the match.

    Ethan Carter III vs. Matt Hardy, Reby, Tyrus & Rockstar Spud

    Mike Bennett and Maria are sitting at ringside. EC3 dominates the early moments of the action until the heels take over. The story of the match is that EC3 has nobody to tag while the heels tag out when they’re in trouble. Reby gave EC3 three slaps across the face but has yet to get in the match officially. EC3 makes his own comeback and takes out Tyrus. EC3 got the Cobra Clutch on Spud but Mike Bennett ran in for the DQ. The heels beat down EC3 until Beer Money ran out for the save and cleared the ring.

    Beer Money takes the mic and says they’re not out here to stop the fight. Beer Money & EC3 challenge Matt Hardy, Tyrus and Mike Bennett to a six man and its starts after the commercial break.

    Ethan Carter III and Beer Money (Bobby Roode & James Storm) vs. Matt Hardy, Tyrus & “Miracle” Mike Bennett w/ Reby Sky, Rockstar Spud and Maria Kanellis

    Back from commercial and the match is in progress. Storm has the advantage on Bennett until Tyrus beats Storm down on the outside. The heels isolate Storm and prevent him from tagging out. Roode gets the tag and he runs wild taking out the heels. EC3 goes after Bennett but he hides behind Maria. EC3 chases Bennett to the back. Beer Money gets the double suplex on Tyrus, which gets a big reaction from the crowd. Tyrus saves Matt Hardy from the DWI and Hardy hits the twist of fate on Roode for the win.

    -Backstage, Jeremy Borash interviews TNA Knockouts Champion Gail Kim about last week’s Knockouts Match, where Jade apparently became the number one contender for the title. Gail announces another number one contenders match between Velvet Sky and Madison Rayne.

    -Back from commercial and in the back, BroMans talk about their surprising reunion as a team. They’re interrupted by Eli Drake, who says he has business to take care of.

    Number One Contenders Match for Knockouts Title: Velvet Sky vs. Madison Rayne

    Josh and The Pope mention that Velvet and Madison are best friends. The story here is that last week Maria made a number one contenders match, so Gail made a number one contenders match too. Josh wonders who will be the number one contender, the winner of this match or Jade. The crowd was mostly dead for this match but there was a small Velvet Sky chant. They had a back and forth match which ended suddenly when Madison scores the pin on Velvet.

    Post match, Velvet teased being upset about the loss but instead she raised Madison’s hand and they embraced.

    -Backstage, TNA World Champion Drew Galloway promised to beat Jeff Hardy and retain his title tonight.

    -Back in the arena, Josh asked Pope for his prediction for tonight’s main event but Pope seemed distracted. He told Josh that he has something to get off his chest. The Pope entered the ring as we cut to commercial.

    -Back from commercial, The Pope is in the ring. He talks about being happy-go-lucky Pope recently but needs to go back to the old Pope. “The Destroyer” Lashley comes out and tells Pope to go back to commentary. Lashley wants Pope to apologize for sticking his nose in his business. Pope cuts a passionate promo and challenges Lashley to a fight. Pope and Lashley end up brawling, with referees and officials trying to pull them apart. Lashley gets the better of Pope. Lashley sets up for the spear but Pope moves and Lashley falls to the outside. Pope hits a cross body onto Lashley on the outside. Security runs down to break it up but they keep fighting.

    This was a really good segment, with Pope as the underdog and Lashley as the heel. Pope was full of passion and was great overall. Also, the brawl was pretty wild and exciting.

    -Next, we get another creepy music video for Decay featuring Marilyn Manson. 

    -Back from commercial, Jeremy Borash has now joined Josh on commentary.

    -Eric Young and Bram make their way to the ring. EY and Bram tease dissension after last week when Bram accidentally eliminated EY in the gauntlet battle royal but EY says everything is okay. EY wants Jeff Hardy to win the world title tonight so he can beat Jeff for the title. They’re interrupted by The BroMans.

    Bram & Eric Young vs. BroMans (Robbie E & Jesse Godderz)

    BroMans charge the ring and attack the heels. EY and Bram cut off BroMans and get the advantage. They isolate Robbie E until he makes the tag to Jesse. Jesse runs wild and takes out both Bram and EY. Bram holds Jesse for EY but Jesse moves and he nails Bram in the face. The BroMans win with the Bro Down and Jesse surprisingly scores the pin fall on EY.

    -Josh says we’re getting the celebration for Grado getting his TNA job back after the commercial.

    -Backstage, Grado and Mahabali Shera discuss plans for the party, which Grado has spent $5,000 on. Al Snow shows up and for no apparent reason, attacks both Grado and Shera. Al breaks the arm of Grado with a pipe. Josh doesn’t understand why Al would do this. He’s not the only one.

    -In the ring, Gregory Shane Helms and X Division Champion Trevor Lee call out Eddie Edwards. J.B says that Eddie has no direction since his partner Davey Richards got injured. Shane praised The American Wolves as one of the greatest tag teams. Eddie is going to focus on his solo career and wants to go after the X Division title. Shane and Trevor Lee avoid answering Eddie’s challenge for the X Division title. Instead, Shane wants to tag with Eddie to challenge Beer Money for the tag titles. Shane is going to give Eddie a week to think about it.

    -Backstage, an irate Pope challenges Lashley to a match next week on Impact.

    -Jeff Hardy makes his way down to the ring for the main event, which comes up next after the commercial break.

    TNA World Champion Drew Galloway vs. Jeff Hardy

    Josh mentions that this is the first meeting between Drew Galloway and Jeff Hardy. They shake hands before they lock up. The story of the match is that they have a mutual respect for each other. Jeff sends Drew to the outside and hits a dive to the outside to get the advantage.

    Back from commercial, Jeff is still in control of the match. Jeff hits the twist of fate and goes up for the swanton bomb but Drew tripped Jeff up. Drew hit the claymore kick but only got a near fall. Drew was standing on the second rope and had Jeff on his shoulder in a power slam like position. Jeff countered and flipped Drew off the turnbuckle. This was a pretty scary looking spot. Jeff got another two count. Jeff set Drew up on the steal steps on the outside. Jeff went for the swanton bomb but Drew got his knees up. Jeff struggled to his feet and Drew hit the Future Shock DDT for the win to retain the World Title.

    Post match, Jeff and Drew embraced, while Drew celebrated his first title defense. Matt Hardy came out and announced that next week, he gets his return match for the TNA World title. Drew was willing to defend the belt right now and called for the bell. EY and Bram ran out and helped Matt attack Drew and Jeff.  Drew hits the claymore on EY & Bram and Jeff hits the twist of fate on Matt. Jeff then challenged Eric Young next week in a Six Side of Steel Cage match.

    Final Thoughts:

    TNA put on another solid Impact this week. The show had its ups and downs and can drag at times. However there are a lot of positives such as, their attempt to create new stars and provide compelling matches. Time will tell if TNA can build on this small bit of momentum that they have.

    Next Week on Impact:

    Next week’s show has a loaded line up with PPV caliber matches. TNA World Champion Drew Galloway will defend against Matt Hardy. Also, Jeff Hardy goes one on one with Eric Young in Six Sides of Steel. Additionally, The Pope will battle it out with “The Destroyer” Lashley. Plus, Eddie Edwards must decide if he wants to tag with Gregory Shane Helms to challenge for the TNA Tag titles.

  • Ethan Carter III explains cancellation

    Michael Hutter aka Ethan Carter III did a Facebook post earlier today regarding his missing scheduled shows on April 2 for Southside Wrestling and April 3 for Preston City Wrestling in England.

    “Unfortunately, due to a previously unforeseen opportunity to continue building a rapport between TNA Wrestling and one our of television network partners, I was forced to cancel my appearances with both Southside and Preston City Wrestling April 2-3. Canceling is not something I take lightly.”

    Hutter confirmed what Preston City promoter Steven Fludder had informed us of, that despite how TNA framed the story, Hutter never asked Fludderfor a deposit. He did say that the plane tickets hadn’t been purchased and that he felt he was out more than anyone financially, because he had printed up U.K.-specific T-shirts and EC3 foam fingers to sell at the shows.

    Hutter said that neither TNA nor the promotions are to blame for this, and if there was any heat, he would take it. “A set of circumstances arose and I had to make a decision, so blame me.”

    He said he promised to make it up to the promotions.

  • TNA’s EC III pulled from Mania week Preston City Wrestling show; TNA gives an update

    This story was updated Saturday evening with new details:

    Preston City Wrestling owner Steven Fludder announced Saturday that he was told that Ethan Carter III was being pulled by TNA from his show on WrestleMania Sunday. The original booking was made by EC 3 and not by TNA, so this was a completely independent booking of which TNA was possibly unaware.

    From Fludder:

    “It saddens me to announce that TNA have issued the withdrawal of EC3/Ethan Carter from our April 3rd PCW show. The other international talent booked being Ken Anderson, Jade, Eddie Kingston and Cedric Alexander are all still confirmed to appear. WrestleMania weekend is the hardest time of the year to secure a replacement talent, but I have worked hard to secure somebody and subject to him finding his passport we may have another guest from the USA.

    “I did reach out to TNA management, but was told, `Unfortunately nothing can be done.  This is a network commitment and something he had no control over Considering TNA was publicly vocal about not being happy when AJ Styles pulled out of an agreement with them, it does seem double standards to me that the company would ask talent to back out of a deal that has been in place for many weeks.

    “I have lost out financially, having paid for an extensive promotional campaign with EC3 clearly front and centre promoting his appearance, but most of all I feel for fans who have used their hard earned money and booked travel to see/meet EC3. 

    We have gone above and beyond to try to secure a replacement in tough times for those fans but it is a shame that when asked for assistance, TNA told us, `nothing can be done.’

    I will in the future be thinking twice about using TNA talent to avoid repeat scenarios, as even WWE respects that when a date is agreed it is agreed to do not try to pull talent from it.  I try to give my fans more than value for money and will continue to do so but even though I do take full responsibility for the change in the lineup, you know I will always be honest with you all.”

    Additionally, Carter was pulled from a Saturday Southside Wrestling show who had the same explanation as above.

    The following was updated on Saturday evening:

    The TNA side of the story is that this was a booking made directly through Michael Hutter (Ethan Carter III) and it wasn’t theirs. They said that Hutter’s flight had not been purchased and as of Wednesday, he had not been paid a deposit. They also said Hutter had made an offer to make things up for being pulled late.

    TNA had something come up for Hutter, but it was not said what it was other than it involved ECIII and James Storm, which will cause Storm to miss an appearance at WrestleCon. In the case with Storm, the booking was through TNA, the promoter had paid everything in full that was required and booked the flights, but TNA and Wrestlecon reportedly reached an agreeable solution to the product.

    Under normal circumstances, if the booking was done through TNA, the company should try and send an adequate replacement, but with much of TNA’s top talent like the Hardys and Drew Galloway booked over WrestleMania weekend, that would be difficult.  Bobby Lashley is booked in Mexico but that’s on the Wednesday prior to the Sunday.

    In fairness, when it comes to WWE, similar situations have happened where major talent has had to pull out of outside commitments based on last minute changes in plans or things that come up.

  • TNA Impact Wrestling results: #1 contender’s gauntlet match w/Jeff Hardy, EC3, Matt Hardy, Lashley

    Previously on TNA Impact:

    Last week on Impact, Drew Galloway shocked everyone in the Impact Zone when he cashed in his Feast or Fired World Title contract and defeated Matt Hardy for the TNA World Title. This was after Hardy had defended the title against Ethan Carter III and Jeff Hardy in a tripe threat match. Also, “The Destroyer” Lashley bullied Josh Matthews around and then speared The Pope to cement his heel turn.

    Tonight on Impact:

    On tonight’s Impact, Drew Galloway makes his first appearance as the new TNA World Champion. Additionally, TNA World Tag Team Champions Beer Money issues an open challenge to any tag team from the past or present for the tag gold. 

    Show Recap:

    –We kick the night off with the new TNA World Champion Drew Galloway making his way to the ring. Josh Matthews and The Pope welcome us to the show and to the Impact Zone. The Pope is back at commentary after being taken out by “The Destroyer” Lashley last week.

    Drew talks about the show last week and winning the world title. He makes a proclamation that he wants everyone to look at Impact and at the TNA world title differently. He paraphrases a quote from JFK and says, “don’t ask what the title can do for you, ask what you can do for the world title.” Drew promises to put TNA on the map again.

    Matt Hardy, Reby, Tyrus and Rockstar Spud interrupt Drew. Matt’s furious over Drew “stealing” his world title. He says it’s such a crime he should have called the cops. Matt is demanding his return title match tonight. This brings out Matt’s brother, Jeff Hardy. Jeff feels that he deserves a title shot more than Matt. Jeff and Matt argue back and forth when suddenly, Eric Young and Bram attack Jeff outside the ring. Inside the ring, Matt, Tyrus and Spud jump Drew. Bram and EY set up a table on the outside. EY started to set up Jeff for the piledriver off the ring apron through the table and then we cut to commercial.

    Back from commercial break, Jeff fights off EY and everyone brawls in the ring. EY sets up to piledrive Drew off the apron through the table when Ethan Carter III runs down and makes the save. EC3 also wants a world title shot. This brings out “Miracle” Mike Bennett and Maria Kanellis. Surprise of the night, Mike Bennett also wants a world title shot. TNA President Dixie Carter comes out because there aren’t enough people in this segment. Dixie announces that everyone will participate in a number one contenders gauntlet match later.

    -Backstage, Beer Money is walking to the ring trying to guess who will accept the open challenge tonight. They mention past teams from TNA including: L.A.X, Triple X and Pac-Man Jones and Truth. They laugh at the mention of the last team. Storm guesses America’s Most Wanted. Roode points out that’ll be impossible for Storm to face himself.

    -Back from commercial, Jeremy Borash is backstage and discuses tonight’s gauntlet match. A tumbler is already set up backstage and J.B brings in Mike Bennett to choose his number for tonight’s gauntlet match.

    -Back in the arena, Beer Money makes their way to the ring. Storm rides to the ring on the boozer cruiser again. Robbie E. and Jess Godderz reunite BroMans and accept the open challenge.

    TNA Tag Team Champions Beer Money (James Storm & Bobby Roode) vs. BroMans (Jesse Godderz & Robbie E)

    BroMans gets the advantage on Beer Money by isolating Storm. James makes the hot tag to Roode who runs wild. Jesse gets the Boston crab on Roode but Storm saves him with a super kick. Beer Money hits the DWI on Robbie E. for the pin and the win.

    -Backstage, Decay cuts another creepy promo. Decay challenges Eddie to a street fight.

    -Back from commercial and in the back, J.B welcomes us back but EY and Bram interrupt him. They pick their numbers and suddenly Willow (Jeff Hardy’s alter ego) appears and disappears. EY notices and freaks out.

    -Eddie Edwards makes his way down to the ring and grabs the mic. He calls out any member of Decay for a fight.

    Street Fight: Eddie Edwards vs. Crazy Steve w/Decay (Abyss and Rosemary)

    As Decay make their way to the ring Eddie Edwards runs out and brawls with Crazy Steve on the ramp. Crazy Steve gets the advantage after tripping Eddie up on the steel steps. Steve and Rosemary throw several chairs into the ring. Steve sets up a chair in each corner of the ring. Eddie turns things around on Steve and ends up throwing him head first into each chair. Steve and Rosemary collide and Eddie rolls up Crazy Steve for the three count.

    -Backstage, Maria Kanellis cuts a prom on Knockouts champ Gail Kim. She promise that the action she going to take next is going to change the Knockouts division.

    -Back from commercial, Dixie Carter is talking to “The Destroyer” Lashley backstage. She mentions that Lashley is lucky to only get a fine for attacking Josh Matthews. She gives Lashley what he wants but neither mention exactly that is.

    -Jeff Hardy and EC3 both cut a promo setting up tonight’s main event. They both pick their numbers and seem happy with what they chose.

    TNA Knockouts Champion Gail Kim vs. “The First Lady of Professional Wrestling” Maria Kanellis

    This match doesn’t end up happening. Gail Kim and Maria Kanellis make their way to the ring. Maria grabs the mic and brings out The Dollhouse. Maria tells The Dollhouse that they all have so much potential but lacked the proper leadership. She tells them to break up The Dollhouse and become women. Maria went to TNA management and asked them if she could give her title shot to a member of The Dollhouse. Maria orders The Dollhouse to compete in a triple threat. They argue with Maria as we cut to commercial.

    Jade vs. Marti Bell vs. Rebel

    Back from commercial and the match is in progress. Maria joins Josh and The Pope on commentary. She’s giving up her title shot at Gail Kim to the winner of this match. Apparently, The Dollhouse is no more and breaking up. The crowd is a bit dead for this match. Jade and Marti double-team Rebel. Both try to pin her and use a double submission on her. They argue about who should beat Rebel. Rebel makes a come back against both.

    On commentary, Maria promises to change the Knockouts Division. Pope mentions that he has Maria’s Playboy. Marti powerbombs Rebel, who hits a superplex on Jade off the top rope. Jade pins both Marti Bell and Rebel to win the match to become the number one contender for the TNA title. 

    -In the back, Matt Hardy, Tyrus and Spud choose their numbers for the main event. Matt went first and didn’t like his number. Matt then looked at Spud’s number and switched with Spud.

    -Back from commercial, Grado and Mahabali Shera discuss the party they’re going to have next week to celebrate Grado getting his job back with TNA. Shera mentions that Odarg The Great owes him fifty dollars. Grado says Odarg owes him fifty-five dollars. Apparently, Shera is the only person not to know Grado and Odarg are the same person despite being Grado/Odarg’s only friend.

    -Next we get a flashback from last week of the closing moments of the triple threat title match and Drew Galloway winning the World title.

    -TNA World Champion Drew Galloway comes down to the ring again. He mentions that there’s going to be “no more talking” and more action from now on. “The Destroyer” Lashley makes his way down to the ring. Lashley has a brief stare down with The Pope. Josh thanks Pope for saving him last week. Lashley takes the mic and the crowd chants, “no more talking”. They argue and Lashley announces that Dixie has agreed to put him in the gauntlet match. Drew is tired of the talking and wants to fight Lashley. Suddenly, the lights go out and EC3 is the second entrant in the match.

    Gauntlet Match: “The Destroyer” Lashley, Ethan Carter III, Rockstar Spud, “Miracle” Mike Bennett, Eric Young, Tyrus, Bram, Matt Hardy and Jeff Hardy

    The match has the same format as The Royal Rumble. EC3 and Lashley are the first two entrants and start the match off. Number 3 is Rockstar Spud and EC3 beats him all over the ring. Lashley attacks EC3 from behind. Spud and Lashley double-team EC3. Number 4 is Mike Bennett. Lashley stares down Bennett but Spud convinces Lashley that all three should work together which they do. The next entrant is Eric Young who attacks everyone. Tyrus is the next entrant and as he makes his way to the ring, EC3 tosses Spud out of the ring for the first elimination.

    Back from commercial, Bram is now in the match as Lashley runs wild and knocks everyone down. Lashley eliminates Tyrus after hitting the spear. EY and Bram try to double team Lashley but Lashley is able to eliminate both. As Lashley poses, The Pope leaves commentary and eliminates Lashley. The Pope and Lashley fight to the back. Matt Hardy is the next entrant and he exchanges shots with EC3 right away. Matt and Bennett double-team EC3. Jeff Hardy is the final entrant and runs wild attacking everyone in sight.

    We’re down to the final four, which are EC3, Mike Bennett, Matt Hardy and Jeff Hardy. Bennett charges EC3 who drops down and Bennett goes to the outside for the elimination. Bennett then helps Matt Hardy eliminate EC3. The final two are Matt and Jeff Hardy. They exchange shots back and forth. The crowd is solidly behind Jeff. Matt tosses Jeff over the top but he hangs on. Jeff then back drops Matt over the top rope and to the outside to win the match.

    Post match, Jeff celebrates in the ring and TNA Champion Drew Galloway stands on the ramp. They have a stare down to end the show.

    Next Week on Impact:

    Next week, Drew Galloway has his firs title defense against “The Enigma” Jeff Hardy.